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| © Copyright 2008 - Active Recovery - All Rights Reserved. The Gaia Centre for Holistic Therapy, 17 Frederick Street, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3BH email: info@gaiaholistics.co.uk Tel: 01509 551513 |
Inhalation, Ingestion And Massage
Misty Rae Cech, ND
Getting started with Aromatherapy? Here's a little primer for the beginning to intermediate student of this
practice, with some important notes about essential oil safety - There are three traditional methods of using
essential oils for 'aromatherapy', which have been termed the English, French and German models.
Misty Rae Cech, ND
Getting started with Aromatherapy? Here's a little primer for the beginning to intermediate student of this
practice, with some important notes about essential oil safety - There are three traditional methods of using
essential oils for 'aromatherapy', which have been termed the English, French and German models.
| Aromatherapy Basics |
The English model consists of what is now termed 'aromatherapy massage' - involving the dilution of essential oils in 'carrier' or
'base' oils and application topically to the skin. Because both the essential oils and the carrier oils are compatible with the skin, the
essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream with subsequent physiological effect.
Topical application is the preferred method of use for many essential oils. However, MOST essential oils require significant dilution
(often to less than 3% of the total volume) as they can cause skin irritation. Lavender Oil and Chamomile Oil are two essential oils
that can be applied 'neat' or without dilution; others, such as Cinnamon Oil and Oregano Oil should never be applied topically
undiluted - they may be applied once highly diluted to the bottoms of the feet. A VERY small amount should be tested first.
The interesting thing about topical application is that essential oils tend to pass through the skin fairly readily, as they are lipotropic
(fat soluble) and their molecular structure is fairly small. In this manner, their possible effects can be targeted - if one has digestive
trouble, rubbing Peppermint Oil diluted in a carrier oil (a pure vegetable or nut oil) into the abdomen may help. In the same way,
rubbing Chamomile Oil or Lavender Oil into the solar plexus (bottom tip of the sternum) may help relieve tension.
The French model consists of ingestion and 'neat' or undiluted topical application of essential oils. Perhaps these somewhat
bravado methods are a result of the French producing some of the world's finest Lavender oils - also considered one of the safest
oils in aromatherapy. As in the English model, essential oils will easily pass through the skin and into the bloodstream. Many
individuals directly apply oils such as Frankincense, Sandalwood and Myrhh to their temples to enhance meditation, for example.
This is a practice one should begin slowly with, being sure the body or skin does not show any adverse reactions to before
proceeding. ORAL INJESTION OF ESSENTIAL OILS IS NOT RECOMMENDED EXCEPT UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF A DOCTOR OR A
QUALIFIED AROMATHERAPIST.
The German model is that of inhalation, where the essential oils will directly affect the lymbic system, and the intimately
associated emotional and hormonal systems. Oils are often diffused in a cold-air diffuser, warmer or oil lamp - these tools disperse
tiny droplets of essential oils in the surrounding air. When inhaled, the oils connect directly to the nervous system's chemical
sensors. Certain oils that are high in sesquiterpines such as myrrh, sandalwood, vetiver and frankincense oils, have been noted to
dramatically increase activity and oxygenation in certain areas of the brain when used this way.
With inhalation go slowly and start with a small amount - essential oils are effective in very low doses. You will know when you've
had enough - we tend to notice a distaste for the smell or even a mild headache coming on if the concentration of certain oils in
the air has gotten too high
.
Inhalation is often effective for mood-altering effects of essential oils; Rosemary for mental 'stimulation', Lavender for relaxation,
etc. These effects are a result of essential oil components on the lymbic system of the brain - which again is closely tied to the
emotional centers.
Essential oil components from one plant may have synergistic effects with another. One may certainly blend essential oils in a
diffuser or burner, adding a couple drops of each oil desired. Often a nice result can be had from mixing a brighter or sweeter oil
(Rosemary, Basil, Orange) with one more earthy and grounding (Patchouli, Frankincense, Cedar). The effects are very personal - if
you don't like the smell of a particular essential oil or combination of oils, there's probably a reason and they're just not for you!
Your intake could be too high or the oil(s) may not be compatible with your body chemistry at that time.
A note about safety: Essential Oils are very powerful components of plants - they have the capability of being harmful if
improperly used. Essential Oils can be very helpful for some cases, supportive in others, and have little to no effect in others.
They are not intended to treat or cure serious medical conditions; there is no substitute for a consultation with a competent
physician for any matters regarding your health, or anyone else. If you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breast feeding,
it is critical you consult your physician before using any essential oil. Please be sure there are no contraindications of an essential oil
for your condition before using! Almost all essential oils should be diluted to the range of 1% to 3% in your chosen carrier (or
'base') oil - Lavender and Chamomile Oils being notable exceptions (though diluting them will make them no less effective).
Remember - start slowly, pay attention to how an oil and it's particular application makes you feel, adjust accordingly, keep
learning, and have fun!
'base' oils and application topically to the skin. Because both the essential oils and the carrier oils are compatible with the skin, the
essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream with subsequent physiological effect.
Topical application is the preferred method of use for many essential oils. However, MOST essential oils require significant dilution
(often to less than 3% of the total volume) as they can cause skin irritation. Lavender Oil and Chamomile Oil are two essential oils
that can be applied 'neat' or without dilution; others, such as Cinnamon Oil and Oregano Oil should never be applied topically
undiluted - they may be applied once highly diluted to the bottoms of the feet. A VERY small amount should be tested first.
The interesting thing about topical application is that essential oils tend to pass through the skin fairly readily, as they are lipotropic
(fat soluble) and their molecular structure is fairly small. In this manner, their possible effects can be targeted - if one has digestive
trouble, rubbing Peppermint Oil diluted in a carrier oil (a pure vegetable or nut oil) into the abdomen may help. In the same way,
rubbing Chamomile Oil or Lavender Oil into the solar plexus (bottom tip of the sternum) may help relieve tension.
The French model consists of ingestion and 'neat' or undiluted topical application of essential oils. Perhaps these somewhat
bravado methods are a result of the French producing some of the world's finest Lavender oils - also considered one of the safest
oils in aromatherapy. As in the English model, essential oils will easily pass through the skin and into the bloodstream. Many
individuals directly apply oils such as Frankincense, Sandalwood and Myrhh to their temples to enhance meditation, for example.
This is a practice one should begin slowly with, being sure the body or skin does not show any adverse reactions to before
proceeding. ORAL INJESTION OF ESSENTIAL OILS IS NOT RECOMMENDED EXCEPT UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF A DOCTOR OR A
QUALIFIED AROMATHERAPIST.
The German model is that of inhalation, where the essential oils will directly affect the lymbic system, and the intimately
associated emotional and hormonal systems. Oils are often diffused in a cold-air diffuser, warmer or oil lamp - these tools disperse
tiny droplets of essential oils in the surrounding air. When inhaled, the oils connect directly to the nervous system's chemical
sensors. Certain oils that are high in sesquiterpines such as myrrh, sandalwood, vetiver and frankincense oils, have been noted to
dramatically increase activity and oxygenation in certain areas of the brain when used this way.
With inhalation go slowly and start with a small amount - essential oils are effective in very low doses. You will know when you've
had enough - we tend to notice a distaste for the smell or even a mild headache coming on if the concentration of certain oils in
the air has gotten too high
.
Inhalation is often effective for mood-altering effects of essential oils; Rosemary for mental 'stimulation', Lavender for relaxation,
etc. These effects are a result of essential oil components on the lymbic system of the brain - which again is closely tied to the
emotional centers.
Essential oil components from one plant may have synergistic effects with another. One may certainly blend essential oils in a
diffuser or burner, adding a couple drops of each oil desired. Often a nice result can be had from mixing a brighter or sweeter oil
(Rosemary, Basil, Orange) with one more earthy and grounding (Patchouli, Frankincense, Cedar). The effects are very personal - if
you don't like the smell of a particular essential oil or combination of oils, there's probably a reason and they're just not for you!
Your intake could be too high or the oil(s) may not be compatible with your body chemistry at that time.
A note about safety: Essential Oils are very powerful components of plants - they have the capability of being harmful if
improperly used. Essential Oils can be very helpful for some cases, supportive in others, and have little to no effect in others.
They are not intended to treat or cure serious medical conditions; there is no substitute for a consultation with a competent
physician for any matters regarding your health, or anyone else. If you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breast feeding,
it is critical you consult your physician before using any essential oil. Please be sure there are no contraindications of an essential oil
for your condition before using! Almost all essential oils should be diluted to the range of 1% to 3% in your chosen carrier (or
'base') oil - Lavender and Chamomile Oils being notable exceptions (though diluting them will make them no less effective).
Remember - start slowly, pay attention to how an oil and it's particular application makes you feel, adjust accordingly, keep
learning, and have fun!
Aromatherapy Massage Oils
Sanji Gretta
If you’ve never used aromatherapy massage oils, you owe it to yourself to try it. You’re in for a totally unique experience.
Whether you want a massage to relax or to rejuvenate or even to heal, using aromatherapy massage oils brings the body’s senses
to new heights.
Aromatherapy has made steady gains in use and for good reason. Offering the perfect combination of mental and physical well
being, there is no better way to take advantage of aromatherapy than to enjoy its fragrances in massage oils.
Our body’s different senses have been shown to have a direct affect on how we feel. For example, the nose is a very sensitive
part of your body. Without it, you cannot taste or smell. Imagine your favourite foods. Now, imagine you cannot taste them.
That is scary, everything you eat with no taste! How do you think that would affect your attitude throughout the day?
Studies have shown that the part of your nervous system that helps to control your emotions is connected directly to your nose.
Lack of smell can cause symptoms ranging from depression to anxiety and this is only one of your senses. With the knowledge of
how the mind depends on the feedback from your senses, the idea of aromatherapy exploded onto the scene.
One of the more popular types of aromatherapy is massage oil, because of the variety of uses to target specific issues.
Aromatherapy massage oil treatments are unlike any other oils. Whether you are in need of relaxation or need something to perk
you up, there is an aroma to fit the immediate needs. Aromatherapy massage combines two excellent methods to evoke your
body’s response in whatever area you feel is needed.
There are so many different types and manufacturers of aromatherapy massage oils available, it would be a good idea to do your
homework before using. For the best treatment ideas, it is always best to find and pay a certified therapist to ensure you
understand how to get the most impact from aromatherapy massage. Especially, when using for the first time.
To explain a couple of different oils and fragrances we will start with Lavender essential oils. Lavender essential oils are one of the
few oils that you can apply directly to your skin. It is said to have burn relief power. It is important to note that these oils should
not hurt you, however, if this is your first time using essential oils never use them directly on your skin unless under safe direction.
Other oils are required to be diluted before use with other base oils.
Another oil gaining in popularity is the Yling Ylang essential oil. Yling Ylang essential oils have very unique properties as well. It is
said that these tropical plants have the power to both arouse and sooth the senses. It also goes by another name Cananga
Odorata.
Adding aromatherapy massage oils to your therapy program is one experience everyone should try at least once. (Be careful they
have been known to be addictive). With the combination of massage and a scented room to awaken your senses, you have the
ultimate in relaxation and healing.
Sanji Gretta
If you’ve never used aromatherapy massage oils, you owe it to yourself to try it. You’re in for a totally unique experience.
Whether you want a massage to relax or to rejuvenate or even to heal, using aromatherapy massage oils brings the body’s senses
to new heights.
Aromatherapy has made steady gains in use and for good reason. Offering the perfect combination of mental and physical well
being, there is no better way to take advantage of aromatherapy than to enjoy its fragrances in massage oils.
Our body’s different senses have been shown to have a direct affect on how we feel. For example, the nose is a very sensitive
part of your body. Without it, you cannot taste or smell. Imagine your favourite foods. Now, imagine you cannot taste them.
That is scary, everything you eat with no taste! How do you think that would affect your attitude throughout the day?
Studies have shown that the part of your nervous system that helps to control your emotions is connected directly to your nose.
Lack of smell can cause symptoms ranging from depression to anxiety and this is only one of your senses. With the knowledge of
how the mind depends on the feedback from your senses, the idea of aromatherapy exploded onto the scene.
One of the more popular types of aromatherapy is massage oil, because of the variety of uses to target specific issues.
Aromatherapy massage oil treatments are unlike any other oils. Whether you are in need of relaxation or need something to perk
you up, there is an aroma to fit the immediate needs. Aromatherapy massage combines two excellent methods to evoke your
body’s response in whatever area you feel is needed.
There are so many different types and manufacturers of aromatherapy massage oils available, it would be a good idea to do your
homework before using. For the best treatment ideas, it is always best to find and pay a certified therapist to ensure you
understand how to get the most impact from aromatherapy massage. Especially, when using for the first time.
To explain a couple of different oils and fragrances we will start with Lavender essential oils. Lavender essential oils are one of the
few oils that you can apply directly to your skin. It is said to have burn relief power. It is important to note that these oils should
not hurt you, however, if this is your first time using essential oils never use them directly on your skin unless under safe direction.
Other oils are required to be diluted before use with other base oils.
Another oil gaining in popularity is the Yling Ylang essential oil. Yling Ylang essential oils have very unique properties as well. It is
said that these tropical plants have the power to both arouse and sooth the senses. It also goes by another name Cananga
Odorata.
Adding aromatherapy massage oils to your therapy program is one experience everyone should try at least once. (Be careful they
have been known to be addictive). With the combination of massage and a scented room to awaken your senses, you have the
ultimate in relaxation and healing.
Aromatherapy Bathing: Which Essential Oils Can Be Used
Kerris Samson
Long before the term alternative medicine was being used, aromatherapy was being practiced by the Egyptians for over 5,000
years. When being used by the Egyptians oil was being extracted from the many aromatic plants around them through infusion
and then used for their not only cosmetic and medicinal purposes but also for embalming as well. They then passed the
knowledge they had gained on to the Greeks and it served as the beginning of their research into how to use the oils and
fragrance of some flowers for their relaxing and stimulating effects. In fact when looking back further in history we find that
ancient man depended very much on his environment for their basic needs and to survive which led them to discover the more
natural ways of preserving food and how certain conditions could be treated using herbs and aromatics.
First of all we will look at Eastern Roots. The use of aromatics are shown in a Chinese Herbal Book by Shen Nung dated 2,700 BC
and which provides specific details on over 300 plants and how they can be used. Also the ancient Chinese would burn incense
and wood as part of their religious beliefs and practices and even in today’s modern society many Chinese still observe these
practices today. You will also discover that the Chinese used aromatics in relation to the acupressure, massage and other
therapies that they used.
Whilst now in modern society many people place a very high premium on their health and well being but due to the high cost of
traditional and conventional medicines available (surgery and Medicare) more and more people are turning to aromatherapy and
essential oil therapy as well as other forms of alternative medicine.
The basics of using essential oils in an aromatherapy bath are as follows:
Essentials oils are aroma producing oils which come from flowers such as the rose, from leaves such as basil, twig, bark, fruit rind
and many other parts of plants. Although experts say that extracting the oils can be quite time consuming and complex and
requires a large amount of patience on behalf of the person carrying out the work the benefits at the end are great. Certainly
you need to recognize and accept that if you want to get about 5 tsp of oil from rose petals it will take about 220lbs of petals to
do it and this is why pure essential oils are so expensive. Although the effectiveness of the oils is not comprised as it only takes a
few drops to generate the effect required. However there is a cheaper alternative namely synthetic oil, however they do not
offer the person the same healing properties as their natural counterparts.
Essential oils work by stimulating a person’s olfactory system and later on the brain or limbic system. The fragrance along with
other properties and effects relating to the oils will determine how a person’s body system and its parts are stimulated. Whilst
having a massage using these oils they are not only absorbed by the body but are inhaled at the same time and eventually when
being absorbed through the skin they will reach the organs and body system of the person being treated. The time it takes for
the oils to absorb through the skin can be from as little as 20 minutes and take as long as 2 hours or more and there it is wise to
avoid taking a shower or bath straight after any massage so that the maximum effect is received from the massage therapy.
The time that the effect lasts on a person can vary from 3-24 hours to 2-3 days or even as long as week. Oils that have a short
live time span in regard to their scent are Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Thyme and Bergamot whilst Hyssop, Lavender, Balm and
various other oils can last between 2 to 3 days. The oils that take as long as a week to completely evaporate are Jasmine,
Sandalwood, Ginger and Cedar Wood.
Many people when using aromatherapy are looking to achieve a sense of calm in their lives and these people will look to using a
combination of three types of oils to help with this and they will base them on how long they last. They can be used by mixing
them into a warm bath and will help the person to become relaxed and calm, they will help to eliminate the stress and depression
that they are feeling as well as both energizing and soothing the body of any aches that they are feeling. Certainly by using
essential oils during a massage will help increase the healing and calming effect that the person is feeling. However any massage
carried out using essential oils must also include a carrier oil to help prevent irritation and skin reactions on the person being
treated. Such carrier oils that are used to help dilute the essential oils are avocado oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, wheat germ oil,
almond oil, soya oil and hazelnut oil.
Kerris Samson
Long before the term alternative medicine was being used, aromatherapy was being practiced by the Egyptians for over 5,000
years. When being used by the Egyptians oil was being extracted from the many aromatic plants around them through infusion
and then used for their not only cosmetic and medicinal purposes but also for embalming as well. They then passed the
knowledge they had gained on to the Greeks and it served as the beginning of their research into how to use the oils and
fragrance of some flowers for their relaxing and stimulating effects. In fact when looking back further in history we find that
ancient man depended very much on his environment for their basic needs and to survive which led them to discover the more
natural ways of preserving food and how certain conditions could be treated using herbs and aromatics.
First of all we will look at Eastern Roots. The use of aromatics are shown in a Chinese Herbal Book by Shen Nung dated 2,700 BC
and which provides specific details on over 300 plants and how they can be used. Also the ancient Chinese would burn incense
and wood as part of their religious beliefs and practices and even in today’s modern society many Chinese still observe these
practices today. You will also discover that the Chinese used aromatics in relation to the acupressure, massage and other
therapies that they used.
Whilst now in modern society many people place a very high premium on their health and well being but due to the high cost of
traditional and conventional medicines available (surgery and Medicare) more and more people are turning to aromatherapy and
essential oil therapy as well as other forms of alternative medicine.
The basics of using essential oils in an aromatherapy bath are as follows:
- It facilitates equilibrium of both the physical, mental and spiritual health of a person through natural means.
- In some cases it has been found that alternative treatments are considered as strong and effective as complementary
treatments to regular medical practices. - The main component of aromatherapy is the essential oils and are highly concentrated essences which are known for their
healing effects.
Essentials oils are aroma producing oils which come from flowers such as the rose, from leaves such as basil, twig, bark, fruit rind
and many other parts of plants. Although experts say that extracting the oils can be quite time consuming and complex and
requires a large amount of patience on behalf of the person carrying out the work the benefits at the end are great. Certainly
you need to recognize and accept that if you want to get about 5 tsp of oil from rose petals it will take about 220lbs of petals to
do it and this is why pure essential oils are so expensive. Although the effectiveness of the oils is not comprised as it only takes a
few drops to generate the effect required. However there is a cheaper alternative namely synthetic oil, however they do not
offer the person the same healing properties as their natural counterparts.
Essential oils work by stimulating a person’s olfactory system and later on the brain or limbic system. The fragrance along with
other properties and effects relating to the oils will determine how a person’s body system and its parts are stimulated. Whilst
having a massage using these oils they are not only absorbed by the body but are inhaled at the same time and eventually when
being absorbed through the skin they will reach the organs and body system of the person being treated. The time it takes for
the oils to absorb through the skin can be from as little as 20 minutes and take as long as 2 hours or more and there it is wise to
avoid taking a shower or bath straight after any massage so that the maximum effect is received from the massage therapy.
The time that the effect lasts on a person can vary from 3-24 hours to 2-3 days or even as long as week. Oils that have a short
live time span in regard to their scent are Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Thyme and Bergamot whilst Hyssop, Lavender, Balm and
various other oils can last between 2 to 3 days. The oils that take as long as a week to completely evaporate are Jasmine,
Sandalwood, Ginger and Cedar Wood.
Many people when using aromatherapy are looking to achieve a sense of calm in their lives and these people will look to using a
combination of three types of oils to help with this and they will base them on how long they last. They can be used by mixing
them into a warm bath and will help the person to become relaxed and calm, they will help to eliminate the stress and depression
that they are feeling as well as both energizing and soothing the body of any aches that they are feeling. Certainly by using
essential oils during a massage will help increase the healing and calming effect that the person is feeling. However any massage
carried out using essential oils must also include a carrier oil to help prevent irritation and skin reactions on the person being
treated. Such carrier oils that are used to help dilute the essential oils are avocado oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, wheat germ oil,
almond oil, soya oil and hazelnut oil.