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THE ESSENTIALS OF ESSENTIAL OILS


When one thinks of the word essential, the first thought that comes to mind is something that is extremely important or absolutely necessary. In spite of its name, these oils are not essential in the true sense of the definition. They are, however, an ancient tradition. Oils have been used by various cultures for various reasons ranging from


religious purposes, perfumes to medicinal.


Essential oils, or as they were also known as aromatic oils, date back as far as 18,000 B.C. as evidenced in cave paintings found in France. Since then and for centuries, cultures have used essential oils and recorded their benefits.


Beginning in 4500 B.C., Egyptians have been known to use aromatic oils. “Kyphi” was a mixture of 16 ingredients that could be used as incense, perfume or medicine. It became their most famous preparation. When Egypt’s power reigned supreme only priests had the authority to use the oils. It was believed that they were essential to be at one with the gods. Each idol had specific fragrances and their statues were anointed with these oils. Aromatic oils such as cedar and myrrh were also used in the embalming process of mummies.


In China, during the reign of Huang Ti 2697- 2597 B.C., The Yellow Emperor’s Book of Internal Medicine was written and is still used today by practitioners of eastern medicine.


There is also a 3000-year history of using essential oils in traditional Indian medicine known as “Ayur Veda”. Over 700 oils and extracts are included in their documentation as being effective for healing.


Traditions were recorded and passed on. In Greece 400-500 B.C., the Greeks recorded knowledge of essential oils adopted from the Egyptians. Soldiers carried an ointment of Myrrh into battle to counter infections.


Hypocrites, a Greek physician, 460-377 B.C., is known as the “father of medicine”. He documented the effects of over 300 plants, and his extensive knowledge of plants and their essences was Ayur Vedic in origin due


meditations,


to the Greek soldiers’ encounters with Ayur Vedic medicine during their travels with Alexander the Great. Hypocrites wrote, “a perfumed bath and a scented massage everyday is the way to good health.”


In Persia, Ali-Ibn Sana, who lived from 980 -1037 A.D, was a brilliant child and became a doctor at the age of 12. He wrote books on the properties and effects of over 800 plants and is credited for being the first one to discover methods of distilling essential oils which are still in use today.


Throughout Europe, during the crusades, the knights were responsible for passing on knowledge of herbal medicines and distillation that they learned in the Middle East. Frankincense and pine were burned in the streets to ward off “evil spirits” during the Bubonic Plague of the 14th Century and interestingly, it has been recorded that fewer people died of the plague in these areas.


Ok, enough with the history. Volumes have been written on the benefits of essential oils and the infinite combinations that can be made.


If you are new to the topic, here are some basics that I hope you find of value. Oils can be extracted through steam distillation, resin tapping, and cold pressing. When extracted correctly the purest essential oils can be more powerful than their originating botanicals. Their power can be used through a diffuser that dispenses the aroma in the air; they can be used to sooth you during a bath or applied during a massage; they can be topically applied with the help of a carrier oil and some, with caution, can be consumed.


Here are a few oils that I recommend as a basic set.


Lavendar may just be the most indispensible. It is calming to smell and can be applied directly to treat burns and wounds.


Tea tree or Melaleuca is the anti oil: antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial and


antiviral. It can be used to treat common infections as well as a household cleaner.


Chamomile is valued for its anti- inflammatory properties. It is good to help sleep issues and nervous conditions.


Geranium can help balance your mind, body and spirit. Think of it as a natural anti- depressant.


Rosemary is great to uplift and stimulate you. It can also be used to relax your muscles during a massage.


Eucalyptus is great to boost your immune system against cold and coughs. It can also relieve aching muscles.


Lemon is both uplifting and relaxing. It can be used as an anti-bacterial oil as well as to clean and deodorize.


Frankincense can help with respiratory infections. It can calm your emotions and help slow down your breathing. An added bonus is that it may help reduce wrinkles.


Peppermint has digestive health properties. It can be used in the treatment of bad breath and indigestion. For the mind, it can improve alertness and clarity. Reach for this one if you have annoying critters in your home.


Rose may just be the answer to help with menstrual issues. In addition, it can relieve sadness and tension. It is good also for skin care.


The oils above are basic. Oils can get exotic. From a fragrance that is fresh, floral or fruity to one that is balsamic, camphorous or medicinal there’s an oil with that scent.


Also whether you want to heal a wound, stop a bug or lure a mate there’s an oil for it.


Each essential oil’s complex, pleasant, and unique scent triggers emotions and memories, which can help in your search for a more fulfilling and balanced life. Rediscover peace and joy. Have fun, read labels, experiment and enjoy.


Joanne Ferreri is an executive consultant in anti-aging technologies supported by innovations in dermatology, ethnobotany, nutritional and cosmetic sciences via NuSkin Enterprises. www.totalwellness.nsproducts.com


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