For any woman who’s had a baby, or anyone who has experienced a period of rapid weight gain, stretch marks are an ugly fact of life. Those dark purplish marks that often show up during pregnancy can be bothersome to many women and often it’s worse after the baby arrives. Then you’re just left with loose skin and ugly purple lines. The darkness of the lines will fade over time, but there are some essential oils and natural treatments that will go a long way toward getting you back into your regular shape.
Far and away, the best essential oil for treating stretch marks is Helichrysum. This is one of those oils that no one should be without. It treats so many things and has so many benefits that it justifies the somewhat high cost.
Helichrysum has three properties that make it particularly suited for treating stretch marks and firming skin. It is a cytophylactic, which means that it stimulate cell growth and the removal of dead cells which is great for firming skin and encouraging the growth of new, tighter skin cells. It is also an emollient which means that it makes skin smoother and softer, which is great for the bumpy texture that is often left in the wake of stretch marks. The third property that makes this miracle oil great for treating stretch marks is that it is a cicatrisant. That means that it helps wounds and scars heal quickly.
When purchasing this oil, be sure that you get the variety that comes from Corsica. It is the most potent and a number of people have reported that oils that come from other areas are not nearly as potent.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Effectively Treating Fibromyalgia with Aromatherapy
For millions of Americans, the reality of living with Fibromyalgia is all too real. For those who don’t know what it is, Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that can present with a multitude of symptoms that are all fairly benign on their own and can be indicative of other conditions, so it is often misdiagnosed for years. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can affect every aspect of daily life.
People with Fibromyalgia often have pain in nearly every part of their bodies with no apparent cause. They suffer from debilitating migraines and can’t sleep well. They experience problems with their vision and it’s not uncommon for eyeglass prescriptions to change rapidly. If they become injured, it often takes longer for them to heal. A large percentage of Fibromyalgia patients also suffer from depression that is severe enough to require medication. But one study has shown that aromatherapy can be effective in easing the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.
For years, regular massage has been used to loosen up tight muscles and ease some of the pain associated with this condition. It often takes several visits to a specially trained therapist before patients and therapist find what works, since the disease affects each patient differently. With the addition of aromatherapy, the benefits are even greater. The study concluded that the addition of essential oils produced increased circulation, increase levels of pain tolerance, uplifted mood, and overall rejuvenation.
The essential oils that were found to be most effective for treating this condition are Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Juniper and Black Pepper, all which help increase blood flow to tissue. To help patients relax, which is so hard to do with this condition, Lavender, Jasmine and Chamomile were found to be most effective. Citrus oils would also be helpful here to lift mood and provide revitalization.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
People with Fibromyalgia often have pain in nearly every part of their bodies with no apparent cause. They suffer from debilitating migraines and can’t sleep well. They experience problems with their vision and it’s not uncommon for eyeglass prescriptions to change rapidly. If they become injured, it often takes longer for them to heal. A large percentage of Fibromyalgia patients also suffer from depression that is severe enough to require medication. But one study has shown that aromatherapy can be effective in easing the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.
For years, regular massage has been used to loosen up tight muscles and ease some of the pain associated with this condition. It often takes several visits to a specially trained therapist before patients and therapist find what works, since the disease affects each patient differently. With the addition of aromatherapy, the benefits are even greater. The study concluded that the addition of essential oils produced increased circulation, increase levels of pain tolerance, uplifted mood, and overall rejuvenation.
The essential oils that were found to be most effective for treating this condition are Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Juniper and Black Pepper, all which help increase blood flow to tissue. To help patients relax, which is so hard to do with this condition, Lavender, Jasmine and Chamomile were found to be most effective. Citrus oils would also be helpful here to lift mood and provide revitalization.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Aromatherapy and Menopause
Menopause is inevitable for every woman. While some look forward to it (YAY, no more monthly cycle), others dread the hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and the loss of the ability to bear children. But if you are facing menopause, there is hope. Aromatherapy can help you.
There are several essential oils which help ease the symptoms of menopause. Here they are in no particular order; Geranium, Grapefruit, Cypress, Clary Sage, Chamomile, Lavender, Fennel, Lemon, Lime, Melissa, Marjoram, Pine, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Ylang-Ylang, and Peppermint.
These oils all have different properties but they work together to alleviate the symptoms. Peppermint is the only one on the list that you can use alone to treat the hot flashes. Just mix 20-25 drops of oil with 8 ounces of water in a spray bottle and mist on whenever a hot flash occurs. You can even keep it by the bed at night. It works wonders and doesn’t smell half bad either.
You can use the other oils in a variety of ways. You can mix 20-25 drops of any of them together and make a spritz just like the Peppermint one above and it makes a great all natural alternative to perfume. You can also mix 15-20 drops and add it to bath water. This is particularly helpful at night as it will help you relax and sleep better. You can also blend 25-30 drops together with 2 ounces of carrier oil or lotion and use to massage or moisturize the body. This is great because as women age their skin looses elasticity and moisture, and this will help restore that balance.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
There are several essential oils which help ease the symptoms of menopause. Here they are in no particular order; Geranium, Grapefruit, Cypress, Clary Sage, Chamomile, Lavender, Fennel, Lemon, Lime, Melissa, Marjoram, Pine, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Ylang-Ylang, and Peppermint.
These oils all have different properties but they work together to alleviate the symptoms. Peppermint is the only one on the list that you can use alone to treat the hot flashes. Just mix 20-25 drops of oil with 8 ounces of water in a spray bottle and mist on whenever a hot flash occurs. You can even keep it by the bed at night. It works wonders and doesn’t smell half bad either.
You can use the other oils in a variety of ways. You can mix 20-25 drops of any of them together and make a spritz just like the Peppermint one above and it makes a great all natural alternative to perfume. You can also mix 15-20 drops and add it to bath water. This is particularly helpful at night as it will help you relax and sleep better. You can also blend 25-30 drops together with 2 ounces of carrier oil or lotion and use to massage or moisturize the body. This is great because as women age their skin looses elasticity and moisture, and this will help restore that balance.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Aromatherapy for Epilepsy
Epilepsy can be a devastating condition for millions of people worldwide. Often the seizures result in the patient needing to take large amounts of mind numbing drugs or in some cases they even require brain surgery to treat them and all of this doesn’t help 20-30% of Epileptics. For them, the seizures don’t respond to any treatment at all which can have a dramatic affect on their quality of life. Not knowing when the seizure is coming often means they can’t work, drive cars or in severe cases even leave the house or live on their own. But one study out of the UK has found a link between aromatherapy and treating this 20-30% of patients who don’t respond to anything else.
The study, conducted at the University of Birmingham found that patients who are taught a self-hypnosis technique (what many call meditation) and then combined that technique with aromatherapy massage greatly reduced, if not stopped altogether, the number of seizures that they had. The essential oil that was chosen was left up to the individual patient; they were allowed to choose whatever scent they found most relaxing. After a few brief exercises which created a conditional response to the oil, the patients were then instructed to smell the oil whenever they felt a seizure coming on. The results of the study showed that the patients who just learned the meditation technique showed no improvement, while those that used aromatherapy showed dramatic improvement.
The oil found most useful in this study was Jasmine. It was favored among the study participants and it worked the most effectively. There are several oils that were not allowed to be used in the study because they are known to be convulsants. Fennel, Camphor, Hyssop and Rosemary should never be used on anyone with a seizure condition for that reason. So if someone you love suffers from Epilepsy, no matter how severe, offer to give them a relaxing aromatherapy massage with some Jasmine oil. I doubt they will complain.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
The study, conducted at the University of Birmingham found that patients who are taught a self-hypnosis technique (what many call meditation) and then combined that technique with aromatherapy massage greatly reduced, if not stopped altogether, the number of seizures that they had. The essential oil that was chosen was left up to the individual patient; they were allowed to choose whatever scent they found most relaxing. After a few brief exercises which created a conditional response to the oil, the patients were then instructed to smell the oil whenever they felt a seizure coming on. The results of the study showed that the patients who just learned the meditation technique showed no improvement, while those that used aromatherapy showed dramatic improvement.
The oil found most useful in this study was Jasmine. It was favored among the study participants and it worked the most effectively. There are several oils that were not allowed to be used in the study because they are known to be convulsants. Fennel, Camphor, Hyssop and Rosemary should never be used on anyone with a seizure condition for that reason. So if someone you love suffers from Epilepsy, no matter how severe, offer to give them a relaxing aromatherapy massage with some Jasmine oil. I doubt they will complain.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Inexpensive Ways to Use Essential Oils
There are many different ways to use essential oils. Once you make the decision and decide what you would like to use them for your possibilities are endless. From the economic to the extravagant there are many different options for essential oils beyond what you may already have in mind.
You can simply add a drop to a light bulb and when the light is on you will have the room lightly scented with the oil of your choice. A wash cloth dipped in water infused with a few drops of lavender or peppermint can do wonders. You can also buy very beautiful decorative diffusers where you add water and essential oils to them, and heat them with a tea light candle. These can be made from ceramic, glass or metal.
Some essential oil users opt for the less extravagant and simply add a drop or two of oil to their unscented candles, which will then emit a light fragrance when the wick is lit.
Some enjoy a fragrant bath in essential oils which is a very direct way to relax and take in the full effect of the aromatherapy. No matter what your preference there are many different ways to reap the benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
You can simply add a drop to a light bulb and when the light is on you will have the room lightly scented with the oil of your choice. A wash cloth dipped in water infused with a few drops of lavender or peppermint can do wonders. You can also buy very beautiful decorative diffusers where you add water and essential oils to them, and heat them with a tea light candle. These can be made from ceramic, glass or metal.
Some essential oil users opt for the less extravagant and simply add a drop or two of oil to their unscented candles, which will then emit a light fragrance when the wick is lit.
Some enjoy a fragrant bath in essential oils which is a very direct way to relax and take in the full effect of the aromatherapy. No matter what your preference there are many different ways to reap the benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Debunking the Myths of Aromatherapy
Many people, especially those who are new to aromatherapy and the use of essential oils in healing, have likely read enough warnings about the toxicity of essential oils to fill a dump truck, but these warnings are often misleading at best, and outright false and malicious at worse. While care should always be used when using essential oils as a treatment, they often are not as bad as what those in the medical establishment, and the unfortunate group of “complimentary medical providers” who work with them would have you believe. In fact, thanks to these warnings, they may have created a bigger problem than they were trying to solve in the first place.
Many essential oils are said to be dangerous for use during pregnancy and can cause serious illness or death. This can be a very dangerous statement to make, especially in places where women don’t have the option to end an unwanted pregnancy. Many women have accidentally fatally poisoned themselves in an effort to abort a pregnancy, especially in third world countries. The amount of essential oils it would take to do something like that is quite large, but thanks to disinformation, it does happen. In contrast, many common over the counter pain relievers, such as aspirin or acetaminophen have been proven fatal in much smaller doses.
The reason for the disinformation is unclear, though it is most likely motivated by profit. After all, if you aren’t treating yourself, you will have to pay the doctor to cure you. The overall message that everyone needs to remember is to use common sense and if you have questions or concerns, consult an independent aromatherapist who can advise you.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Many essential oils are said to be dangerous for use during pregnancy and can cause serious illness or death. This can be a very dangerous statement to make, especially in places where women don’t have the option to end an unwanted pregnancy. Many women have accidentally fatally poisoned themselves in an effort to abort a pregnancy, especially in third world countries. The amount of essential oils it would take to do something like that is quite large, but thanks to disinformation, it does happen. In contrast, many common over the counter pain relievers, such as aspirin or acetaminophen have been proven fatal in much smaller doses.
The reason for the disinformation is unclear, though it is most likely motivated by profit. After all, if you aren’t treating yourself, you will have to pay the doctor to cure you. The overall message that everyone needs to remember is to use common sense and if you have questions or concerns, consult an independent aromatherapist who can advise you.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Aromatherapy for Acne
Many people have skin problems. Conditions like acne, rosacea, psoriasis and others can be especially bothersome because they are quite visible and affect one’s self esteem as well as the skin. But there is hope. There are a number of essential oils that can be very useful in treating skin conditions like acne.
Acne is a very common skin problem and it is most often seen during puberty, however it is possible for it to continue well into adulthood. It can often itch or be painful and if it is severe enough and not treated properly, it can leave permanent scars. The cause of acne is nearly always hormonal which is why it usually shows up in the teen years, and women often experience breakouts near their menstrual cycle and during pregnancy. While there is usually nothing that can be done to treat the hormonal effects, you can treat the surface problem.
Oils such as Tea Tree, Lavender, Thyme, Oregano and Basil can be used to help kill the bacteria that causes the pimples and, in some cases, cysts. Be sure to dilute your essential oils in some water and use after washing your face. In cases of severe blemishes or cysts, you can apply these oils directly to the skin with a cotton swab, but be very careful. It will likely burn and you’ll want to be very precise about where it is applied as it will cause burns on unaffected skin. If the burning becomes too much to handle, immediately flush the area with water until the burning stops.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Acne is a very common skin problem and it is most often seen during puberty, however it is possible for it to continue well into adulthood. It can often itch or be painful and if it is severe enough and not treated properly, it can leave permanent scars. The cause of acne is nearly always hormonal which is why it usually shows up in the teen years, and women often experience breakouts near their menstrual cycle and during pregnancy. While there is usually nothing that can be done to treat the hormonal effects, you can treat the surface problem.
Oils such as Tea Tree, Lavender, Thyme, Oregano and Basil can be used to help kill the bacteria that causes the pimples and, in some cases, cysts. Be sure to dilute your essential oils in some water and use after washing your face. In cases of severe blemishes or cysts, you can apply these oils directly to the skin with a cotton swab, but be very careful. It will likely burn and you’ll want to be very precise about where it is applied as it will cause burns on unaffected skin. If the burning becomes too much to handle, immediately flush the area with water until the burning stops.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Aromatherapy for Morning Sickness
The female body goes through a great many changes during pregnancy. It’s amazing that the female human body is capable of holding another life inside. But along with those changes comes occasional discomfort. Most pregnant women aren’t bothered by them very much, but sometimes they need to find relief for certain discomforts like morning sickness. So we’ve compiled a list of essential oils that can be blended to provide relief.
Most experts say that pregnant women shouldn’t use aromatherapy within the first trimester, simply because the fetus is so fragile. This is the period when most women experience the greatest physical symptom of pregnancy, morning sickness, which can occur at any time of the day. It is caused by an elevated level of hormones that are required to support the fetus. Once the placenta is fully formed and takes over supporting the baby, it usually goes away.
Aromatherapy can be very useful in easing morning sickness and it is generally safe. But be sure to consult you OBGYN or midwife to be sure. Peppermint, Lemon, Orange and Spearmint can ease nausea when inhaled. Place 3-5 drops of essential oils in a cotton ball and inhale, or diffuse in a diffuser placed somewhere close by.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Most experts say that pregnant women shouldn’t use aromatherapy within the first trimester, simply because the fetus is so fragile. This is the period when most women experience the greatest physical symptom of pregnancy, morning sickness, which can occur at any time of the day. It is caused by an elevated level of hormones that are required to support the fetus. Once the placenta is fully formed and takes over supporting the baby, it usually goes away.
Aromatherapy can be very useful in easing morning sickness and it is generally safe. But be sure to consult you OBGYN or midwife to be sure. Peppermint, Lemon, Orange and Spearmint can ease nausea when inhaled. Place 3-5 drops of essential oils in a cotton ball and inhale, or diffuse in a diffuser placed somewhere close by.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Treating Headaches and Migraines with Aromatherapy
A common homeopathic use for aromatherapy is to alleviate the discomfort of headaches and migraine headaches. Herbs such as Peppermint have been known for centuries to help with headache pain. In addition, some of the same scents that many use to help relax and sleep, such as chamomile and lavender will help as well.
Using essential oils is not the same as using sprays that you might typically find in a grocery store to freshen your home. Essential oils are far less offensive and aggrivating and using those kinds of products can actually make headaches worse. But using small amounts of essential oils can help to ease the pain of headaches.
Essential oils can also allow your sinuses to be cleared and allows you to breath more freely, in the event that your headaches are caused by sinus problems. Also soothing peppermint essential oils can help to freshen your mind, body and mood when used with a cool compress on your forehead or the back of your neck.
A diffuser can also be a very effective way to achieve the results from the essential oils that are best for headaches, since the diffuser allows a light fragrance to emit slowly throughout the room. The most important thing to remember when treating headaches with aromatherapy is that the oils work best when incorporated with other homeopathic methods, such as a dark quiet place to rest, a cool compress and drinking plenty of water.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Using essential oils is not the same as using sprays that you might typically find in a grocery store to freshen your home. Essential oils are far less offensive and aggrivating and using those kinds of products can actually make headaches worse. But using small amounts of essential oils can help to ease the pain of headaches.
Essential oils can also allow your sinuses to be cleared and allows you to breath more freely, in the event that your headaches are caused by sinus problems. Also soothing peppermint essential oils can help to freshen your mind, body and mood when used with a cool compress on your forehead or the back of your neck.
A diffuser can also be a very effective way to achieve the results from the essential oils that are best for headaches, since the diffuser allows a light fragrance to emit slowly throughout the room. The most important thing to remember when treating headaches with aromatherapy is that the oils work best when incorporated with other homeopathic methods, such as a dark quiet place to rest, a cool compress and drinking plenty of water.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Relaxation and Eliminating Stress
One of the most popular ways for people to incorporate aromatherapy into their lives is by buying products aimed at “de-stressing” or relaxing the individual. Often the labels will claim to have essential oils such as lavender or chamomile which have been proven to help relax the body and ease the mind. Many of these products are very costly and the same outcome can be achieved by using the essential oils at home.
For instance, cotton balls soaked in water and a few drops of lavender essential oils can work wonders when gently rubbed on your wrists or on your neck. There are plenty of other alternatives as well, such as applying a small amount of lavender essential oils to your pillow case to help drift off into a relaxing sleep. You can also put just a drop or two on your light bulbs and when they are turned on and heat up the scent radiates off the bulb leaving the room smelling fragrant but not over powering,helping to alleviate the stress of the day.
Always be sure to talk to a doctor if your stress does not seem to diminish with basic relaxation techniques, as it could be a sign of an underlying condition.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
For instance, cotton balls soaked in water and a few drops of lavender essential oils can work wonders when gently rubbed on your wrists or on your neck. There are plenty of other alternatives as well, such as applying a small amount of lavender essential oils to your pillow case to help drift off into a relaxing sleep. You can also put just a drop or two on your light bulbs and when they are turned on and heat up the scent radiates off the bulb leaving the room smelling fragrant but not over powering,helping to alleviate the stress of the day.
Always be sure to talk to a doctor if your stress does not seem to diminish with basic relaxation techniques, as it could be a sign of an underlying condition.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Natural Medicine for Stress
Hans Selye once said “Stress is the spice of life”. Everything that we do in our lives that requires an adaptive response is a stressor, whether good or bad. However the accumulation of Psychological and physical impacts, often becomes overwhelming.
As this year comes to a close many of us are reflecting on the many changes that have taken place in our lives. For many of us there have been huge financial, psychological, and emotional upheavals this year as many people have lost their jobs and homes, and doctors are seeing an increase in many health concerns relating to the stress of it all, depression, migraines, fatigue, and asthma are just a few of the conditions that have seen a steady increase in the number of cases reported over the last year.
However there are things that can be done about the stress we are all under. There are several different ways in which herbal medicine can help with stress. Some herbs are tonic and others are adoptogenic, meaning that they help the body to adapt to various stressors as they occur. Nervines are also helpful for not only repairing damage but preventing further damage.
Ginseng is a supreme adoptogen that helps the body's ability to cope with physical and mental stressors. It reduces fatigue and difficulty sleeping while also improving alertness and concentration. It is also useful for improving Adrenal function and the immune system.
Yerba Mate is a South American herb that has long been touted for its use in treating stress. It increases mental clarity, much like caffeine but without the characteristic “jitters” It balances sleep patterns, aids in digestion, improves depression and increases oxygen to the brain.
Hopefully in this new year we will all have less stress in our lives, but until then we must all do what we can to protect our health from the circumstances of everyday life.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
As this year comes to a close many of us are reflecting on the many changes that have taken place in our lives. For many of us there have been huge financial, psychological, and emotional upheavals this year as many people have lost their jobs and homes, and doctors are seeing an increase in many health concerns relating to the stress of it all, depression, migraines, fatigue, and asthma are just a few of the conditions that have seen a steady increase in the number of cases reported over the last year.
However there are things that can be done about the stress we are all under. There are several different ways in which herbal medicine can help with stress. Some herbs are tonic and others are adoptogenic, meaning that they help the body to adapt to various stressors as they occur. Nervines are also helpful for not only repairing damage but preventing further damage.
Ginseng is a supreme adoptogen that helps the body's ability to cope with physical and mental stressors. It reduces fatigue and difficulty sleeping while also improving alertness and concentration. It is also useful for improving Adrenal function and the immune system.
Yerba Mate is a South American herb that has long been touted for its use in treating stress. It increases mental clarity, much like caffeine but without the characteristic “jitters” It balances sleep patterns, aids in digestion, improves depression and increases oxygen to the brain.
Hopefully in this new year we will all have less stress in our lives, but until then we must all do what we can to protect our health from the circumstances of everyday life.
Check out Moriah Herbs, it is your source for natural healing. At Moriah Herbs you are part of the vision, our mission is your well being.
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