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We have all heard of bergamot, palmarosa and ylang ylang as these
are essentials oils found in massage oils, candles and bath products
in practically every gift store you visit. But have you actually
stopped to think why they are used and what the benefits of these
products actually are? Of course they smell great, otherwise we
wouldn’t purchase them but many of the common essential oils
which have been distilled from plants are known to provide many
proven therapeutic benefits often overlooked.
Essential oils are absorbed through the skin and depending on which
plant the oil originated from will determine what effect it has
on you. Having a knowledge of some of the basic benefits of these
oils will certainly aid your shopping trips as you will be more
aware of which oils will create a calming effect or which oils are
more likely to stimulate or rejuvenate you. You can then use this
knowledge to your advantage and buy the products most likely to
suit your needs.
Bergamot
Bergamot has a refreshing and relaxing fragrance. Its delicate,
sweet aroma can also be used to freshen a room and its scent is
often found in beauty products and perfumes.
If you are experiencing any anxiety or tension, bergamot is ideal
to be used in the bath or as a massage oil and it can also be used
as a treatment for loss of appetite. The antiseptic qualities of
bergamot also lends itself to the treatment of acne and oily skin.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang ylang is an exotic and sensual oil with a deeply relaxing
fragrance. It has a balancing and calming effect and is ideal for
use in a massage oil or soothing bath salts.
It is good for both oily and dry skin and has a rejuvenating effect
on skin and hair. Ylang ylang is a good essential oil to be used
if you are suffering from any anxiety, depression or stress.
Clary Sage
Clary Sage has an inspiring nutty aroma that is both balancing and
relaxing. It has antiseptic properties that are most beneficial
for dry skin but unlike the other three essential oils mentioned
above, its aroma can seem quite intoxicating so it should be used
in small amounts.
Clary Sage can be used for a wide variety of complaints including
mild depression, sleeplessness, minor aches and pains, asthma, labour
pains, stress, gas and coughs.
Palmarosa
Palmarosa is refreshing and uplifting and has a sweet floral fragrance
with a hint of rose. It helps to aid clear thought, does wonders
for dry skin and is often found in soaps, perfumes and cosmetics.
Palmarosa has many therapeutic properties and the essential oil
can help to calm the mind and aid physical and nervous exhaustion.
It is also thought to aid the digestive system and intestinal infection
and is an ideal oil for acne, dermatitis, eczema and athlete’s
foot.
Jasmine
Jasmine is a warm, sensual oil that is ideal for post-natal recovery
and skin care and is suitable for all types of skin. Jasmine oil
facilitates delivery in childbirth by strengthening contractions
so for this reason alone it should not be used when pregnant.
Jasmine is a great soother for the nerves and produces a feeling
of confidence and euphoria. It is also effective for coughs, laryngitis,
muscle pain and sprains. Jasmine oil works great when added to a
base cream for dry or greasy and sensitive skin, as well as assisting
with stretch marks and scars.
Patchouli
Patchouli is an earthy woody oil which uplifts the spirit and clears
the mind. It can be helpful towards treating fungal infections,
water retention, cellulite and scar healing. It is also found to
be helpful with stress related conditions and addictions as well
as skin and scalp problems such as acne, eczema and dandruff. This
oil works well in an oil burner to help relieve stress or in an
oil base to help with skin or scalp conditions.
Once you have determined the oil best for your needs then you can
shop for products such as bath products, massage oils and candles
which feature the scent in the list of ingredients. Or you can opt
to buy the pure essential oils and either use a traditional oil
burner to disperse the scent or try one of the other suggested methods
listed below.
Pillow Drops
Perfume your pillow with 2-3 drops of your oil of choice. Choose
an oil that will help you relax or one that will help cure sleep
disorders.
Scented Baths
Add 5-10 drops of your oil of choice to your running water. Soak
in the bath for 10-15 minutes to reap the benefits.
Skin Oil
Dilute your oil of choice in a carrier oil – 1% blend of oil
for face and 3% blend of oil for body. This is a great way to nourish
the skin and get the direct benefits of the oil into your body.
Room Sprays
Blend 10 drops of essential oil in seven tablespoons of water to
make a room spray with your desired essential oils. Shake the mixture
well before filling the spray bottle.
Determining the right scents can certainly create or break a mood.
What you don’t want is to create an intimate evening with
relaxing oils and have your partner fall asleep on you so a bit
of research into the subject will certainly give you the edge!
Further information:
Aromatherapy For Dummies - Roberta Wilson
Aromatherapy During Your Pregnancy - Frances Clifford
Aromatherapy - Wendy Champagne
Secrets of Aromatherapy - Jennie Harding
Aromatherapy - An A to Z - Patricia Davis
About the Author:
Michelle Sweeney is the owner of Tonic Gifts (www.tonicgifts.com.au),
the online gift store which specialises in quality and affordable
gifts for all occasions.
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