Tag Archives: Relaxation

Lavender-Did You Know?

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LavenderDid you know Lavender essential oil is the oil of communication? Lavender helps with verbal expression. It calms the uncertain thoughts that are felt when a person exposes their true feelings. Lavender aids in releasing the tension pressure that comes from the fear of self expression. Lavender encourages emotional honesty by encouraging people to speak their most private thoughts, and desires.

The use of lavender has been recorded for more than 2,500 years. Egyptians, Phoenicians and the people of Arabia used lavender as a perfume, and also for mummification, by wrapping the dead in lavender-dipped shrouds. In ancient Greece, lavender was used as a cure for everything from insomnia, and aching backs to insanity.

By Roman times, lavender had already become a prized commodity. Lavender flowers were sold to ancient Romans for 100 denarii per pound, equivalent to a full month’s wage for a farm laborer, and were used to scent the water in Roman baths. In fact, the baths served as the root of the plant’s current name. “Lavender” is derived from the Latin lavare, meaning, “to wash.” Romans also used lavender as a perfume, insect repellent and flavoring.

The use of lavender was highly revered during the Great Plague of London in the 17th century, when individuals fastened bunches of lavender to each wrist to protect themselves from the Black Death. Thieves who made a living stealing from the graves, and the homes of Plague victims concocted a wash known as “Four Thieves Vinegar,” which contained lavender, to cleanse, and protect themselves after a night’s work. Today, we know the disease was transmitted by fleas, so the use of lavender, which is known to repel these insects, could very well have saved lives, and prevented further spread of the plague.

The Shakers, a strict sect of English Quakers, are credited with commercializing lavender and introducing a variety of lavender-based products to the United States and Canada. The Shakers raised their own herbs, produced medicines, and sold them to neighbors and customers outside their religious sect.

Lavender is frequently used to soothe skin irritations and help skin recover quickly. Applying Lavender to the back of the neck, and temples helps reduce muscle tension. Inhaling Lavender promotes relaxation and a restful night’s sleep, making it an ideal oil to diffuse at bedtime and when stress levels are high. Due to Lavender’s versatility and soothing properties, it is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times

Essential Oils Studied For Antidepressant Properties

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Antidepressant PropertiesThe term antidepressant refers to an agent that helps alleviate depression, bringing a person back to a more positive place in their life with increased happiness.

Basil Essential Oil
Basil is cooling to the skin, and can be used to soothe minor irritations. When diffused, Basil helps promote clear breathing, and healthy respiratory function while sharpening focus, and lessening stress.
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Cassia Essential Oil

When diluted, Cassia can help soothe sore, achy joints. Cassia can be used in cooking either as a replacement for Cinnamon in pies and breads, or by itself in many different entrees and desserts.
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Cinnamon Essential Oil

Cinnamon is strong, so be sure to dilute it (3 drops of carrier oil to 1 drop of cinnamon), but you can cook, bake, or even make candy with it too.
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Clary Sage Essential Oil

The main chemical component of Clary Sage is linalyl acetate, part of the esters group, making it one of the most relaxing, soothing, and balancing essential oils.
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Coriander Essential Oil

Coriander has a high linalool content, giving it strengthening and toning properties that benefit the skin, emotions, and body.
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Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense promotes a healthy inflammatory response and acts as an overall tonic to the body’s systems, helping them function optimally. When inhaled or diffused, Frankincense induces feelings of peace, relaxation, satisfaction, and overall wellness.
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Geranium Essential Oil

This oil has been used to promote clear skin and healthy hair, making it ideal for skin and hair care products. It also helps calm nerves and lessen stress.
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Lavender Essential Oil

Inhaling Lavender promotes relaxation and a restful night’s sleep, making it an ideal oil to diffuse at bedtime and when stress levels are high.
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Lemongrass Essential Oil
This oil supports healthy digestion, and soothes aching muscles. Lemongrass purifies and tones skin, and acts as an overall tonic to the body’s systems.
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Melissa (Lemon Balm) Essential Oil
Melissa is also great for your skin or over the reflex areas for the area of concern. You can also add a drop to your tea.
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Orange Essential Oil

Orange can be taken daily to cleanse the body or used on surfaces as a natural cleaner. Diffusing Wild Orange will energize and uplift the mind and body while purifying the air.
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Patchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli is regularly used in the perfume industry as well as in scented products. The fragrance of Patchouli provides a grounding, balancing effect on emotions.
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Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Ancient Romans used the oil for mental clarity and courage during war. While the most common use of chamomile is in teas, Roman Chamomile can also be found in face creams, drinks, hair dyes, shampoos, and perfumes.
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Sandalwood Essential Oil

Sandalwood has a sweet, woody aroma that can enhance mood and is frequently used in meditation for its grounding effects.
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Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Ylang Ylang is used to lessen tension and stress and to promote a positive outlook. Ylang Ylang is frequently used in luxurious hair and skin products for its scent and nourishing and protective properties.
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