Aromatherapy Blends

Blending aromatherapy oils in to a well balanced mix is a workmanship that is a combination of an art as well as aesthetic ness. Aromatherapy blends that complement workout routines in our daily lives are among the fastest growing uses of aromatherapy today.

An essential oil blend is created for aesthetic and/or therapeutic benefits. No special skill is required to produce a successful blend but a spirit of creativity and a thorough knowledge of oils will help, along with a clear understanding of the intended use of the blend. A sensible aromatherapy blend employs all-natural, pure essential oils and delivers a clear benefit. The oils combined in it should be synergistic and harmonious enough to support and enhance oil's effect.
Before starting your blending work, it's very important to understand essential oils in general, as well as the specific parameters and aroma profiles of the oils you want to work with.
Essential oils are essentially very volatile. When you uncap a bottle of essential oil and expose it to the air, its aroma profile immediately begins to spread, develop and change. It undergoes certain defined morphological changes during its life span.
The three main stages of these changes are known as the top note stage, middle stage, and dry out stage. These stages of volatility coincide with three characteristics of the aroma profile known as top notes, middle notes and base notes. The top note stage appears first and corresponds with the most volatile, productive and unstable aroma compounds of the oil.
The aromas of these compounds are very subtle, smooth and fleeting, sometimes lasting just for a few seconds before dissipating. As the top notes evaporate very gradually, the oil enters its middle stage, in which the aroma body is most developed and balanced. A portion of the top notes remain, the middle notes are most apparent and sensible while the base notes are beginning to develop slowly.
As the middle stage progresses slowly, the base notes become visible and more noticeable, because they consist of compounds that are slow to volatilization. When the base notes finally evaporate, a faint but light dry out note lingers. The aroma profile of the dry out stage is thin, sometimes pungent, and suggests the presence of the oil. The dry out component can be thought of as the matrix or the soul of the oil.
Based on their individual aroma profiles, oils can be categorized into top notes, middle notes and bottom notes. A very delicate, highly volatile oil like bergamot is considered top note oil. Well balanced oil like clary sage would be known as middle note oil. Deep, rich, very tenacious oil like patchouli is considered base note oil.
When creating a blend, attempt for balance between top, middle and base note oils. Well balanced oil has a complex aroma profile and maintains the aromatherapy benefit throughout the various stages, although the characteristics of the scent may change. It is more stable and its usage spells a clear motive and defined benefit.
Before blending, analyze the various aroma profiles of the oils by dispensing a drop of oil on blotter paper or unscented tissue. Concentrate, inhale and note your impressions. Write notes and build notes for future reference. Trust your impressions and experience of the oils. Try to be connoisseur of smell. What do the different aromas remind you of? How do they under go change and develop throughout the various stages? How does the oil's fragrance make you feel?
As you develop a definite picture of the oils, visualize how they'll work with each other in a blend. Just decide about the part of the oil to be used, which effects are to be enhanced and which harsh characters needs to be toned down.
As a basic blend, just try to imagine a “DAY OUT BLEND” that helps you relax and unwind after stressful day. Your blend should be soothing and relaxing to your nerves, but also able to drive away the troubles of the day and give that much needed boost to carry you through the at home.
Two of the excellent relaxing oils are chamomile and lavender. Uplifting oils include bergamot and lemon. A careful blend of these oils would produce a light, sweet aroma with complex top and middle notes. The bergamot, lemon and chamomile oil components would lend this blend a fruity sweetness. The lavender would make the sweetness a wee bit more floral-botanical.
If you need the blend to be a little less sweet and more stimulating, a little amount of herbaceous, yet penetrating rosemary could be dispensed. The relaxing, spicy-woody oil of rosewood will serve as an effective base to this blend. If you observe, all essential effects of these oils are purely complimentary and in no way conflicting!
Try and learn which essential oils would match the benefit and aroma you're after. Then begin an experiment with various quantities and combinations, until you create the blend you want. Always try to keep notes on what you're doing, so upon a perfect blend you can repeat and make it more perfect.
A workout blend would inspire a perfectly positive attitude about improving health and physical appearance. A perfect blend is invigorating, inspiring and uplifting and such properties of essential oils can help you boost confidence and commitment all through the day. Some oils are activating, others soothe and calm, and still others fight workout odors. Some work like catalyst, while others are purely energizing.
Some of the invigorating and inspiring oils are: Basil, cypress, eucalyptus, fir needle, ginger, grapefruit, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, lime, orange, peppermint, petit grain, rosemary and thyme.
Examples of soothing and relaxing oils are: Cedar wood, chamomile, frankincense, jasmine, lavender, neroli, patchouli, rose, rosewood, sandalwood and ylang ylang.
Anti-odor and Refreshing oils are: All citrus oils, including bergamot, grapefruit, Limon, lime, orange, and tangerine. Other anti-odor oils are coriander, fir needle, juniper berry and lavender.

Aromatherapy Herbs

Aromatic herbs are some of the most unusual plants species in the plant kingdom; nothing can be as useful and beneficial as Aromatherapy herbs, their contribution to the civilization is a fact well recognized. Aromatic plants are those which contain certain natural compounds called “natural scents.”
Most of these critical extracts are obtained from different parts of a plant like leaves, stem, flowers, seeds and roots. Though they are hidden in these parts, they can be extracted by distillation or fractionation processes. The number of catalogued aromatic herbs exceeds 250, though many of them are not really productive. How ever, about 100 varieties are known to possess unique compounds that are used as aromatherapy essential oils.
Herbs have a variety of effects including antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, sedative or stimulant properties. By being aware of each plant's properties and used carefully the man can be relieved of various symptoms or illnesses. In general, all essential oils have the ability to strengthen the immune system, and are detoxifying in nature. Essential oils can be used as preventative treatment; most symptoms can be reduced with regular treatment.
Various herbs and plants that can be used are - Basil, Lavender, Garlic, Aloe Vera, Seaweed, Nettle, Rosemary, Tea tree, Dandelion and Liquorices. Basil has expectorant and antibiotic/antiseptic properties. Lavender is a relaxant. Garlic is antiseptic, antibiotic and expectorant. The expectorant properties make garlic excellent for the respiratory system. The juice from a bulb of garlic can be used on cuts and bruises.
Rosemary is an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic plant, its uses are various. Tea Tree is an antiseptic and mild disinfectant which aids healing, strengthens the immune system. Dandelion is used to treat kidney or liver disorders, the root stimulates the liver and the leaves act as a diuretic. Liquorices can be used as an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, demulcent, antispasmodic and expectorant herb.
Aromatic herbs, due its therapeutic properties, are cherished by many professionals in the world. Hundreds of recipes are researched and chronicled every day, ach with different use and application. Carefully selected herbs are chosen to extract essential oils and refined for a long shelf life.
Many herbs can even be grown in containers at home or cottage gardens; the fresh aroma and the sweet essence of flowers and leaves are sources of joy and relaxation for any garden owner. Aromatherapy herbs are known to special plants for special purposes; its organic extracts are all pure and 100% safe for therapeutic uses. Aromatic oils are eternal and man’s quest for perfection to acquire a pure essential oil is never ending.

Aromatherapy Recipes For Natural Acne Treatment

Aromatherapy has its roots in the ancient practice of using natural plant essences in order to promote health and well being. As an alternative medicine, it is typically used to treat an array of different illnesses and health conditions. Acting on the central nervous system, it is used to relieve conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress. Aromatherapy recipes are some of the best therapies in natural acne treatment.

Through the blending of essentials oils and carriers such as jojoba oil, these recipes exhibit antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help control outbreaks and promote healing.

A few simple precautions need to be observed. Some of these recipes contain certain essential oils that should not be used during pregnancy, such as juniper tree oil and Lebanese cedar oil. Bergamot essential oil should be used only if you can avoid sunlight exposure for at least 12 hours. If you are being treated by a dermatologist, or have anything more than a minor skin condition, you should seek professional advice before using.

Not all essential oils are useful for acne treatment, so we will note a few that are effective.

Some of the recommended essential oils for acne control are Cedarwood, Jasmine, Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Geranium, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lebanese Cedar, Bergamot and Tea Tree.

Lavender essential oil and Tea Tree seemed to be well tolerated by most users and Tea Tree is one of the best and most popular for natural acne treatment.

Aromatherapy recipes consist of a mixture of two or more oils that work together to produce the desired results. Here are a few easy recipes that you can make at home.

Mix the following in a small bottle or container:

• 1oz. jojoba oil
• 10 drops of lavender oil
• 7 drops of tea tree oil
• 2 drops of bergamot oil
• 1 drop geranium oil

(To mix without the bergamot oil, simply use 12 drops of lavender oil).

Shake ingredients well and apply to your face, neck or back. Avoid your eyes, nose or the inside of your ears.

Another simple recipe is to mix (2) drops of juniper oil and Lebanese cedar oil in a small amount of water and apply every two hours. One more recipe is, (2) drops of juniper oil in (1) spoonful of jojoba oil, mix and apply to pimples.

For body acne, try adding a few drops these essential oils to a non-perfumed body lotion and apply at bedtime. A guide line for mixing essential oils with a carrier is approximately 2-3%.

As with any acne treatment, these too will take time to work. If you have a serious skin condition, please consult with a dermatologist. For allergy prone skin it may be wise to try applying the oils in a small area first.

The information provided here has hopefully opened one more avenue for you as you seek successful treatment. If you have no experience in mixing these oils, you will want to consult the professionals before you begin to make your own aromatherapy recipes. It is important to know how the oils act and will interact with each other.

Recipes or blends and the essential oils needed are easy to obtain, especially online. You will be provided with a list of ingredients that you will need and how to mix them correctly for the best results. This field is growing more and more popular as a viable alternative medicine in the treatment of many issues of the body and mind, especially stress which can also be a contributor to skin conditions.

Equipped with a few essential oils and the knowledge of how to use them could make a tremendous difference in your physical and mental well being. Imagine clearer skin, more confidence and peace of mind through natural acne treatment with aromatherapy recipes.

Aromatherapy and Children

As in case of adults, aromatherapy works wonderfully in case of children too; a cool aromatic bath in a tub is always eagerly awaited by your children. Many essential oils can be used to treat many ailments and conditions of your growing children. How ever, care must be taken in treating children with essential oils, although there are many numbers of safe ones. If used in original concentration, oils may work adversely and cause skin burn and irritation.

Most common dosage for any aromatic oil would be one-third to one-half the adult dose, or a 1-percent dilution (five or six drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil), and don't forget that citruses may irritate the skin.
Chamomile, Melissa and fennel are usually used as massage oil, or taken as herb tea. These oils are known to soothe a variety of tummy-aches-and the problems that can lead to stomachaches, such as frayed nerves, anxiety and over excitability. More common problems like colic, gas pains, and nausea and food allergies are also treated by oils.
A chamomile, fennel and Melissa herb tea with licorice helps stop crying and fussing in infants with colic. Essential oils relieve muscle spasms caused when babies swallow air as they eat. Herbal gripe water is still being used all over the world to get rid of colic pains. A carminative water mix contains fennel, chamomile, caraway, coriander and bitter orange peel, all known to kill bacteria and relieve flatulence.
Most digestive problems are reduced by a simple tummy massage using one of the oils. Tummy-Rub Oil can be formulated as follows:
2 drops Roman chamomile
1 drop fennel
2 drops dill
1 drop Melissa
1 ounce carrier oil
Mix together and massage the tummy gently.
A suggested treatment for children before bedtime is a warm lavender and chamomile essential-oil bath. Most children just love taking aromatherapy baths, particularly if they have their own personal blends.
Popular fragrances include orange, grapefruit and tangerine-all antidepressants and relaxants. Nature's gentle but powerful relaxant teas such as Melissa, lavender and chamomile has the property to calm a nervous, over stimulated, over excited child, make headaches go away and gently induce sleep.
Placing a cool compress of lavender on the forehead will give much needed relief from a headache, sleeplessness or over exertion. Frankincense used as a vaporizer or as massage oil is safe and effective for respiratory congestion or infection. Other safe essential oils for children include mandarin, marjoram, neroli, jasmine and petit grain. Tea of yarrow, catnip, peppermint and elder flower rare known to reduce the symptoms of measles, chicken pox or mumps; ginger with a touch of lemon juice is also effective.
The soreness of mumps is lessened by syrups and gargles made from teas of thyme, rosemary or sage. Antiviral oils made from Melissa and bergamot has proven effective against the mumps and chicken-pox viruses. For teething pain in toddlers and young children, give chamomile tea and rub the gums with a little diluted clove oil on your finger.
The following formula may be used for swollen tonsils, mumps and other lymphatic swelling in the neck area:
Neck Wrap
2 cups warm water
8 drops lavender essential oil
Mix the water with the essential oil. While the water is still warm, soak a soft cloth, preferably flannel, in the water and wring it out. Wrap the cloth around the neck. Cover with a towel to hold in the heat. Remove before it gets cold. Repeat as many times as you wish.
Essential oils are universal in nature, as they are known to work in every condition, in all times of the year. Essential oils prove very handy in times of distress and need; a few drops of essential oil are all needed to reduce the symptoms in children.

Aromatherapy Scents

Aromatic scents are known to have exerted an enduring influence on the psyche of all deep rooted ancient civilizations of the world. Its story is never complete and never ending; at least, one of the great royalties in any given time is known to be associated with mesmerizing effects of these scents.

Since ancient times, common man has also used scent to entice and excite. And modern perfume manufacturers – with heaps of scientific evidence are developing great perfumery blends with just such a purpose in mind. The impact of aromapathy scents is eternal and will linger on as long as our civilization.
So, what is the magic of these exotic scents? Why are some scents more conducive to romance than say, business pursuits? Why are some scents are more soothing and relaxing than others? Though, these factors can not be explained very easily, their effect on our life is definite.
When you inhale an aroma, it sends a myriad of messages through the olfactory nerve endings to the limbic system of the brain. This system, also known as the "old brain" manages instinctive responses like emotional, sexual and aggressive behaviors. And some scents - like jasmine, vanilla and ylang ylang – will stimulate the release of neurochemicals which trigger sexual response.
Plus, our personal preference of seductive scents is influenced by pheromones, barely visible human scent molecules that travel through perspiration. Pheromones are known to be very mysterious in exerting their influence on human beings.
How ever, each pheromone is entirely different. Because of the highly acidic nature of a man's sweat, male pheromones have a more musky quality than female ones. Musk and sandalwood scents, in fact, are known to be romantically enticing to women because they closely resemble the chemical make-up of male pheromones.
Exotic and romantic perfume blends are often created with the essential oils of patchouli, sandalwood, jasmine and ylang ylang. Of course, perfume enthusiasts have other aims in mind too.
The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans of yesteryears created special blends for seduction, but also for worshipping deities, enjoying holidays, and encouraging readiness before battle and inspiring deep contemplation and rejuvenation. Today all of us are still completely enveloped with aroma. And with various essential oils, we can also blend our own scents for various purposes.
A successful perfume is considered as an "aromatic symphony" - a perfect and harmonious blend of top, middle and base notes. Top notes are sharp, fleeting and alluring scents, those first noticed in a fragrance and the first to fade. Middle notes summarize the fragrance midway through the drying process, which can be considered the soul, or the melody of the blend. And base notes are deep, rich, stable, grounding scents that stabilize the fragrance and prolong its power, because their slow evaporation rate.
When trying blending a perfume, begin by swirling quickly the essential oils and absolutes together in a tight mix. Then mix them to your pick of vegetable-based oil. Jojoba works very well as a base because it's waxy nature, so it doesn’t become rancid and will increase the life of the perfume. Avoid synthetic oils while blending your concoction as they will mask the original flavor of your blend.
If you want to fragrance hair, clothes and sheets blend essential oils and absolutes in an atomizer and mix pure grain alcohol or 100 proof vodka. You can also create a refreshing, spicy-scented base by adding one stick of cinnamon, one vanilla bean or two tablespoons of spices (cloves, allspice or ginger) to a pint of alcohol.
Vanilla is known to induce sexual desire while cinnamon is attributed to arouse female passions. Alcohol-based oils improve as they mature with aging, so prepare them ahead and let the mixtures meld in a dark place for a few weeks before using. The most enduring aspects of these blends are the everlasting quality after a sustained aging process. As they mature, the blends unfold the aromatic magic, the air filling with exotic fumes of heavenly scent.
Aromatherapy scents is a source of pure joy; its effects surreal and its influence ever lasting. As some one rightly said “As Rosemary is to the spirit, so Lavender is to the soul." How true it is!

Aromatherapy Romance

Essential oils are also known to induce and rouse passionate moments among couples. Scents can seduce you and your spouse as the chemicals present in the essential oils send messages to your brain. Research has shown the pheromone properties of essential oil and more industries are incorporating these oils as an essential component in their perfume formulations.
You can also use your favorite oil in your daily life; how ever, essential oils are very concentrated and direct application is not recommended, as it causes burns or damage to your nose. You can perfume your underwear or clothing by letting the scent molecules adhere to your clothing.
For those romantic moments, you can use orange, jasmine or black pepper. Need more passion? Then try using clary sage, rose or cedar wood. Take 3 small cotton balls and apply a drop of essential oil on each. Keep these in your underwear drawer or your clothes wardrobe. Allow about 2 hours for the scent to diffuse into your clothes. Feel the excitement!
For scenting other items like pillows and bed spreads, repeat the same procedure. Avoid applying essential oils directly onto cloth as it will stain your cloth. Use 2 drops each of clary sage, neroli and chamomile.
After a hard day, sooth your partner’s nerves by using a head massage with essential oils. This action will ultimately help him / her relaxes and is in a conducive mood for romance. Mix 2 drops of lavender, rose and geranium into a teaspoon of almond and jojoba oils each. Rub this oil on your hands and then massage your partner's forehead gently. Rub outwards towards the ears. Next, proceed to using circular motions to massage the forehead.
Touch can also invoke your romantic mood. Massaging your partner’s neck will help achieve this mood. You'll need 2 drops of black pepper, ginger and ylang ylang, each into 2 teaspoons of sunflower and grape seed oil. Use this oil mix to massage your partner's neck form top to bottom. Squeeze the muscles at the base of the neck. Repeat this procedure 10 times.
The same formula can be used for a back massage. Start by placing some oil between the shoulder blades of your partner. Massage from the center outwards, using both hands. You can gently squeeze the muscles and rub the oil. Work downwards until you reach the pelvic area.
There are a variety of aromatic oils to use to induce romantic moments. The rose oil is an all time favorite for romance and love. You can try different combinations of essential oils that promote romance. Once you get a real feeling for particular oil, you can decide to stick with it. Go ahead and indulge yourself and be a part of those fleeting romantic moments.

Aromatherapy Guide

Aromatherapy has been practiced for around for almost 3500 years and its application in daily lives is as old as our civilization itself. It is the exotic art, and science, of using oils extracted from aromatic plants and herbs to enhance health, emotional well being and beauty. Apart from the physical benefits, essential oils can have soothing effects on the mind and emotions.
The essential oils taken from plants and employed in Aromatherapy have been described as their "critical factors" - they are needed critically for the plants' biological process, as well as being the substance which gives them their scent and aroma. Synthetic oil, even if chemically similar, lacks all the natural factors, and that vital critical factor, that make essential oils so valuable.
Another reason why synthetic oils are not acceptable and desired is that the minor constituents are never identical in structure and composition. Essential oils are extracted from flowers; herbs; spices; woods and fibers, usually by distillation, expulsion and solvent extraction. Solvent extraction is only acceptable for aromatherapy, if the solvent used is completely removed after the manufacturing process and no traces are identifiable.
Here are some of the most common uses that are associated with essential oils:
For Massage:
This is the most effective method of using the oils, combining their properties with the therapeutic power of touch. The oils should never be used undiluted, but should be diluted with an odorless carrier oil, such as grape seed, sweet almond or peach kernel.

A dilution of 3% essential oil to carrier oil is a recommended level. This is approximately one drop essential oil to two milliliters of carrier oil. Essential oils are needed in very minute quantities. The skin is the largest surface part of the body and is designed to keep out contaminants from the skin layers.

For Bath:

Using oils in baths is a simple, effective and pleasant exercise to relax and receive the therapeutic and soothing effects. It is well known that water itself has therapeutic value, which further enhances the powers of the oils.

For daily bathing, add 6 to 10 drops of essential oil or a blend to the surface of the water, and then bathe yourself for about 20 minutes, whilst you deeply inhale the vapor. Be a bit careful about the quantum oil you use while bathing your children.
For Compressing
Add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil to 100ml of warm water then soak a piece of clean cotton in the water, wring out the excess and place the cloth on the affected part.

For Inhalation
Add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil into a bowl of steaming water then place a towel over your head and the bowl and inhale the vapor for a few minutes. Feel yourself rejuvenated and free of tension.
For Vaporization
All essential oils are known antiseptic and evaporate easily, thus make very good air-fresheners. Different oils usually create different atmospheres. For example, relaxing Sandalwood or Clary Sage are good for ravishing parties; or cool Peppermint clears your mind when you need to work. Diffusers can be used to make oils diffuse slowly in your working room or living quarters.
As Perfumes
It is very easy to make your own distinctive perfume by skillfully blending different oils. Try blending with different combinations, which can be mixed with a carrier oil or non-fragrant alcohol. Do your own experiment.
Storing Essential Oils
Because essential oils are affected by sunlight and higher temperatures, they should be stored in dark glass bottles, with tight stopper caps. Cap should be secured properly and the bottle stored in an upright position. Maintain a uniform temperature and moisture. Never allow these oils to come in contact with children. Never store essential oils in plastic bottles. Good Essential oils have a shelf life of several years if properly stored, though the oils derived from orange, lemon and lime will not keep as long. Patchouli is rare kind oil which actually gets better as it ages.
Mixing Essential Oils
Blending different oils in various proportions can yield you some fabulous products. You should have right knowledge and a will to experiment various combinations. It is strongly recommended that you use a good dropper so that you can measure the actual number of drops easily. Do not mix up oils as they are known to get unstable too quickly. Use a different dropper for different oil to avoid cross contamination.

Uses that are associated with aromatic essential oils are various; different oils have their own special applications and benefits. How ever, no single oil is exactly similar to another in its application, aroma, scent and appeal. It means any essential oil has its own charisma and special niche. Go ahead and enjoy the exotic presence of your own aromatic oil.