Tuesday, 19 March 2013

Benefits of Cade oil


Essential oils are an integral part of holistic healing methods. They are derived from natural resources and provide innumerable benefits. Professionals who are trained in the right use of essential oils are known as aroma therapy experts or practitioners.

Cade oil is extracted from the wooden part of the Juniper trees. It is known by its botanical name juniperus oxycedrus. It has its origin in India, Germany and France. It has been introduced into French medicine in the middle of the nineteenth century.

The colour of the oil ranges from dark brown to orange brown. Though it is soluble in alcohol, it remains insoluble in water. This oil blends well with other carrier oils like lavandin oil, rosemary, clove, origanum, thyme and cedarwood. It is an evergreen shrub which reaches a height of about 12 feet. The leaves are tiny and prickly. The cones of this plant are rounded and yellow in colour. The fruits of the plants resemble berries and grow in clusters. They turn black after ripening.

The aroma of this oil is not very appealing as it resembles the smoky dry aroma of tar. But because of its unique scent, it is widely used in the perfume and food industry.

Its medicinal properties make usage of this oil widely accepted in treating health conditions like bronchitis, diabetes and high blood pressure. Cade oil is used for treating hair and skin problems like dandruff, hair loss, skin eruptions, eczema and dermatitis as well. In addition it has proven to be effective in curing psoriasis, seborrhea and other conditions too.

It is also useful in treating symptoms related to sore throat and bronchitis. It helps in regulating blood pressure and thus persons suffering from high blood pressure can benefit from consuming it. For hair loss due to stress, this oil is helpful.

Its chemical components include sesquiterpene, p-cresol and cadinene which give the oil its anti-pruritic, anti-microbial, analgesic, antiseptic and disinfectant. In the cosmetic industry, it is used in the preparation of ointments, skin creams and anti-dandruff shampoos.

Pregnant women and people with sensitive skin should avoid its usage.

Cade oil is often adulterated with birch, pine, tar and petrol. Users of this oil should be careful about the source from where it is procured. It should be used in minimum quantities to avoid damage to the skin. It is better if you can consult a registered aroma therapy practitioner. 

Monday, 18 March 2013

Bitter Orange Oil - Bitter yet Better


Essential oils form an important part of holistic healing. Since times immemorial, man has been utilizing natural resources for the benefit of mankind. Among essential oils, Bitter orange oil is known with the botanical name Citrus Aurantium. The oil is extracted from bitter orange plants by water distillation process. As the name suggests, the aroma in this oil is reminiscent of the sweetness of orange oil and the mild bitterness of grapefruit oil.

This essential oil comprises of components like Cymene, limonene, Pinene, Myrcene, Ocimene and Camphene which give it a unique flavour. It is widely used in perfume industry because of the attractive scent induced by the oil. Various aroma therapy products are manufactured with this oil as one of the components.
Bitter Orange oil is used for treating various ailments. It is known for its anti-depressant, anti-septic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory properties. This essential oil soothes the nervous system and uplifts the moods by relieving stress. It is especially beneficial to treat anxiety related symptoms. Internal and external inflammation which is caused by infections in the body can be controlled by using this oil. It stimulates blood circulation and treats swollen tissues as well.

When water mixed with this oil is used for gargling, it hinders the growth of microbes which cause sore throat. This oil can also be used for healing mouth ulcers by using it as a mouth wash. When massaged on the abdomen it helps promote digestion and eases constipation.

The D-limonene component present in this oil is known for preventing cellular mutations and inhibits the growth of cancerous tumors. Fluid retention, formation of excess salts and uric acid can be prevented by using this essential oil in optimum dosages.

Application of this essential on the skin promotes blood circulation. It is often used by blending with carrier oils like Apricot oil. It is helpful in reducing irritating and dry skin and also acne prone skin. Calluses on the feet can be treated with this oil.

Bitter Orange Oil has other household and industrial uses too. It is used as a flavoring agent in food and even in bathing products as well as insecticides.
It is advisable to avoid using this oil before going out in the sun, as it is photo-toxic in nature. Pregnant women and people with ailments like liver damage, epileptic and other medical problems should consult a certified aroma therapy practitioner before using it.

Aniseed oil - A wonder essential oil


Essential oils play an important role in the holistic healing procedures. Among the several oils used for the purpose of curing ailments, Aniseed is one of the important oils. This essential oil which is known with the name of Pimpinella anisum is extracted by cold pressing methods from the plant. This plant is originally native to Middle East. Nowadays, it is widely available in all countries like the USA, North Africa and Europe.
Since times immemorial, this essential oil has been used by Egyptians, Romans and Greeks. Egyptians were known to use it in the preparation of bread and Romans used it in making spicy cakes. This oil is well known for its calming effect on the body. The Greeks have been using it as a medicine to cure digestive tract disorders.

Aniseed oil comprises of several components like safrole, linalool, anisaldehyde, b-pinene acetoanisole and cis-anethole. It is considered as anti hysteric, anti epileptic, anti septic, and anti spasmodic. The oil has a licorice flavour. It blends well with other essential oils like bay oil, Caraway oil, cedar wood, mandarin and Coriander oil.

Aroma therapists often use it for treating symptoms of flu and cold. Aniseed oil is used for relieving whooping cough, severe cold and running nose.

Head lice are effectively treated with the usage of this essential oil. Almond oil is used for diluting this oil and the mixture is massaged into the scalp. Continuous usage for a few days yields good results in getting rid of head lice.

Aniseedoil is used in controlling hiccups. A few drops of this oil should be dabbed onto a cotton ball and the aroma should be inhaled by the person who is affected by hiccups. This oil helps in soothing muscle spasms.

As this oil contains compounds like anethole, it helps in the process of digestion. You can add 4 to 5 drops of the oil into the bath tub for soaking yourselves for a few minutes. Alternatively you can add two drops of this oil onto a tissue paper and place it on the stomach. This method is especially useful for children who resist consuming medicines.

But pregnant woman are restricted from using this oil. It is not advisable to use on sensitive skin as well. All essential oils should be used in minute quantities. High dosages may yield negative results and hence care should be taken not to indulge in big dosages. 

Friday, 15 March 2013

About Anise Star Oil


Star anise is a small evergreen tree that is indigenous to the north-eastern part of Vietnam and south-western region of China. It derives its name from the Latin word ‘illicere’ and ‘verum’. It belongs to the ‘Illiciaceae’ plant family. This plant is has dark green leaves and very small solitary flowers. The fruits of this tree have a distinctive shape. The star-shaped fruit is known to have up to eight separate carpels. Each of these carpels contains a small capsule with a sweet, single liquorice flavored seed. Though this plant does not grow naturally, it is widely cultivated in parts of China, India, Philippines and Japan.

This pale yellow anise star oil has been used by therapists for centuries in traditional Chinese medicines. It is known to stimulate the digestive system as well as helping in soothing stomach infections, indigestion and stomach bloating. A number of respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and unproductive cough can also be treated by using this oil regularly over a period of time.

Star anise has been researched upon by experts for decades. After thorough studies, these expert therapists have recommended this oil for patients suffering from dyspepsia, spasmodic, flatulence, colonalgia, dysentery, asthma, facial paralysis, halitosis and hemiplegia.

The chemical constituents of star anise oil are a-pinene, camphene, b-pinene, linalool, trans-anethole, safrole, camphene, acetoanisole and anisaldehyde. The allergens that are present in the oil are limonene and Linalool. The quantities of the allergens as per research are 3 percent and 1.5 percent respectively.

Star Anise essential oil has a sweet, spicy and pleasant fragrance that is similar to that of Anise. The only difference is smell because star anise aroma is less subtle and better. Being one of the most highly aromatic and odor-sensitive oils, it also gives a liquorice-like fragrance with a burning flavor. This oil enhances relaxation, improves sleep patterns, and reduces tiredness as well as weariness resulting from any kind of activity.

This oil is known to blend with bay, cardamom, caraway, coriander, bill, sweet fennel, lavender, mandarin, neroli, orange, petit grain, rose wood and cedar wood oil. Unlike anise oil, star anise aroma oil is not considered to be a dermal irritant. It is narcotic and can definitely slow down circulation. One must always use this oil in moderation and positively avoid it during pregnancy.
It is recommended time and again that essential oils are no to be consumed until prescribed by a qualified doctor or practitioner. 

Natural Benefits of Almond Oil Bitter


The almond tree is commonly found in Asia and the Northern African region. Almond oil, extracted from the kernels is known world over as an essential oil with numerous therapeutic and remedial properties. The oil is extracted by a process that involves pressing the kernels to draw out the essence. Concentrated almond oil bitter, is said to be highly toxic in nature and must be used post blending with other essential oils or carrier oils.

The oil from almonds is known for its use in beauty and aromatherapy products. However, few people know that almond oil bitter also is bactericidal and anti-carcinogenic in nature as well. It works as an effective diuretic, sedative and anesthetic. This oil has anti-spasmodic and anti-intoxicating properties as well and is a common ingredient for medicinal use.

The extract of almond oil naturally and completely blends with orange oil, cassia oil and apricot oil. There are many such similar blends with a wide spectrum of benefits. Such blends are often used in aroma therapies as this improves the therapeutic properties of the oils and adds to their healing effect as well. Blending increases the scope of usage of oil and also makes it more versatile as often essential oils cannot be used directly or in their concentrated forms. They must be diluted before application, either with other essential oils or carrier oils.

Almond oil bitter, with its many beneficial properties vitalizes the sensory organs and aids in strengthening the body too. The sweet almond oil, as it is also called, is an excellent skin moisturizer. It rejuvenates the skin from deep within and leaves it feeling smooth, supple and nourished. Using almond oil prevents ageing, sagging and dryness in skin to a large extent. As a result this oil is a popular ingredient of cosmetics and even some kids’ products.

This oil is also very effective and relaxing for massages. It is also an excellent product to treat hair fall and prevent it as well. As it is rich in Vitamin A, it is used in treating retinal and skin problems. It is an essential component of make-up removing lotions and under eye gels and creams as well.
This light oil is a relaxing application useful in a multitude of ways. It is no surprise that almond oil finds its way into both, households as well as spas.  The oil is a perfect solution to several physiotherapy, medicinal, therapeutic and aromatherapy needs.

Friday, 8 March 2013

The Several Advantages!


There are various benefits that you can get with essential oils. Have you ever thought about the advantages that you can enjoy with these oils. A new name that has cropped up recently is Bitter Orange Oil.  It is widely used in perfumes all over the world. It is also used in the manufacturing of herbal medicine. The most common usage of bitter orange is linked with stroke, heart-rhythm disorders, heart attack, death and fainting. This oil is native to Tropical Asia, Africa and Mediterranean region including regions of Florida and California. Oil that is extracted from leaves of tree is called Petitgrain and that from flowers is known as Neroli. This oil is used for aromatherapy and cosmetic products and also for preparing food.

This oil is mostly used in the preparation of medicine and cooking. The extract of this oil is used in the preparation of dietary supplements as an appetite suppressant and fat loss aid. However, in Chinese medicine, it is used along with other herbs. It comprises of elements such as octopamine, tyramine metabolites N-methytyramine and substances that are similar to epinephrine. All these elements acts as a1 adrenergic receptor for boosting blood pressure, heart rate and constrict blood vessels.

In food preparation, it is commonly used as a flavouring agent. The fruit is used in the preparation of liqueurs like Curacao, Grand Marnier, Triple Sec and Cointreau and also for making marmalades. Being bitter and sour, it not used for eating purpose, except in Mexico and Iran.

There are several health benefits of this Cardamom oil that can be attributed to properties such as anti-microbial, neutralized unpleasant effects of chemotherapy, astringent, diuretic, reduces nausea, spasmodic, aphrodisiac, stimulant, antiseptic, stomachic and digestive.

This form of oil is extracted from the seeds of Cardamom that scientifically is known as Elettaria Cardamom. Cardamom needs no introduction because it is widely used by people all over the globe. It is one of the most preferred and admired spices that is used in a variety of preparations. Some of the most common constituents of this oil are Alpha Pinene, Neryl Acetate, Geraniol, Limonene, Beta Terpineol, Methyl hepteone, Heptacosane, Nerol, Linalool, Linayl Acetate, Terpinyl Acetate and Cymene amongst various others. It is not only used for culinary purpose but also as a mouth freshener. You simply need to browse through the web and choose the best oil within the price bracket that suits you.

Wednesday, 6 March 2013

A few interesting facts


Armoise, commonly known as Mugwort, is a sweet-smelling perpetual herb that has stems of red-purple colour. It has deeply cut leaves of dark green colour with white undersides. Panicles of small red-brown flowers are widely grown in summer. Angular stems of this tall growing plant are of purple colour and grow up to height of 3 feet. Armoise oil is extracted through the process of distillation of Artemisia herb.  The process is mostly conducted in South America, northern temperate regions and South Africa. This oil is commonly used for treating ailments like intestinal conditions as diabetes and topical antiseptics. You can easily benefit a lot from this oil.
It has several uses of which a few are mentioned below:

  • Usage of this oil revitalizes your digestive system
  • It is extremely effective when it comes to the elimination of intestinal worms
  • It is also known for its insomnia and anaesthetic properties
  • It works pretty well as anaesthetic for arthritis, neuralgia and rheumatism
Armoise oil can be blended well with essential oils such as Cedarwood, lavender, Clary sage, rosemary, patchouli, pine, oak mass and sage. When mixed with old salad oil, it can help you in getting rid of baldness.
Some of its most common emotional and conventional usages for which it is know are as orexigenic, carminative, emmenagogue, stimulant, Antispasmodic, diuretic, stomachic and diaphoretic to name a few. However, it is suggested that you consider taking advice from doctor before starting using it.
Cananga Oil is yet another kind of essential oil. It is one of those oils that can do wonders to people who use it.  It is extremely beneficial for your skin. When it comes to therapeutic uses, this oil is second to none.  It is known for its fragrance that is widely used for medicinal purposes.

When incorporated in aromatherapy, it helps you get rid of stress and tension.  Going by what studies have to say, this oil can do wonders to your skin and hair. Medicinally, it is also used for alleviating stress related conditions such as heart palpitations and high blood pressure. Although it is now found all over the world, this plant was originally found in Polynesia. The leaves of this tree are of deep green colour and leads to green and black dark fruit. You can buy this oil by simply running an online search and get the best deal.