Tehachapi News

larger view larger view

Essential oils are the volatile liquids extracted from the stems, flowers, roots, leaves or fruit of herbs as well as other plants. They are the most potent form of an herb and the most medicinally effective. Use them as directed on the package and test for allergies before dosing. We will consider those herb oils that may relax and benefit us.

The use of herbs and other plants for their aromatic effects can be traced back 5,000 years to the Egyptians who used them for embalming, cosmetics, medicine and in religious ceremonies. During the 10th century AD an Arab physician, Avicenna laid the groundwork for the therapeutic use of essential oils (aromatherapy) by developing the process of distillation that made it possible to extract these pure oils from plants.

In the 19th century its popularity waned as scientists began isolating and synthesizing the active ingredients in plants. Essential oils came to the fore again during WWI when Dr. Valnet successfully treated war injuries with essential oils.

Margurite Muary renewed interest in the use of essential oils in massage therapy and the popularity of aromatherapy has been on the rise ever since.

Herbs provide a wide variety of health benefits because of the active ingredients in their essential oils. These include hormones and neurochemicals with each herb having its own special combination. They penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream when used in massage along with a less potent “carrier oil” needed to dilute essential oils. When inhaled the volatile molecules stimulate the olfactory section of the brain that in turn sends a message to the part of the brain affecting emotion.   

Lavender (lavandula officinalis) has been revered since the Middle Ages for its carminative powers in “smelling salts.” Today it is put in baby bath products for a good reason…sweet nighty- night. It helps one to balance emotions, maintain calm, and sleep well while restoring vitality. That is a big bill to fill for a delicate looking, delightfully scented plant.   

The lemon-mint scent of lemon balm (melissa officinalis) is enough to soothe and revitalize the human spirit and was used as a mild form of valium in past centuries. Culpepper, the British herbalist, wrote “…lemon balm causeth the mind and heart to become merry.”

Frankincense (boswellia carterii) is a term we are familiar with because it was one of the gifts presented to the Christ child. It has a warm, rich fragrance that positively affects mood and emotion. This was certainly an appropriate gift for such a blessed child on the occasion of his birth. It was used in ancient temples as incense to calm and focus restless souls. 

Clary sage (salvia sclarea) gives off a warm, heady balsam like aroma and is a powerful relaxant that is used in massage oil combinations for convalescents. Its Latin name means “to save” and the Romans considered it a cure all. It promotes sleep and a feeling of well being and is used in the manufacture of some colognes, creams, lotions and perfumes.

Marjoram (origanum majorana) was credited by past herbalists, Gerard and Culpepper for the comfort it instilled in mind and the relief it gave to tense muscles. Japanese researchers have confirmed its sedative effects and massaging the neck and back with its oil may soothe your aches as well as your spirit. Its sweet, camphor-mint scent makes it a delight in the bath as well.

Two varieties of roses (rosa centifolia and rosa damascena) have fresh floral scents and essential oils that serve as antidepressants. A Bulgarian study indicates that rose oil increases alertness while encouraging pleasant dreams. 

Herb oils may well have been among humankind's' first medicines. Their benefits are myriad but there are some cautionary tales. Since the purity and intensity of herb oils may vary you should know and trust your supplier. Test for possible allergies and follow label instructions carefully concerning the oil usage for massage, bath or inhalation. Keep in mind that each herb has a unique chemical make-up and be familiar with any contradictions to your health conditions including pregnancy.

Preparing essential oils involves a complex and costly process so they are usually purchased. If less than 100 percent pure they will not have the same effect so it is important to know the product. I hope that the use of essential herb oils will help you relax and enjoy the New Year.

Contact me at my new e-mail address eamherb@sbcglobal.net with your experiences and questions. I wish you an herbally aromatic and healthful 2008.

Tehachapi Shopping

Nature's Pantry in Tehachapi carries:
• 100 percent pure essential oils by Aura-Cacia
• 100 percent pure essential oil BLENDS by Aromaland
• Aromatherapy workbooks
• Supplies to blend your own combinations