Tea Tree, Lemon and More: Using the Antiseptic Action of Essential Oils

The anti-bacterial action of essential oils may be their most studied effect, in-part because these are simple experiments to perform. Place a piece of filter paper saturated with an essential oil in the center of a petri dish and watch the growth, or lack of, bacteria around the paper. The larger the area where bacteria do not grow, the stronger the action of that particular essential oil inhibiting that particular strain of microbe. This test, known as an Aromatogram, was popularized by French scientist Paul Belaiche. Through extensive research, large tables of data now allow aromatherapists to quickly find the most efficacious oils once the infecting species of bacteria is known. But you don’t have to be a scientist to make use of this information – there are many simple, effective means for using essential remedies for yourself and your family and children as part of a holistic natural health program for your household.

Essential oils derive their antimicrobial effect from their unique chemical makeup. Each single, pure essential oil consists of several, sometimes hundreds of distinct natural chemicals. Many of these have antimicrobial activity, and show synergistic effects; blends of the chemicals – as found naturally in the oils – can be more potent than any individual chemical alone. Many studies have shown that Carvacrol, the primary molecule found in oil of Oregano, has exceptionally strong antimicrobial activity. Further studies have noted the combination of Carvacrol and Thymol (a minor constituent of the same oil) to be more potent than either of them alone. So the next time you might reach for Neosporin or rubbin alcohol, you might consider that the remedies nature has made will likely work better.

There’s evidence for an incredible spectrum of antimicrobial action from essential oils, yet it is important to select the right oils in the right amounts. Topical application of Oregano and Thyme may be the best solution for a case of stubborn nail fungus, yet these oils are far too intense for use on soft tissue of any kind except in the most dilute blends. Often a combination of a potent antiseptic with a known soothing oil can improve the overall effectiveness. Here we will briefly profile these highly-regarded oils, and look at some formulas and methods of application: Tea Tree, Lavender, Oregano, Geranium, and Lemon.

Tea Tree may be the hands-down most popular antiseptic essential oil. Tea Tree is a must for every natural first aid kit for the home. One of the safest and most effective ways of controlling minor infections is the immediate intervention action of Tea Tree. Tea tree’s tolerability allows it to be used for longer periods of time without the slightest irritation. A drop on a Band-Aid can keep the reddening indication of infection from children’s cuts and scrapes, and when combined with Lavender, makes a soothing rendition of popular over-the-counter antibacterials. Tea tree can also be used directly on minor wounds for those with less sensitive skin, and is highly useful as an acne treatment – some individuals can use it ‘neat’, while others should dilute it in Hazelnut oil (a ‘non-oily’ base oil that will not exacerbate an over-oily skin condition).

Lavender is the most versatile essential oils in use today, and in fact began the modern medical aromatherapy revolution through its quick healing of burns by a French cosmetics chemist. The cooling aroma disperses heat and inflammation and brings relief from pain, spasms, and general unrest. With its calming and balancing properties, the oil is exceptionally supportive of relaxation and rest. Lavender imparts this action in healing wounds as well; for healing unbroken skin such as burns, apply Lavender ‘neat’ to the wound several times a day; insect bites also get a ‘neat’ treatment. For cuts and scrapes, keep a equal mix of Lavender and Tea Tree on hand for the best all-purpose antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving solution. Moms will really appreciate the synergy of the antibacterial nature of Tea Tree and the soothing effects of Lavender.

While the Tea Tree and Lavender blend gives us a formula for regular use, Oregano is the all-time heavy-hitter of essential oils for antimicrobial action. Oregano is serious medicine; it has been the subject of many successful scientific evaluations. Interest in the oil’s efficacy growing in amongst the world’s medical practitioners as infectious microbes become more and more resistant to synthetic antibiotics. Pure oil of Oregano is exceptionally strong – too strong for topical application except in the most stubborn cases, and then only with careful attention. Oregano holds the most promise as a systemic antimicrobial; Oregano oil can be found in enteric-coated (for targeting parasites and bacteria in the intestines) and regular capsules for support of the immune system during illness. Consult a qualified medical practitioner for dosage recommendations.

With a softer aroma and gentle effect on skin, Geranium is versatile choice for frequent use. Known as the ‘flower of constancy’, Geranium helps to lift the spirits and bring joy and happiness to one’s daily activity. Harmonizing and balancing, Geranium essential oil has the quality of equalizing hormonal and emotional extremes. These properties extends to the skin, where it creates balance between oily and dry states; Geranium helps to cleanse the skin while restoring balance, tone, and suppleness (try including in your skin care formulas at 0.5% to 3%). A non-drying, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and general tonic, Geranium is traditionally indicated as a remedy for acne, dermatitis, eczema, and weeping wounds. Geranium essential oil is one of the few that has been used successfully against the MRSA bacteria in laboratory studies. The ‘asperum’ sub-species (also known as Egyptian Geranium) is generally considered the most potent Geranium for its antimicrobial action, with a wonderful sweet and herbaceous aroma.

Lemon essential oil is a powerful antiseptic and bactericide that performs many tasks around the house, as well as for your health. Lemon has a tonic action on the lymphatic system and a stimulating action on the digestive system, additionally providing relief from insect bites and tension headaches. Use this pleasant antimicrobial blend with confidence to clean counter tops, windows, and door handles: 2 drops each of Lemon, Pine, and Eucalyptus Radiata essential oils in 4 ounces of distilled or spring water (distilled water dries without leaving haze from mineral deposits). Keep a spray bottle of this solution handy for your day-to-day cleaning.

There are many, many choices for antibacterial and antiseptic essential oils – these are a few of the most commonly used oils with a broad range of applications. Many oils, particularly when properly blended, can have greater specificity for your individual needs. There are many excellent books available by reputable authors – ‘Advanced Aromatherapy’ and ‘Medical Aromatherapy’ by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, and any of the books by Valerie Worwood are worth investigating to further your knowledge in the practical application of essential oils. These books cover the safe use of essential oils in general, and specific conditions you’ll want to be aware of when delving deeper into aromatherapy. In selecting essential oils over synthetic preparations, you’ll find great satisfaction making the natural choice for yourself and your family.

For more resources on using essential oils and Bach flower essences therapeutically, visit the Ananda Apothecary.

Using Aromatherapy to Support Better Immune Response

The Merry-Go-Round of Disease

Humans have been given an incredible immune system – able to ward off some of the nastiest of microscopic invaders. Yet, if this defense system is compromised due to an overload of toxins (from the environment, our diet or our stress level), cells tissues become exhausted and susceptible to attack. Since environmental toxins are on the rise and pathogens seemingly on every nook and cranny, it is important to maintain a healthy immune system. If the immune system is compromised, a breech in wellness occurs. This can lead to a vicious cycle of sickness leading to more sickness and eventually disease.

Using Essential Oils for Immune Support

In these modern times, many are familiar with the stress-relieving qualities of essential oils as well as their antimicrobial properties. Such characteristics of essential oils are helpful in supporting a fully functional immune system; stress and microbes are known to weaken its army of defenses. Few are aware that essential oils can actually strengthen the capacity of the immune system directly to fight off foreign invaders.

Fighting off Disease

When we bang our leg, get a sliver in our hand or cross paths with infectious entities the immune system is recruited and responds with inflammation – a tool to heal damaged cells and tissue. This initial inflammatory response is vital to restoring the injured area, yet prolonged inflammation can lead to a number of debilitating and often painful diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and even cancer. Research has established that essential oils have the ability to inhibit detrimental inflammatory processes that contribute to disease. Scientists are now investigating the actually mechanisms by which essential oils can enhance the immune system directly.

Melaleuca EO Helps Out

At the Laboratoire de Botanique in France (2006) researchers were able to identify that Melaleuca alternifolia was able to regulate the amount of inflammatory-causing secretions found in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In so doing, natural anti-inflammatory agents, known as cytokines, were still able to be created and thus boosting the body’s ability to protect and restore itself. This in itself is quite a finding, especially for individuals suffering from conditions associated with chronic inflammation.

Swallowing Pathogens

Once a pathogen gets into the cells, it is looking to replicate and destroy tissue, often resulting in painful infections. A branch of the immune system is designated to engulf cellular invaders and send lymphocytes (T cells) to destroy these foreign bodies. At Jeonju University, Korea (2008), researchers found that niaouli essential oil (from an Australian evergreen) was able to enhance the effect of cell-mediated immunity (one of two major branches of the immune system). Researchers support clinical use of niaouli essential oil to control infectious diseases.

Ginger EO Controls Immune

The Institute of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine in Italy (2008) found that Eucalyptus essential oil actually stimulates a component of the immune system known as macrophages. These immune cells are one of the primary defenses against pathogens invading our human cells. Using in vivo (in rats) and in vitro trials, they were able to pinpoint that eucalyptus essential oil does indeed mimic our natural immune response. Researchers propose that such findings may drive develop of a new family of immune-regulatory drugs/treatments altogether. This could be quite helpful for those who have weakened immune systems due to contracted diseases and effects of chemotherapy.

Wrapping It Up

In a perfect world where our planetary environment was well tended, our purpose was clear and community supported, and our foods were safe and saturated with nutrition, it is likely that few of us would suffer from disease and frequent sickness. Yet, in these modern times of high stress, environmental hazards, individualism, and processed foods our immune systems are often compromised and in some cases malfunction. Recent research indicates that essential oils are able to boost the functions of the immune system as well as suppress certain components when misdirected. With such capabilities, essential oils seem indispensable and a gift to humanity.

The author has made available reports on specific oils such as patchouli and other therapeutic oils.

Massage Therapy Not Similar To Massage

Many of you would know that there are different types of massage styles available, plus the very famous Swedish style and classic massage, you will find a deep muscle massage and trigger point massage as well. Each method of massage has its own style but they do help to develop the blood circulation in the body. Massage also relieves you from certain back pains and the fatigue you experience in your daily life due to work pressure.

Massage or massage therapy

Generally the terms massage and massage therapy are used to mean the same thing. The truth however is that each is different and will vary according to what the therapist practices. Massage is a term that generally alludes to helping a person relax; massage therapy, on the other hand, implies that the goal is to provide therapeutic benefits and it is in fact, an augmentation or even alternative to certain invasive kinds of medical techniques being used to alleviate symptoms of chronic ailments.

Massage therapy has reached its reputation up to the hospitals; it is a widely used formula to cure chronic ailments. Hospitals together with massage therapy clinics and exclusively trained therapists of the hospitals are applying message therapies treatment to patients successfully. The success story tells us that it is a winning formula over the use of drugs.

In today\’s world, different resources are used for developing massage therapies that are more effective. The very fact that more than 150 kinds of therapies of massage are available proves this theory. The most famous of them being Chinese Tui Na. Other therapy such as deep muscle and chair are also equally effective.

Hawaiian massage is the most well known amongst all the traditional massage therapies. Thai and Swedish massages are also in demand. Massage therapies are best for treating chronic illness like that of carpal tunnel disease.

One can widen their knowledge on massage therapy which will help in developing better solutions from which lot of people can be benefited in various ways. Massage therapy can provide lot of relief to people who constantly suffer from back pains and headaches. .

However the massage therapy has increased awareness as well as increased the students who want to learn massage therapy and would like to convert it into a career. This in fact has pioneered many institutions to teach therapy on a regular basis.

You should get yourself into good school for official recognition of your certificate on massage therapy and taking off your career with a good quality start.

Aromatherapy massage information and resources. Get the body massage info for a relaxing experience.

Virtues of Sandalwood Extend Through Time

Background

Sandalwood, or Santalum, is identified as belonging to the Santalaceae family. This small tree reaching to about 10 meters is indigenous to Indonesia, the Pacific Islands, Australia and India. Much of the commercial production of sandalwood comes from Santalum album (India) and Santalum spicatum (Australia). Although both of these species are considered true sandalwoods, there are other species commonly called sandalwood that are not included in the Santalum genus and are therefore have differing compositions. These unrelated plants are sometimes used as fillers to reduce the price of the increasingly expensive Santalum oil yet are considered of inferior quality. Research has identified a wide spectrum of applications for both the simple essential oil and its active components. Traditional and ceremonial uses of sandalwood continue to be an important part of cultures around the world.

Sandalwood from the Mysore region (known as \”sandalwood city\”) of southern India is generally considered to be of the highest quality sandalwood available, providing great commerce for this region of India. Of the traditional areas in Southeast Asia where sandalwood is found, India has been the front runner in creating plantations in which to continually harvest Sandalwood (The Australian Government has also set up reserves as well). Trade and harvest of Indian sandalwood is under strict regulation and the trees themselves are under government protection; only the government of India is permitted to own the trees. To produce commercially valuable sandalwood with high levels of fragrance oils, harvested Santalum trees are recommended to be at least 40 years of age, but 80 or above are preferred. However, trees at 30 years of age are still harvested but considered of inferior quality.

In order to retain valuable wood and oil found in the larger roots, trees are felled by uprooting, not cutting the truck. Unfortunately, many trees are illegally cut down and smuggled out of the country. In the last five years alone, the price of sandalwood oil has skyrocketed. This is mainly due to increased demand from the aromatherapy and cosmetic industry. The oil is revered by the perfume industry as being an excellent base and fixative for other high grade perfumes. The industry finds that sandalwood oil can blend well with other perfumes and when used as a base does not impart its own fragrance, thus making it a very popular ingredient for hundreds of perfume products.

Such value is found not only in its iconic-making wood, medicinal oil and fragrance but also in it religious and ceremonial value. In the Buddhist tradition, sandalwood incense is a popular offering to the Buddha and its scent is believed to have transformative qualities while in meditation. Chinese and Japanese religions also use sandalwood incense in their worship and various ceremonies. One of the oldest religions, Zoroastrianism (thought to be originally from Iran), burns the sandalwood in their sacred fire temples.

Sandalwood Used to Fight Anti-microbial Bacteria

Opposition to antibiotic use in food agriculture has been gaining momentum. In years past, it was known that severe illness-causing microbes such as Salmonella and E. coli could be contracted through eating contaminated meat. Now, it is proposed that contraction of bacteria, in this case antibiotic resistant bacteria, can possibly be transferred through ingestion, handling of industrial animal manure, as well as through drinking manure-contaminated ground water. With these scenarios coming to the surface, scientists and government officials alike are in alarm and strongly suggesting the decrease if not absolute elimination of non-therapeutic uses of antibiotics in the meat industry. Recent media has brought attention to the proposed link between the steep increase of antibiotic-resistant microbes with use and perhaps misuse of antibiotics in agriculture. Modern industrial agriculture raises animals in tight often inhumane quarters which results in animals being much more susceptible to sickness and disease, thus the administration of antibiotics is very common. Because bacteria and other microbes can easily mutate (in as little as 20 minutes), it is no wonder that great concern is now mounting.

Concern for antibiotic-resistant microbes is worldwide. A need to find alternatives to conventional antibiotic treatment is rising. Essential oils have been gaining attention by research scientists for their antimicrobial properties. A collaborative study of researchers in Austria and Germany (Flavor and Fragrance Journal 2006 May/Jun; 21(3): 465-468) found that santalols of sandalwood (the main chemical components of sandalwood) in medium and/or high concentrations showed significant antimicrobial potential against the yeast Candida albicans, the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, and the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Additional Applications

In a 2007 science review (Food and Chemical Toxicology 2008 Feb.; 46(2): 421-432), researchers found that sandalwood oil and its major constituents (namely alpha-santalol) have anticarcinogenic, antiviral and as well as bactericidal activity. Phenomenally, a study conducted by the Department of Virology at the University of Heidelberg, Germany (Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 2007 May; 51(5): 1859-62) found that sandalwood essential oil exhibited virulence against isolates of drug-resistant herpes simplex virus type 1. The dreadfulness of virulence spread by mosquitoes is well-known, especially in Africa and South America. Mosquito-borne diseases include such maladies as malaria, dengue fever, encephalitis and yellow fever. Conventional mosquito treatment relies on chemical pesticides which are often administered in water where mosquito larvae reside. Yet, the risks to people and the environment are well established. Naturally derived insecticides, especially from aromatic plants and their essential oils was recently investigated at Omar Almuktar University, Elbieda, Libya, Africa (Parasitology Research 2006 Sep; 99(4): 466-72). Sandalwood essential oil (as well as other essential oils) induced 100% mortality of various mosquito larvae species within 24 hours or less.

Summing It Up

The value of sandalwood in some cultures goes back centuries – from burning the fragrant incense in temples to using the oil in sacred ceremonies. In the commerce of today, sandalwood is highly prized by the perfume industry as well as those in aromatherapy. Recent science studies indicate that sandalwood and its principle component alpha-santalol have antiseptic as well antitumor capabilities. With the growing concern of antibiotic-resistant bacteria of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Candida in both hospital and public environments, serious investigation into the possible uses to of alternative therapies is well underway. Consideration of essential oils, and in this case Santalum album and Santalum spicatum are prime candidates for meeting modern medical needs.

Many essential oil blends have already been created that combine these wonderful botanicals. For more on all sorts of therapeutic actions of essential oils, see this list here.

categories: aromatherapy,essential oils,massage,skin care,herbs,disease,illness,alternative medicine,natural medicine,natural health,health,wellness

Breathing, Massaging or Eating Essential Oils? Read This!

The Passage of Aromatic Essential Oils Though the Nasal Cavity

While chatting with friends about the benefits of essential oils, I mentioned that I was writing about how essential oils are absorbed into the body. My friends knew that essential oils smelled nice and often put them in a state of relaxation, focus or even stimulation, but they honestly did not know how such sensations got there, as if the oil just stopped at the nose. I have noticed in my own life that much of what I do or what I eat is out of habit or because my doctor or someone I respect told me it was good for me. Yet, up until now, I have rarely paused to investigate why or how such goodness is created and is accepted into my body.

The essential oil compounds (made up of molecules of essential oils), are first breathed in by the nasal cavity. Inside the nasal cavity there are fine hairs or cilia that sort the medicinal molecules and filter them down into the pharynx. From here the inhaled compounds reach the trachea, into the branched tubes known as bronchi, down into smaller tubes known as bronchioles and finally arrive at microscopic air sacs known as alveoli. Each alveolus is lined with thin epithelial cells that enable gas exchange to take place with capillaries of the pulmonary vein. Once in the pulmonary vein, the compounds are taken to the heart and then distributed to parts of the body that are receptive to their medicinal support.

The benefits of essential oil compounds reaching the brain take less time than other parts of the body. Once the essential oil molecules reach the upper nasal cavity, the olfactory epithelium stimulates olfactory nerves which send signals to the brain. The part of the brain stimulated by essential oil compounds is largely the limbic center. This component of the brain is primarily responsible for memory and emotion. Thus, through the use of essential oil compounds, it is possible to alter one?s emotional state from stress to relaxation, or fatigue to alertness.

A recent study conducted at Georgetown University found a subset of nociceptive nerves (receptors for pain; send pain messages to the brain and spinal cord) that have receptor sights for aromatherapy molecules. Such an insight is further support for the use of aromatherapy as medicine.

Entering Through the Skin

Essential oil compounds are fat soluble, so they have the ability to permeate the membranes of the skin. The rate as well as effectiveness of essential oil compounds penetrating the skin barrier and entering the body cavity depends upon the potency of the compounds, their concentration , as well as the carrier substance used to administer the essential oil. It was found in one study that phenol (a common component of essential oils) when mixed in a fatty base was not affective at permeating through the skin and into the body.

Absorption of potent compounds found in essential oils can be delayed or greatly inhibited if they are diluted in a carrier oil verses undiluted. Some carrier mediums or bases for applying essential oils may also affect their active ingredient effectiveness. Aside from penetrating the skin membranes and into the blood stream, specified essential oils are excellent at assisting the skin in healing from abrasions, infections and bruises.

Taking Essential Oils by Mouth

Ingestion of essential oils tends to be considered hazardous, yet the French have been ingesting oils for years. The important point though is they are prescribed by an aromatherapist, filled at what amounts to a drug store, and taken only 1-2 drops at a time until the condition is cured. Essential oils taken this way are most rapidly absorbed though the tongue and esophagus, and likely don’t make it to the stomach unless taken with water. In this case they’re absorbed by all three of these parts of the body rich with blood supply, and are quickly distributed by the bloodstream.

For more resources on how to use essential oils and aromatherapy, visit the Ananda Apothecary.

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Bold And Uncomplicated Benefits Of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy benefits abound and, even if you know nothing about the subject, you have undoubtedly felt the effects. Aromas can trigger emotions and memories but, actually, they can do much more.

When you hear the word aromatherapy, the first things you will probably think of are incense and candles. These same scents can be used as a bonafide therapy. Usually used in the form of essential oils, aromatherapy can be used for aliments as diverse as viruses and emotional issues.

Aromatherapy, like many natural therapies, has been around for years and there are real theories behind its use that have been developed over that time. As early as the first century, there is writing in Western history describing the use of this therapy.

We still do no know for sure how aromatherapy works. It may affect the brain directly and, therefore, the body as well. Or, the affects may be due to the pharmacological effects of the plants themselves. While many cultures do not take this therapy seriously, there are others that treat it as a form of medicine. There are oils that must be prescribed by a doctor in France, for example.

To date, there is not much hard scientific research regarding aromatherapy benefits. Use and efficacy is largely historical and anecdotal. On the other hand, that can also be said for therapies such as acupuncture. Though more research has been done on that modality, the claims are still unproven in the scientific mind. However, there is no denying that the evidence supporting it has been collected for thousands of years.

Aromatherapy can produce some side effects, however. They can affect the allergies of some people, not surprisingly as they are plant based. The skin can also be irritated by the use of undiluted essential oils. Some essential oils may be contraindicated when taking certain prescription drugs such as blood thinners. There are plants that have this affect as well, so check with your doctor before taking ingesting oils. In addition, there are oils which are toxic when taken internally. If you wish to do see, you may want to speak to an aromatherapist.

In most cases, however, you can experience aromatherapy benefits without experiencing any negative side effects. Make sure first that the aromatherapy products you are purchasing are of the best quality. And then begin to experience a therapy that is not just effective but will make affect your senses on many levels.

The author enjoys writing about home improvement, marketing, and health subjects. Pay a visit to his most recent web site that discusses heavy duty office chairs and brown office chairs and more.

categories: aromatherapy,alternative medicine,health

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