Beauty Essentials Tips

Mandarin Pure Essential Oil

2009-11-07T13:42:00.000+07:00

Although the mandarin tree is most commonly found in southern Europe, South America, and Japan, the mandarin tree originated in China. It was named for the Mandarins: the high officials of the former Chinese Empire.

The mandarin tree is a member of the orange family. The pure essential oil comes from the outer peel of the mandarin. The mandarin peel is pressed, and from it comes the flowery, sweet aroma scent associated with the oil. This oil is believed to improve mood and relieve anxiety. The oil is really a happy oil, as the smell of the oil gives you the feeling of cleanliness. It is safe for all ages, and children especially enjoy the aroma of the oil.

Therapeutic Effects of Mandarin Pure Essential Oil

There are many ways mandarin oil can uplift your spirits. Its tart, fresh aroma makes the oil useful for combating depression and sadness. It's properties enable it to ease distress, and it can even act as a gentle sedative.

What can pure essential oil of Mandarin do for me? There are many symptoms and problems mandarin pure essential oil can help with. The list can be somewhat overwhelming, but we will cover some of the most common ailments the oil is used for. For starters, it can be used as a natural cleaner around the house. Just add a few drops of oil to some water, dampen a rag, and clean away. The natural antiseptic properties of the mandarin oil will help clean and disinfect the items or rooms you are cleaning. This is especially good for the children's room, where you would not want the processed chemicals is some of the cleaners in the air, or on the surfaces the children are touching.

Second, it helps to prevent stretch marks. Mix mandarin oil with a carrier oil, such as safflower, sweet almond, or grape seed extract, and rub on your stomach every day while pregnant. The mixture should be ? cup of carrier oil, and 50 drops of mandarin pure essential oil. This oil is safe for pregnant women, so no need to worry. It only prevents, not removes. Sorry!

Third, it can also help relieve muscle cramps or tired muscles. Just mix 10 drops of Mandarin Oil and 5 drops of Geranium Oil in 1 cup of milk, and then add to the bath water. You cannot just add oils to water for obvious reasons. They do not mix. You need some sort of carrier, to absorb the oil, then to mix with the water. This is where the milk comes in.

As I said earlier, there are many other ailments, but the list is too long to cover. The main ingredient of the oil is the aroma. This is why it is called the happy oil. Just the fresh smell of oranges is enough to relax you and relieve your anxiety.

Safety information

One of the safest oils to use with everyone. Safe to use during pregnancy. Just make sure to take care. Mandarin oil is slightly yellow and will leave a residue in the diffuser lamp. You must also ensure to avoid direct sunlight if the oil has been applied to your shin. The oil is photosensitive, and will leave brown spots on your skin. The spots will go away with time, but it's just better to not have them.

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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Aromatherapy
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Essential Oils have a Powerful Impact on Health

2009-08-10T23:48:00.001+07:00

An essential oil is a volatile, aromatic liquid that is generally distilled from the stems, leaves, flowers, roots, bark, or seeds of a plant. Containing the true essence of the plant, the essential oils are highly concentrated and far more potent than dried herbs.

The science of using essential oils is known as aromatherapy. This science is used for psychological and physical well being and for best results, only pure and natural oils should be used.

The origins of aromatherapy date back thousands of years. From documented uses by Napoleon, to references in the Bible, fragrant oils and spices have played a prominent role throughout world history.

Essential oils can be used in many different ways. The English model advocates massage by diluting small amounts of essential oil in a vegetable oil and massaging the body for the purpose of relaxation and relieving stress. The French model includes both ingestion and undiluted topical application. The French believe that taking the oils internally produces the best results. A common method to ingest the oil is to add a few drops of honey, a piece of bread, or in a small drop of vegetable oil. The German model focuses on inhalation. The effect of fragrance on the sense of smell can exert a strong effect on the brain and limbic system. Research has shown that some essential oils can increase oxygenation and activity in the brain.

By using a combination of these three methods, the use of essential oils can be versatile and powerful. In his book, Gary Young suggests that inhalation of essential oils will increase growth hormone secretion, induce weight loss, or balance mood and emotions. Topical applications can produce results with spinal or muscle injuries or defects. He says, The ability of an essential oil to act both on the mind and the body is what makes them truly unique among natural therapeutic agents. The fragrance of an essential oil can be very stimulating--both psychologically and physically. The fragrance of other essential oils may be calming and relaxing, helping to overcome anxiety or hyperactivity. On a physiological level, essential oils may stimulate immune function and regenerate damaged tissue. Essential oils may also combat infectious disease by killing viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens.

Dr. David Hill, a chiropractor who sees patients from all around the world seeking to receive the healing power of essential oils, says, I personally have seen the healing properties of essential oils used to treat cancer and many forms of autoimmune disease with spectacular results. For example, it has been discovered that the essential oils of sandalwood has tremendous effect on combating specific types of cancer. Others like frankincense, myrtle, and white fir have been shown to have an effect against specific forms of cancer. Essential oils can build the immune system, offer support to body organs, aid in digestion, and reduce inflammation, just to name a few.

Although essential oils are generally considered without risk, it is wise to respect their powers and become well versed in their use and safety. As beneficial as essential oils are, it is prudent to note the purity is as important as safety. According to Dr. Hill, Efficacy can only be fully realized when there is proper care given to protect the delicate chemical balance associated with essential oils during the distillation process.

Generally speaking, the essential oils that you find in department stores, and even health food stores, are of uncertain quality. When choosing an essential oil, be sure to select a guaranteed, therapeutic grade essential oil. In addition, select and use those oils whose scent you find particularly appealing. The whole principal of aromatherapy is that it should be a pleasurable experience. There will generally be more than one oil you can use for a particular purpose, so you should be able to find one you like.

Sources: Essential Oil Desk Reference, Third Edition by Gary Young, ND, compiled by Essential Science Publishing, http://www.essentialscience.net/ or 1-800-336-6308. Young Living's therapeutic grade essential oils and diffusers available at http://www.youngliving.org/ or 1-800-371-2928, code #703949.

Faye Durham is a former chemist and clinical research associate in the pharmaceutical industry. She has monitored clinical research trials involving the major diseases of our day, including heart disease, cancer, and lung disease. In her work with patients, she asked what can be done to prevent or delay the onset of the chronic diseases, associated with aging. Since most diseases have a life style component, she became interested in the effect of diet and emotions on health. About four years ago, she was introduced to aromatherapy and has become a true believer in its therapeutic benefits, as a holistic method of treatment. In her current career, she works as a researcher, writer, and independent distributor, focusing on nutrition and aromatherapy. You can reach Faye through the website at http://www.ryze.com/go/fdurham

Verbena Pure Essential Oil

2009-05-18T19:42:00.000+07:00

While the lemon verbena is native to South America, the Spaniards introduced this shrub to Europe in the eighteenth century. The Spaniards were growing it for the perfume oil scent. Today, this aromatic plant is cultivated for its leaves and ornamental appeal. Due to the inefficient process of extracting the oil from its leaves, the cost of verbena oil is relatively expen ve. Because of this expense, verbena pure essential oil is rarely used in bath products, such as bath salts and bath soaps. It is mainly used in top of the line, high quality, and expensive perfumes.

The therapeutic properties of verbena pure essential oil help to ease exhaustion, relieve anxiety, and boost concentration. The main constituents in verbena essential oil are limonene, geraniole, cineole, and citral, which is up to 26% of the oil itself. These constituents give lemon verbena a very strong antibacterial, antiseptic, and antispasmodic effects.

Here is an extra tip. If you are looking to purchase pure verbena essential oil, be careful to ensure it is pure. Due to the expensive nature of this oil, it is often found stretched, or diluted, with the less expensive lemongrass oil, which of course will greatly diminish the therapeutic properties of the oil. You can buy the stretched verbena oil, just do not pay for the price of pure verbena oil.

One of the major conditions verbena pure essential oil can help with is insomnia. Verbena helps to promote relaxation. It is this effect, which is useful for easing stress related sleep disorders. All you need to do is add 3 drops each of verbena and lavender oil to your bedside diffuser. Then it's lights out!

Like many of the citrus oils out there, verbena is a great room freshener. Mix 10 drops of verbena oil with 2 ounces of water, preferably distilled if you have some, and store in a spray bottle. Then just spray around the house, and even on sheets and pillows to help remove the stale odors.

If you are pregnant, this oil should be used with caution. Midwives to start, or trigger, contractions, once relied upon verbena essential oil. This oil is still associated with uterine muscle stimulation. Some also believe this oil will increase a woman's stamina, which is well needed, during delivery. Just be sure to take precautions and do your research before using this oil if you are pregnant.

Also, verbena essential oil may irritate the skin. Even when the oil is diluted with a carrier oil, such as safflower oil, there may still be some irritations due to the sensitivity of your skin. Before applying a mixture of verbena and a carrier oil, apply it to small spot on your skin to see of irritations will occur. If not, massage away,but, as always, use this oil with caution.

Due to the expensive nature of verbena pure essential oil, you may never have the chance to experience the true therapeutic properties but, you can still enjoy the aroma of this oil with some of the expensive perfumes. Just ask if verbena oil is one of the oils in the perfume. You can also enjoy the aroma by using one of the stretched blends, which is still somewhat beneficial.

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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Aromatherapy
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Essential Oils How To Use Aromatherapy Skin Care

2009-05-12T16:01:00.001+07:00

First, please remember that essential oils should never be applied neat (undiluted) to your skin. There are absolutely NO exceptions to this! This includes the soles of your feet or palms of your hands. When using oils neat for inhalation purposes please exercise care and dispense your oils on a tissue or cotton ball for direct inhalation.

AROMATHERAPY SKIN CARE METHODS FOR FACIAL CLEANSING AND CELLULAR RENEWAL:

FACIAL STEAM ~ As part of a deep cleansing routine disperse 3 to 5 drops of essential oil in a teaspoon of milk or honey and mix into a pint of steaming hot water.

Pour this HOT mixture into a stainless steel mixing bowl and lean with your face forward, over the bowl being sure to cover your head with a towel to catch the steam on your face.

Breath in the steam and relax, enjoying your facial steam until the waters cool.

Or you may use your oils in a facial steamer.

PLEASE NOTE: Essential oils are not water soluble you must use a dispersant when adding them to a facial steam or bath. Water may cause the oils to penetrate your system more quickly or cause irritation to sensitive or damaged skin, i.e. blemishes, sores or rash.

FACIAL MASQUE ~ Add 2-3 drops of essential oils to moistened clay, honey, mashed avocado, or egg white.

Dampen your face lightly and apply your facial masque. Leave on for 10-15 minutes until your masque begins to dry and harden slightly.

Wash your facial masque thoroughly off your face. Your face will look and feel more toned, fresh and hydrated. Repeat once a week for healthy and toned skin!

FACIAL OIL BLEND ~ Add up to 10 drops of essential oil blend, depending upon your skin type, to one ounce of your favorite carrier oil. I prefer Certified Organic Filtered and Unscented Jojoba oil which is most like your skin's own natural sebum.

Frankincense is good for all skin types. German Chamomile is excellent for sensitive skin. Rose is wonderful for mature skin, as is Frankincense.

Apply your facial oil blend lightly to target areas for intensive therapy to nourish and heal facial skin.

SKIN BRUSHING ~ Invigorates your skin, and stimulates your lymphatic system.

Apply 1 drop of (lavender, frankincense, rose or geranium - all are excellent for skin care) in 1 Tablespoon of honey and apply mixture to your natural bristle skin brush and brush your skin.

Make sure your gentle, yet brisk brush strokes are upward, toward your heart. Brush your entire body from the tips of your toes and fingers to the top of your shoulders. Include the front and back sides of your body as you breathe deeply.

Enjoy the wonderful tingling sensations dancing across your skin. Always be sure to work from your extremities upwards, toward your heart. Gently, yet briskly, cover your entire body, omitting your face and neck in the process of this cleansing and uplifting ritual. Skin brushing is especially effective just before you shower.

Properly administered essential oils are a natural, safe and effective way to enhance your health and well-being and can produce satisfying results where other methods have failed. Please consult with your physician regarding your health concerns.

KG has utilized essential oils in her energy medicine practice for more than 30 years. During that time she has facilitated healing for thousands of people suffering from personal trauma, illness and injury. Through her unique AromaTest? system KG formulates essential oil blends that heal.

KG Stiles is a certified Aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's book, Aromatic Medicine - Pathway to Health, and her DVD about her AromaTest System of Healing, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. Click to learn about Wild Crafted Frankincense Essential Oil from Oman India (the best!) Click to learn about KG's other PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapy Products PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapy Products Menu Click to find out about Aromatherapy Complete Kit (9 oils) Contact KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

Fruit Extracts Prevent Aging of Skin the Natural Way

2009-05-05T19:57:00.001+07:00

Are the growing wrinkles on your face giving you sleepless nights? Cosmetic market is flooded with innumerable types of lotions and creams that give assurance of reducing the wrinkles helping you look young. But, these cosmetic products contain harmful chemicals which may help you at present but can harm your skin in the future. At this point of time a question may arise in your mind that ? ?Is there any other alternative or option which can help you, without leaving any adverse affect?? Yes, the answer is ?fruit extracts? that can help you look younger and that too a natural way.

Fruit extracts are prepared from fruits with little or no outside ingredients. Fruits such as apple, banana, custard apple, guava, lime, mango alphonso, orange, papaya, pineapple, strawberry are commonly used for making fruit extracts products.

Use of fruits in cosmetic functions is mainly due to the presence of vitamins and alpha Hydroxyl acids (AHA) such as glycolic, lactic, malic, citric and tartaric acids. Fruit extracts are known to have refreshing, purifying as well as soothing and hydrating properties. They are used for caring and grooming body, skin and hair.

Variety of fruit extracts are available in the market to suit perfectly to all skin types and hair texture. Deciding which fruit extract product to buy and from where must be bewildering you by now.

Let me firstly answer the former part of the question. To find which fruit extract to buy, you initially need to do a bit of research. Find what type is of skin texture do you have is it oily, dry or normal. If this task seems tough, you can seek for this information from professional advice from cosmetologist, who can guide you in a better manner that which fruit extract product will suit your skin type.

The next thing you need to do is to search through the market about all the available sellers or companies of the particular fruit extract that you are looking for. You can go out and can shop for them in the cosmetic shop but in case you don?t want to get into all these hassles, you can look for online cosmetic sellers. Now a days number of well known companies have open up their websites, so that a customer can look at all the products they offer at one place. Go through the various websites, you can read the feature of each fruit extract and can find the suitable fruit extract product that suits your needs to the best and that too at a much lower price than that available in the open market.

Growth of the fruit extracts usage in other words organic food segment has bang upon the natural cosmetics industry by raising consumers' expectations. The positive image of fruits positive in food has now moved across to cosmetic products such as fruit extracts and many more. Get a new young look with fruit extracts and let other guess what your right age is.

Bryan Josling is working with the Horticultural Research Station in Adelaide. He has also been involved with research on plants. To find Aromatherapy essential oils, essential massage oils, essential oils wholesale visit http://www.ndaroma.com.

Glyconutrients Will Be Revolutionary in Future Medicine A Health Supplement

2009-04-28T19:51:00.001+07:00

PART ONE

The word Glyconutrients, is not a Brand, or Company name, but is the name given to the Essential Sugars needed for Optimal Health.

Glyco is the Greek word for sweet and of course Nutrients mean, nourishing food or nourishment. Strangely, Glyconutrients are not usually sweet, sometimes they are bitter and some are virtually tasteless. There are over 200 of these sugars which all come from natural sources, research on their benefits have been conducted continuously since the early 1990's, to date, eight, of these sugars have been identified as Essential to the body for Good Health.

They are:- Mannose, Fucose, Galactose, Glucose, N-Acetylgalactosamine, N-Acetylglucosamine, N-Acetylneurminic Acid and Xylose.

GLYCOMICS, is the total knowledge about sugars and how they function, GLYCOBIOLOGY is the study of how sugars impact on living systems, That is how they affect biological structures and contribute towards Good Health.

One very important point to remember is that they are not a drug or synthetic, they are natural, today more attention is being paid to the study of Glycomics, which in turn is increasingly raising the awareness among Health Professionals that Glyconutrients, is real and beneficial to everyone.

Doctors are very reluctant to stray outside the realm of scientifically tested drugs, but also remember that the fourth largest killer of people in the Western world is, Prescription Drugs,

The Eight Essential Sugars, enhance the Immune System and promotes Cellular Communication, which is how they improve the health of the individual. The Immune System is the way the body was naturally designed to heal itself, and all the cells in the body must communicate with each other for Optimal Health. so Glyconutrients provide the essential nutrition, that is needed by the Immune System and cells.

Who needs Glyconutrients? well the answer is anyone that has cells in their body, and of course that means EVERYONE. Glyconutrients is good for everyone, has no side, or harmful effects and is all natural.

Oxford University in the United Kingdom, has a Glycobiology Institute, with over 60 researchers and the Queensland Government and Griffith University in Australia, recently spent $13 million dollars, for the study of Glyconutrients by establishing a Center for Biomolecular Science and Drug Discovery.

There are also a number of Universities and private reseach laboratories in the United States and elsewhere that are working on similar projects. A BEST SELLER book available through most good book shops is called Sugars That Heal by Doctor Emil Mondoa MD and Mindy Kitei, it is an excellent source of professional information about Glyconutrients.

If you use any good Search Engine like EXACTSEEK, and enter any of the following words, you will obtain unlimited information, in relation to Glyconutrients:- GLYCOBIOLOGY, GLYCOMICS, GLYCOSCIENCE, GLYCOINFORMATION, ESSENTIAL SUGARS.

SEE PART TWO!

Article by Alfred Jones, More Information at: http://www.SugarsR4U.com and http://www.RUsweetEnuf.com Learn about Glyconutrients, The Essential Sugars for Life, or Himalayan Goji Juice the Boost Immune System Vitamin. We can Help you.

When Scientists Get It Wrong

2009-04-24T13:06:00.001+07:00

For the most part, scientific research and analysis is an exhaustive, almost pedantic process that attempts to investigate factors that may or may not influence a particular outcome. This usually involves careful consideration of previous studies and their findings. The next step is usually establishing a set of research questions and hypotheses, followed by a careful design of experimental methods, which are then rigorously analysis and reported.

In addition, scientific research proposes that methodologies of any investigation are presented accurately enough so that replication of the experiment by other researchers wishing to test the reported outcomes is possible.

The following journal article released by the American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. is an example of researchers assuming cause and effect without testing of any kind or consideration of possible alternative causes.

It does not propose possible investigations that need to be carried out in order to test their hypothesis nor does it propose a clinical study or in fact any further study at all. It does propose however that because of their observations of only 2 cases, which may have been exposed to the essential oil of Bergamot that resulted in adverse skin reactions, that ... a necessity for strict governmental surveillance and scrutiny of these increasingly popular preparations is implemented.

This is preposterous and totally against every scientific rule of investigation. Read this article and judge for yourself.

Accidental bullous phototoxic reactions to bergamot aromatherapy oil

Steven Kaddu, MD, Helmut Kerl, MD, and Peter Wolf, MD Graz, Austria

Brief reports J AM ACAD DERMATOL SEPTEMBER 2001

Abstract

Oil of bergamot is an extract from the rind of bergamot orange (Citrus aurantium ssp bergamia) that has a pleasant, refreshing scent; until a few years ago it had been widely used as an ingredient in cosmetics but was restricted or banned in most countries because of certain adverse effects. More recently, oil of bergamot preparations have been gaining renewed popularity in aromatherapy. Oil of bergamot possesses photosensitive and melanogenic properties because of the presence of furocoumarins, primarily bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen [5-MOP). However, 5-MOP is also potentially phototoxic and photomutagenic. Despite its increasing application, there are only a few recent reports of phototoxic reactions to bergamot aromatherapy oil. We describe two patients with localized and disseminated bullous phototoxic skin reactions developing within 48 to 72 hours after exposure to bergamot aromatherapy oil and subsequent ultraviolet exposure. One patient (case 2) had no history of direct contact with aromatherapy oil but developed bullous skin lesions after exposure to aerosolized (evaporated) aromatherapy oil in a sauna and subsequent UVA radiation in a tanning salon. This report highlights the potential health hazard related to the increasing use of psoralen-containing aromatherapy oils.

Comment: In the paragraph above the publishers clearly state that the 2nd case actually had no direct contact with the supposed aerosolized aromatherapy oil. They also report (source not given) that the oil of bergamot has gained popularity and despite its increase in use, only 2 cases of phototoxic reactions have been reported. This should raise the question of what, other than bergamot oil, may be the cause of the phototoxic reaction in the 2 cases, shouldn?t it?

Introduction

Oil of bergamot is an extract from the rind of bergamot orange (Citrus aurantium ssp bergamia) that is grown mainly in southwestern Italy. Because oil of bergamot has a pleasant, refreshing scent and easily blends into perfume formulations, it had long been used as an ingredient in cosmetics until a few years ago when its use in perfumery was restricted or banned in most countries because of the report of adverse effects, primarily phototoxicity and Berloque dermatitis.1 More recently, oil of bergamot is gaining renewed popularity in aromatherapy.2 The photosensitizing and melanogenic properties of oil of bergamot are due to the presence of furocoumarins, mainly bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen [5-MOP).3-5 Apart from potential phototoxic effects, 5-MOP has also been shown to be photomutagenic and photocarcinogenic.6-8 Consequently in Europe, 5-MOP?containing cosmetics have been banned or restricted to certain concentrations. However, currently there are no official limits to 5-MOP concentrations in aromatherapy oils and no strict legal requirement for placing warning labels on these products in some countries.

Comment: While 5-MOP in isolation may have been shown to be potentially photomutagenic and photocarcinogenic, the pure essential oil of Bergamot (used as a 100% pure essential oil, not testing isolated, extracted ingredients) has not been shown to be photocarinogenic.

It must be said, that many substances including Bergamot oil do cause photosensitivity, for example Hypericum oil may also cause photosensitivity.

In this report, we describe two patients in whom bullous phototoxic reactions developed after unintended contact to bergamot aromatherapy oil and subsequent UVA exposure in sunlight in one patient and in a tanning salon in the other.

CASE REPORTS

Case 1

A 54-year-old woman of Fitzpatrick skin type III presented with painful, red, edematous, sharply demarcated areas with bullae and crusting on the face in a butterfly-like distribution (Fig 1). She gave a history of having unsuspectingly used a bergamot aromatherapy oil preparation 3 days earlier and subsequently stayed outdoors for several hours on a sunny day. She denied a history of using any other creams or taking any medications.

Comment: The patient may not have used a bergamot aromatherapy oil preparation or taken any medication, however, is it not possible that this patient came in contact with an allergen during the 3 days which could have caused the same reaction? Was this investigated?

I am not claiming that it was not the Bergamot oil, however I am suggesting that other possibilities do not appear to have been investigated or considered.

A sample of bergamot aromatherapy oil, which the patient had used, was available for analysis of 5-MOP concentration. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) performed on the aromatherapy oil preparation revealed a very high 5-MOP concentration of 2400 ppm, well above 5-MOP levels officially permitted in cosmetics and tanning agents (0.1 ppm) in Austria.

The patient was treated with a topical steroid cream. Within 7 days, the skin lesions had improved significantly, except for the persistence of mild swelling and blistering on some areas of her face. These lesions also resolved over the next 2 weeks without any complications. The patient was instructed to avoid sun exposure for the next few weeks to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Follow-up examination at 1 year revealed no residual hyperpigmentation on the face in the previously affected areas.

Comment: One has to ask whether the so-called Aromatherapy oil of Bergamot was indeed a 100% pure essential oil of Bergamot, as the label shown in the illustration (not provided here) does not show a manufacturers name or any indication of purity.

Also, I would be interested to read whether the analysis of other brands of Bergamot aromatherapy oil showed similar concentrations of 5-MOP? After all isn?t replication one of the key principles in scientific testing?

At the top of the label in the picture provided, it can be discerned that 100g would appear to be the content of the bottle. Essential oils, however, are liquid and are not sold per gram rather they are sold in milliliters. So the question ?is this a cream?? needs to be asked.

The researchers are not making any comment as to whether this preparation was synthetic/artificial or a 100% pure essential oil. Or whether it contained other ingredients in addition to Bergamot oil.

Furthermore, Bergamot oil is traditionally used in Aromatherapy forits reputed strong antiseptic effect and its affinity for the respiratory, digestive and urinary systems, it has also been used for a variety of infections and inflammations of these areas. One has to ask, why was this patient using it on her face?

Bergamot oil, like most essential oils, should never be used undiluted and especially not on sensitive skin such as facial skin. This would be spelled out on the label, if this product were indeed made by a reputable manufacturer.

Did the patient not read the label? Or was this information not on the label? The researchers do not make any mention of indications, contra-indications or warnings provided on the label of the product.

Case 2

A 41-year-old woman with Fitzpatrick skin type II presented with disseminated, painful, red, edematous, sharply demarcated areas with bullae mainly on the face, neck, arms, palms, and thighs. Smaller erythematous lesions displayed a linear distribution. She gave a history of a visit to a sauna 2 days previously where she was exposed to a bergamot aromatherapy oil preparation. According to the patient, the aromatherapy oil, initially dissolved in water, was poured on a hot stone to vaporize for inhalation. Within a few minutes, the patient was exposed to UVA radiation in an adjacent tanning salon. The skin lesions developed gradually within 48 to 72 hours. The patient denied a history of taking medications before her visit to the tanning salon. She was treated with a topical steroid cream and oral analgesics and was instructed to avoid sun exposure.

Significant improvement was observed within 5 days except for the persistence of swollen and blistered areas of the neck and palms, which also resolved after several days, leaving no residual hyperpigmentation.

Comment: Again one has to wonder as to the purity of the essential oil used, as it is common practice to use fragrant (often synthetic) oils to enhance an atmosphere in spas and other venues of this type. To simply assume that the Bergamot oil was the cause in this and the previous case is a big assumption.

In the 2nd case, considering the small isolated areas that became irritated, one would have to question the implication of Bergamot oil in the first place. If indeed the Bergamot oil, vaporized into the air through exposure to hot rocks was responsible, why were the skin reactions so isolated and small? Would it not be more reasonable to see much larger areas of skin react?

It is my opinion that the Bergamot oil used in both these cases was neither pure nor applied in the correct manner and may indeed not even be responsible for the skin reactions experienced by the 2 patients.

DISCUSSION

The use of aromatherapy oil has increased in recent years, primarily because of a growing interest in aromatherapy, a form of alternative medicine involving application of essential oils often in combination with massage to achieve therapeutic effects.9 Despite the growing popularity, to our knowledge there are only two reports documenting accidental phototoxicity to oil of bergamot?containing aromatherapy preparations.4,10

Phototoxic reactions in our two cases developed within 48 to 72 hours after contact with bergamot aromatherapy oil and UV exposure. This time interval is consistent with that of phototoxic reactions arising after local application or ingestion of psoralens.11,12 Conversely, phototoxic reactions from other substances, such as phenothiazines, have a relatively shorter induction time interval. Therefore this report emphasizes the importance of considering the possibility of a phototoxic reaction to bergamot aromatherapy oil in all patients presenting with bullous lesions within a few days after a visit to a sauna and tanning salon or after contact with aromatherapy oil.

The skin lesions of case 1 occurred exclusively on the face, consistent with a local phototoxic reaction to oil of bergamot. However, in case 2 the lesions

were disseminated, some of which displayed a linear distribution. The severity of phototoxic reactions to oil of bergamot have been shown to depend on several

factors, including vehicle used, skin site, interval between application of psoralen and irradiation, hydration of the skin, and the degree of constitutive or sun-induced pigmentation.12 In this case, high hydration of the skin from vaporized water in the sauna may have played a special role by increasing local penetration of psoralens. Localization of the skin lesions at different body sites may have been influenced by mechanical factors. Similar phototoxic lesions displaying a linear arrangement have also been observed in another case of phototoxic reaction to aromatherapy oil.3

Long-term follow-up in our two cases showed no evidence of hyperpigmentation in previously affected areas. This observation implies that in cases of phototoxic reactions to bergamot aromatherapy oil, hyperpigmentation such as that occurring in Berloque dermatitis might be prevented by the use of topical steroid creams and subsequent avoidance of sun exposure.

In this report, we have highlighted yet another adverse reaction related to sunbeds, especially those with adjacent saunas in which bergamot aromatherapy

oil is applied. In addition to the possible link of the use of UVA-tanning devices to melanoma,13 several authors have also reported several acute cutaneous

reactions including burns, erythema, pruritus, polymorphous light eruption, as well as phototoxic and photoallergic reactions.14-18 Accidental phototoxic burns occurring after UVA exposure have been observed after local application of psoralen-containing cosmetics or ingestion of psoralen-containing food and medications.16,19,20 Severe, extensive, life threatening phototoxic reactions, such as the case of a woman who died of a massive phototoxic skin reaction, have been described after ingestion of food and medication containing psoralen and subsequent exposure to artificial UV radiation.16 Despite health education and warnings about possible short- and long-term harmful effects, tanning salons are still popular in Europe.

In conclusion, our two cases provide evidence that commercially available bergamot aromatherapy oil may cause serious bullous phototoxic reactions. In

our opinion, there is a need for the public to be made more aware of these potential dangers and a necessity for strict governmental surveillance and scrutiny of these increasingly popular preparations.

Comment: Sorry, but there is absolutely no evidence what so ever in this report to conclusively show that Bergamot oil was indeed the causative factor to these skin reactions. At best the authors could suggest is that a scientifically sound study be proposed to investigate the possibility that 100% pure Bergamot oil can indeed cause any adverse skin reaction, if used in the manner suggested by trained clinical Aromatherapists/Herbalists.

Some other questions that should have been considered by the authors include:

Investigation of presents of pesticide in the preparations used;

Investigation of present of herbicides in the preparations used;

Investigation of other constituents (not part of 100% pure essential oil of Bergamot) in the product(s) such as synthetic agents and other ingredients;

Reporting on the amount used by the woman reported on in Case 1 and whether the oil was applied in a diluted form as would be suggested by the Aromatherapist how sold her the product;

Reason for the use of Bergamot oil on the face in Case 1;

Sensitivity of both patients to other citrus fruit extracts/allergy to citrus?

These are just some of the questions that need to be asked and carefully researched before any conclusions can be made. It is my opinion that this research is inadequate and of little use as it does not quantify its findings nor provide any clinical testing or provide evidence of Bergamot oil being the causative factor for either of the 2 Cases reported.

Therefore, in my opinion, the authors? conclusions are premature and baseless.

We thank Dr W. Ramer (Gerot Pharmazeutika, Vienna, Austria) for performing HPLC analysis on 5-MOP levels of the oil of bergamot preparation.

REFERENCES USE IN ORIGINAL ARTICLE

1. Zaynoun ST,Aftimos BA,Tenekjian KK,Kurban AK. Berloque dermatitis: a continuing cosmetic problem. Contact Dermatitis 1981;7:111-6.

2. Guenther E. The essential oils. Vol 3. Princeton (NJ): van Nostrand Co; 1958. p. 260.

3. Makki S,Treffel P,Humbert P,Agache P. High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of citropten and bergapten in suction blister fluid after solar product application in humans. J Chromatogr 1991:563:407-13.

4. Clark SM, Wilkinson SM. Phototoxic contact dermatitis from 5-methoxypsoralen in aromatherapy oil. Contact Dermatitis 1998;38:289-90.

5. Levine N, Don S,Owens C, Rogers DT, Kligman AM, Forlot P. The effects of bergapten and sunlight on cutaneous pigmentation. Arch Dermatol 1989;125:1225-30.

6. Ashwood-Smith MJ, Poulton GA, Barker M, Mildenberger M. 5-Methoxypsoralen, an ingredient in several suntan preparations, has lethal mutagenic and clastogenic properties. Nature 1980;285:407-9.

7. Blog FB, Szabo G. The effects of psoralen and UVA (PUVA) on epidermal melanocytes of the tail of C57BL mice. J Invest Dermatol 1979;73:533-7.

8. Young AR,Walker SL, Kinley JS, Plastow SR,Averbeck D, Morliere P, et al. Phototumorigenesis studies of 5-methoxypsoralen in bergamot oil: evaluation and modification of risk of human use in albino mouse skin model. J Photochem Photobiol B 1990;7: 231-50.

9. Price S. Practical aromatherapy: how to use essential oils to restore vitality.Wellingborough (UK): Thorsons; 1983.

10. Tisserand R, Balacs T. Essential oil safety: a guide for health care professionals.New York: Churchill-Livingstone; 1995.

11. Arora SK, Willis I. Factors influencing methoxsalen phototoxicity in vitiliginous skin. Arch Dermatol 1976;112:327-32.

12. Zaynoun ST, Johnson BE,Frain-Bell W. A study of oil of bergamot and its importance as a phototoxic agent. Contact Dermatitis 1977;3:225-39.

13. Lim HW,Cooper K.The health impact of solar radiation and prevention strategies: report of the Environment Council, American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol 1999; 41:81-99.

14. Devgun MS, Johnson BE, Paterson CR. Tanning, protection against sunburn and vitamin D formation with a UV-A ?sunbed.? Br J Dermatol 1982;107:275-84.

15. Rivers JK, Norris PG, Murphy GM, Chu AC,Midgley G, Morris J, et al. UVA sunbeds: tanning, photoprotection, acute adverse effects and immunological changes. Br J Dermatol 1989;120: 767-77.

16. Ljunggren B. Severe phototoxic burn following celery ingestion. Arch Dermatol 1990;126:1334-6.

17. Bruyneel-Rapp F,Dorsey SB,Guin JD.The tanning salon: an area survey of equipment, procedures, and practices. J Am Acad Dermatol 1988;18:1030-8.

18. Cohen HB, Bergstresser PR. Inadvertent phototoxicity from home tanning equipment. Arch Dermatol 1994;130:804-6.

19. Nettelblad H,Vahlqvist C,Krysander L, Sjoberg F.Psoralens used for cosmetic sun tanning: an unusual cause of extensive burn injury. Burns 1996;22:633-5.

20. Bickers DR, Epstein JH, Fitzpatrick TB, Harber LC, Pathak M, Urbach F. Risks and benefits from high-intensity ultraviolet A sources used for cosmetic purposes. J Am Acad Dermatol 1985;12:380-1.

Danny Siegenthaler is a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine and together with his wife Susan, a medical herbalist and Aromatherapist, they have created Natural Skin Care Products by Wildcrafted Herbal Products to share their 40 years of combined expertise with you.

Join our Natural Skin Care Newsletter ? it?s fun, free and Informative and you receive a free eBook on natural skin care.

? Wildcrafted Herbal Products 2006

Getting Started With Aromatherapy Easy Ways to Enjoy Essential Oils

2009-04-13T19:12:00.001+07:00

Beginning 'bona fide' aromatherapy, beyond burning a scented candle or soaking with a pleasing pre-packaged bath salt blend, can be a little daunting to many people. All those little bottles of pricey liquids, electric contraptions, and fancy-sounding blends - how does one actually use essential oils to improve their health, happiness and well-being? It's easier than one might think - getting started can open a whole new world of fun and effective natural remedies that can lift your mood, calm your nerves, and support healing of a great many common ailments. The basics of aromatherapy are simple, once a few fundamental concepts are understood. Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils - the aromatic compounds of plants, extracted through steam distillation or other methods. The oils act as the chemical messengers and protectors of the plant kingdom. Each essential oil can contain hundreds of different 'volatile' (easily evaporated) compounds, most of which are very compatible with the physiology of the human body. What's so wonderful is they can also do for us what they do for plants - act as chemical messengers through affecting our smell sense and limbic system, and defending the body against foreign invaders by their anti-bacterial and anti-viral actions. In this article, we'll focus on the mental and emotional effects of aromatherapy, and address the physiological aspects at another time. Essential oils are best used in one of two simple ways: through inhalation, where the oils can directly affect certain areas of the brain, and through topical application, where the oils are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. (Note: Oral ingestion can be an option, but only under experienced medical supervision - further, SOME OILS CAN BE TOXIC, and other even seemingly harmless oils should not be used under certain conditions. If you are pregnant, or have specific medical needs, consult a knowledgeable practitioner before continuing!) Inhalation of Essential Oils Essential oils when inhaled directly effect our limbic system, the brain's emotional centers. Many oils have been found to sharpen concentration, reduce tension and anxiety, and even reduce depression. How can we reap these magnificent benefits? There are a few simple, cost-effective ways to prepare essential oils for inhalation - and experience these wonderful effects: the 'handkerchief method', making your own 'smelling salts', and making your own aromatherapy 'mister'. The handkerchief method is pretty straightforward - put a drop or two of an oil or blend on a tissue and inhale (careful with some oils though - peppermint, for example, can burn the sensitive skin around your nostrils if put in direct contact). You can even leave the tissue (or 'handkerchief, or piece of cloth, or cotton, or whatever) in a room or your workspace and the oil will continue to evaporate and have its effects. Making your own 'smelling salts' is similar, though your preparation will last a while longer. To make the salts, fill a small vial (dark glass with a good cap is best) with natural sea salt and drop essential oils into the salt. The amount of oil is not too critical - enough that there is detectable aroma, and not so much that the salt gets completely wet. Just unscrew the cap and inhale from the bottle whenever you need a lift, or, like the handkerchief, leave the vial open in your space, letting the aroma slowly fill the area. A 'mister' can be used infuse a room with aroma - just add essential oils to water in a small spray bottle, shake (before each use) and spray! Here are a few easy recipes for the inhalation method (Note: in all recipes, the number of drops of oil and/or amount of carrier can be used as a ratio, which you can increase or decrease as you need): For uplifting the mood and brightening the mind - 4 drops of Rosemary Cineol, 3 drops of Lavender, 2 drops of Lemon and 1 drop of Peppermint, OR 3 drops Clary Sage, 2 drops Bergamot and 1 drop Sweet Orange. For calming anxiety - equal parts of Roman Chamomile, Bergamot and Orange, OR 3 drops Lavender, 2 drops Neroli and 1 drop Bergamot. For creating a harmonious atmosphere - 3 drops Jasmine, 1 drop Ylang Ylang and 1 drop Sandalwood, OR equal parts Geranium, Patchouli and Bergamot. Aromatherapy Massage Now for the topical application method. Usually this is described as aromatherapy massage - ideally, this is done with a partner, but self-massage will work as well. Creating your own massage oil is a straightforward process - just dilute 10 - 20 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil. There are a variety of carrier oils available, though Sweet Almond is a great all-around oil and is recommended for general aromatherapy massage. As for the massage, itself, any technique will do - let your intuition be your guide. When you wish to get a little more advanced, do a little further research to create synergy with certain essential oils and certain acupressure points. The same blends for inhalation can be used for massage, though here are a few more fun recipes: For a sensual massage, per ounce of carrier oil, add - 8 drops Sandalwood, 6 drops Rose, 4 drops Lavender and 2 drops Ylang Ylang. For opening the heart, try 4 drops Spikenard, 4 drops Lavender and 2 drops of Rose. Finally, for sheer relaxation, use 6 drops Lavender, 4 drops Neroli and 2 drops Bergamot. Don't be afraid to create your own blends! You will certainly find particular oils that you enjoy - and aromatherapy is like that. It is the oils you find most enjoyable that are likely those that are most effective for you. My only recommendation is to change the ratios of oils you are blending very slowly. Start with one drop of each oil in a small vial, mixing them and allowing a few minutes for them to blend before adding more oil 1 drop at a time. In general, citrus oils ( Orange, Bergamot, Lemon, Lime) tend to bring alertness while calming at the same time. Herb oils (Peppermint, Rosemary) tend to be invigorating, while floral oils tend to be relaxing (Lavender, Chamomile, Jasmine, Neroli). This is only a guideline - many oils have complex properties and will affect individuals differently - use your nose as a guide. Conclusion Getting started with aromatherapy is easy, and with these simple ideas, you will be able to create essential oil preparations tailored to your needs and enjoyment. This can lead to a lifelong appreciation of these wonderful gifts from nature.

Misty Rae Cech, ND, is a naturopath and yoga teacher practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She regularly employs essential oils, flower essences, and other natural therapy modalities with her clients. She is the owner of http://www.anandaapothecary.com and http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com.

Healing With Crystals Part VI

2009-04-12T18:06:00.001+07:00

In this final article in a series about Healing With Crystals I?d like to talk about Marcel Vogel?s work with crystals, along with a few more of the remarkable attributes I?ve found inherent to the Lemurian Seed Crystals, as well as concluding the legend about them and how they are serving the evolution of consciouness.

Marcel Vogel's research and use of crystals at IBM is well-documented. He developed the first liquid crystal displays (LCDs). Vogel knew from his scientific research in electronics that quartz crystals have the inherent capacity of cohering and amplifying energy vibrations or frequencies.

Crystals capacity to structure and amplify is why it became the primary component in our modern day electronics. Vogel's research led him to postulate that quartz would also cohere and amplify mental and emotional energies and he conducted numerous experiments with plants, connecting with them and projecting his intent of love into the crystal while pointing it at an intended plant recipient for his pure energetic intent.

Once it was reported that a colleague of Vogel's was within the field of a plant Vogel was pointing a crystal at with the intention of sending love to it, immediately his colleague went into an altered state of consciousness.

This surprised and disturbed Vogel who reportedly vowed to give up his research with his ability to amplify and project thought and emotion with a quartz crystal. Soon enough, however, Vogel's curiosity overcame his reluctance and he resumed his studies.

One of the remarkable attributes inherent to the Lemurian Seed Crystal is its capacity to create a protective force field that attracts light and dispels darkness and confusion. The Lemurian Seed Crystals are also extremely powerful when used in a grid or parallel formation.

In the legend of the Lemurian Seed Crystals it is said that these crystals are attracted to the people who can actively assist in anchoring the energies necessary to aid planet earth at this time to evolve.

The Lemurian Seed Crystals are not as yet fully activated for the purpose they were programmed for. Presently the Lemurian Seed Crystals are setting a strong foundational pattern in which love can flourish throughout creation when the time is right.

It is thought that as humanity awakens to the truth of our primal unity with all things we will open our hearts to being channels of love and the energy transmitted by the Lemurian Seed Crystals will more deeply permeate the layers of resistance and separation so inherent to our present level of awareness.

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG's DVD & book, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. To learn more & purchase PurePlant Essentials: PurePlant Essentials Menu Please refer to KG's Essentials Safety Guide before using any aromatic oils! KG invites you to Subscribe to Health Mastery Ezine to WIN FREE Aromatherapy Products. To learn more visit: Subscribe To Win Contact: KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

How Does Aromatherapy Work?

2009-04-02T13:03:00.000+07:00

All plants contain a wide range of chemicals, from water, to inorganic salts, sugars, and carbohydrates, and to very complex proteins and alkaloids. I will focus mainly on the chemical, which acts medicinally, with special emphasis involving aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is the art and science of using botanical essential oils to create a sense of well being through a physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and social balance. Essential oils are really not even oils at all. They are the volatile and fragrant part of the plants that are kept in a sac on the surface of the leaves, or in the bark, flowers, seeds, and stems. These oils are also known as volatile oils.

Volatile oils, if collected and extracted correctly, contain some of nature's most precious gifts. See, these oils are responsible for the antibiotic properties to protect the plant. These volatile oils also protect the plant by repelling insects. Some even stimulate blooming. So, in turn, imagine the strength and power of each volatile oil when extracted. It is now 75 to 100 times more powerful, than say, dried herbs.

Volatile oils, or essential oils, are very easily transported and distributed throughout the entire body. Not only will they act locally, where applied, but they will also act on the whole body. Whether they are taken internally, or applied externally, they will soon show up in the urinary system, the lungs, and possibly in the secretions of your sweat, tears, and saliva. Essential oils can even make their way through the placenta into the foetus. Essential oils, besides being antiseptic, also stimulate the production of white blood cells, thus increasing your body's own natural defence system. Their ease of distribution is how they can affect the entire body once they enter it.

When essential oils are applied externally, part of their effect is from the nose. See, all essential oils, or volatile oils, are aromatic, meaning they have a smell. The nose is the only sense, which connects directly with the outside world. Ever noticed how you can smell something, somewhere, and your mood, or body's feeling can change almost instantaneously? This is because the nerve endings in your nose, the olfactory nerves, pick up the scent molecules from the essential oils, and transport them directly to the brain. This is where the reaction begins.

The effects of the pure essential oils will depend on the particular essential oil. For example, lavender is an excellent aroma for relaxing. It is not really known for it's antibiotic properties. The story goes during the Middle Ages, the town of Grasse in France was spared the hardships and misery of the plague because it was the center of the perfume industry. There were many acres of lavender fields, which surrounded the town. The distilleries filled the air with the lavender molecules, and the antiseptic, antibiotic, and antimicrobial properties of the lavender are what saved the people of the town of Grasse. Think they were believers?

There are many different pure essential oils, all of which can affect your body's reaction in some way. It is best to be very educated, and do your research on what essential oil you would need for your condition. Aromatherapy can be very beneficial in one's life for enhancement and improvement. Ensure you only buy top quality oils, from reputable suppliers. You should easily be able to find out the following 4 details: what is the country of origin, botanical species, what part of the plant was distilled, and how was the oil produced? If you cannot find out the answers to these questions, go somewhere else. Aromatherapy works, but only if you have good oils and a little knowledge.

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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Aromatherapy
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Did You Know That Omega 3 Oils Are Essential Nutrients?

2009-03-30T13:28:00.001+07:00

The following article covers a topic that has recently moved to center stage--at least it seems that way. If you've been thinking you need to know more about it, here's your opportunity.

Researchers in Denmark in the 1970's found that the Inuit people in Greenland, showed a much lower rate of cardiovascular problems than the people of Denmark. The answers that were found in this research showed that even though the Intuit people had a high consumption of fats, they were actually fats from fish, Seals, Whales and other sea foods, in fact they were Omega 3 fatty acids.

After that discovery, many studies were set up all over the world and they have shown that the original research was correct, in that Omega 3 oils did help to prevent Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes, together with the fact that they did help tremendously in improving overall health.

The following is a few of the diseases that can be helped or prevented with Omega 3 oils. Heart Disease and Strokes, Auto immune Diseases, Breast, Colon and Prostate cancer,High Blood Pressure and Arthritis, (especially Rheumatoid).

Research in the past has also shown that a high intake of fish can help in the prevention of age related memory loss, consequently lowering the risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease, in fact it has shown that a large number of people have enjoyed an improvement in the quality of their lives, through taking Omega 3 Oils.

Those of you not familiar with the latest on Omega 3 Oils now have at least a basic understanding. But there's more to come.

It has been found that children who eat the oily types of fish on a regular basis, have a lower risk of developing Asthma, whilst children that do not have an intake of Omega 3 oils, are more likely to have behavioural problems and learning disorders. This could be a lead to problems like dyslexia, depression, eczema, violence, allergies, and arthritis.

The old story that Fish is Brain food is very true as the human brain is mainly made up of fat and that fat is the type that requires omega 3 as nutrition, it is especially needed for pregnant mothers and for the development of the baby and its brain. Fish oil has been shown to lower Cholesterol and Triglyceride levels, which of course is beneficial to all.

Omega 3 oils can do a lot for your skin, it will improve the texture and help prevent age wrinkling and that is by

consuming the oil, you don't have to rub it in to your skin, it really works from within your body. Omega 3 oils are very close to being a miracle as far as the human body is concerned, they are natural, and like Glyconutrients, the sugars that heal, they are essential for good health.

Everyone needs Omega 3 oils, normal adults need them to maintain health and prevent disease, older people need it even more to help their immune system fight off disease, and the important part that the oils play in helping to prevent

the age related problems and diseases that develop as you get older, it might even improve longevity, but if it doesn't, it will definitely improve the quality.

Is there really any information about Omega 3 Oils that is nonessential? We all see things from different angles, so something relatively insignificant to one may be crucial to another.

Article by Alfred Jones, Information Avisor. This article may be used without permission as long as it is shown in its entirety. Plase visit my web page: http://www.rusweetenuf.com/html/meditationtechnique.html You will find that Audio CD's will do the Meditation for you. You just listen to sounds for 24 minutes a day. Very Affordable.

Organic Skin Care ? Because Your Skin Is Precious

2009-03-29T20:01:00.001+07:00

Each one of us desires to look beautiful. Looking good is no more confined to woman, in today?s world both man and woman has become cautious about their beauty. The word beauty is denoted by how healthy your skin is. Organic skin care is the best way to take good care of your skin.

Your skin is something that will be with you for the rest of your life. It serves you and your body in a number of ways. It aids in sensory perception, protects you from injuries, works as a barrier against dehydration, assists in temperature maintenance, removes toxic wastes, aids in the manufacture of vitamin D, and serve as a structure to the organs and tissues within your body. In simple words, your skin is a vital part of your life. It's very essential that you care for it and maintain it in a healthy state so that it will continue to function well for you in future too.

Organic skin care involves using organic products. The word organic is used to describe food that is grown without synthetic pesticides, insecticides or any other artificial chemical. Thus, using organic skin care products can help you take best care of your skin and that to without harming your skin. In simple words, organic helps you gain fresh and glowing skin the natural way.

Different people have different skin texture some of you may have dry skin, normal skins or oily skin but, you need not to worry. Organic skin care products are available in the market to meet the diverse needs of people. Organic cleanser, toner as well as moisturizers are available in wide range in the cosmetic market.

Chemicals used in traditional skin care products affected people?s skin adversely. Organic skin care products have become the latest wrath for people who are interested in avoiding the harmful affects of traditional products. Don?t get confused with the enormous number of organic care products you get to see. You can easily assess the safety of any ingredient listed on your skin care product with the help of your local library or the internet.

No need to stop yourself from looking beautiful and possessing a healthier skin. Organic skin care can help you accomplish this goal easily without harming your skin. Make sure to read the ingredients of the organic skin care product you choose to use, search for organic skin care with certified organic ingredients.

Bryan Josling is working with the Horticultural Research Station in Adelaide. He has also been involved with research on plants. To find Aromatherapy essential oils,Organic Skin care,Aromatherapy Massage Oil visit http://www.ndaroma.com

Clove Oil: A Powerful Essential Oil

2009-03-27T19:55:00.001+07:00

My first remarkable experience with Clove Essential Oil was last year when I developed a rather nasty sore throat from a bug I picked up on a plane on my way to a conference presentation. My throat became so parched and sore that simply swallowing was painful. Luckily, as I always do, I had my repertoire of essential oils with me. I often carry Peppermint, Clove, Lemon, Lavender, Frankincense and a number of very powerful Oil Blends. Their uses and their aromas are extraordinary.

In this particular case realized that I simply could not endure a 3 hour presentation with the painful throat I was experiencing. So I reached for one of my oils called Thieves which is a combination of Clove, Cinnamon, Rosemary and other oils and I used one drop of this powerful blend. I simply swallowed the oil and about an hour later my throat was completely better. I continued to use the oil blend a few more times that day ever few hours and by the next day my sore throat had completely disappeared.

Now as a physician who in my early days as a GP used to prescribe antibiotics for my patients this was truly a remarkable experience to have. As many of you already know antibiotics are fraught with problems, the most significant of which is the development of resistant strains of bacteria that can literally be life threatening. Many of these super bacteria are now found in many hospital settings where antibiotics have been and continue to be extensively used.

What's interesting is that many of these strains are likely susceptible to the very oils I used for my sore throat. Unfortunately modern medicine has yet to awaken to the power of essential oils.

As a skeptical physician I too for many years doled out what later I learned was not only ineffective but in the long term dangerous forms of treatments.

I am glad to have been open enough to awaken to the power of therapeutic grade essential oils that are currently available.

Nick Arrizza M.D. is trained in medicine and psychiatry. He is an international speaker, healer and coach. He is also the developer of the powerful Mind Resonance Process(TM) (MRP) Young Living Web Site: http://www.youngliving.org/arrizza Business Web Site: http://www.telecoaching4u.com/IntroConsult.htm

Columbus Discovered Bergamot Oil

2009-03-26T14:47:00.001+07:00

And we thought Christopher Columbus is only famous for discovering America. He also needs a little applause for this one. For it was he, who took the bergamot tree from his home in the Canary Islands, and transported it to Italy. Because of this, bergamot has been cultivated in Italy ever since.

Bergamot oil is made from the inedible, bitter green, pear shaped citrus fruit of the bergamot tree. The peel of the fruit is cold pressed, which releases the pale emerald green oil. The oil has a light, delicate, citrusy and floral scent and has many uses.

The therapeutic properties of bergamot pure essential oil are euphoric, antiseptic, cooling, and a tonic to the digestive system. The main constituents in bergamot essential oil are limonene, linalyl acetate, nerol, and linalool. All of these substances are antiseptic and astringent. This allows bergamot essential oil to help with many conditions.

One of the conditions bergamot pure essential oil helps with is acne and eczema. You can use the oil in a facial steam bath, which will help cleanse and heal the face. It is fairly easy to make a steam bath. Just apply a few drops of bergamot oil to a bowl of steaming hot water. Drape a towel over your head and shoulders, and lean over the bowl. Breathe deeply for 10-15 minutes with eyes closed. CAUTION: Do not use steam bath if you have broken facial capillaries.

Another condition bergamot is known to assist with is cystitis and pruritis. Cystitis is one of the most common urinary track infections and is most commonly caused by the E. Coli bacteria becoming embedded in the bladder lining, thereby causing irritation. Pruritus is a manifestation of dermatologic diseases. To help cope with either of these, add 4-5 drops of bergamot oil to a warm bath. Bathe with the oil once a day until the condition disappears.

Now, bergamot essential oil can also be used for emotional stress: There are 2 basic blends for tension and stress: bergamot and orange pure essential oil, and bergamot and clary-sage pure essential oil. To prepare either one, mix 3 drops of each oil in bathwater when bath is full.

You can also throw away your headache medicine. Bergamot pure essential oil has been noted for headache relief. All you need to do is mix bergamot oil with a carrier oil, such as safflower oil, and rub into your temples and the back of your neck. A few drops will be enough to get rid of the headache, especially if it is tension related.

This is one I have read about but I am not sure if it works. Bergamot oil has also been used as a mosquito repellent. It is said to put the oil on a rag, cloth, or cotton ball and put it in your pocket, and it will naturally keep the mosquitoes at bay.

Safety Conditions

Bergamot is from the citrus family. It contains furo-coumarin, which makes it photosensitive. If you decide to use this on your skin, make sure not to go out in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours (some say 3 hours is long enough, but I recommend 6 hours). This will prevent the brownish spots from appearing on your skin. Also, if using for massage oil, ensure it is diluted with no more than twenty drops of bergamot oil to 4 oz of carrier oil, such as safflower oil.

As you can see, bergamot pure essential oil is excellent antiseptic oil. It has been used for many conditions, from acne to headaches to cystitis. And thanks to Christopher Columbus, as he has allowed the rest of us to find out and use this excellent essential oil to make our lives more natural and healthy.

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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Aromatherapy
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Say NO to Ritalin! The Indigo/ADD/ADHD Child's Diet

2009-03-25T13:10:00.001+07:00

It?s the dreaded Child Split Personality Syndrome ? you?ve witnessed it but are you aware that you could possibly be the culprit of it all?! Unknowingly of course.

Let me set the scene.

Breakfast which consisted of bagels, with butter and jam, a bowl of sugary filled cereal and a glass of artificial fruit punch to wash it down, was finished only moments before. Your innocent, sweet, calm, cool and collected children have relocated to the wreck room and are sitting on the couch watching their favorite television show, giggling and playing cheerfully together. As you stand there observing your delightful bundles of joy you can not deny the feelings of love that wash over you. You are so delighted that you created these little holy terrors, I mean precious beings! It?s so sweet that it?s a Kodak moment!

BUT you better have your joggers on to run for the camera quick because in a matter of seconds your beautiful, precious children will have been transformed into she and he devils! What was once a beautiful Kodak moment has now been transformed into a hellish nightmare of yelling and screaming, kids jumping from couch to couch, your ears are shocked with high-pitched screams of pain as your eyes witness a flying chunk of hair! Then a crash, with a smirk and no feeling ?Sorry mom, broke your favorite lamp!? As this adorable child superflies through the air once again!

And just think, a few moments ago you were thinking how cute they were and how you should probably give them another sibling?! But because of what you are witnessing the impulsive thought has vanished! Now you hear yourself screaming, ?I brought you into this world, I can take you out!?

Ok so maybe you didn?t say it, but we all know you were certainly thinking it! ? end of scene.

So what causes the fluctuation in our children?s behaviour?

Today, we will look at their diet. This article will focus on some dietary interventions for Indigos/ADD/ADHD children. These children are very sensitive people, they are sensitive to their environments, what clothes they can wear and the food they eat. In order for children (and adults) to focus, they need to have nutritious food that enhances their energy and concentration. Most children start their day by eating simple carbohydrates such as waffles, muffins, donuts, pop-tarts, bagels, cinnamon rolls and sugary cereals. (By the way, these products usually contain MSG. A little addictive additive that no one should consume! But that?s another article.)

It?s no wonder the majority of kids are behaving crazy and can?t concentrate in the classroom! They are bouncing from one end of the spectrum, high blood sugar levels, to the complete opposite of the spectrum, below normal blood sugar levels. This can be seen in their behavior. Simple sugars or simple carbohydrates stimulate the pancreas to secrete higher levels of insulin into the blood stream, causing the rapid absorption of sugar into the cells. This is the effect we refer to as a ?sugar high.? The consumption of simple sugars can contribute to their behavioral ups and downs including anger, distractibility, aggression, impulsivity, hyperactive etc. to the opposite end of feeling spacey, tired, confused and inattentive. Hmm? I wonder if a change in diet is better than drugging our children with Ritalin? I?m here to say YES, it is!

Dr. Allen Buresz - In 1996 the World Health Organization warned that Ritalin over-use has reached dangerous proportions. Hopefully, by being armed with correct information, you may be able to avoid using Ritalin or other similar medications. Use of these drugs on a long-term basis is questionable. Safety of such long-term use is simply unknown, but many dangerous side effects have been increasing. Ritalin, for instance, may provoke seizures and suppress growth, or it may cause angina, blood pressure changes, depression or any of a very long list of serious side effects.

Dr. Robert Mendelsohn MD - No one has ever been able to demonstrate that drugs such as Cylert and Ritalin improve the academic performance of the children who take them.... The pupil is drugged to make life easier for his teacher (and some parents) not to make it better and more productive for the child.

I believe that food can be used as medicine and that our diet does matter very much! It does the body and mind good to avoid eating simple carbohydrates - anything made from refined or white flour such as pasta, bagels, white bread and cereals. Stop eating chemically harmful processed foods and pre-packaged foods. Do you know what is in them? It is imperative to start reading the labels of the foods you are feeding your children and yourself. I know, now you are thinking, great so what do we eat? Well we go back to eating the way we did before we went grocery shopping ? organic and natural! There is likely an organic store right in your area. Bigger grocery chains usually have a ?small? section of organic products. You can also grow your own fruits and vegetables! Start your own garden outside or buy pots and put them in your window sills.

It is also important to take a multi-vitamin and mineral supplement but beware of the dyes! Omega-3 oils, specifically fish oil, is probably the single most important nutrient for an Indigo/ADD/ADHD child to take. Dr. Stoll?s book The Omega-3 Connection is a highly recommended read! A Purdue University study showed that kids low in Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids are significantly more likely to be hyperactive, have learning disorders, and to display behavioral problems. Omega-3 deficiencies have also been tied to dyslexia, violence, depression, memory problems, weight gain, cancer, heart disease, eczema, allergies, inflammatory diseases, arthritis, diabetes and many other conditions.

Here are some food choices to implement in your home. This change being made inside your family unit is a lifestyle change. You need to do your part, if you child can?t eat something than your entire family should make the decision that neither can they. This will support your child in a very loving manner instead of making him/her feel like they are being punished. If your child feels that food is being withheld from them because they see you eating it, they will sneak the foods behind your back. How can you possibly tell a child that something is not good for them and you eat it?! You MUST lead by example especially with these kids!

The first most important substance that is required for the human body is water. Pure natural water and lots of it! Nutritionists recommend a minimum of 8 eight ounce glasses a day, more if you are active. That does not mean that you can consume eight mugs of coffee (for adults) or eight glasses of artificial juice and say well it?s made with water so I got my intake. Wrong! Pure water. Simple. There?s no way to get around it! It is best to avoid substances that dehydrate the body, like caffeine and alcohol. If you do consume dehydrating products than you need to consume even more water to flush out the toxins!

The diet will consist of protein, complex carbohydrates and fats. It is important to eat approximately every 2 to 3 hours, up until 3 hours before bed. This works out to eating approximately 6 times a day. Yes I know this sounds like a lot but really it isn?t because of the small portion sizes. When meals are eaten in this manner it actually boosts the metabolism so you will burn more fat! Your body stays fueled with the proper nutrients and never has the chance to go into starvation mode where it actually stores fat and begins to cannibalize itself eating the muscles for energy!

It is also important for your child to get daily exercise. This is becoming increasingly rare with all the new technological advances being made. Children learn by example. If you don?t exercise, in most cases neither will they. Start going for bike rides with them, or walks, swimming, skating etc. Make it fun! Life has become too serious. It?s time to slow down and enjoy your children. They are only with you for a short time. Enjoy it while you can, you only have a few years to make a great impression as a parent. Always remember that what you teach your children, your children will teach their children!

Every meal will consist of a protein, a complex carbohydrate and a vegetable. Eating in this manner requires discipline and planning ahead. Pre-cooking and pre-packaging for a few days really helps cut time down in the kitchen. The serving size of each will be the size of your palm. Example: You selected a piece of chicken for one meal, if you were to place the piece of chicken into your hand, it will not be any bigger than the size of your palm. The following lists are small helpful tools to get you started. They are by no means the only things you can eat!

Healthiest Quality of Proteins: The first two listed are the best choices (in my opinion) the following if you must consume animal product. If your child refuses to eat, please don?t force them! There are many other foods available that can provide the daily required protein intake.

?Protein Powder
?Soy-Based Products
?Egg Whites or Substitutes
?Low-fat cottage cheese
?Chicken
?Turkey
?Tuna
?Salmon
?Orange Roughy
?Haddock
?Crab
?Lobster
?Shrimp
?Lean Ground Beef

Healthiest Quality of Carbohydrates: ORGANIC products are the absolute best and should really be considered! Please don?t load them with saturated fats!

?Baked potato
?Sweet potato
?Yam
?Steamed Brown Rice
?Steamed Wild Rice
?Oatmeal
?Barley
?Beans
?Whole-Wheat Bread
?Whole Grains
?Corn
?Strawberries
?Melon
?Apple
?Orange
?Pears
?Kiwi

Healthiest Quality of Vegetables: ORGANIC products are the absolute best and should really be considered! Please don?t load them with saturated fats!

?Broccoli
?Asparagus
?Lettuce
?Carrots
?Cauliflower
?Green Beans
?Green Peppers
?Mushrooms
?Spinach
?Tomato
?Peas
?Brussels Sprouts
?Cabbage
?Artichoke
?Celery
?Zucchini
?Cucumber

Healthiest Quality of Fats:

Despite popular beliefs, not all fats are bad. Saturated fats are bad while unsaturated fats, in moderate amounts, can actually be good for you. For example, one of the reasons fish is such a healthy food is because it contains essential fatty acids.

?Safflower oil
?Sesame oil
?Avocados

You are your child?s earth guardian, change their diet and watch them blossom in every area of their life instead of poisoning them with drugs. It is time to take control of our lives and go back to the basics. Eat as natural as possible. You can find all sorts of great books our there with very healthy recipes. Do some research, your kids are worth it!

IMPORTANT: Use this information at your own risk. This information is not to be used in place of appropriate medical advice. If there are problems, always consult your physician.

If you have any questions please feel free to email me lisa@infinitylighthealing.com For more articles and healing tools, please visit my website. As always, keep smiling and play in love!

? Copyright 2004-2006 http://www.InfinityLightHealing.com Lisa Whatley, an Indigo/Crystal Adult, Master Energy Facilitator, Writer, Mother of four Indigo/Crystal children and Spiritual Ascension Life Coach interweaves body, mind and spirit into her work. Lisa?s spiritual path and connection with God has lead her to a place of knowing that all things are possible! She has helped many people change their lives using the same self-empowerment teachings that helped to transform her own life, helping them find peace, joy and stability. She currently offers energetic sessions for Clearing, Healing, Balancing, Spiritual Growth and Enlightenment and Life Coaching. She resides in the beautiful countryside of Northern Ontario Canada.

Beautiful Skin Naturally: Making Your Own Aromatherapy Skin Care Blends

2009-03-24T12:19:00.001+07:00

Looking for that perfect skin product? One that will keep your skin looking great, smells great, is appealing to apply, has actual 'therapeutic' effects, and doesn't break the bank? Look no further than aromatherapy. Creating a wonderful blend just for your skin type with the magic of potent natural botanicals is fun and rewarding in more ways than one. Essential oils are widely used in natural medicine, and some are well-known for their skin rejuvenating effects.

While some of the most highly regarded therapeutic grade oils may seem expensive at first, they are effective in such small concentrations as to really make them worthwhile. And their efficacy is well-known; that's why so many laboratory-made preparations use components of essential oils in their formulas. With a one or two ounce bottle to mix in, and an eye dropper, you can easily mix your own blend with the aroma and actions you desire most.

There are a few essential oils and carriers that are highly regarded in natural beauty and skin care. With these, and perhaps one or two extra ingredients, you can make effective (and very pleasant smelling) recipes for a wide variety of skin conditions.

The short list of essential oils for skin care ? Helichrysum (also known as Everlasting) is one of the strongest anti-inflammatory oils known in aromatherapy. It is also very high in regenerative ketones; compounds which stimulate the regeneration of skin cells. Rosemary Verbenone serves a similar function, being thought to enhance metabolic functioning in the dermis layer, increasing circulation and the elimination of waste products. Lavender has properties similar to Helichrysum, with a wonderful, relaxing aroma; it can bring synergy to a combination of oils and is thought to keep the skin in a balanced, healthy condition. Carrot Seed essential oil is also regenerating, bringing life to tired, pallid skin. Palmarosa essential oil can be included for it's pleasing aroma and anti-septic effects; Niaouli is also recommended for the same reasons, along with it's skin-firming properties.

This is only a few of the many essential oils included in skin formulas, though these are considered among the most important for their broad range of effects. Almost any essential oil can be added to a blend in balanced quantities. In many cases, oils are added as much for their lovely aroma as their direct therapeutic benefits to skin tissue. Many aromatherapists, and natural health professionals for that matter, consider the overall mental and emotional condition to be of primary importance in creating an appearance of fitness and beauty. Many citrus and floral oils are used for this reason ? Neroli, distilled from the flowers of the bitter orange tree, is an often used example. Others are Jasmine, Sandalwood (very popular in Men's skin care), Geranium and Ylang Ylang.

Essential oils, be they for direct effects on skin metabolism, or for the overall state of wellness of the user, will be diluted in a carrier oil, sometimes known as a base oil. It is important to note that diluting the oils will often actually enhance their effects; essential oils are often too strong to be used directly, and many studies have shown increased efficacy in dilutions down to 1% or less of the total formula. The carrier oils serve several other functions as well; they carry the essential oils into the skin, increasing their total absorption. They also nourish the middle and lower layers of the skin with essential fatty acids or EFA's ? compounds now considered critical to the health of all living tissues. Further, some carrier oils have vitamin analogs which assist in skin regeneration and repair.

A few of the most important carrier oils include the following: Rosehip Seed Oil is highly regarded for it's regenerating effects for skin which has been over-exposed to the sun or has other damage. It includes a variety of Vitamin A which acts to increase cellular turnover, similar to Retin-A without the over-drying side effects. Numerous scientific studies have validated this oil's positive effects on damaged or prematurely aged skin. Next is Evening Primrose Oil, which has a significant quantities of gamma-linolenic acid, an important essential fatty acid. Evening Primrose oil has been used to support skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, and may help premature skin aging. Finally, Hazelnut oil is possibly the most commonly used base oil for skin care; it is gentle, has little aroma, and is suitable for all skin types. Often, small amounts of Rosehip seed and/or Evening Primrose oil will be included in a blend, with Hazelnut oil comprising the majority of the carrier mixture.

Here are several blends categorized by skin type to get you started. For normal skin, used at any time: In each ounce of Hazelnut Oil, add 15 drops Thyme Linalool, 15 drops Rosemary Verbenone, 15 drops Neroli, and 15 drops Spike Lavender; this blend can work well for acne with it's antiseptic properties, but is an excellent tonic for all skin types.

If your skin has been chemically damaged, is overly-sensitive, or otherwise 'weakened' with broken capillaries, try this mixture, applying frequently: For each ounce of base oil, use three parts Hazelnut, one part Rosehip Seed, and one part Evening Primrose. Add the following essential oils: fifteen drops Moroccan Chamomile, fifteen drops Helichrysum, fifteen drops true Lavender, and fifteen drops Roman Chamomile. The Helichrysum, Lavender and Rosehip seed will enhance the skin's own natural metabolism, and the addition of the Chamomiles will greatly reduce inflammation that is found with almost all damage and/or aging.

If your skin is prone to acne, or has over-active sebaceous glands, the following blend can be of great assistance. It contains regenerative, antiseptic, and cleansing oils. Simply use Hazelnut as the base, and to each ounce include fifteen drops of Green Myrtle or Inula graveolens, fifteen drops Eucalyptus dives (because of the ketones in this oil, it should not be used if pregnant ? or under 10 years of age ? but is otherwise considered safe), fifteen drops Spike Lavender, and fifteen drops Rosemary verbenone.

If your skin has no particular 'condition', but appears tired, lifeless, pallid, or 'worn out', try mixing one-fifth ounce of Rosehip Seed and four-fifths ounce Hazelnut oil. Then add 15 drops each of Carrot Seed essential oil (also known as Queen Anne's Lace or Wild Carrot), Lemon verbena (which helps the skin detoxify), Niaouli (gently tightening the skin), and Rosemary verbenone ? this creates an excellent restorative blend. For aging skin needing firming that can be used around the eyes ? try this more gentle variety: Mix in five ounces of Hazelnut oil and one ounce of Rosehip seed oil, add fifteen drops of each of Myrtle essential oil (green), Cistus or Rock Rose and Rosemary.

So there are a few tried-and-true aromatherapy skin care blends to use in your natural beauty regime. You can easily mix and match the oils described to create your own blend, and add any oils you really like the aroma of (be aware that a FEW essential oils are VERY strong, and should not be used on the skin ? the more common of these include Cinnamon, Clove, Oregano, and Red Thyme ? consult with a knowledgeable practitioner if you are unsure about the safety of any oil). A word about purchasing oils for your blends ? do NOT use anything labeled as a 'fragrance oil' ? these are synthetic reproductions of essential oils that will likely cause an allergic reaction.

DO seek out a reputable source. And oils, like wine, do vary greatly from maker to maker. A higher price can mean a significantly nicer oil (though not always) ? one that is sweeter, or more well-rounded ? only a few oils should smell 'medicinal' ? Spike Lavender is a little 'camphorus' in general ? but a good Rosemary verbenone should have a very appealing scent . Despite the initial outlay, you are more likely to continue to use a blend that you really like the aroma of, and that has therapeutic effects. Though once you find the oils you adore, you're more than likely to continue the practice of making your own blends for some time to come.

This article has been written by Misty Cech, ND, a degreed naturopath with a professional practice developing natural wellness for individuals around the country. She strongly supports the use of natural botanicals whenever possible when making health and beauty choices. She is the owner of the Ananada Apothecary - providing vibrational medicine infomation and supplies such as organic essential oils and Bach flower essences and remedies.

Lime Pure Essential Oil

2009-03-23T10:26:00.001+07:00

The lime tree is native to India. The Moors first introduced it to Europe. Then, in the sixteenth century, the Spanish explorers travelled across the Atlantic Ocean, bringing the lime tree to North America. The main reason the lime was brought on the boats was to help prevent scurvy, which we all know is a disease brought on by a serious deficiency in vitamin C.

The lime tree is a member of the Rutaceae family. The essential oil from the lime has a sweet, tangy scent. It is also used now medicinally to help enhance the nervous system. The oil also has antiseptic properties.

The therapeutic properties of lime pure essential oil are refreshing and uplifting. The main constituents in lime essential oil are limonene, bergapten, citral, camphene, and linalool. All of these substances are antiseptic and astringent. This allows lime essential oil to help with many conditions.

One of the external uses of lime pure essential oil is to help clear up pimples. All you need to do is take a cotton ball or cotton tip, and apply a mixture of one drop of lime essential oil and two tablespoons of witch hazel to the affected area. This mixture helps to preserve the protective layer of oil on the skin and will also help minimize scarring.

Another condition lime oil is know to assist with is opening up your bronchial tubes and helping with your breathing. Since lime essential oils is disinfecting and cleansing, it is an excellent addition to your bath, shower, or sauna. Just mix two drops each of lime oil, pine oil, and rosemary oil. Then add these to the water. It is this mixture of oils, which will help make the bronchial tubes stronger and fortified, opening them up and making it easier to breath. You can also use this same blend in a diffuser.

Lime pure essential oil is an excellent method of self-care and well-being. Aromatherapy is more than just breathing in scents. It is about achieving the perfect balance and harmony in ones life and it is the combination of certain scents, or oils, which help achieve this. Blend 2 ounces of safflower oil, 5 drops of lime pure essential oil, and 3 drops of orange pure essential oil, and then use this as a massage applied daily. This blend of oils will help improve the circulation and also help to keep your skin moisturized in the process. Lime oil can also be used to help relieve and cure a sore throat. Mix 1 teaspoon of cider vinegar, and 1 drop of lime oil in a glass of warm water and gargle with this mixture twice daily. Most essential oils are not meant to be taken internally, but there are a few of them where it is feasible. Lime oil is one of them. Really, lime oil is even added to soft drinks.

Safety Conditions

Lime is from the citrus family. It contains furo-coumarin, which makes it photosensitive. If you decide to use this on your skin, make sure not to go out in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours (some say 3 hours is long enough, but I recommend 6 hours). This will prevent the brownish spots from appearing on your skin.

As you can see, lime pure essential oil is an excellent antiseptic oil. It has been used for many conditions, from breathing, to acne, and just for self-care and well-being. With its pleasantly citrus scent, it is a must for everyday well-being.

-------------------------------------------------------
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Aromatherapy
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Use Essential Fatty Acid To Help You Prevent or Eliminate Your Acne

2009-03-22T16:43:00.001+07:00

To eliminate or clear your face of acne it will require you take a variety of health steps. The use of essential fatty acids is but one step. I have identified 10 different steps but will only discuss one step in this article ? using essential fatty acids.

Getting sufficient essential fatty acids is of prime importance in clearing acne. It?s these fatty acids that help to control the production of excess androgens ? the hormones that surge during the teen-age times It is androgens, which causes excess sebum oil to clog your hair follicle and contribute to creating your acne.

The three fatty acids you need to get daily are:

?omega-3

?omega-6

?omega-9

When you are deficient in these essential fatty acids, you will have,

?A weaken immune system

?Inflammatory disorders

?Poor skin

?Skin eruptions and other wounds that won?t heal

?Sebum production increases (this is what happens

when you have acne)

?Sebaceous glands size increases

Eating essential oils are necessary to provide you the right oils that are used in the sebaceous glands. These oils can come from straight vegetable oils or from oils in specific foods such as nuts and seeds.

Here?s what you need to do. Use flax seed oil (omega-3 oil) and olive oil (omega-6 oil) in your salad. These are the best oils to eat and are called polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The other oil that is even better for you is called monounsaturated fatty acid or omega-9. This oil is found in avocados and somewhat in olive oil.

Most diets people have contain an excess of omega-6 oil (olive oil), so mostly likely you need to concentrate on getting more omega-3 oil (flax seed oil) into your diet.

You can get omega-3 oil from,

?avocados

?sesame seeds

?pumpkin seeds

?walnuts

?dark leafy green vegetables (spinach, mustard greens, kale)

?wheat germ oil

?salmon

?sardines

?albacore tuna

Or, you can take one to two tablespoon of flax seed oil, omega-3 oil, each day. This will give you the amount of omega-3 oil that your body needs. You can add this oil to your morning cereal, soups, smoothies, salads and other liquid foods.

You can get omega-6 oil from,

?olive oil

?flaxseed oil

?flaxseeds

?grape seed oil

?pistachio nuts

?olives

?sunflower seeds

?chicken

?evening primrose oil

?pumpkin seeds

?pine nuts

Taking 2-3 tablespoons of omega-6 oil a day will give you the amount of this oil that you body needs.

So, to control those androgens and help your body reduce the production of acne or pimples start using more essential fatty acids.

Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid ebooks. His information can be seen at http://www.acne-remedies.for--you.info

Essential Oils How To Use Aromatherapy Medicine

2009-03-21T22:15:00.001+07:00

In Webster's Dictionary Medicine is defined as anything that affects our well-being. Aromatic oils have an ancient history of doing just that. In this article I will talk about two methods known and practiced historically for their outstanding medicinal benefits. These two well-known methods are steam and the cooling vapors of a humidifier.

Here are a few ways to easily and simply apply these two methods for beneficial results:

STEAM INHALATION ~ Add 4-8 drops of essential oil to a large bowl of steaming hot water, put a towel over your head to capture the steam. Close your eyes and inhale until the water cools or until you stop smelling the oil. Repeat, if necessary, every 4-5 hours.

Steam inhalation relieves sinus congestion, coughs, colds, flu and sore throats.

Suggested oils to use: eucalyptus, lavender, lemon and tea tree.

HUMIDIFIER (COOL MIST) ~ Add 6-8 drops of essential oil to the water of your humidifier. Run overnight, or add the essential oils 2-3 times during the day, if running continuously. This is an effective method of using oils with a sick child.

Humidifier (cool mist) relieves fever and headache, calms and soothes anxiety when ill, kills germs, air freshener.

Suggested oils to use: lavender, lemon and peppermint

WARNING Essential Oils can damage humidifier plastic and rubber parts.

PLEASE NOTE: There are many cheap chemical copies of essential oils available, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results always use ethically wild crafted or pure, organic essential oils that are pesticide free! Pure essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic uses and benefits. The method applied can affect the results.

KG Stiles is a certified Aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's book, Aromatic Medicine - Pathway to Health, and her DVD about her AromaTest System of Healing, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. Click to learn about Essential Oils Basic Kit (4 oils) Click to learn about KG's other PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapy Products PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapy Products Menu Click to learn about Essential Oils Complete Kit (9 oils) Contact KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

Natural Health Supplement

2009-03-17T14:14:00.001+07:00

Although ideally we should be able to get all of our essential nutrients from a balanced diet, it is becoming increasingly difficult to do this in reality. Busy lifestyles, overly processed foods, and other factors all contribute to the need for a natural health supplement in order to keep yourself in top health.

Even a diet full of fruits and vegetables will not necessarily deliver optimal levels of essential nutrients, as some of the most vital nutrients are destroyed by the cooking process. The foods we eat are also becoming less nutritious due to the use of artificial fertilizers and other changes in the way food is grown, shipped great distances, and stored.

More Essential Nutrients Needed

To combat these nutritional deficiencies, we can eat more organic produce, take natural health supplements, and look for other natural sources that have retained their healthy food value and essential nutrients. One such discovery is a fruit called the Mangosteen from Southeast Asia. Rich in antioxidants, the juice from this fruit can be taken as a natural health supplement to replenish some of the vital nutrients our bodies need to stay in optimal health.

Antioxidants promote natural growth and regeneration at the cellular level, and fight the damage that can lead to serious illnesses including cancer. In this way, our bodies are better able to heal themselves, and prevent problems from developing in the future.

Mangosteen Juice, The Hottest New Vital Nutrient

Mangosteen is just one example of an anti-aging natural health supplement that can be researched and purchased online. With all the natural health supplements available now, it is worth doing some investigating to discover the latest research findings, find out what health supplements are recommended for your specific ailments, as well as improve your understanding of how holistic medicine works and what it can do for you.

Your health is the product of your lifestyle, including your diet, exercise routine, adequate rest, and includes your mental state as well. As you learn more about natural medicine and natural health supplements, you will also likely discover ways to improve your ability to relax and take better care of yourself in more ways than one.

Do some reading and explore your options for better health using natural health supplements, vital nutrients and healing methods that have been derived from centuries of use in a variety of cultures. Decreasing your dependence on medications for pain, sleep problems, depression, stomach ailments, and more, are just some of the potential rewards for pursuing more natural approaches to health and wellness.

Make your health a priority now, and improve your chances of avoiding more costly and complicated problems down the road. Look for ways to include essential nutrients in your diet. The steps you can take are well worth the investment, and will help you create and maintain a better quality of life for years to come.

*** Powerful Natural Health Supplement *** Discover The Amazing Healing Properties Of Mangosteen... The Queen Of Fruit From Asia Go here for more information ==> http://www.mymangosteen.com/dwain

What is Aromatherapy?

2009-03-15T19:06:00.001+07:00

Aromatherapy is treatment using certain essential plant oils. With there being nearly 150 essential oils, each of these oils are used for different holistic treatment for our body. These oils can be breathed in thru our noses or mouths, massaged in our skin or even bathed in.

What these essential oils do is aid in relieving pain, tension and fatigue, caring for our skin, relief of postpartum discomforts, colds and just invigorating our entire body.

I have compiled a list of several different emotional or everyday disorders and which essential oils are best recommended for treatment.

Anger
Bergamot, Jasmine, Neroli, Orange, Patchouli, Petit grain, Roman Chamomile, Rose, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang

Anxiety
Bergamot, Cedar wood, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Mandarin, Neroli, Patchouli, Roman Chamomile, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver

Confidence
Bay Laurel, Bergamot, Cypress, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Orange, Rosemary

Depression
Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Helichrysum, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Mandarin, Neroli, Orange, Roman Chamomile, Rose, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang

Fatigue, Exhaustion and Burnout
Basil, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Clary Sage, Cypress, Frankincense, Ginger, Grapefruit, Helichrysum, Jasmine, Lemon, Patchouli, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Vetiver

Fear
Bergamot, Cedar wood, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Lemon, Neroli, Orange, Roman Chamomile Sandalwood, Vetiver

Grief
Cypress, Frankincense, Helichrysum, Neroli, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver

Happiness and Peace
Bergamot, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Lemon, Neroli, Orange, Rose, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang

Insecurity
Bergamot, Cedar wood, Frankincense, Jasmine, Sandalwood, Vetiver

Irritability
Lavender, Mandarin, Neroli, Roman Chamomile, Sandalwood

Loneliness
Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Helichrysum, Roman Chamomile, Rose

Memory and Concentration
Basil, Black Pepper, Cypress, Hyssop, Lemon, Peppermint, Rosemary

Panic and Panic Attacks
Frankincense, Helichrysum, Lavender, Neroli, Rose

Stress
Benzoin (Benzoic?), Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Lavender, Mandarin, Neroli, Patchouli, Roman Chamomile, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang

Written and compiled by Angel Lopez, with extensive Aromatherapy research compiled from the following: AromaWeb; Aromatherapy Book by Jeanne Rose.

Residing in the beautiful Menifee Valley, California And mother to two beautiful teenagers. She has Been selling home interiors and decorating for Several years before opening her business, The Aroma Shoppe, A fun and lively shop full of high quality aromatic and decorative products for the home and office. http://www.thearomashoppe.net aromangel66@yahoo.com

Pamper Your Hair With Essential Oils

2009-03-15T12:47:00.001+07:00

We spike, color, tease and curl it. We heat, gel, straighten and spray it. We worry and vex over it, spend tons of money on it and cry when we lose it. It?s a vital sign of our health, youth and beauty and we want it to look great. I imagine that some of you still believe that if you smother your hair with oil, it will give you the shiny, soft hair that we all desire. Most oil (not all), if they are not essential oils, do not have the capacity to penetrate into the hair shaft. What they will accomplish, however, is to lie on top of the cuticle and smother it. It may give you some short-term luster, but it will also coat the hair and cause product build up. When this happens, the problems begin.

Initially, the moisture that our hair so badly requires will not be able to filter through the wall of product build up. The moisture is consequently not able to unearth the cuticle layer. What is the end result?the hair cannot be conditioned!

In 1998, a study was done by a doctor named Isabelle C. Hay on patients with alopecia areata (sudden hair loss). She used the essential oils of thyme, lavender, rosemary and cedarwood in a carrier oil of jojoba and grapeseed. The 84 volunteers were given a two-minute scalp massage daily with the oils for a period of 7 months. The control group was simply massaged with the carrier oils alone. At the end of the trial, 19 people in the essential oil group had re-grown hair, as opposed to six in the control group.

Oil treatments, that have the appropriate ingredients, and used at least once a week, will enhance the condition of your hair and scalp. The key is to locate products that contain ingredients such as: Jojoba oil, neem oil, avocado oil, cold pressed oil, and evening primrose oil. In addition, essential oils are a must, such as: lavender, rosemary, St. John?s Wort, myrrh, frankincense, cedar-wood, juniper and thyme. These are all naturally wonder oils for the hair and can reward you with a silky lustrous shine.

Judy Phillips is the founder of Jash Botanicals Herbal Formulas, a manufacturer of physicians grade herbal extracts and medicinals. A naturopath and herbalist with over 25 years of experience, her passion for producing herbal formulas of exceptional purity and strength grew from a dissatisfaction with mainstream herbal products. She is an author of various natural health topics, from detoxification to dietary modification, and works to assist the expansion of knowledge to individuals in search of natural treatments. JashBotanicals.com offers a wide range of informative articles, including a monthly newsletter and a natural health blog.

Sandalwood Oil Aromatherapy For The Mind Body And Spirit

2009-03-12T20:56:00.001+07:00

Sandalwood is one of the world's most widely used essential oils, prized for its scent in perfumery, for its therapeutic effects in Chinese, Ayurvedic and Tibetan medicine systems, and for its ability to center the mind in meditative yogic traditions.

Sandalwood essential oil is most often extracted via steam distillation from the wood of the Sandalwood tree, with the heartwood of the roots producing the highest quality oil. Sandalwood is an evergreen, growing to a height of 9 meters, with leathery leaves and small purple flowers. Native to southern tropical Asia, the tree is parasitic, gaining its nutrients from one of several other tree species. Because it can only be grown this way, and due to its seemingly strict set of environmental conditions, Sandalwood is difficult to propagate. To add to the challenge of successful cultivation, Sandalwood takes nearly 30 years to mature before yielding oil of any worth.

Sandalwood essential oil has a woody, balsamic, sweet and slightly musky aroma; it is a pale yellow, greenish or brownish liquid with excellent tenacity (the aroma tends to last a long time) and superior fixative properties. There are several varieties available, with Santalum album is considered the most important therapeutically. The Mysore region of eastern India is thought to produce the highest quality of this oil type, though its harvesting is creating a strain on the area's natural environment. Recently, an oil of the austrocaledonia species has been produced on the South Pacific island of Vanuatu from successfully cultivated Sandalwood trees. This oil has a fantastic aroma, with a woody, smoky scent that can remind one of being at the beach - an excellent base note in perfume and cosmetic blends.

In the West, Sandalwood oil is perhaps best known in the west as a natural, woody, sweet body perfume used 'as is', or as a familiar aroma in many cosmetics, aftershaves and the like. In the east, however, Sandalwood?s importance in cultural and spiritual traditions cannot be overstated. The wood is carved into furniture, religious icons, used to build temples and burned as incense in a great variety of ceremonies. The oil is used to anoint the dead, helping their transition to the next life. In Burma, women sprinkle it on passersby on the last day of the year for the release of sins. In Hindu marriages, Sandalwood is burned in a tent such that the smoke surrounds the bridal couple. For the meditative yogi, the oil and incense encourage a serene state of mind, supporting alignment of the individual with the universal Self.

In the traditional Indian medicine system of Ayurveda, Sandalwood is valued for it's ability to cool the fire of pitta. It is indicated for inflammatory conditions, such as inflamed skin, or intestinal and genitor-urinary conditions that require cooling. Modern aromatherapy considers the oil an effective skin care agent for dry skin, general irritation and acne; it can help in cases of bronchitis, catarrh, dry persistent coughs, laryngitis and sore throat; it may relieve diarrhea and nausea, and can be supportive in cases of cystitis.

Beyond the physical body, Sandalwood essential oil is a great tonic for the hyper-active mind. In practical terms, the oil is considered an anti-depressant through it's ability to relieve hot, agitated emotional states, and to assist in release from over-thinking and worry. More esoterically, the aroma is considered 'divinely sweet' and softly balsamic, characteristics which evoke the grounding of the Earth element. It is said to release one from the 'tyranny of the intellect' which can cloud one's true nature, bringing about a more serene state unifying body, mind and spirit. From this quiet, unified state comes forth the true creative mind, finding infinite possibility in the here and now. It is in this peaceful, unified state where meditation can affect profound transformation.

Recommended essential oil blends for calming the mind are as follows - these can be used for general massage, reflexology, or applied to pulse points and temples: For 'obsessive' thinking, try four (4) drops of Sandalwood and two (2) drops of Vetiver in one tablespoon of carrier; for a detached analytical state try three (3) drops Geranium, two (2) drops Sandalwood and one (1) drop Patchouli in one tablespoon of carrier. These blends can also be created for use in a diffuser by omitting the carrier oil. For a great perfume also with soothing qualities, combine three parts Sandalwood and two parts Vanilla oil - the blend produces a wonderful tropical island aroma.

Finally, Sandalwood is one of the few essential oils which improves with age. Due to increasing demand, the oil's price is climbing significantly every year - it can be worthwhile to purchase a little more than you think you'll need immediately, as storing it for some time will only result in a richer oil in the future. Of course, samples are also a great place to start, as you can first find a Sandalwood that truly suits you.

About The Author
Misty Rae Cech ND, is a naturopath and yoga teacher practicing in Boulder, Colorado, and owner of http://AnandaApothecary.com. She regularly employs essential oils and flower essences in her practice. http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com.

Essential Skin Care for Men Products Made With a Man in Mind

2009-03-12T17:48:00.001+07:00

The basic structure of a man's skin is the same as a woman's, however it has unique characteristics. It is oilier, tougher and richer in collagen and elastin, making it firmer and more resilient. The reason is that the sebaceous glands that produce sebum (oil) are more active. This provides for natural moisture and an increased tendency to sweat.

If these glands become overactive and the oil mixes with dead cells, the pores become clogged. The accumulation can result in pockets of infection ? acne, sores, boils, and pimples.

If there is a problem with back acne (?bacne?) one solution is to shower before working out. If one sweats clean then the salty residue will contain less oil and fewer dead cells and the pores will become less clogged. Gland secretions are the weapon needed to fight infections and toxic agents.

There are good treatments for acne and other skin problems to be found on the Internet and with some good research, there are interactive sites where questions will be answered.

Wrinkles happen when collagen, a constituent forming 75% of the skin, becomes hard. Because it cannot hold water to plump it up, it collapses on itself and binds with other collagen fibres. This forms a mesh below the surface which shows up as wrinkles.

Fine lines, crowsfeet and wrinkles can be addressed by products on the market containing peptide-based formulas. We can't stop aging however we can to a degree lessen age-lines.

When summer arrives it?s time to throw off the pale-skinned complexion from the winter months and fully embrace the sun. This can be dangerous. Long UVA rays are the primary cause of premature aging and aggressive skin cancers while short UVB rays cause burns. Get used to the idea of applying good sunscreens with the SPF no lower than 15.

Men are more prone to dehydration because of daily or regular shaving during which the natural oils get stripped away. What this now means is the face gets dirtier. So it is very important that the face be cleaned every day. A simple daily routine of cleansing and moisturising will keep the skin looking and feeling healthy. This is the body?s first line of defence against sickness, germs and disease.

Moisturizers come under two categories, occlusives and humectants. Occlusives contain oil or silicone, which are deposited on the outer layer of skin to keep the moisture from evaporating. The humectants on the other hand are typically oil-free and are absorbed into the skin which helps with water retention. Either of these will help to maintain a well-hydrated healthy skin.

There now are some excellent sites catering to men only. There are tips, testimonials and good information available.

Because of the difference in skin makeup, using just any product on the market, especially on the face, may be an unhelpful practice. Look at name brand sites where many now have a line devoted to men's needs.

I am a work in progress. At the moment I have two sites dealing with beauty and skin care. We discuss men and women's skin care; formulations and ingredients; skin types and more. I attempt to answer questions that my guests may have - availability of a product, tips and treatments; care of acne and other skin problems; anti aging and sun damage to name a few. My two sites are http://www.skin-care-n-cosmetics.com and http://www.perfume-n-cologne-shop.com

Herbs an Illuminating History from a South African Perspective

2009-03-11T14:34:00.001+07:00

The practise of herb-gardening can be traced as far back as 4000 years ago in Egypt. Herb growing was often associated with temples, which required herbs for daily worship and ritual. Queen Hatshepsut (d. 1482BC imported frankincense (Boswellia sacra) and myrrh ( Commiphora myrrha) from Arabia, and cornflowers ( Centaurea cyanus), poppies (Papaver spp), mandrakes (Mandragora spp), figs (Ficus spp), and lotuses (Nymphaea lotus) appear in many wall paintings. From as early as 305AD herb-gardening was second only to prayer in the monastic regime. Monasteries were largely self-sufficient in produce, placing special emphasis on herbs to heal the sick. Herbs were also used to flavor a vegetarian diet as well as the brewing and distillation of ale, wine and liqueurs such as Benedictine, and the cosmetic Carmelite water which was based on Melissa officinalis. In the 16th century, herb gardens were planted by the universities for the purpose of teaching botany and medicine, subjects that were inextricably linked until separated by advances in science during the 18th century. Physic gardens as they were commonly known were to be found at many universities throughout Europe. Herbs were planted in alphabetical order and as new species were brought back by colonial explorers and botanical knowledge expanded, physic gardens housed a far greater range of plants and became the botanic gardens we know today.

Even though herbs have their roots in centuries gone by they are not a thing of the past. Thanks to the hippies of the 1960's and 1970's herbs have made a serious come back in the last decade. Approximately 80 percent of the worlds population rely on traditional plant based medicine, and 25 percent of prescription drugs contain plant extract. The USA's interest in medicinal herbs has increased by 100 percent since 1995 and similar increases have been seen in other countries across the globe.

A resurgence of interest has meant that consumers are finding herbs in the food industry, dietary supplements, teas, skin and hair-care products and aromatics. Culinary herbs have exploded into every kitchen thanks to the likes of Jamie Oliver and other TV cookery chefs.

The lives of people and herbs are so closely linked that we often forget the power they posses. The Swiss physician and alchemist Paracelus (c.1493-1541) wrote that All substances are poisons; there is none which is not poison. The right dose differentiates a poison and a remedy. Plants like Opium Poppy (Papver somniferum) and Coca (Erythroxylum coca) have been the cause of many wars throughout history. Life saving plants like Quinine (Cinchona Species) have prevented and treated malaria since the era of colonial expansion. Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) provided the basis for acetylsalicylic acid produced in 1899, and was named aspirin after (Spirea ulmaria) which was the old name for (Filipendula ulmaria). Aspirin is the world's most widely used drug.

People all over the world have picked, uprooted and used herbs since ancient times. Of the 250,000 species of flowering plants in the world, more than 20,000 are recorded as herbs, and in these numbers lies our greatest hope of finding new drugs to combat disease. (ASmit)

The Shocking Secrets Behind Superfood

2009-03-10T14:40:00.001+07:00

Superfood is the term for the best nourishment you can find in order to have your body function properly. Superfood contains essential nutrients your body needs most. That's why superfood is 'hot' right now. Certainly for everyone on a diet or looking to improve their lifestyle and eat healthier..

Here's the reason for the healing power of superfood.

As you probably know, the daily intake of food is the fuel for your body to function properly. Your metabolic system is the engine that uses this fuel to supply to your body the necessary energy to perform tasks (catabolism) and the building blocks to replace all sort of cells (anabolism).

The rebuilding of your body happens every day. Millions of cells have a very short life span and are being replaced frequently. About 7% of your body weight is blood fluid and blood cells, most of which are replaced in about 115-120 days. Your skeleton every three months, your skin every five weeks, your FAT-tissue every three weeks and the cells that line the inside of your stomach every couple of days!

Each year 95% of your body is replaced and here's the most important part of this wonderful system:

Your body uses everything that goes in through your mouth as building material.

That means everything, including bad fats, sugars and all the other wrong nutrients that you take in will be used to replenish all old cells.

Your body doesn't really care what the input is, it is programmed to take everything it gets and make the best out of it.

Therefore consuming wrong food over a period of time can lead to diseases. After all, your old cells are replaced with new ones using wrong, bad or insufficient elements from your food.

But here's the big secret. The opposite is also true:

Cells built using wrong nourishment,
can be replaced by good ones ...
simply by eating healthy superfood!

Did you get that? If not, read that sentence again. It's amazing, isn't it? That's exactly why superfood is so important, even if you haven't taken them before.

Consuming superfood will benefit you and your body. Because doing so will drastically improve the building process of your cells.

Now, here's something that may shock you.

You may be aware of this and take the risk. Why? Because your lust for food is stronger than your desire to live longer and healthier. That's ok. It's YOUR body and you are responsible for it, right?

WRONG!

Scientists find more and more evidence of so called 'Genomic Imprinting', the passing on of genes that are switched on or off depending on environmental circumstances. That's a shocking discovery, because it's probably not only YOUR body that you are affecting, but also that of your children and grandchildren.

Aren't all of your alarm bells ringing yet? Isn't it time to at least consider superfood?

Read more about Superfood at http://www.obesital.com/superfood.php

Case Stevens publishes health related information in his Obesital Optimum Health Newsletter. You can subscribe here: http://www.obesital.com/obesital-subscription.php

Essential Oil Uses A Users Guide

2009-03-09T01:09:00.001+07:00

The uses of essential oils were known to ancient Egyptians long before research began on their medicinal and aromatic qualities in the early nineteenth century. The sweet fragrance emitted by essential oils has had people going crazy on it for ages.

An essential oil is the extract of plant derived from flowers, stem, leaves, bark and other parts of a plant. The process is often complex and requires distillation through steam or water of the plant. The result is the pure essence of the plant, often in a highly concentrated form. In the following article we will list some of the common uses that essential oils are put to.

Diffusion
Diffusion means breathing the fragrance of essential oil. The oil is evaporated using accessories such as electric diffusers, lamp rings, aromalamps, scentballs etc. These accessories are available in various assortments in the market. They operate by continuously shooting out microscopic particles of essential oils into the air. To facilitate easy assimilation through the sense of smell, the oil is broken into fine invisible mist. Diffusion helps create a relaxing atmosphere and loosens tight muscles.

Massage
The therapeutic effects of essential oil when combined with the magical powers of touch, revives the anatomy and furthers overall well-being. When using essential oil for the purpose of massage, it is advisable that it be diluted with carrier oil. It is too concentrated to be used neat. Different proportions need to be devised for people of different ages, skin types, etc. For children, the advisable content of essential oils per ounce is 6 drops. When shopping for massage oil, a person will come across a large collection of readymade aromatherapy massage oils & lotions. These may be purchased only from reputable vendors after checking the contents well.

Baths
An essential oil bath can be quite relaxing. Moreover, this will help in combining the benefits of hydrotherapy as well. Just add a few drops of your desired essential oil to your bathtub or spa, and get that rich and nourishing feeling. Alternatively, the essential oil mixed with good carrier oil be applied to ones skin after the morning shower for that all day long refreshing sensation. This keeps skin soft, smooth and youthful.

Steam inhalation
Steam inhalation is another prevalent method of using essential oils. 5 to 8 drops of essential oil of one variety or more is mixed in a pot of hot water, and the user sits with his face close to the pot, eyes closed and about 10-12 inches above the pot. As vapour rises, it gets absorbed by the minute pores on ones face and through the nostrils. A humidifier too can be used by adding a few drops of essential oil in it.

Household uses
You may not know but the essential oils can be put to several household uses as well. Like when one is doing laundry, a few drops of essential oil will give the clothes a lovable smell all day long. Lemon or tea tree oils are best used for ones garbage cans from giving that stinking smell. Lavender has long been associated with romantic evenings. So, use it in your bathroom along with essential oils of chamomile and marjoram.

The uses of essential oils are many. One can experiment on his own to find new uses of the oils and thereby contribute to the already spilling research works on the subject.

Healing With Crystals Part IV

2009-03-08T02:11:00.001+07:00

So far the results have been remarkable. I believe this is in part because clients are encouraged to engage more actively through visualizing a colored light (as indicated through muscle testing).

Research shows that clients who are involved in their own recovery and healing are much more likely to have a successful outcome to treatment.

Clients have reported a variety of sensations and phenomena when the Lemurian Seed Crystals are incorporated into their treatment, along with visualizing certain colored lights as indicated. Such phenomena include strong rushes of heat and cold, prickly sensations, streaming of energy up and down their body or a body part, body shaking and tremors, latent memories surfacing, feeling deeply peaceful, strong sense of internal resistance, feeling weightless, releasing trapped emotions like anger, worry, fear, grief and sadness.

I have been experimenting with charging PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapy products with the energy of the Lemurian Seed Crystals. The affinity between the two is remarkable!

The oils are easily imprinted with the crystalline structure of the Lemurian Seed Crystals. This imprinting of the crystal?s energetic template seems to have a stabilizing effect on the essential oils.

For instance I?ve noticed oils that have been charged by the Lemurian Seed Crystals are less volatile when exposed to the air. Meaning their scent doesn?t quickly evaporate, but rather lingers.

I believe this indicates that the intention of the Crystal to entrain whatever it comes into contact with is acting upon the essential oils to stablize them, making them less volatile.

Crystals are known to have the highest and most refined organizational structure in the mineral kingdom. Their structural organization is exceptionally stable. Through their contact they are able to entrain the essential oils to carry this stable quality.

I will continue my empirical research to see if I notice a consistent increase in the ?effects? of essential oils that have been charged with the Lemurian Seed Crystals, as well as evidence for their having less volatility.

In Part V of Healing with Lemurian Seed Crystals I will talk more about the legend of the Lemurian Seed Crystals, as well as discuss more of my empirical findings when using them in practice.

Natural Allergy Relief

2009-03-07T02:42:00.001+07:00

Blue Tansy's high azulene content, which gives it a vivid, deep blue color (it can stain so take care), is the chemical thought responsible for Blue Tansy's strong action to soothe and relax the nervous system, as well as naturally ease the discomfort associated with allergies and pain.

Of the commonly used blue variety of essential oils, which also includes Yarrow and Chamomile, Blue Tansy has by far the most delightful and friendly scent. Its warm herbaceous aroma has a notable complexity with a hint of sweetness that to me is reminiscent of apples and spice. Even first time aroma users invariably love Blue Tansy's warm, inviting scent!

Blue Tansy's natural anti-inflammatory action makes it an exceptionally good relaxant. People often use Blue Tansy for symptomatic relief of muscular aches and pains, sprains and strains, arthritis, rheumatism and sciatica. It can be relied upon to soothe nervous tension and relieve stress.

Due to Blue Tansy's bronchio-dilating effects it is by far the best treatment I have found for long lasting relief for those suffering from allergies. Whether your allergic reactions are triggered by environmental allergens or food intolerances Blue Tansy has great power for producing beneficial results. Additionally Blue Tansy's analgesic properties help to reduce any swelling or itching associated with allergies.

Read what one long time sufferer of allergies has to say about using Blue Tansy: I've suffered from allergies for many years and use to get weekly shots and take daily medication to control my symptoms. Blue Tansy helped relieve my allergic reaction to environmental, as well as food allergens. I've stopped taking my allergy medication and no longer require shots and seldom do I even need to use my Blue Tansy oil at this point! Brenda Devine, Cave Junction, Oregon, USA

Asthma sufferers may also experience beneficial results when using Blue Tansy due to its bronchio-dilating action; try blending it with Lemongrass essential oil to enhance this effect.

Blue Tansy is also known to relieve burns and inflamed or sun damaged skin. My friend Sylla, owner of Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy, used Blue Tansy for relieving the radiation burns sustained when under going her treatment for breast cancer.

If you'd like to try a natural, safe and effective treatment for your allergies or for pain relief consider ethically wild crafted Blue Tansy essential oil.

Please note: There are many cheap chemical copies of essential oils available, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results always use ethically wild crafted or pure, organic essential oils that are pesticide free!

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's DVD & book, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. To learn more visit: Order Ethically Wild Crafted Blue Tansy Please refer to KG's Essentials Safety Guide before using any aromatic oils! KG invites you to Subscribe to Health Mastery Ezine to WIN FREE Aromatherapy Products. To learn more visit: Subscribe To Win Contact:KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

Essential Oils How To Use Aromatherapy Methods

2009-03-07T00:51:00.001+07:00

Pure essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic uses and benefits. The method applied can effect the results.

The choice of delivery method often depends on your intended goal. Please view diagrams (clickable links) below, illustrating the pathways of distribution within the human body and the organs and systems being affected by essential oils.

There are 3 Primary Methods for enjoying the benefits of aromitic oils:

1) DIRECT INHALATION is the method used most in Germany and the one I primarily use for best therapeutic results.

PLEASE NOTE: Stimulating circulation of your blood, lymph and nerve flow through deep breathing or movement and exercise, a bodywork/massage session, or a warm shower or hot soak in conjunction with inhalation of aromatic oils enhances their delivery into your system!

DIRECTIONS: Put 1-3 drops of essential oil onto a tissue, cotton ball or organic Celtic smelling salts. Slowly introduce the oils into your system by breathing them in for 30-60 seconds.

Aromatic oils stimulate your olfactory nerves which send a signal to your brain's neuro-receptors, triggering numerous electro-chemical responses.

VIEW Chart on Electro-chemical effects of Aromatherapy (clickable link appears below).

Through cellular respiration, or breathing, aromatic vapors enter your lungs for immediate release into your blood stream for distribution to every cell in your body. Research shows that essential oils will remain in your bloodstream for up to 4-6 hours. The method of Direct Inhalation is helpful for inducing sleep!

VIEW Chart on Aromatherapy Delivery Pathways (clickable link appears below).

2) MICRO DIFFUSION uses a nebulizing diffuser that will break oil into millions of micro particles. It disperses oils without the heating that can render them therapeutically less beneficial.

3) AIR DIFFUSION has a basket in which a pad with drops of oils are applied. A small fan blows cool air through the oils lifting them into the air for dispersal. This is a cost effective way for diffusing the oils and has the benefits of micro-diffusion and is especially good for scenting a room.

KG has utilized essential oils in her aromatic energy medicine practice for more than 30 years. During that time she has facilitated healing for thousands of people suffering from personal trauma, illness and injury. Through her unique AromaTest? system KG formulates essential oil blends that heal.

KG Stiles is a certified Aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's book, Aromatic Medicine - Pathway to Health, and her DVD about her AromaTest System of Healing, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. Click to learn about Organic Celtic Smelling and KG's other PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapy Products : PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapyp Products Menu View KG's Chart Electro Chemical Effects Of Aromatherapy and her Chart Aromatherapy Delivery Pathways Contact KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

What Do Essential Fatty Acids Do in Your Body?

2009-03-06T21:36:00.001+07:00

Fatty acids are used in every cell of your body. They have several characteristics that give them the power to give your body health and a feeling of well being:

* They attract oxygen

* They absorb sunlight

* They have a negative charge

* They readily reduce lactic acid

They Attract Oxygen

Fatty acids are needed to transport oxygen from the lungs to the red blood cells that are circulating in the blood. They do this by carrying oxygen through the capillary walls, red blood cell walls and directly to the hemoglobin.

The red blood cells then circulate to deliver the oxygen to the cells. The fatty acids again move the oxygen from the red blood cells through capillary walls, through the lymph liquid, through the cell walls and directly into the cells to where the oxygen is needed.

Do you want more oxygen to reach your cells? Make sure you are supplementing with Fish oil.

Fatty acids reside in the cell membranes. Here they hold oxygen so that pathogens cannot get into the cell. Pathogens cannot not live in an oxygen environment, so the oxygen in the cell wall acts as a death barrier for them.

Fatty acids also reside inside the cell to help form the various structures of the cell.

They Absorb Sunlight

Fatty acids readily absorb sunlight or light energy. This ability allows these acids to easily attract and absorb oxygen. It makes them chemically active and for this reason they become rancid when exposed to sunlight and oxygen. This is the reason why you need to keep them in the refrigerator after you open their container.

They Have a Negative Charge

With the negative charge that they have, fatty acids are active in many chemical reactions in the body. This negative charge keeps the fatty acid molecules dispersed and prevents them from clumping together. This ability to keep dispersed, give the fatty acids the power to move toxic material throughout the body and eventually to the channels of elimination ? skin, lungs, colon, kidney, lymphatic system.

This flow of electrons through the body helps to recharge the body and to especially promote brain and nerve functions.

In a more complex reaction, Udo Erasmus, in his book called, Fats and Oils ? The complete Guide to Fats and Oils in Health and Nutrition, describes how fatty acid are involved in the movement of energy,

?The negative charge also makes the essential fatty acids weakly basic (as opposed to acidic), and able to form weak hydrogen bonds with weak acid groups such as the sulphydryl groups found in proteins. Sulphydryl groups are especially important in oscillating reactions, which take place between them and the double bonds of the essential fatty acids. They allow the one-way movement of electrons and energy in molecules to take place. According to one to the world?s best chemists, the Nobel Laureate Linus Pauling, such movement is required to make possible the chemical reactions on which life depends.?

They readily reduce lactic acid

Both omega-3 and omega-6 help change lactic acid, which occurs during strenuous work or exercise, into water and carbon dioxide. This is important because without these omegas, the body would have to depend solely on minerals to neutralize these acid. If too much acid is created in your body, minerals can be depleted and your body can become acidic, which would invite all kinds of parasites and pathogens to setup household in your body.

Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid ebooks. He also writes a newsletter called ?natural-remedies-thatwork.com.? For more information on the essential fatty acids go to: http://www.fatty-acid-remedies.for--you.info

Essential Oils Kit Part VI

2009-03-06T02:19:00.000+07:00

Whether you use aromatherapy as a stand alone or as a complementary first aid treatment there are several aromatic oils I'd like to recommend you have in your aromatic first aid kit.

My recommendations include important details for you to consider when purchasing an oil, such as its Latin Name, Country of Origin, Method of Extraction and Part of the Plant Used. I also list the best oils to consider when creating a synergistic blend.

LAVENDER ( Lavendula augustifolia ) - Organic, Steam Distillation Flowers, Italian High Altitude.

Highly scented, sweet, floral, and slightly woody Lavender is a universal healing oil and has a beneficial and healing effect on the body, mind spirit and emotions.

Keywords: UNIVERSAL HEALER Lavender is the most commonly used essential oil and the absolute classic oil for treating burns!

During the early 20th century, French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse became interested in the use of essential oils for their medicinal properties. While working Gattefosse accidentally burned his arm very badly! On reflex he plunged his burned arm into large a vat of lavender oil. His burn healed rapidly and there was absolutely NO scarring of tissue!

Gattefosse is credited with coining the term aromatherapy in his 1928 article supporting the use of essential oils in their whole, pure and unadulterated state.

Lavender has broad application and is especially useful for skin care healing, headaches, bug bites, and sore muscles.

Lavender is the most well known and used essential oil and every home and office should keep a bottle of it handy!

Distilling at high altitude allows lower temperatures and lower pressure for distillation making it possible for the volatile phytochemicals to come through intact in the final product.

Lavender is excellent for skin care and to promote healing. Use it for burns, rashes, acne, eczema and psoriasis.

Apply it immediately to burns to prevent blistering, or scarring, as well as speed healing of wounds as it stimulates cellular regeneration.

Lavender is useful for relieving headaches, premenstrual tension, as well as promoting restful sleep.

It is excellent for balancing hyper emotional states such as shock, anger, impatience and irritability and helps dispel the negative mental states of fear & worry.

Try a synergistic blend of Lavender with any of the following aromatic oils: Clary Sage, Geranium, Neroli, Petitgrain, Sandalwood & Vetiver.

Please join me for Part VII in this series of articles to learn about the next essential oil I recommend you have in your aromatic first aid kit, PEPPERMINT ( Mentha piperita ).

Properly administered essential oils are a natural, safe and effective way to enhance your health and well-being and can produce satisfying results where other methods have failed.

Aromatherapy is a gentle and noninvasive complementary and alternative health care system used for balancing and synchronizing your body, mind, spirit and emotions to enhance your health. Please consult with your physician regarding your health concerns.

Please note: There are many cheap, synthetic copies of aromatic oils, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results purchase the highest quality oils you can possibly find. Use organic, or ethically wild crafted oils whenever possible.

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's DVD & book about her AromaTest system, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. Click for PurePlant Essentials Menu & Essential Oils Kits: Pure Organic & Wild Crafted Essential Oils & Kits Click to order Basic Essential Oils Kit. KG invites you to Subscribe to Health Mastery Ezine to WIN FREE Aromatherapy Products. To learn more visit: Subscribe To Win Contact: KG Stiles at Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

The Benefits of Omega3 Fatty Acids Losing Weight with Fat!

2009-03-06T01:35:00.000+07:00

Essential Fats for Weight Loss

Over the past few decades, the cornerstone of a good, solid weight loss plan has included studying the ?Nutrition Information? on food packaging, thumbing nervously through a 600 page (yet implausibly titled ?pocket sized?) calorie counter and triumphantly and guiltlessly striding down supermarket aisles with a trolley brimming with exquisitely packaged, molecule sized, fat free food.

To most people, avoiding fat (or consuming as little as possible) is the sure-fire path to a slim and slender body. However, for the eager and the open-minded, this is all about to change as study after study begins to tell us how fat is about to become your new best friend?

How Can Fat be Good?

It has long been common knowledge amongst athletes and nutritionists that Omega 3 and Omega 6 fats are extremely beneficial ? yet these have been largely avoided by most of us because they are basically fat - the death knoll of the diet.

Of the many fats that exist, Omega 3 and Omega 6 have been scientifically termed Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). The reason for this is simple ? they are essential. EFAs are essential because they are in constant demand from every living cell in the body ? however, the body cannot produce them on its own. It relies on us to provide them through the food we consume each and every day!

Creating a balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 in our diet is absolutely essential, not only if weight loss is on the agenda but also to help our body function properly and ward off a whole host of ailments such as high blood pressure, a low immune system, dry skin, hair and nails, poor digestion and low energy. Omega 6 and Omega 6 supplementation was also voted by women as being among the top three most effective PMS treatments! The list could go on.

EFAs and Weight Loss

So, we shouldn?t avoid all fats like the plague if we want to be slim and healthy, but I am sure you are wondering why EFAs are important our weight loss plan?

Among other reasons, EFAs help to:

Make us slim and keep us slim by behaving like the hormones that increase the body?s capacity to burn fat and decrease the fat that the body produces for protection (the fat that hangs around our organs and sits around our waists).

Suppress the body?s requirement to over-inflate our appetite.

Minimise the blood sugar swings, fat production, food cravings and loss of energy that carbs and sugars do.

Decrease inflammation and water retention in tissues, and instigate the removal of water unnecessarily held in other parts of the body. This can have a dramatic effect on our ability to lose weight!

Boost our energy levels throughout the day ? which, amongst other things ? increases your chances of going out for that run, making it to the gym or doing that extra lap of the pool!

Increase the stimulation of the brain to create happier moods and lift depression ? making us less likely to reach for the crisps and chocolates!

Good Fats and Bad Fats ? What to Eat and What to Avoid!

Of course, EFAs include only good fats ? the bad fats should still be avoided at all costs! These include the fats obtained from meat and dairy, saturated fats, trans-fatty acids and any cooked, fried or heated fats (EFAs lose their goodness and become harmful when heated).

Good fats can be found in foods like avocado, almonds, green leafy vegetables, high fat (coldwater) fish such as tuna, sardines, halibut and salmon and seeds such as sesame, sunflower and flax-seeds. However, the easiest and most effective way to ensure that your body is getting the right amount, and the right blend of good fats is to take an oil blend supplement.

In our experience at Energise for Life, using just one type of oil (cod-liver, flax, hemp etc) has not been anywhere near as effective as using an oil blend (such as Udo?s Choice).

As you can buy such supplements in both vegetarian capsules and as a liquid, there is no excuse not to give your body this fuel it needs to help you slim down and tone up!

Energise for Life aims to provide you with every resource you need to achieve optimal health and abundant energy. We aim to provide a one-stop-shop for all of your health and vitality needs within a 100% customer focused environment.

Why We're Different - We bring you all of the nutrition and health information you need to make the most informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle - as well as all of the benefits you would associate with the ideal online shopping experience: exceptional choice, effortless ordering, speedy delivery and excellent customer service.

5 Herbs You Need Highly Concentrated

2009-03-05T22:37:00.000+07:00

Herbs that Do Better as Pills

Oil of Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

The principal active ingredient in eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol which has strong germicidal and disinfectant properties. Applying oil of Eucalyptus to cuts and scrapes will kill germs and speed up the healing process. It also functions as a diuretic, lowers blood sugar and helps to relieve coughs and fevers. Often used in vaporizers and the main ingredient in chest rubs, Eucalyptus oil breaks up congestion and helps relieve major upper respiratory symptoms. Eucalyptus oil is an effective analgesic and is often used in preparations designed to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pains. Psychologically, it helps to combat exhaustion and dispels mental sluggishness. Eucalyptus oil should always be diluted before applying it topically or ingesting it; always follow package instructions.

To make a steam inhalation solution, add a drop or two of eucalyptus oil to a pan of water or vaporizer.

Oil of Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Studies show that Oil of Oregano works to fight infections, thanks to two powerful compounds in the plant, thymol and carvacrol. Oil of Oregano is used primarily for upper respiratory infections. It is best for short-term, low grade problems like coughs and colds, but if you don't feel better after several days or develop a high fever, you should consult a doctor. Oil of oregano also helps to ward off infections and the flu bug. Oil of Oregano is wonderful for killing yeast infections. Depending on your weight and severity of your symptoms, doses range from 5 drops twice a day to 10 drops 4 times a day in 4 ounces of water. Oil of Oregano is a strong herb; it will burn your mouth and lips, if not diluted. Thankfully, the burning sensation wears off quickly.

Peppermint Oil (Mentha x piperita)

You would be hard pressed to find a better stomach calming herb than peppermint. Peppermint Oil is very effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome. For run-of-the mill upset stomach, plain old peppermint tea can help. To treat IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) take 0.2 milliliters of peppermint essential oil one to three times a day with water and before meals. Peppermint will cause heartburn and worsen acid reflux in some people. If you experience either of these problems, stop taking the herb.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Sage has long been thought of as a brain booster. Sage has recently been used to treat memory loss in Alzheimer's patients. Sage is also a classic remedy for sore throats because of its antiseptic action. The suggested dosage for Alzheimer's patients is 30 drops of the liquid extract two to three times a day. For sore throats, try some sage tea or gargle with a very much diluted solution of the liquid (10 to 20 drops) dissolved in a cup of warm water.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

This staple of Indian cooking is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Turmeric can help ease inflammatory conditions, such as tendinitis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike other spice-rack staples, you can get a therapeutic dose of turmeric from food; all you need is a pinch per serving. However, many people do not like the pungent, bitter taste. In supplement form, the suggested dose is 4 grams of turmeric daily. Because powered turmeric is a powerful blood-cleansing herb, use it sparingly.

As with any vitamin or supplement, please consult your doctor before taking.

Author Beverly Terhune speaks from 35 years of living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and shares her experience, strength & hope on how to lead a healthy, substance-free life.

The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

May your life be Happy, Joyous, & Free.

Beverly Terhune

Essential Oils Found To Relieve Stress

2009-03-05T18:14:00.000+07:00

A recent study on the use of essential oils entitled:

The effect of aroma inhalation method on stress responses of nursing students.

done by Park MK, Lee ES in the Department of Nursing, Nambu University, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju city, Korea reported in April 2004 has provided more valuable evidence into the efficacy of essential oils in helping to manage stress.

The study was a quasi-experimental research using a non-equivalent pre-post design? with 77 nursing students who were divided into two groups, experimental and comparison control group.

The level of anxiety in each participant was measured before and after the test by assessing body symptoms and perceived level of stress.

Members of the experimental group were allowed to inhale lavender, peppermint, rosemary and Clary-Sage Essential Oils from an aroma lamp (form of essential oil diffuser) while the control group received no intervention of any kind.

They reported the following results:

As a result of administering aroma inhalation to nursing students, their physical symptoms decreased, their anxiety scores were low, and their perceived stress scores were low, showing that aroma inhalation could be a very effective stress management method.

Their conclusions were:

Nursing educators should play an important role in contributing to college students' physical and psychological health by helping enhance their recognition of stress management and effectively relieving their stress using essential oils.

As I have personally used many Therapeutic Grade essential oils for the last 10 years, I can attest to the wonderful improvements that I have seen in my ability to manage and stress levels with them. In particular I have found peppermint and lavender essential oils extremely refreshing, invigorating and calming at the same time.

What is important to recognize however is that not all essential oils are cut from the same cloth.

A category called Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils attempts to maintain the integrity of the original composition of the plant oil by avoiding degradation of its many constituents, through the avoidance of the addition of synthetic oils (like those produced in the laboratory) or other agents that may in fact may be toxic.

I am glad to see that the many personal benefits that I have had over the last 10 years with essential oils are now becoming supported scientifically.

Reference:

Park MK, Lee ES., Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi. 2004 Apr;34(2):344-51.

Nick Arrizza M.D. is trained in medicine, psychiatry, is an international healer and life coach, an author, researcher and internationally sought after speaker. He is also the developer of the powerful Mind Resonance Process(TM) MRP.

Young Living Essential Oils Web Site: http://www.youngliving.org/arrizza

MRP Web Site: http://www.telecoaching4u.com

Why Fish Oil May Be The Most Important Supplement You Ever Take

2009-03-05T02:09:00.000+07:00

If I could only take two supplements, I would take a multivitamin along with fish oil supplements. Fish oil supplements offer much-needed essential fatty acids that the vast majority of people in the U.S. are deficient in today. Omega 3 fatty acids are an essential part of any healthy diet. Fish oils are one of the only sources of the essential fatty acid omega-3--a substance that is crucial to the health and function of every single cell in your body.

Eating oily fish on a regular basis is not appealing to most people. Not only that, oily fish are not easily available in many parts of the country, and currently there is a mercury scare that makes people wary to eat too much fish. However, fish oil supplements offer a convenient and easy way to experience all the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids.

In the past, omega 3's were found in everyday foods to a much greater degree. However, due to modern processing methods, the average American's diet is virtually devoid of any omega 3's--and our bodies were designed to run on them every day. Without them, you WILL suffer health consequences, whether you realize it or not (you might not realize how GOOD you can really feel if you're deficient in omega 3's without knowing it!)

Fish oils are derived from the fat of deep-sea, cold water fish and are a natural source of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). Omega-3 is an important nutrient for maintaining a healthy brain and nervous system. Fish Oils themselves are said to contribute to healthy heart function and joint flexibility as well as supporting brain, nerve, and visual function.

Chances are you've heard about them before, but what do these fish oil supplements really do for overall health and can they assist in your fat-loss goals? Well, take a look at what having sufficient omega 3?s in the diet can do for you.

They:
1. Prevent fat cell growth and multiplication
2. Lowers serum triglyceride levels (they pose a cardiovascular risk)
3. Reduce blood pressure
4. Minimize hardening of the arteries
5. Stabilize heart rhythm
6. Are essential for optimal brain development and function.
7. Reduce interlukin-1beta production and result in a significant reduction in morning stiffness and painful joints related to rheumatoid arthritis.
8. Reduce inflammation which can cause pain
9. Block fat storage before it even starts
10. Lower risk of cancer
11. Force excess nutrients to be rapidly burned as fuel, which is extremely important in attempting to lose body fat and control bodyweight
12. Reduce cravings and also depression because they have a direct effect on serotonin levels

I recommend taking 3-6 gram capsules a day (Take 6 if you're dieting strictly and/or rarely eat fatty fish), which is the equivalent of 3-6 1000mg capsules. If you are hoping that fish oils will help with pain or arthritis, also choose 6 grams.

I recommended starting with 2 grams per day and work your way up to an extra gram every week (1 gram = 1 capsule for most brands), because some people experience mild discomfort as their digestive tract gets used to the higher doses. Take your fish oil capsules with meals, so you don?t get unpleasant fish burps? and so that they digest more smoothly.

Gina Paulhus is the owner of an in-home fitness training company called 'Home Bodies' based in the Boston area. Gina Paulhus is the author of 'Mind Over Fatter,' a 30-day overhaul of the mindset that has sabotaged your fitness and weight loss success. Gina's website is http://www.homeexercisecoach.com. You can find free fitness and nutrition tips to gain muscle and lose fat at home, no gyms, pills, or fad diets required!

Fish Oil Capsules Benefits

2009-03-04T02:29:00.001+07:00

Fish oil capsules are said to be a great source of omega 3 fatty acids that help the health of many, reducing the chances of getting cardiovascular disease. Fish oil is also known to help other health conditions as well. Most people don't like the taste of fish and this is why fish oil capsules are perfect for those people. They receive the benefits of the fish without actually having to eat it. And, for those people who do eat fish, most eat it fried or non-fatty making the amount of the proteins in it less than if you were to take a fish oil capsule. Therefore, people use fish oil capsules as a daily source of fish oil proteins.

Studies have shown that a daily consumption of fish oil is said to help with cholesterol, heart disease and cardiovascular disease. Fish Oil is said to perhaps even help with certain types of cancers. It is also said that when buying fish oil capsules you should buy higher quality and try to avoid cheaper brands. Fish oil comes from cold water ocean fish, and is said to be very therapeutic, due to the omega 3 fatty acids found in it.

Fish oil capsules should be used with care. Always consult with a physician, if you are preganant, or have any blood disorders. It is said that too much fish oil can prolong bleeding if you are cut. Some fish oils are also said to have toxins which are harmful to the body, and are said to increase the risk of developing cancer, so be sure to consult with you doctor before taking any kind of fish oil capsules, and to ensure the safety of your health. Fish oil capsules can be found in your local drug store or by going to a health food store in your area. Many reputable brands are also available online.

Robert owns and operates http://www.coralcalciumsuperstore.com and http://www.shop-4-vitamins.com. He has been involved with health & nutrition products for over 20 years. More info. is available at his sites.

Hair Loss Treatment by Aromatherapy

2009-03-03T22:32:00.001+07:00

For thousands of years people have found many purposes for Aromatherapy. We know that as far back as the early Egyptian culture, its uses for many aspects of the human body have been investigated. It has been known that different combinations of roots and leaves along with extracts from flowers that have been condensed into essential oils help regenerate the human body and lift the spirits of people.

One of the things that humans have an ongoing problem with is hair loss and there has been some success quite often using aromatherapy as a hair loss treatment. Alopecia has been treated for many years with oils such as lavender, cedar wood, rosemary and thyme.

Massaging bald areas on the scalp for two minutes every night can be helpful when using unique combinations of oils. To help improve the scalp?s ability to absorb these oils and increase the benefits, simply wrap the treated scalp with a towel. This may be helpful for baldness.

For the treatment of alopecia, the following essential oils are necessary:

?3 drops Rosemary

?3 drops Lavender

?2 drops Thyme

?2 drops Atlas cedar wood

The following carrier oils are also needed:

?4 teaspoons Grapeseed oil

?? teaspoon Jojoba oil

Measure essential oils and mix well in a glass container. Add carrier oils and mix thoroughly.

Rub essential oil mixture into scalp for a minimum of two minutes. Wrap scalp with a warm towel after massaging in the oil mixture. Do this every night for best results.

More essential oils that can be used for hair loss treatment are as follows:

?Grapefruit

?Bay

?Lemon

?Ylang Ylang

?Roman Chamomile

These are some additional treatments using aromatherapy:

Choose an essential oil and add 2 drops to rinse water after shampooing. You may add it to a vegetable oil instead. Massage this thoroughly into the scalp. Wrap your head using clear plastic wrap first. Then wrap a warm towel on top of that and leave it on for several hours or overnight, if possible. Next, use a mild shampoo so as not to change the sebum balance on your head and wash your hair.

Improve hair by stimulating the scalp which helps the circulation:

To help your hair stay healthy, blend together lavender and bay essential oils. This will help stimulate the hair follicles and scalp. Combine 6 drops each of bay and lavender and blend into 4 oz. of a warm carrier oil such as soybean, sesame or almond oil. Massage this mixture into your scalp. Allow for 20 minutes to let it be absorbed thoroughly. Next, shampoo your hair with your regular shampoo but add 3 drops of bay essential oil.

If high blood pressure is a problem for you, either avoid rosemary oil altogether or don?t use it very often. If you have sensitive skin, lemon or grapefruit oil may irritate your scalp. You may want to use less of those essential oils. Do not use more than the recommended amounts of the essential oils as listed in the directions.

Dennis Harris has a health related site that provides help for a wide range of medical and health related issues. You can visit his site at http://www.healthissuestoday.com

Proper Usage of Essential Oils

2009-03-03T17:57:00.001+07:00

Every now and then, I think it is important to refresh our minds with how and why we use essential oils. This allows us to once again, regain our focus, and move forward in life with less stress and anxiety. It shows us the correct methods of using essential oils.

It also gives us the background of where they come from, and how we obtain them. All of this is important, and goes a long way in the therapeutic healing of aroma.

Many plants contain volatile compounds, i.e. essential oils, that we extract from the flowers, seeds, bark, roots, and even the peels.

It is in these oils, which we extract, where the healing properties are contained. Some of these properties are antiseptic, warming, soothing, calming, stimulating, and antispasmodic.

The quality of the oil depends on a few items. First, plant species ,i.e. the region, soil condition, and the climate in which the plant was grown. Second, the time of the day the plant material was harvested. And, third, the extraction method used and the storage.

It is believed that plants grown organically or collected in the wild yield the highest quality oils. Extracting the oils is done through various methods, but steam distillation and cold pressing are the best. Avoid any synthetic oils or those extracted with chemical solvents.

It takes a large amount of material for extraction, so this is a very labor intensive and expensive process. BUY from reputable places.

Applications

Steam inhalation: Add 5 drops of an essential oil to a bowl of steaming water. Drape a towel over your head and hold your face over the bowl. Breathe in deeply. This is especially good for sinus conditions.

Dry inhalation: Put 1-3 drops of an essential oil on a cloth, and hold up to your nose. Breathe in deeply.

Healing Compress: Add 5 drops of essential oil to 1/2 cup of hot water or cold water. Dip a cloth in the water, wring it out and apply where necessary. The hot press is good for cramps and the cold press is good for fevers and headaches, or even sunburns.

Humidifiers: Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a humidifier or vaporizer. This will help fight symptoms of colds, bronchitis, and asthma.

Herbal Sauna: Use essential oils in the sauna to aid the lungs and help strengthen the immune system. Add 5 drops of essential oil, such as tea tree, to 1 cup of water and pour over the heated sauna stones. Just a suggestion - if the sauna uses lava rocks on an electric heater, it may not be a good idea to pour water in this situation.

Some Popular Oils

Peppermint - soothes respiratory infections, aids circulation, fights inflammation, relieves flatulence and indigestion.

Tea Tree - Acts as a, antiseptic, is antiviral, is antibacterial, is antifungal, helps heal acne, sunburns, and even infections.

Lavender - Is an antibiotic, soothes headaches, and helps heal wounds, and repels insects.

Storage Tip

Store essential oils in opaque glass bottles in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate citrus oils. Label clearly. Properly stored essential oils will keep well over a year. Please, just remember, keep all essential oils away from children. Using some of the above techniques and information, you can really use essential oils to have a more positive effect on your well-being.

-------------------------------------------------------
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Aromatherapy
-------------------------------------------------------

Being Proactive With Your Health Decisions

2009-03-02T22:47:00.001+07:00

In today?s world, there?s a definite need to be proactive in protecting our health. But that assumes there?s something you CAN do to protect it.

See, most people figure they?re pretty powerless. That?s a good thing for the healthcare establishment. They like that. You?re the one with disease and they?re the one with the solution.

Only one small problem, though. In 2001, now get this, in 783,000 people died from healthcare-related screw-ups. That?s a fact. Imagine that. That?s 2,100 people a day. That?s 8 jumbo jets going up in flames every day.

Don?t get me wrong. Doctors and medical facilities are great when it comes to trauma care, bone setting and that kind of thing. But give me a break: 783,000 dead from medical mistakes? No wonder that?s the third leading cause of death in the U.S.

Anyway, most people don?t even know that. If they get sick, well, the only thing they know to do is to submit themselves to conventional medical treatment ? which of course is all about treating sickness.

But that?s not health care. That?s sickness care. Real health care is about building health from the ground up. Sickness care is about cutting, radiating, poisoning and taking prescription drugs, which by the way can be very toxic.

So, as I see it anyway, we?ve only got two options. Be good little medical consumers and go along with the healthcare program that we?ve all been taught to buy in to - or start thinking things through for ourselves - and no one can make that happen but you. It?s your decision ? your choice ? and your life.

Personally, my advise is: be pro-active. Don?t wait in line to get on a train wreck. Consider taking your health into your hands. I know that might be a little scary, but you can do it. You couldn?t before because there wasn?t an alternative ? but now, there?s something on the horizon that everyone should know about and it?s called ?glyconutrition?.

For the past two years, I?ve been researching this particular field of nutrition - glyconutrition ? and what I?ve come away with is the sense that glyconutrition is a tool for health unlike anything we?ve ever seen before.

To give a few examples, people who are on glyconutrition supplements are having very impressive experiences like far fewer colds and flues, recovering from things like asthma, fibromyalgia, cancer, autism, and depression.

A lot of people hearing this for the first time are very skeptical when they hear claims like that. If you happen to be in that group, but are still open minded enough to take in some new information, that?s great. It?s the first step you can take to reclaiming your power to make decisions about you and your family?s health that isn?t completely dictated by the medical establishment - you know, that same group of folks that racks up over 700,000 unnecessary deaths a year.

Anyway, the important thing is that now you at least know about an alternative that?s working for thousands of people ? people who?ve made the decision to start thinking outside the medical box by adding glyconutrition supplements to the food they eat.

David Lear is a freelance writer whose primary interest is glyconutrition. Testimonials, scientific validation, and other information about glyconutrition can be found at http://www.glycoresults.com

Essential Oils How To Use Aromatherapy Benefits

2009-03-02T16:48:00.001+07:00

Pure essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic uses and benefits. Remember the method applied can effect your results.

Research shows that Cold-Air Diffusing certain essential oils may:

1) Reduce bacteria, fungus, mold and unpleasant odors:

Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemon or Lavender are known to have properties that will achieve these desired outcomes for you.

2) Relax and relieve tension, as well as clear the mind:

I highly recommend you try Lavender or Frankincense for these benefits!

3) Help with weight management:

Citrus oils are great for curbing your appetite, as well as uplifting your spirits! I recommend Lemon or Pink Grapefruit.

4) Improve your concentration, alertness and mental clarity:

Use Peppermint or Basil for improving your memory. Both are exellent when you?re studying for exams.

Start by diffusing your oils for no more than 15-30 minutes per day. As you become accustomed to the oils and recognize the effects, you may increase your time of exposure.

In illness, inhale near the ?mouth? of your nebulizer or fan difuser. A short session of breathing in the oils for 4-5 minutes should be sufficient, repeat every few hours.

You can also dispense your oils on a tissue, cotton ball, or Organic Celtic smelling salts for Direct Inhalation of 30-60 seconds minimum and up to 5 minutes.

KG Stiles is a certified Aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's book, Aromatic Medicine - Pathway to Health, and her DVD about her AromaTest System of Healing, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. Click to find out about PurePlant Essentials Aromatherapy Basic Kit (4 oils) OR the Aromatherapy Deluxe Kit (6 oils) OR the Aromatherapy Complete Kit (9 oils) Contact KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

Why Should I Believe in Aromatherapy?

2009-03-02T01:20:00.001+07:00

We, as human beings have been given the wonderful gift of 5 senses, which most of us use every day without even thinking about it. Let us give some attention to how we react to the various things that touch our senses.

The fragrance of a home-baked apple pie may bring back memories of Grandma?s kitchen and feelings of comfort or happiness. How about the scent of a deep, red rose? Does it bring of thoughts and feelings of Love, with the memory of your first anniversary with your significant other? Or the sight of an intricately beautiful, wild violet bringing with it, feelings of wonder and awe. Or maybe someone walks past you wearing the same perfume your Mother used to wear and you are instantly in touch with the feelings of safety, warmth and love of family.

There are so many ways we are touched emotionally, mentally, physically by items coming in contact with our senses. Like the music on the radio that takes us back to childhood, the smell of sheets that were dried outside on the clothes line, the touch of velvet that was your first prom dress. The taste of your favorite ice cream reminds you of your high school days with friends. Your senses carry you far beyond the very moment of contact, bringing with them the enhancement of spirit. These senses trigger our nervous system, relieving depression, revitalizing, uplifting, and giving us an all-over feeling of well-being.

This is what aromatherapy does and much more. Using pure essential oils from a wide assortment of plants, flowers, fruits barks and roots, produces compounds that can be used to affect mood and health. These are more widely accepted for use in the alternative and holistic medicine fields. Aromatherapy actually dates back thousands of years probably first used by the Egyptians. These can be used in a variety of ways; by inhaling the essence, using the oil as a massage or compress and with proper direction of a professional, ingestion.

Just as a suggestion, we believe you should at least give it a try. Beside the fact that you will feel better, it could carry you off to some distant past with wonderful memories and feelings!

Member of the American Hypnotherapy Association, Member of CAMA, Hospice Volunteer Instructor/National Trainer for the Twilight Brigade Compassion in Action. Executive Chair of the Atlanta Chapter.

Sandy Hatfield ?Harmony Grove Marketing, Inc. 4/2006
http://www.scentsaroma.com

Healing With Crystals Part II

2009-03-01T22:34:00.001+07:00

The Lemurian Seed Crystals were apparently discovered in Brazil along the face of a hillside where Quartz crystal was being strip-mined. These naturally formed generators and amplifiers of energy were found alone partially buried in sand.

They were single, or seed crystals, meaning they were not attached to clusters as other quartz is found to be in that area. Because of this anomaly these Lemurian Seed Crystals immediately got attention.

Most of the crystals found were suffused with a pink or reddish glow and instead of being shiny, like most clear quartz; they were frosty or dull, appearing to have a matte-like finish.

What sets these crystals apart from any I have ever seen is there characteristically unique series of horizontal striations that run up one, or more sides of the crystal. Most, but not all, of these horizontal striations end in a triangular face that forms the apex of the crystal.

Both of my Lemurian Seed Crystals have at least three or more sides with horizontal striations and are optic, completely clear with no inclusions, giving them the largest capacity for healing that a crystal can have.

Both of them also form an apex at the top of the crystal which is helpful for directing Chi or life force energy flow, as well as drawing in or pulling out energy, depending on the requirements of the situation.

It is believed that these Lemurian Seed Crystals were left by the Lemurians, an ancient race that seeded our planet eons ago; who departed from earth when conditions became too inhospitable and life could no longer be sustained.

The legend goes that the vast majority of Lemurians left planet earth for other star systems while others elected to remain and continue to dwell in other dimensions of our inner earth's system, acting as guardians and protectors for the seed of our human race.

It is these inner earth dwellers who are thought to be responsible for the discovery of these Lemurian Seed Crystals at this time. It is also thought that the Lemurian dwellers of inner earth continue to maintain a clear and conscious telepathic connection with their fellow Lemurians who traveled eons ago to other star systems.

This highly evolved race of beings continues to preserve and thrive from their unity consciousness. The Lemurian Seed Crystals carry the wisdom of unity consciousness and have not, as yet, been fully activated.

Since their discovery they have been attracted to people who are actively assisting in anchoring the energies that will aid our planet to grow in awareness of the primal unity of all things.

I have been frequently engaging with the energy of my Lemurian Seed Crystals since their arrival. I experience them as powerful allies that are activating an opening of my heart chakra. They seem specifically attuned to clearing, balancing and charging each of my chakras and the interrelationships between my chakras.

The more aligned and open I become to the Lemurian Seed Crystals' energy transmissions for unity consciousness the more they affect a transformation and healing of my being.

In Part III of Healing with Lemurian Seed Crystals I will speak more about the legend of the Lemurian Seed Crystals, as well as discuss my empirical findings when using them in practice, and how I am using them to amplify the effects of PurePlant Essentials.

Purity Ensured through Pure Essential Oils

2009-03-01T19:43:00.001+07:00

Scholars in English grammar would be livid at the phrase pure essential oils. For them essential oils are by nature pure and adding the expression ?pure? to this is nothing but being verbose. Leave apart the criticism of the scholars, in practice one can regularly come along instances when the essential oils have been mixed with other oils or the customer has been duped with entirely synthetically manufactured oil. So, now you will appreciate the concern for people when they demand pure essential oils.

For the beginners, let us first elucidate about what essential oils are. An essential oil is extracted from different parts of the plant such as stem, leaves, flower, bark etc. You name a plant and an essential oil derived from it will be available. The list of essential oils is really impressive. Some of the most common essential oils include lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, rose, jasmine, cedar wood and so on. These are derived from a complex process of distillation through water or steam. Certain essential oils like rose leave a fragrant water after the distillation process. This is available in the market as hydrosols. Other hydrosols include lavender water and orange blossom water.

Pure essential oils have been proved to have benevolent effect on human beings. Several adverse conditions can be treated through the proper use of essential oils. The most common of these is treating burns with lavender essential oil. French chemist Ren?-Maurice Gattefoss? found this effect of essential oils as quite interesting. He has contributed largely to the science of using essential oils for medical purposes. This science is known as aromatherapy or treating through plant aroma.

However, essential oils will produce the desired effects only when they are pure. Chamomile essential oil is derived from the chamomile flowers and has a soothing and comforting impact. When used in the bath after the end of the day, one will experience a rejuvenation of the body and mind. Nevertheless, do you get the same effect if the essential oil used is impure? No. Moreover, if an oil to which one is allergic to has been mixed with the essential oil, you can also count on the side effects.

The most common of impurities found in essential oils are pesticides and insecticides. Now, the use of pesticides and insecticides to grow plants has become widely prevalent. In this case, it is very difficult to do away with pesticides to the most miniscule levels. The process of distillation ensures that most of this is removed from the pure essential oils to give just the unadulterated extracts of plants.

Nowadays, organic essential oils have becoming increasingly popular. Organic essential oils are manufactured from organically grown plants. When a plant is grown organically, no artificial fertilizers are utilized. This ensures that the essential oil that you are using is totally free of pesticides. However, be prepared to shell that extra price for procuring organically pure essential oils. Yet no one complains since they are buying essential oils for the desired effect and not just for showing off their collection.

Bryan Josling is working with the Horticultural Research Station in Adelaide. He has also been involved with research on plants. To find romatherapy essential oils, Aromatherapy Skin Care, essential oils wholesale visit http://www.ndaroma.com

The Cost Of Being Sick And One Possible Alternative: Glyconutrition

2009-03-01T16:00:00.000+07:00

A lot of people I?ve talked with about health supplements usually are coming from about the same place - you know: ?been there, done that.? People are tired of hearing about the latest and greatest and ? for the most part - figure that all supplements are pretty much the same.

People also agree that vitamin and mineral supplements might help a little, but that they?re definitely limited like helping someone get over some huge illness like cancer.

And actually, up until a few years ago, that was true. People took vitamins and minerals just because that seemed like the thing to do, but no one really saw any of the kind of results that would ? you know ? be considered fairly miraculous.

So I think it?s normal to think that ?If there was some kind of a real breakthrough out there with nutritional supplements, I?d already have heard about it ? or at least my doctor would of.?

So, OK, let me say something right now. You can believe me or not, but here?s the thing: I?ve been looking in to a nutritional supplement category called ?glyconutrition? since I first heard about it about 2 years ago. Personally, there?s no doubt, at least in my mind, that ? and it doesn?t matter what kind of health condition you?re talking about - glyconutrition will at the very least help, and in many cases, bring very sick people back to full, radiant health.

It seems to me that, given the state of today health care crisis, everyone should know about any supplement ? like glyconutrition - that significantly increases the chances of staying healthy.

In a book that came out last year called: ?The Cost of Being Sick?, medical establishment insider Nicholas Webb shows us with a lot of facts and figures how messed up the health care system really is. And by that I mean: expensive and unreliable and - unless you?ve been living under a rock somewhere ? you probably already know that.

Looking Nick Webb?s facts and figures, it?s clear that insurance rates and healthcare costs are just spiraling to the point where ? already a lot of people are excluded and as time goes on here in the next 5 to 10 years, most people won?t be able to afford the insurance premiums which will, by that time, will amount to the same as your average mortgage payment. Think about that. That?s huge.

But some of us are lucky ? especially if we can see into the future. Not with ESP, but by being smart enough to be able to read the writing on the wall.

Now, assuming you CAN recognize the signs of danger, what can you do about it? That?s the bottom line, isn?t it? What can any of us DO about it?

So that?s a good question. So, let?s look at some of the options.

One option is that you can do nothing. I mean, you can just hope your health hangs in there and take your chances.

The other option is to take some action. Now, admittedly, up until recently there wasn?t much of anything you could do. But that changed ten years ago. It changed when a pharmacologist working for the drug industry stumbled onto one of the most important health discoveries of our lifetime: glyconutrition.

I would highly recommend doing some research on glyconutrition because it?s probably the best form of health assurance you can get.

In today?s world of rising health costs, glyconutrition is one of the most effective strategies available to you and your family.

David Lear is a freelance writer whose primary interest is glyconutrition. Testimonials, scientific validation, and other information about glyconutrition can be found at http://www.glycoresults.com

Aromatherapy: How It Works

2009-02-27T12:51:00.001+07:00

The Neuro Science behind Aromatherapy: For thousands of years aromatherapy has been used to heal the body, mind, spirit and emotions. In recent years there has been a great deal of scientific research conducted on neuropeptides and neuro receptor sites. Neuro relates to nerves and indicates intelligence or the ability to cognize or think.

It is your nervous system, your body's electrical pathways, that coordinates the Consciousness and function of all your Systems including, your organs, endocrine glands, lymphatic (immune function), musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, integumentary (hair & skin), urinary, reproductive and respiratory systems. In a very real sense your nervous system is the physical counterpart of your Mind.

Your nervous system has two networks of intelligence. Your Central or Conscious Intelligence System and your Autonomic or Unconscious Intelligence System. This branch of your nervous system is instinctive and operates below your normal perception of conscious control.

Research scientists have discovered nerve cells, located within every organ and system of the human body, coordinating communications between each of your cells. In fact it's been discovered that cells from each of your body systems are to be found eavesdropping within every other system of your body.

It is through this cellular matrix and network of communications, operating like a mini-nervous system, that neuropeptides, or chemical messengers, transmit their information to all your body's organs and systems. This interconnected field of information operates with such incredible speed and efficiency that it boggles the mind.

We now understand from this research that aromatic oils are chemical messengers that attach to human nerve receptors to induce a chemical response. For instance it is known that the chemical component Azulene that is in Blue Tansy and German Chamomile give them an anti-inflammatory effect. While an estrogen-like effect is induced by the Sclareol content of Clay Sage and the plant esters of Lavender oil stimulate a calming effect.

It has also been documented that the whole natural plant molecule has a myriad of properties that interact with the human body in ways that science cannot reproduce synthetically. Hence it is always recommended to use pure aromatic oils for best therapeutic results.

Recommended Methods: 1) Direct Inhalation: 1-3 drops of an aromatic oil in your palm, rub hands together and inhale for 30-60 seconds. 2) Bath - Blend 6-12 drops of oil in a teaspoonful of honey or unscented jojoba oil, after drawing your bath stir the mixture into your bath water and soak!

Either of these methods will effectively allow aromatic oils to enter the neuro-chemical delivery pathways of your nervous and hormonal systems. The Vapors from the oils enter through your nose and immediately go into your Lungs, as well as stimulate your Olfactory nerves.

Your Olfactory nerve then signals your Limbic system, the control mechanism in your brain for emotions and memory. From your lungs the oils immediatley enter your bloodstream and are delivered to your Heart, as well as all of your Body tissues and Organs, the Liver and Pancreas, your Reproductive organs, Skin, Kidney and Bladder.

The oils then circulate back to your Lungs where they are excreted. Research shows that through inhalation aromatic oils will remain for a longer period in your cell tissues ( 4-6 hours) than through any other means of application.

Properly administered essential oils are a natural, safe and effective way to enhance your health and well-being and can produce satisfying results where other methods have failed. Aromatherapy is a complementary and alternative healing therapy for improving your physical, mental, and emotional health.

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's DVD & book about her AromaTest system, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. To order aromatherapy oils: Order Pure Organic & Wild Crafted Aromatherapy Oils Please refer to KG's chart diagram for Aromatherapy Delivery Pathways KG invites you to Subscribe to Health Mastery Ezine to WIN FREE Aromatherapy Products. To learn more visit: Subscribe To Win Contact: KG Stiles at Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

Glyconutrients and Dietary Supplements

2009-02-27T12:50:00.000+07:00

Over the last ten years, there has been a marked increase in the number of people who take dietary supplements. These supplements range from vitamins to mineral and herbal remedies with specific health benefits. New research suggests that taking glyconutrients can significantly enhance their efficacy.

Glyconutrients are essential sugars that the body needs for its cells to be able to recognise and communicate with each other. Rather than having one function they support every cell in the body by giving them the information they require to function normally.

The human body does make glyconutrients naturally. However you can give your cells a helping hand by taking glyconutrients as a daily dietary supplement. This can particularly benefit the elderly or infirm who may not be able to make essential sugars easily themselves.

Glyconutrients are easily absorbed and can be used quickly because the body sees them as a natural food.

For a while now scientists have known that glyconutrients can help the body heal itself. They help lower cholesterol and build bone density and muscle mass. Recently, they have also been shown to enhance the efficacy of other dietary supplements as well.

The digestive system is a highly sophisticated mechanism which performs many vital functions. It has a major role in nutrient absorption, hydration and elimination of wastes from the body. There is a growing awareness about the importance of a healthy diet. As a result, many people choose to enhance their daily diet with vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements.

However, not everything that is ingested is absorbed or used by the body efficiently. There are certain vitamins that the body is unable to release from spinach for instance. So what can be done to help our bodies derive as much benefit as possible from our food and dietary supplements?

According to scientists, the value of both dietary and supplementary nutrition can be enhanced by the daily inclusion of glyconutrients. These essential sugars help to improve cellular communication, thereby helping the body to access important nutrients.

Elizabeth Harfleet is a leading a UK based nutritional therapist specialising in glyconutrients

How To Make Bubble Bath With Inexpensive Ingredients

2009-02-27T12:40:00.001+07:00

The luxury of soaking in a hot bath is a great stress reducer for many women. By adding certain scents, bubble bath, and essential oils to the bath water, we can create a totally relaxing experience or energize ourselves once again, depending on the products we use.

Unfortunately, many of the bath products available on the market are laced with harsh chemicals that can irritate our skin or even cause infections. You have to be careful in what you purchase and actually research your product choices carefully.

An alternative choice is to make your own bath products. By combining readily available ingredients along with a selection of essential oils, your bubble bath will help to enhance the softness of your skin, aid in stress reduction, and contribute to your mental health and well being.

What Ingredients Constitute Homemade Bubble Bath?

Let's look at some of the ingredients that you'll be using to mix up your own homemade bubble bath formula.

Distilled Water - You can purchase distilled water in most grocery stores. The benefit over using this type of water over regular tap water is that chlorine, all minerals and other impurities have been removed from it.

Liquid glycerin - This is a clear, thick liquid that is extracted from animal fats and vegetable oils, and is a by-product of soap manufacturing. It's purpose is to increase moisture and softness, plus it helps to create bubbles.

Castile Soap - This type of soap was originally made from olive oil although other types of oils can also be used, such as: coconut, almond, hemp, and jojoba.

Essential Oils - There are many oils that have many different purposes so you will need to research this area. For a soothing scent try oils like lavender, rosewood, sandalwood, chamomile, and myrrh. Some of the essential oils that can help you to feel energized and rejuvenated are eucalyptus, spearmint, peppermint, and lemon oil. Oils that are especially good at softening the skin include almond and coconut oil.

Simple Bubble Bath Recipe

Here is a very quick and easy recipe that anyone can make. Once you have it mixed, pour the mixture into an unbreakable bottle. As it doesn't have any chemical ingredients to preserve it, it would probably be safe to say you could store your bubble bath for one to two months.

1 quart warm distilled Water
1 Bar castile soap, grated
2 oz Liquid Glycerin
3 to 4 drops essential oil of choice

Mix the water and grated soap together until all the soap is dissolved. It's best to use warm to hot water for this, as it helps the soap dissolve faster. Add the glycerin and essential oil stir gently. This is safe to use for kids as well.

Bubble Bath For The Winter Months

We all know how miserable getting a cold or the flu can be. Here is a wonderful bubble bath recipe to soak in when you're sick since Eucalyptus can help your body fight cold symptoms and reduce congestion.

6 drops of eucalyptus oil
3 drops of spearmint oil
3 drops of peppermint oil
1 quart of distilled water (heated)
1 bar of castile soap. (4 oz. Bar), grated
4 ounces liquid glycerin

Mix the water and grated soap together until the soap has dissolved. Add the remaining ingredients, stir gently, and store in an unbreakable bottle.

Women are notorious for always being on the go and putting everyone else's health first. Just remember, it is also important that you take care of yourself as well. Allowing yourself to relax is part that care. Preparing your own homemade bubble bath with favorite essential oils is one great way to do this. Now go find that novel you?ve been wanting to read, take that deliciously soothing bath and melt away the stress of the day.

Rose Smith owns Total Beauty Tips, where you can learn to rejuvenate and revitalize your body with natural skin care solutions. We feature advice, products and information that will help make your total body feel smooth, soft and fabulous. Visit http://www.totalbeautytips.com to learn more.

Omega3 Fish Oil In The Diet And Weight Loss

2009-02-27T00:35:00.001+07:00

When embarking on a diet, most people make the decision to cut out many foods that are considered unhealthy, such as refined carbohydrates, high calorie foods and fats. However, in order to eliminate excess body fat, you need to make sure you?re eating enough of the right fats. While it?s true that some fats are not good for you, others are absolutely essential for losing weight and maintaining a healthy diet. While the body can transform carbohydrates and proteins into saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, it cannot produce certain polyunsaturated fats. These fats that the body cannot produce are called essential fatty acids (EFAs), and they must be obtained from the food that we eat

EFAs actually help the body to dissolve fat. So to cut out foods high in them is like cutting out fat-burning agents!

What are Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)?

EFAs are classed into two groups: omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are needed by the body to keep the heart, eyes and brain healthy, and omega-6 fatty acids are needed to keep cells, skin, the blood and immune system healthy.

Essential Fatty Acids, otherwise known as Omega 3 and Omega 6 Fatty Acids, are polyunsaturated fatty acids found in the oil from oily fish and vegetable sources such as flax seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, olive oil and canola oil.

Both types of EFAs are required for the production of the eicosanoids ? hormones that are responsible for regulating the major body functions, including digestion, insulin production and the storage of fat.

How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Aids Weight Loss

It has now been proven scientifically that Omega-3 fatty acids help you lose weight. Studies at the University of South Australia have found that taking omega-3 fish oil combined with moderate aerobic exercise boosts weight loss.

Over a period of 12 weeks, researchers gave a group of obese adults daily doses of omega-3 fish oil and supervised moderate aerobic exercise three times a week. The researches compared the results of this group with other groups that were not given omega-3 fish oil and exercise three times a week.

The group that had the omega-3 fish oil lost significantly more weight, particularly around the abdominal region, than the people who had not been given the omega-3 fish oil and exercise.

They concluded that Omega-3 fatty acids in the fish oil activates the enzymes responsible for burning fat, and combined with exercise and increased oxygen intake, they increase the metabolic rate, which has an effect of burning more fat and losing weight.

Warning About Fish Oil

Many reports have indicated that commercial fish can be harmful to people?s health, in particular the health of young children and women of childbearing age. This is because certain fish contain high levels of contaminants such as mercury and methyl mercury that can damage the nervous system of an unborn child or young child. These toxins can also be transferred into fish oil and fish oil capsules.

It is possible to get the same weight loss benefits from vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acids, without the toxins. Eating a diet rich in olive oil, canola oil, and rapeseed oil, nuts, avocado and soy will give you the omega-3 fatty acids your body needs to help you lose weight, without any of the associated health risks.

Shola Osho is author of Diet Cheats - how to lose weight, burn fat while eating all the foods you enjoy. You can find out more by visiting http://www.dietcheats.com More articles on the relationship between omega 3 fish oil in the diet and weight loss are available in http://www.omega-3.b0bs.com

Information on Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids and Fish Oil can be found in the Omega 3 Fish Oil Directory http://www.omega-3.dreamhosters.com which contains web resources on omega 3 essential fatty acids and how to incorporate them in your diet to burn fat and lose weight.

Bathing With Essential Oils From Herbs

2009-02-25T00:55:00.001+07:00

Imagine your self floating in a gigantic bathtub full of herbs hugging your skin; its magical powers take away your tensions, worries and transforming you to feel complete and new.

Bath is calming way to relax in today?s fast paced stressful life. It is a soothing way to start a new day and blissful send-off to bed. Herbs and its essential oils soothes aching muscles, tense nerves, skin irritations, softens skin and ensures peaches and roses complexion.

Set the stage for your bath with a clean fresh bathroom. Keep clean towels, bath gels, herbs, loofah, etc handy. Choose relaxing music, light aromatic candles around you. All in all make sure that everything you need for your luxury is within arms reach.

While filling tub with warm water, create a bag of your favourite herbs to be used in bathing. It is ideal that you give your skin a quick loofah brush head to toe before you start. To create an herb bag, fill muslin cloth or even an old stocking with your favourite herbs. Dip it in your bath, letting the herbs gently soak in the water. Bath salts, citrus leaves, dried rose petals, dried lavender flowers to name a few to create an herb bag. If you don?t have the fondness of creating your own bag of herbs, you can definitely buy ready made herb bags.

Not more than 5 drops of essential oils should be used in a bath. Dilute it with milk or carrier oil. Common herbs and its essential oils used in bath for calming properties.

-Black Pepper ? relief for aching muscles

-Clary Sage - as a perk me up and premenstrual tension

-Eucalyptus - for respiratory problems

-Geranium - for very dry or itchy skin, eczema and PMS

-Jasmine - when you wish to feel luxurious

-Lavender - dry skin, eczema, sprains, hot flashes, headaches, over work, insomnia

-Orange - to pep you up

-Rosemary - to get you going in the morning, a quick pick-me-up in the evening. Also good for aches and sore muscles

-Chamomile, Lavender or roses are good for dry, delicate or irritated skin

-Rosemary, Calendula and Thyme for oily skin

-Lemon Balm - good for hyperactive children

-Citrus & Lavender - soothing and therapeutic properties

-Ylang Ylang - exfoliates and moisturizes the skin

-Apricot and Amber - moisturises, restores softness and suppleness to skin

-Chamomile - aids in relief of aching muscles and nervousness

-Eucalyptus - opens the pores and the vapours from the bath help to clear the breathing passages.

Make sure that your bath time is a time of solitude. Just let yourself luxuriate in the watery haven. And don?t forget to put a ?Do Not Disturb? sign on the door.

Kevin Pederson manages aromatherapies sites providing Aromatherapy recipes for skin care, beauty and hygiene, emotional and physical well-being. The aromatherapy oils make useful moisturizers having good penetrative properties.

Powerful Health Benefits of Essential Oils

2009-02-25T00:47:00.001+07:00

An essential oil is an aromatic liquid that is distilled from various parts of the plant. Containing the true essence of the plant, they are very concentrated and 75 to 100 times more powerful than herbs.

The purpose of the essential oil is to keep the plant healthy. They do this by protecting the plant from insects and other herbivores, from bacteria, molds, fungi, and microorganisms. They also help the plant heal inflicted wounds. These unique characteristics make them highly beneficial to mankind.

Essential oils are able to affect both the mind and body. Their ability to affect people on so many different levels is an element unmatched by other healing arts.

The healing benefits of essential oils can be received in three ways. They may be used topically by applying them directly to the skin. Some oils have a caustic effect and dilution may be necessary. They may be used internally or diffused. Essential oils should never be used in the eyes or ears as these membranes are very delicate. Whether the oil is absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested, once it is in the bloodstream, it works therapeutically, regardless of how low the dose.

Here are ways to put essential oils to work for you and your family for everyday health benefits:

Increase memory and stamina: Drink a glass of water with 2-3 drops of lemon, orange, or peppermint essential oil.

Boost immune system: Apply frankincense, oregano, or thyme to the bottom of the feet (3 to 4 drops) after a shower.

Protect against fungus, bacteria, and microbes: Turn on a diffuser in your home or office, using a blend that is protective against microbes.

Eliminate stomach upset: Take a drop or two of cinnamon bark oil in warm water and drink as a tea.

Stop headaches: Rub lavender oil on the temples, top of the head, and forehead; lie down 10 minutes and inhale deeply from the oil left on your hands.

Prevent motion sickness: Sprinkle a few drops of ginger or peppermint oil on a tissue and let your sick prone child inhale it during the car ride.

Study aid: To increase concentration and focus, experiment with diffusing one of these essential oils near the study area: lemon, grapefruit, peppermint, bergamot, or pine.

Insomnia: Place two drops of lavender oil on a tissue and tuck it underneath your pillow.

Cure canker sores: Place myrrh on the canker sore for quick healing.

Colds and cough: Rub an immune system blend on the chest, back and apply to the bottom of the feet.

Essential oils are non-greasy, yet, soft and soothing. They are nature's perfect solution for the problems that chemicals, poor nutrition, and stress have added to our lives.

The safety and life changing effects of essential oils are dependent entirely on their purity and their quality. Generally speaking, essential oils that you find in department stores, and even health food stores, are of uncertain quality and are not appropriate for ingestion or healing. For best results, only pure and natural essential oils should be used.

Experiment and find your essential oils, the ones that make a real difference in your life. The whole idea behind aromatherapy is that it should be a pleasurable experience. There should be more than one oil that you can use for a particular condition, so you should be able to find one that you like.

Faye Durham is a former chemist and clinical research associate in the pharmaceutical industry. In her current career, she is a consultant and independent distributor, specializing in nutrition and aromatherapy. She can be reached through the website: http://www.youngliving.org/fdurham

Resource: Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide by D. Gary Young, ND, compiled by Essential Science Publishing, http://www.essentialscience.net or 1-800-336-6308.

Food for Thought: the Naked Truth about Weight Loss and Fad Diets

2009-02-20T22:27:00.001+07:00

?Eating less fat and having dietary programs has worsened the weight loss problem because the whole concept was built on wrong philosophy. Eating is thinking. And until flawed thinking is corrected, weight problem will persist.? Uzo Onukwugha

Being over-weight is becoming an epidemic in the United States. Statistics states that 68% of U. S. population is over their ideal body weight. And that 1 in 3 Americans are suffering from clinical obesity. This sad statistics also includes children and teenagers.

Despite the proliferation of low fat foods and endless barrage of fad diets, these statistics seem to be increasing. Individuals and companies come up with new and confusing dietary programs every day. Most of these diets do not work. Examples include Atkin?s diet (has some success), South Beach Diet, ABS diet, Cave Man Diet, Origin diet, and all sorts of diet code. The truth is that even if folks lose weight, 95% of them gain it back in one year.

Oprah Winfrey created news a few years ago when she lost sixty seven pounds and gained back eighty four pounds a year later. She is not alone. I know of a popular preacher who lost weight and even wrote a best-seller, Lay Aside the Weight. The last time I checked, he has gained it back and has stopped talking about how to lose weight. The story is always the same regardless of who is involved. The church world doesn?t eat differently from the rest of the world.

A lady asked me a question a couple of years ago, ?Why are all these men of so fat??

?Food,? I replied. ?We don?t teach gluttony as sin. The Scriptures says that if you?re given to appetite, you should put a sword down your throat for a binge.?

I said all this to state that the whole multibillion dollar weight loss industry is built on a wrong foundation. Any house that is built on wrong substructure cannot stand. As long as the prevailing mindset is to lose weight, people will also lose it and gain it back. Most of these diets are unnatural and under tension, people will always go back to what they are used to. The mind is the greatest pattern recognition organ in the universe. And will conform to its original programming even when it will harm you.

I was talking to a former footballer who was complaining to me about his weight gain. He kept on saying to me, ?I want to lose weight?I lost sixty pounds before. I can do it again.?

I kept saying to him that weight is not the problem. Yet, he did not seem to get it. Weight gain is the surface rather than the source. If you deal with the source, the surface will disappear. He is not interested in learning how his physiology; neither does he want to know about healthy eating habits. Change the seed. The fruit you?re looking for is in the roots. This is the sad story about many people struggling with over weight.

Blaming fat and cholesterol is not the problem, either. In fact, lack of essential fat can cause weight gain because of accumulation of the wrong fat. Nutrition is an evolving science?a sort of all-comers course. We know that there are the good, the bad and the ugly fat.

The good fats are the essential fatty acids that we must take through the diet because they are necessary for cell membrane and nerve function as well as reproduction. The essential fatty acids are Omega 3, 6 and 9. We should consume more of them in that order. The ratio of Omega 3 and 6 is 1:4. Flax seed (oil) and Salmon Fish are good sources of Omega fatty acids. Udo?s blend has the right combination of all the essential fatty acids in a bottle.

The bad fats are the saturated fats that everybody tends to recognize. These are animal fats from chicken, beef and hog.

The ugly fat is trans-fatty acid that tend to act as free radical and damage the cells. Example her is margarines and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils we find in all sorts of cookies.

I must add that cholesterol is not fat. And it is never found in plants. Animals need cholesterol for procreation. The problem is excess cholesterol. Fats are needed to emulsify and carry cholesterol to the tissues and blood vessels. (Erroneously, they are called cholesterol: High Density Lipoproteins, HDL: Low Density Lipoproteins, LDL; and Very Low Density Lipoproteins, VLDL). HDL is the so called good cholesterol, LDL is the bad cholesterol and VLDL is the very bad cholesterol.

Change your mindset to eating right, exercise and maintaining a healthy eating lifestyle and nature will choose your ideal weight for you. It is a bondage counting calories before you go to bed. Don?t watch your weight; watch your diet and your weight will take care of itself.

Ninety five percent of weight problem is caused by over-eating and eating junk. The body stores junk and excess as toxins in fat tissues if they are not water-soluble. Weight gain is worsened by sedentary life style. (Please don?t embark on any exercise program without proper diet and advice from a professional). It?s surprising that people blame obesity on genetics, stress, sweet tooth, emotional upheaval, diabetes, hypoglycemia, ignorance and indiscipline. These are merely the surface and not the source.

Uzo Onukwugha operates a website that is geared towards changing your paradigm so that you can reprogram your mental software for business success. To learn more, visit http://www.weblinkbusiness.com and subscribe to his newsletter. Reach him with your care and concerns at: uzonukwugha@yahoo.com

Blepharospasm: That BlinketyBlink Movement Disorder

2009-02-19T10:54:00.001+07:00

The range of ailments falling under the umbrella-term of abnormal involuntary movement disorders is diverse and includes conditions as different from each other as Parkinson's disease, restless legs syndrome and blepharospasm. Cases of blepharospasm, like those of other movement disorders, often go unrecognized or are blamed on other causes.

The term blepharospasm is the sum of its parts. Blepharon is Greek for eyelid and spasm means excessive muscular contractions. In blepharospasm the eyes blink excessively. The blinking can be too frequent, too sustained, or both. The distinction between normal blinking and excessive blinking is not exact. A practical method for sorting out cases relies on the answers to two questions:

Does the blinking cause distress?
Does the blinking interfere with usual activities?

Blepharospasm can occur alone or in combination with other involuntary movements. When paired with involuntary movements of the lower face -- like puckering of the lips or grimacing expressions -- the problem is collectively known as Meige syndrome, named for Dr. Henri Meige who described the condition in 1904. Blepharospasm and Meige syndrome are forms of dystonia, a sub-grouping within the overall range of involuntary movement disorders. Another example of dystonia is torticollis, in which there is sustained involuntary twisting or cocking of the neck.

Blepharospasm, like any other condition, can be mild, moderate or severe. It is not necessarily disabling, but if the blinking is so frequent or sustained that it interferes with vision, then it can impact activities like driving. Blepharospasm does not appear to be an insurmountable barrier for people whose job is to appear in public, as a well-known television personality with blepharospasm seems to be doing just fine.

How common is this condition? Not very. Researchers at Mayo Clinic tracked cases of blepharospasm in Olmsted County, Minnesota, between 1976 and 1995. They calculated just 1.2 new cases per year per population of 100,000, although this might be an underestimate of the true incidence because it doesn't include undiagnosed cases. The diagnosed patients were equally divided between the sexes and half of the people had Meige syndrome, meaning that the blepharospasm was accompanied by dystonia of the lower face. One in four cases resolved on their own.

The diagnosis of blepharospasm is based mainly on its appearance. This condition is sometimes misidentified as a reaction to (or secondary to) an irritation of the eyes, and is treated with eyedrops. However, in true cases of blepharospasm (designated as primary or essential blepharospasm) the excessive blinking is not driven by irritation of the eyes. Instead, the eyelids are just following orders from overactive brain-circuits, though in fairness, those brain-circuits might be misinterpreting non-irritated eyes as being irritated. Eyedrops are not helpful for primary blepharospasm.

Another condition which is similar in appearance is hemifacial spasm in which there is excessive blinking of just one eye, often accompanied by excessive twitching of the lower face on the same side. But hemifacial spasm is not a form of primary blepharospasm. In hemifacial spasm the affected muscles are driven by an overactive nerve rather than an overactive brain-circuit. That's why just one side of the face is affected. There is another, unaffected nerve controlling the opposite side of the face.

Although the source of excessive blinking in blepharospasm is undoubtedly the brain, the disorder does not show up on usual, brain-oriented tests like computed tomographic (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans or electroencephalograms (EEGs).

How about treatment? There is no curative treatment available. Existing treatments can relieve symptoms, but don't affect the course of the underlying disorder which usually continues long-term. Thus, the state of a person's blepharospasm in five or ten years will be the same whether or not symptom-relieving treatment is used in the meantime.

That said, many patients benefit from symptom-relieving treatment which nowadays usually takes the form of periodic injections of botulinum toxin (e.g. brand name Botox) beneath the skin, overlying the affected muscles. This weakens or relaxes the muscles involved in the excessive blinking to an extent that relieves the symptom without interfering with normal eye closure. Typical treatment cycles are no more often than every three months. Prior to the development of botulinum treatment for blepharospasm it was often treated with orally administered medications, though usually with a lower success rate.

As an example of clinical experience in treating blepharospasm, we can look at the results obtained by neurologists at the Sao Paulo School of Medicine in Brazil. Over the ten-year span from 1993 to 2003 they administered a total of 379 botulinum toxin treatments to 30 patients with blepharospasm. Sixty-six percent of the patients had previously tried oral medications for their condition and just 15% considered them satisfactory. (Of course, patients who were totally satisfied with oral medications were unlikely to seek treatment with botulinum toxin, so this figure probably underestimates the success rate with oral medication.)

So how did they do? Ninety-three percent of the patients showed significant improvement after their first injections with botulinum toxin and there was no loss of effectiveness when the first and last treatments were compared. Adverse effects -- mostly minor -- developed at least once in 53% of the patients. Six patients (20%) discontinued the treatment.

Gary Cordingley, MD, PhD, is a clinical neurologist, teacher and researcher who works in Athens, Ohio. For more health-related articles see his websites at: http://www.cordingleyneurology.com and http://www.neurologyarticles.com

Omega 3's From Plants May Be Best

2009-02-19T10:43:00.001+07:00

Many people know that they need omega-3 fatty acids to prevent heart attacks, and that they can get lots of omega-3 fatty acids from fish. But most people do not know that the omega-3 fatty acids in seeds such as flax and whole grains may be even more important in maintaining your health than the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish.

Omega-3 fatty acids are the least stable fats in our diet. Whole grains contain lots of vitamin E to keep the omega-3s fresh and prevent them from turning rancid, but omega-3 fatty acids in fish are not protected by vitamin E and therefore turn rancid much more quickly than the omega-3 fatty acids in whole grains.

Three huge studies, The Lyon Heart Study, the GISSI Prevenzione Trial, and in The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Study have established that omega-3 fish oils help to prevent heart attacks and reduce pain and swelling in diseases such as arthritis, psoriasis, and possibly even asthma. Recent research shows that the omega-3 alpha linoleic acids in seeds, nuts, beans and whole grain may be as necessary as the omega-3s in fish oils to prevent heart attacks.

Omega-3s found in fish oils are mostly long chain fatty acids. Omega-3s in plants, particularly seeds, contain much shorter chains and are weaker than the omega-3s found in fish. However, the shorter chain omega-3s, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), found in leafy greens and seeds are converted to the long chain fatty acids in the human body. Long-chain fish omega-3s enter blood and cells more rapidly and produce more rapid effects than short chain plant omega-3s.

Over the long haul, humans must get omega-3s from plants, as well as fish, because all omega-3s break down very quickly when exposed to oxygen in your body, and you need large amounts of vitamin E to prevent omega-3s from turning rancid. Fish oils are extremely low in vitamin E, while virtually every seed or plant source of omega-3s also has vitamin E. So your body stores far more short chain omega-3s from plants in your body fat.

Dietary fats are classified by their chemical structure into saturated, polyunsaturated and mono unsaturated. The polyunsaturated fats are further sub-classified into omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9. Omega-6 polyunsaturated fats form prostaglandins that cause clotting, a thickening of the blood and constriction of arteries that cause heart attacks.

On the other hand, omega-3 polyunsaturated fats prevent heart attacks and high blood pressure by helping thin blood, relax arteries and prevent clotting. Over millions of years, humans have consumed a diet that contained approximately equal amounts of omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids, but over the past 150 years, humans have increased their consumption of omega-6s by extracting vegetable oils from the seeds of corn, sunflower, safflower, cotton and soybeans.

These oils are used in most prepared foods, frozen foods, margarines, French fries, potato chips, and bakery products. Today Americans eat a diet with a ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids that is almost 20 times higher in omega-6s than omega-3s, instead of the traditional ratio of about 2:1. This abnormally high intake of omega-6s blocks arteries and causes swelling throughout the body. To meet your needs for short chain omega-3 fatty acids found in plants, eat lots of green leafy vegetables, and seeds such as flaxseed, whole grains, beans and nuts.

Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at http://www.DrMirkin.com

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Red Raspberry Seed Oil

2009-02-19T10:31:00.001+07:00

Someone asked me the other day, 'Emily, what oil are you most excited about?' Certainly a thought provoking question; one that I wouldn't even be able to answer ordinarily. At the risk of sounding like an info-mercial, I'm going to tell you that I am excited about Raspberry Seed Oil.

Oilseeds are processed in huge quantities in commercial processing facilities with significant downtime for cleaning between different kinds of seeds. Because these tiny seeds yield very little oil by commercial standards for oilseeds and need to be processed carefully to preserve their identity, they are only being processed on the very small scale. At this time, manufacturers are making a small profit from something that was once waste material. Some initial laboratory analysis is available and much is pending. I think that this oil will increase in price when the potential for profit is proven.

This oil is truly a nutraceutical. The tiny seeds of Raspberries are from organically grown plants and are cold pressed. The relatively small amount of oil produced is full of good stuff for your skin. This is an oil that I would take as a supplement. I am actually making the yummiest salads using Red Raspberry Seed Oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, sea salt and a drop or two of essential oil of a culinary herb such as Oregano or Basil. It is 83% essential fatty acids. Lenoleic, alpha-lenolenic, oleic, omega 3 and omega 6, tocopherols, tocotrienols, carotenoides, vaccinic, ellagic and steariodonic acids, are all familiar to the health conscious consumer.

The high levels of Vitamin A (carotenoids) give this oil a bright orange color. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin. It speeds the healing of damaged skin and is used for skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis.

The very high levels of Vitamin E (tocotrienols, alpha and gamma- tocopherols make this oil quite an anti-oxidant. All tocopherols are effective against particular kinds of free radicals. Using a product that contains mixed tocopherols allows for broad protection. The role of Vitamin E in human health has not yet been fully explored. All of this Vitamin E means that this oil is stable and will most likely act as a preservative if added to other vegetable oils that tend to oxidize quickly.

Raspberry Seed Oil has significant anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective when used for dermal conditions such as rashes and eczema. The incorporation of an oil with such properties into the diet could have huge potential.

Red Raspberry Oil contains variable amounts of Ellagic Acid. Initial studies reveal that Ellagic acid concentrations range from 0.06 to 0.32 mg/g in the seed oil. Ellagic acid is an anti-carcinogenic and anti-mutagenic as well as being anti-bacterial and anti-viral.

Most surprising is that this oil actually has an SPF rating ranging from 28 to 50.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil can be ordered from Emily's Oils & Essentials.

Emily

I grew up across the street from the Village Sauna and up the hill from the American River in Fair Oaks, California. Native plants and salves and tinctures were ever present. Victoria Edwards was a massage therapist at the Sauna and lived next door to us on Harmony Hill. Her handmade massage blends of the 70's grew into Leydet Aromatics, a world-wide supplier of essential oils and aromatherapy supplies recognized for quality and customer service. I began working for Leydet in 1995, years of focused learning and growth followed. When Victoria began a sabbatical in Southern France in 2004, there became a need for a restructuring of the business that she had built. Out of this, Emily's Oils and Essentials was born; a company dedicated to continuing the legacy of Leydet by serving customers in the spirit of healing and the rightful use of plants. I intend to provide a seamless transition for loyal Leydet customers and to continue to introduce people to the sensory pleasures and healing properties of nature's gifts.

- Emily

The Balancing Act of Omega Fatty Acids

2009-02-19T01:16:00.000+07:00

Generally it can be said that most of us do not get a good balance of essential fatty acids in our diet. Perhaps this does not sound like late breaking news. However most of what we consider news does not directly impact our lives. An earthquake half way around the world will make the headlines. But in reality most of us are insulated from its effects. Essential fatty acids on the other hand will never make a reporter?s career. However, many of us are affected by these little buggers more than we may suspect.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are called essential because we need them to survive and our bodies cannot manufacture them. Deficiency and imbalance of EFAs are blamed for an impressive list of chronic health conditions. But, unlike the distant earthquake, EFA deficiency is unlikely to make the headlines.

Two very notable essential fatty acids that are worth our attention are omega-3 and omega-6. They get their names because of the placement of the first of multiple double carbon bonds in the molecule. Though the chemistry is important it is not the focus of this essay. What is important to us now is the potential health impact of these two fats. Let?s take a closer look at each of these essential fatty acids separately and then consider their relation to each other.

Omega-6

In reverse order we will consider omega-6 first. Perhaps we do not hear as much about omega-6 as we do its counterpart. But consider this impressive resume. Omega-6 has been useful in the treatment of anorexia nervosa, ADHD, osteoporosis, diabetes, eye disease, certain skin conditions, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis and even cancer. Not bad for an unsung hero. Go over that list again. These are all serious conditions that have been tied to omega-6 deficiencies. So why do we hear so little about this little gem? Perhaps it is because health issues only become exciting once there is an obvious problem. Then we usually look for a pill to take. But if this is a reason for our ignorance it is not the biggest reason.

The plain truth is most of us are getting plenty of omega-6 in our diets. In fact most of us get way too much. Over ten times too much. That?s a switch isn?t it? Too much of a good thing. The reason we get so much of it is because many of the foods we buy are processed with some type of linoleic acid which is a popular form of omega-6. In addition many oils we use are high in omega-6 such as sunflower, safflower, soybean, corn and cottonseed oils.

So what?s the rub? Why worry about too much omega-6? Our bodies have the ability to convert linoleic acid into longer chain fatty acids which lead to the production of eicosanoids. Eicosanoids depending, on their source, can have positive and negative influences on our bodies. They can slow intravascular clotting which helps to prevent heart attacks and strokes. They suppress inflammation preventing us from overreacting to allergens. They dilate blood vessels reducing hypertension and increasing good blood delivery. They can also control cell growth slowing the rapid growth of cancer cells.

On the other hand they might increase blood clotting which leads to heart attack and stroke. They suppress the immune system leaving us more open to infection. They increase cellular growth thereby promoting the growth of cancer cells. And they create new blood vessels which can feed cancer cells. Unfortunately eicosanoids produced by an overabundance of omega-6 in the system cause many of the negative factors mentioned above.

Omega-3

Omega-3 has the opposite story. Like omega-6 it is essential to proper health and is useful in the treatment of many chronic diseases. Among these conditions are heart attacks, cancer, lupus, schizophrenia, accelerated aging, stroke, insulin resistance, asthma, postpartum depression, obesity, diabetes, arthritis, ADHD, and Alzheimer's disease.

But unlike omega-6 most diets are deplorably deficient in omega-3. Most of us get only a small amount of what we need for optimal health. Though it can manifest itself in many ways this deficiency may be most noticeable in chronic heart disease. Entire cultures are known to have very low incidence of heart disease because of diets high in omega-3 rich foods. Most notorious among these are Eskimos. Danish researchers first learned this secret from the Eskimos. Of course the Eskimos did not realize they had a secret. They were just eating large amounts of the fatty foods that were available to them. That?s right, fatty foods. Foods like salmon which are high in omega-3.

Once the secret was out researchers rolled up their sleeves and produced a flurry of studies and trials to test the hypothesis that omega-3 reduces heart disease. The studies continue to go on. But the overwhelming conclusion is consistent with the original observations. That is: omega-3 reduces incidence of heart disease. In fact the conclusions are so certain the even the American Heart Association now recommends fish oil supplements for any one with documented coronary heart disease or high triglycerides. That was no small concession for the AMA.

Balance

Of course we all understand that the key to everything is balance. Perhaps this familiar sentiment is nowhere more important than it is to the topic at hand. Both omega-6 and omega-3 are essential to health. But the ratio at which we ingest these fatty acids is key. Scientists differ on the optimal ratio. One recommended ratio is 5 parts omega-6 compared to 1 part omega-3. Some would stretch that to a 10:1 ratio. The more conservative estimates place the optimal ratio somewhere between 1:1 and 4:1. Unfortunately the average American diet includes an omega-6/omega-3 ratio between 14:1 and 20:1. This imbalance contributes to many of the chronic health problems mentioned above.

So what do we do? Assuming you are a reader who takes this seriously there are some steps you can take to assure better health for you and your family. You can begin by avoiding foods prepared with linoleic acid and some of the linoleic acid rich oils mentioned above. Buy less prepared foods and do more home cooking. Then make every effort to increase omega-3 consumption. Cold water fish like salmon and tuna (not the canned varieties) are very high in omega-3. But you need to eat these fish more than once per week. I have met people who eat salmon every day for breakfast. If you are not a fish lover or are concerned with marine pollutants try fish oil supplements. The good ones are completely free from contaminants. Our diets have contributed to the increase of chronic conditions like heart disease. Our diets can go a long way toward resolving the problems.

For more information on the omega fatty acids and heart health please see the links below.

Omega-6 and Omega-3

Omega-3 and Triglycerides

Triglycerides

Greg has degrees in science, divinity and philosophy and is currently an I.T. developer.

Calming Teenage Acne: How to Smooth Troubled Skin with a Holistic Approach... 7 Key Steps

2009-02-17T18:34:00.001+07:00

To calm teenage acne the skin must be balanced both internally and externally. Getting back to nature from the inside out can rebalance the glands, keep the skin bacteria-free, and allow it to heal more quickly. The world?s oldest home acne remedies rely on herbs, essential oils (yes, oils), and ancient relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation and soft martial arts. Teenagers can take control of their acne and create smoother, clearer skin through small yet powerful lifestyle changes. This holistic approach to solving teenage acne problems addresses the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. The 7 keys to smoothing troubled skin are:

1) Treating skin problems is an inside job. The skin is considered the third kidney, as it is another organ of elimination that the body uses to externalize oils and toxins not excreted otherwise. Acne can be affected by the food you eat. Although no foods have been proven to cause acne in all sufferers, some people have adverse reactions to nuts, fats, fried foods, milk products, fried and oily foods and chocolate. Experiment carefully and eliminate the offenders.

2) Clean up your act. Hygiene is really important. You can benefit from washing your face 2 or 3 times a day. If you wear make-up be sure to wash it off completely every night. Use a mild, unperfumed cleanser. Add one drop of juniper oil and one drop of lemon oil to about 1/4 cup of cleanser. Essential oils have antiseptic properties that help keep bacteria in check. Keep hands and hair clean as well and always try to keep hair off of face.

3) Don?t get too clean. Avoid using soaps or cleansers that dry out the skin or cause redness. Although people with acne and oily skin have an aversion to applying moisture (oil) to the skin, any skin needs a little oil to protect and lubricate it. To try and remove all oil only starts a vicious circle, as the glands try to produce more to replace what has been lost. Avoid using alcohol as an astringent because it over dries the skin. Witch hazel solutions are more effective astringents.

4) Vitamin A, vitamin B-complex, vitamin E, and zinc are helpful for acne. Check with your doctor for the proper dosages. Too much can be dangerous. Some studies suggest that 135 mg. zinc is as effective as antibiotics (tetracycline) for treating acne.

5) Use an herbal treatment. Take tincture of myrrh, dilute it in a small bowl of water, and use a cotton ball or pad to wipe your face. Myrrh?s antiseptic and astringent properties can both treat and prevent acne. Use daily. Another treatment involves steaming your face or putting a compress on it (for 10 minutes) with a special essential oil solution. To very hot water add 2 drops juniper oil, 2 drops bergamot oil and 2 drops lavender oil. Either cover head with a towel and steam face or place soaked cloth over face. Splash skin with cool water afterwards and apply a tiny bit of oil mixture.

6) Make a natural toner. You can use any natural toner without chemicals or perfume. Witch hazel mixed with equal parts of strong chamomile tea is excellent. Add to a pint of your toner 2 drops of juniper oil, 2 drops of bergamot oil and 2 drops of lemon oil. Use toner after cleansing face. The essential oils help rebalance the glands and protect the skin from bacteria.

7) Emotional turmoil can wreck havoc on the skin by disturbing digestive and endocrine functions. Acknowledge emotions without indulging them. Research has shown that people with acne have higher levels of anxiety and anger than others. Relaxation exercises may help lessen this tension and help develop an inner beauty as well. Consider yoga, meditation, or soft martial arts for a cosmic beauty beyond cosmetic beauty.

Karen Cohen is wellness coach living in rural Virginia. Karen began her lifelong study of herbs and essential oils as a young teenager. A mother of three children (10, 16, and 24) she has helped them all have healthy skin the holistic way. An expert yoga, meditation and fitness instructor, Karen is available for individual and group coaching, seminars and dynamic workshops internationally. She can be reached at 540/570-4791 or at http://www.RockbridgeMag.com

How To Recognize an Essential Oil?

2009-02-17T18:14:00.001+07:00

A selection of essential oils is now available from health food shops, chemists and by mail order. When you are buying them, be careful to choose essential oils, not perfumed oils. Although these may well smell delicious they are not benefecial for aromatherapy.

An essential oil is:

Thin and watery rather than oily.

Swift to evaporate and it wont leave a greasemark on paper.

Overpoweringly scented when neat, which can be quite unpleasant.

Perfumed oils will always smell pleasant whereas essential oils often have more of the effect of smelling salts.

All essential oils fall into three basic categories:

TOP NOTES : These oils evaporate very quickly. They are generally uplifting and stimulating, with a greenish, fresh aroma.

MIDDLE NOTES : These are used to help with most bodily functions and the body;s metabolism.

BASE NOTES : These are extremely relaxing, sometimes sedative and generally have a lovely, warm aroma.

You'll notice essential oils are always sold in tinted glass bottles (if not, be suspicious). This is becaiuse they are special oils that need a little care. They are damaged by light and should always be stored in a dark, cool place. Be careful to keep the lids tightly screwed on your bottles, otherwise you will be disappointed to discover your oils have evaporated into thin air.

Here is a very informative chart describing the benefits of various essential oils: http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/aromatherapy/essential-oils-information.htm

About The Author

For www.ultimate-cosmetics.com

Get more information on aromatherapy and essential oils here: http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/aromatherapy/index.htm

nitin@ultimate-cosmetics.com

Most Body Builders Have Food Sensitivites To Whey Products And Don't Know It

2009-02-15T16:53:00.001+07:00

In his groundbreaking book Eat Right 4 Your Type** Dr. Peter D'Adamo discusses the importance of one's blood type in determining the types of foods that one's body will either accept or reject as metabolically useful.

He has shown with solid research to back it up that foods have on the surface of their cells markers called antigens that are similar to the markers we have on our blood cells that determine our respective blood types. An individual's body will generally accept blood and foods whose markers are similar to those found on one's blood cells. Alternately the immune system is programmed genetically to be on the look out for foreign looking blood types. This is the basis behind the blood type screening used by hospitals when transfusing blood.

Well it turns out that the same is true for the foods that we eat.

Now I know from first had experience as a body builder whose blood type is O Positive (the O blood type is the most common on the planet with around 63% of people having it) that I am personally sensitive to Whey products solely based on my Blood Type. Whey is one of the protein sources that is extracted from dairy products and concentrated to become one of the main ingredients of the Body Building Powders that many body builders use.

When I consume foods that my immune system recognizes as foreign, i.e. Whey for example, it becomes activated to mop up the whey and it gets stored as fat because metabolically it has limited usefulness for the body. This leads to many untoward consequences which include:

1. Depletion of energy.

2. The body becomes protein starved in the face of a body building challenge.

3. Foreign foods get stored in tissues and joints that can lead to arteriosclerosis, depression, arthritis, diabetes, obesity and other chronic diseases.

4. Significantly reduced performance, strength and muscle bulk.

So the body builder who has an O Blood type (and you have a 63% chance of being in this group) and who is unwittingly using Whey products to build muscle is actually not only doing damage to their body but they are also not getting the extra protein requirements they need to build muscle.

This essentially means they are putting their bodies in a very stressful state, much like driving your car on water rather than gas.

Several years ago after starting the Blood Type Diet prescribed by Dr. D'Adamo I felt that although he suggested animal protein to be the best source for me as a body builder I felt a bit queasy about going this route as it meant putting into my body meats processed with potentially harmful hormones and antibiotics often used by meat processors world wide. This concern was only accentuated by the BSE scare.

So in search of a better and safer source of protein I was happy to find a product made by Young Living Essential Oils called Power Meal. This is a naturally produced product with many organic ingredients and which has a rice protein concentrate as its base along with the world renown Ningxia Wolfberry as a rich protein and antioxidant adjunct.

Rice protein is generally blood type friendly for most of the world's population and is rapidly assimilated for high energy activities such as body building. After starting Power Meal I was amazed at how after a few short weeks my energy, muscle bulk and strength improved but my weight decreased. I not only felt fit I also was sleeping better and not getting the aches and pains I often got following a workout.

If you'd like to learn more about Power Meal kindly visit the web link below.

References:

** Dr. Peter D'Adamo, Eat Right 4 Your Type, Putnam, New York, NY, 1996

Nick Arrizza M.D. is trained in medicine and psychiatry. He is an avid body builder, an international performance coach and healer. he is the developer of the powerful Mind Resonance Process(TM) MRP.

YL Web Site: http://www.youngliving.org/arrizza Personal Web Site: http://www.telecoaching4u.com

What is Aromatherapy?

2009-02-14T00:55:00.001+07:00

Aromatherapy is the practice of using plant oils, such as Essential Oils, for psychological and physical well-being.

What is an Essential Oil ? Essential oils are the pure form of the plant . They are not chemicals and are extracted without solvents.

Essential Oils that are inhaled into the lungs are thought to be beneficial both Physically and mentally. The aroma of the Essential Oils stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction. They also have a direct effect on the body when inhaled. Thus you can experience benefits from the Proper Use of Essential Oils. It is very important to remember the misuse of essential oils can have severe consequences. Always know what you are doing before experimenting with these oils.

It is also import to note that anything you put on your skin will in most cases be absorbed by the body. Essential Oils should never be used directly on the skin. They are way to concentrated and need to be mixed with a carrier oil such as a vegetable oil before applying to the skin. Some common Carrier Oils are Olive Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, sunflower oil.

When purchasing a Essential Oil it is important to know there is a difference between an Essential Oil and a Fragrance Oil.

What is a Fragrance Oil ? Fragrance Oils are artificially made oils. They lack the properties in most cases that Essential Oils posses. The usually contain artificial substances and are usually diluted with carrier oils.

Be sure to know what you are buying and using before making any product yourself.

Teresa Bacon Owner of We Make Perfect Scents Bath & Body Company and The Beauty Resource Network .

Essential Oils The Natural Way to Health and Well Being

2009-02-12T00:23:00.001+07:00

Essential oils are the natural product of plant metabolism. They are considered the liquid immune system of the plant. Essential oils come from the stems, seeds, leaves, bark, roots, rinds, flower petals and grasses of plants.

When you buy essential oils don?t be upset at the price. First off, they are well worth it. Secondly, when used properly it only takes a very small amount to accomplish the task. You?ll also want to try to purchase organic essential oils. The more pure the essential oil the more potent it will be. All natural and chemical free should be the only type of essential oil you purchase. Other modifications and processing can alter the strength and the purity of the oil. Essential oils that are extra virgin or cold pressed are great ones to use.

Essential oils can be used for a variety of purposes. Aromatherapy, bath oils, medicinal uses, and massage are only a few of the typical uses for essential oils. For a natural, effective therapy, no matter what the purpose, there is most likely an essential oil available to suite your needs.

When thinking about aromatherapy essential oil there is a variety out there from which to make your choices. The purer an aromatherapy essential oil the more potent the therapeutic effects. There is a wide range of aromatherapy essential oils all with their own unique therapeutic qualities.

Here is some information help you decide to buy any essential oil. To start, your essential oils have to be diluted into base oils. Diluting will make the substance go further and last longer. Dilution of essential oils will not reduce the effects.

Massage therapy essential oils can just as well be used in baths. Since a nice warm bath can be a great way to unwind at the end of the day, what better way to relax than to include a product that will help in many more ways, from rejuvenating the spirit and the mind to conditioning the skin. It is important to note that oil will cause the surface of the tub to become very slick, so use caution when exiting the tub and be sure to wash the tub out thoroughly when finished to avoid an accident the next time you bathe.

As with any product it is always important to check the contents of the oils and purchase them from a reputable company where you have more assurance of the ingredients used. Particular medical condition may cause adverse reactions when using these oils. If you have high blood pressure, pregnancy, epilepsy, heart conditions, diabetes and more consult with a physician before use. Remember, it is a good rule of thumb to spend a little time doing your homework first rather than pay for it later with your health.

Sanji Gretta has been practicing aromatherapy for quite a while. His latest website Aromatherapy Source is designed to give novice aromatherapy practitioners a introduction to the wonderful world of aromatherapy. Visit Aromatherapy Source Now to find out more about Aromatherapy Massage Oils.

Botox The Temporary Wrinkle Solution

2009-02-03T21:22:00.001+07:00

Botox has made a huge splash in the health and beauty market because of its ability to erase and minimize wrinkles. The stunning success of the BOTOX solution has had beauty enthusiasts lining up to receive their wrinkle treatments. Are botox treatments safe? After all BoTOX is a protein toxin produced by clostridium botulinum bacteria. This is the first cousin to the deadly botulism bacteria.

Botox has been safely used by opthamoligists for over a decade without any serious side effects being reported. This drug has actually been around since the early 1960?s. Originally it was used as a treatment for crossed eyes. The manner in which botox works is that it is injected into the muscle where the wrinkles appear. When the botox is injected into the muscle the frown lines, crow?s feet and laugh lines temporarily disappear. I stress the use of the word ?temporary? because a botox treatment normally lasts about 3 to 6 months. Botox treatments were approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment of muscles that produce frown lines.

Botox injections have quickly become the fastest growing cosmetic procedure and are anticipated to be used on over 4.5 million patients in 2006. They are more popular than breast augmentation. Current botox patients report that after several treatments that the effects of this wrinkle cure last much longer. It is important to note that Botox is ineffective for fine wrinkles because fine wrinkles do not appear because of facial expression caused by facial muscles. On the flipside, the one negative of botox treatments is a slight and temporary drooping of the eyelid. At the present time this appears to be the most important side effect of botox treatment.

While botox has been safely used by millions of patients, it is recommended that pregnant women, or women who are breastfeeding their babies as well as patients suffering from neurologic disease should never use botox.

Botox treatments do not work for everyone. However, over 90% of patients who have been surveyed are extremely happy with this procedure. This temporary cure for wrinkles has created quite a bit of excitement in the health and beauty field. This procedure is administered by qualified plastic surgeons. The average cost for a simple botox treatment is about $200 - $400 for each area that it is applied to.

Ricardo Sanchez Gonzalez is an active health and beauty enthusiast and the webmaster for http://www.more-answers-now.info. He is also a botox patient who is very enthused by the results that botox treatments bring about.