Aromatherapy - by Leslie A. Wooler, RA

 

Since we are at the beginning of another new year we should consider some oils to help us focus and give clarity to our resolutions and intentions for 2008. Many of the stimulating oils such as Basil, Peppermint, Rosemary, Lemon and Clove are excellent for helping one to direct all their attention and energy. If you are looking for oils for memory enhancement try working with ones such as Black Pepper, Cardamom, Ginger, Grapefruit, Coriander as well as Lemon and Rosemary. Have you heard the old adage saying “Rosemary is for remembrance”.  Well, it is certainly  true. These oils are especially useful for students in school when studying for exams. Diffusing in the room while studying and then having with you (on a tissue or handkerchief) while taking the test are extremely helpful. Memory and sense of smell are interconnected by the limbic system of your brain. Essential oils have been well documented in their ability to help concentration. Concentration aids in clarity of thought. Some oils beneficial for this are Cedarwood, Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass and Litsea as well as many of the aforementioned oils. All of these oils can be used in a diffuser, be it electric, battery operated, or with a tea light. (They are also especially good for keeping alert while driving in a car.)  Please do not use Basil or Peppermint in the bath as they can cause skin irritations.

 

If you want to try making you own blend, remember to use a 2.5% dilution. That means no more than 10-15 drops of essential oils in a one ounce bottle of carrier oil. Jojoba, almond, apricot kernel and grapeseed make good carrier oils. You could also make them up in a spray bottle using the same dilution rate but with distilled water and a drop or two of alcohol to act as a preservative. Remember to shake the bottle well before using as the oils are lipophilic and need to be dispersed throughout the water. For recipes, there are many good books available out there. Anything by Valerie Worwood, Shirley Price, Mindy Green and Kathi Keville, are incredible for references and valuable information.

 

It’s important to handle the oils with care but also to have fun with them. Once you have started learning about their therapeutic properties and all they have to offer, you can’t help but want to use them on a daily basis. They can change your life in a most positive way.

 

 

 

Lesley A. Wooler RA is the  owner of The Herb Wyfe in Wickford, RI.

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