The human brain produces four different frequencies of waves. A quick run down goes like this: Beta waves = an alert and attentive state Alpha waves = a relaxed state Theta waves = a drowsy and day dreaming state Delta waves = a deep sleep state There is no proven cause of ADHD, but the… Continue reading »
May
27
A Cautionary Look at Wintergreen Essential Oil
While all essential oils can be hazardous if used improperly, certain ones should be used with more caution and care than others. Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens – which is distilled from the leaves - is one of them. Most aromatherapy books don’t even mention wintergreen essential oil and if the oil is mentioned, it is usually under… Continue reading »
Dec
19
‘Tis The Season For Frankincense & Myrrh
…and not just because of the symbolism with the upcoming holiday season! Frankincense & Myrrh essential oils contain properties that make them a crucial part of the cold winter months. Frankincense Boswellia carterii is steam distilled from resin and mostly made up of Monoterpenes- a chemical family known for relieving pain & stiffness, being mild… Continue reading »
Nov
06
Solvent Extraction Vs. Steam Distillation
All of the Rose Rosa damascena I have used up until this point has been an absolute, as this has been the most affordable way for me to enjoy the aroma and benefits of Rose. Just when I thought I was blown away and satisfied enough with the absolute, I was notified about a bulk… Continue reading »
Sep
11
Ravensara or Ravintsara? Know What You Are Buying!
I was aware of some confusion in the aromatherapy world regarding the differences between Ravensara and Ravintsara, but it wasn’t until I decided to figure it out once and for all just how much confusion there was. WOW. It’s enough to make you want to just blend the two together and call it a day! It… Continue reading »
Aug
15
Sweet Marjoram (Origanum marjorana)
Sweet Marjoram essential oil continues to inspire me. Its fresh, herbacious, woody, warm and sweet aroma is beautifully unisex and balancing. I love it in the bath at night with lavender because it works wonders for a restful night and sore muscles after a long day in my bodywork studio. I find it extremely effective… Continue reading »
Oct
04
Wonderful, Warming Black Pepper
Some essential oils I gravitate to more than others. Sometimes it has to do with the season or purpose and other times it is just because I love the oil and everything about it. One of these oils for me is the essential oil of Black Pepper Piper nigrum, especially as it is beginning to… Continue reading »
Aug
23
Planes, Trains and Automobiles with Rosewood
As I was preparing for my 3 day/3 city whirlwind trip, I knew that I wanted to pack light. After all I’d be hitting NJ, NYC and Philly and didn’t really know what each situation would have in store for me. Because of this I couldn’t take a handful of oils with me like I… Continue reading »
Jul
29
Niaouli- The New Tea Tree?
As anyone who has ever dabbled in essential oils knows, the Australian Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia is proclaimed as a medicine cabinet in a bottle. And if you have ever spent any time in a natural food store skin care aisle, you know that it is in almost every product – from face wash and wound… Continue reading »
Jun
11
Sandalwood and Reiki
I had the honor of attuning a couple to Reiki I yesterday. Aromas have been used for centuries to help one ease into meditation or to create a sacred environment via incense and oils. They do this by subtly effecting our emotional and mental state when inhaled as well as altering our subtle body with… Continue reading »