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 have health b

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...

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...

It’s February 2025 and the news is that influenza infections are on the rise.  There are more hospitalizations for this than in previous...

When first exploring aromatherapy, it may be confusing to read about essential oils and carrier oils.  Essential oils are aromatic,...

Upon reviewing numerous health articles, it becomes evident that inflammation is a significant issue and a major contributing factor to...