There are several essential oils that can be used effectively for pain. Many chemical constituents found in these oils have been identified as having analgesic, antinociceptive (blocking or reducing pain signals to the brain) pain-relieving properties. Though these work holistically in an essential oil with the other constituents, using oils high in these constituents can bring much needed relief from pain. Myrcene (technically known as beta-myrcene) is a strong analgesic

The history of the lime is believed to have originated in northern India, subsequently reaching the western coasts of Central and South America through the Pacific islands, carried by the Polynesians. Limes were transported from India to Persia, Palestine, Egypt, and Europe by the Arabs around the same time as the bitter orange. The Moors introduced them to Europe, from where Spanish and Portuguese explorers brought them to the Americas in the 16th century. Lime ( Citrus aur

Essential oils are gaining popularity, and during the holiday season, many individuals choose to give them as gifts. Recently, I encountered an advertisement for a set of six essential oils, each 10 ml, priced at $10 at a well-known retail store. While this may seem like an easy way to give a unique gift, it is important to have some knowledge about essential oils to avoid purchasing low-quality, ineffective products. A high-quality lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia ) essenti

Aromatherapy and essential oils are powerful aids in skin health. This is often where their healing properties shine. Essential oils, carrier oils, and body butters have been used for centuries in skin care with amazing results. The terms "dermatitis" and "eczema," are often used interchangeably. Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin and technically, eczema is reserved for atopic dermatitis. Both conditions can manifest as dry skin, redness, itching, flaky skin, c

Are Essential Oils Too Weak to Be Effective? The effectiveness of essential oils is often questioned due to the belief that their natural origin and the small quantities in which they are used may limit their impact. This common concern suggests that essential oils might be too weak to produce noticeable results. However, essential oils are highly concentrated substances composed of hundreds of specific chemical compounds. Their potency is not determined by the volume used, b

Here's an easy moisturizing blend for the winter. Winter weather can dry and damage skin. This blend will stimulate skin cell rejuvenation. It will moisturize, protect and regenerate skin tissue with no petroleum products: 10 drops bergamot (Citrus bergamia) essential oil 10 drops geranium (Pelargonium graveolens or P. × asperum) essential oil 10 drops carrot seed (Daucus carota) essential oil 2 oz. (60 ml) jojoba oil or olive oil; this makes it a 2.3% dilution of essentia

From Australia, tea tree ( Melaleuca alternifolia ), has a long history of being used by indigenous peoples for many ailments. The name “tea tree,” was first used by Captain Hook when his sailors brewed it as a tea in hopes to treat scurvy (in the unlikely event you get scurvy, call me before you try to use tea tree oil for it). It originated in South New Wales, Australia and was first distilled as an essential oil in the 1920's. During WWII, soldiers and sailors were issued

The holidays are just around the corner and there are many familiar scents during this time. Cinnamon ( Cinnamomum zeylanicum ), clove ( Eugenia caryophyllata ), pine (Pinus sylvestris), spruce ( Picea mariana ), orange ( Citrus sinensis ), lemon ( Citrus limon ) and others, bring an uplifting mood when used during the holiday season. Many of these scents instantly trigger memories from past holidays. Not only do these essential oils have pleasant aromas, but they also hav

The aromatherapy industry is experiencing significant growth. According to Polaris Market Research, the global aromatherapy market was valued at USD 1.70 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.9% through 2030. Future Market Insights estimated that the industry generated approximately $7 billion in 2024 and will exceed $13 billion by 2034. Similar forecasts are available online, with most studies attributing this growth to a risi

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For several seasons now, I have made nasal inhalers with essential oils that are antiviral and antimicrobial. This is based on research and the chemical constituents in these oils that have been shown to have these properties. Additionally, some of the oils used in this are immune stimulating. Using a nasal inhaler is a great way to get essential oils into the body quickly. Those that have used these inhalers report very positive results even when those around them have b

With my case studies and clients, I became aware that many people expect aromatherapy to work like pharmaceutical medications. This is...

It's May and here in Colorado things are blooming. For many, this may cause seasonal allergies. Sneezing, coughing, runny nose, itchy eyes may be plaguing folks right about now. There are 4 types of allergies and seasonal allergies are considered type 1. Aromatherapy can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Notably, blue essential oils include a component with antiallergenic properties. This component turns the oil a striking, deep cobalt blue during the distillation process.

Patchouli ( Pogostemon cablin ) is native to India and Malaysia. Patchouli leaves were placed between Indian cashmere shawls en route to...

I recommend several essential oils that could be great additions to your medicine cabinet. They can be used for several conditions and purposes. Here’s a list: 1. Lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia ): burns, dry skin, relaxation, insomnia. True lavender can be applied to the skin neat (without diluting it in a carrier oil) which is especially effective on 1st or 2nd degree burns but be careful of sellers offering synthetic or adulterated lavender oils which could make a bu

Essential oils are becoming very popular and are being used more than ever.  Polaris Market Research says: “The global aromatherapy market was valued at USD 1.70 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.9% during the forecast period (2030). This is a "middle of the road" prediction; some say more, some say less growth. They attribute this expansion to people looking for natural health products to address many conditions such as pain, skin problems, infections

There are several essential oils that are considered “precious.”  This may be due to the availability, source, or extraction method. Some of the rarer oils have powerful effects on the mind and body but may be harder to obtain.  Some essential oil-bearing plants are endangered and must be obtained from ethical growers who practice sustainability methods.  If the yield of the essential oil from the plant is low, this will also raise the price.  Melissa essential oil comes fro

According to John Hopkins Medicine, “Aromatherapy has been used for centuries. When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel...

Essential oils and aromatic herbs have been used to treat respiratory disorders for centuries.  The aroma of most species of eucalyptus,...

The cajeput tree ( Melaleuca cajuputi ) is indigenous to the Eastern coast of Australia, New Caledonia, New Guinea, and few other...