Blending Essential Oils
When entering any spa or aromatherapy facility, the instant scent of essential oils is tantalizing.
You are immediately drawn to the allure of relaxation and inner peace. The healing properties found within these aromatic oils are powerful and effective.
As early as 4500 B.C.E., the use of essential oils as a means of healing was utilized by the ancient Egyptians. Kyphi, for example, was a compilation of 16 different oils that were blended together for cosmetic or medicinal purposes. Today, the use of blending or “stacking” essential oils for optimal benefit is widely used.
However, despite the recorded benefits of blending essential oils, it is important to note that these compounds are medicinal in nature. They contain chemical compounds that could be reactive when mixed incorrectly.
Therefore, the caution used when combining different types of medications should also be practiced when stacking essential oils.
According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, essential oils do pose possible chemical reactions, but overall, they are “safe to use for the purpose intended in a domestic/ professional, or clinical environment.” Many common symptoms of essential oil irritation are skin rashes, swollen or red eyes, and headaches.
If you are considering utilizing essential oils in your wellness routine, it is important to note the possible risk factors and application processes so as to obtain positive results. When essential oils are blended, they are typically used for fragrance or beauty purposes.
There are various notes, categories, and aromas that need to be specifically paired together to achieve the desired result. Let’s consider the essential oil blending basics that will ensure your safety.
Determining what your aromatic needs are will help to narrow down your unique blend. Certain oils offer relaxing benefits, while others are more revitalizing.
What Are The Basic Categories?
Essential oils typically fall under nine specific categories that align with their notes. Those categories are:
- Floral
- Woodsy
- Earthy
- Herbaceous
- Mint
- Spicy
- Oriental
- Citrus
It is imperative to narrow down your desired aroma and begin compatible research. Usually, oils that belong to the same category pair well with each other. However there are no specific limitations towards cross testing categories.
For example, floral scents can be paired with woodsy ones. Oriental and spicy notes also blend well together. This requires some personal testing that will really get your creative juices flowing!
What Are Notes?
Notes are the key elements of an essential oil that create its composition. The specific note and the power behind it can make a tremendous difference in how your blend comes out. It can be likened to the “energy” of oil. Notes can be divided into three categories: top, middle, and base.
Top notes evaporate quickly with a short half-life. They may initially have a strong aroma, but as the day progresses, their smell fades away. Citrus and spicy notes typically fade away quickly.
Base notes take quite a while to evaporate and can remain extremely pungent as time goes on. These are the warm, cozy, and woodsy smells that have a deep body.
The middle notes implement a harmonious balance between the top and base notes. They may be soft aromas like lavender or sage that work to bring the aromas together perfectly.
When creating the perfect blend, implementing balance and closely considering your oils will make your fragrance personalized. In addition, your aroma won’t fade out after a few minutes. You will instead have a long-lasting, unique blend that tells a story.
Blending essential oils is a fun and creative way to make essential oils customizable to your needs. By narrowing down your immediate wants, you are able to create a lasting scent that’s personable to you!
Rosemary Essential Oil
Essential oils are healing oils derived from plants and other botanicals. They offer a variety of benefits, and rosemary essential oil is one of the best.
Rosemary is known to be a popular complement to savory dishes all over the world. Although renowned for its herbal flavor, rosemary essential oil is jam-packed with a host of health benefits that go far beyond taste. From cosmetic enhancements to mental stimulation, the uses of the oil derived from rosemary are astounding.
Belonging to the mint family, the rosemary bush is a cousin to popular herbs like basil, sage, and lavender. Ancient civilizations found great benefit from implementing rosemary in their dishes and popularized routines.
For example, the Ancient Egyptians used rosemary oil to create an alluring aroma. The Romans found the rosemary herb to be quite sacred, often using it for weddings and other religious occasions. The 16th-century practitioner Paracelsus made the weighty claim that rosemary oil even had the power to restore organs like the brain and heart. It is truly more than just a savory seasoning.
Today, rosemary oil is readily available to the masses. Many have even implemented this holistic alternative into their wellness routine. You can add a few drops to your bath or even to topical lotion. It is recommended to limit topical use to about two drops.
Rosemary oil is light enough to be implemented into holistic blends for satisfactory results. Let’s consider a few wonders of this beautiful herb.
Hair Growth
A recent study found that when individuals rubbed rosemary oil into their scalp, they experienced a “22.4% increase in new hair growth.” Rosemary oil is packed with nutrients that increase microcirculation, or blood flow, to the scalp.
This promotes healing and strengthening of the scalp, which results in optimal hair growth for the future. In addition, adding rosemary oil into your hair care routine can help to prevent immature baldness or even receding hairlines.
Improved Memory
Fans of Shakespeare may remember Ophelia’s related quote, “There’s rosemary, that’s more remembrance: pray, love, remember.” Although Ophelia was quite a mad woman, she knew her herbs. Rosemary oil, when inhaled, can help to increase long-term memory, focus, and the ability to retain information. Individuals who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia may experience sharper thinking and decreased symptoms.
A recent study found that when individuals were given rosemary oil to smell, their memory retention increased by almost 75%. One way to reap the benefits is to mix the oil into a diffuser. Others have found that adding rosemary oil to boiling water, and inhaling the vapor was just as effective.
Decreased Stress
Rosemary oil has been known to decrease cortisol levels in the body. When this occurs, the mind and body are working at an equilibrium. You are able to handle life’s tasks with mental clarity without unnecessary social or inner fear. Individuals who suffer from chronic depression or anxiety could benefit from adding rosemary oil to their wellness routine.
Boost In Immunity
Rosemary oil helps to boost immunity to further fight infections. When an individual feels congested, suffers from a cough, or deals with pesky allergies, rosemary oil is a beneficial additive. It can be added to boiling water or even placed into a diffuser to achieve the optimal benefits.
Possible Side Effects of Rosemary Oil
Currently, rosemary oil has no known toxins or detrimental uses. As mentioned, topical use should be limited to two or three drops and properly diluted. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication for chronic diseases should consult with a healthcare professional prior to use.
It is highly recommended to avoid consuming rosemary oil as it could induce vomiting. In addition, redness or discoloration could occur when used for the first time.
Oregano Oil: A Top Home Remedy
Oregano oil has been described as the illustrious flower of the mountain. Although widely known as a delicious flavor enhancer to pizza, oregano is ham packed with holistic health benefits.
It is filled with nutrients like vitamin A, C, potassium, and even copper that help to regulate digestion and even fight potential viruses.
The oil extracted from the oregano plant is potent and virtually tasteless. It can be added to any beverage or even diffused into the air. If you are looking for a handy super-oil to assist with your wellness needs, consider the many benefits of oregano oil.
Nasal Congestion
Often times, saline mixes are ineffective and reverse the symptoms of congestion. In addition, certain medicated nasal sprays can cause potential damage to the nasal passage. Therefore, implementing the use of revitalizing oils into your holistic routine can help alleviate the symptoms of congestion.
Begin by boiling water on the stove and adding in three drops of oregano oil. Then, carefully inhale the vapors being released from the pot.
This will enable clearer breathing and also assist with post-nasal drip. This is a refreshing alternative that is quite therapeutic. You may also add a few drops to a diffuser in order to get consistent relief.
Topical Treatment for Skin Irritation
When dealing with frustrating skin ailments such as psoriasis or rashes, the search for quality products can be daunting. When used topically, oregano oil can help to soften the skin and provide necessary moisture.
Anti-inflammatory in nature, oregano oil can be graciously mixed with coconut or another carrier oil. It can be applied to dry, itchy areas when needed.
However, it is wise to keep an eye on how your skin reacts to this treatment, as some may experience extreme redness.
This method can also be used to help reduce and prevent the onset of acne. In addition, if you encounter a wound or break in the skin, oregano oil can be used to treat possible infections and even lessen the appearance of scars. This may also assist with discoloration.
Instant Immunity Booster
During the cold and flu seasons, many people strive to look for holistic options to ward off possible infections. Oregano oil has anti-bacterial properties that work in a similar manner to echinacea. By preventing free radicals, this oil can keep your immune system strong during seasons of vulnerability.
You may mix a few drops of oregano with coconut oil and place it under your tongue. Swish the mixture for about one to two minutes and then spit it out. By doing this on a consistent basis, you will see a dramatic improvement in the way you fight off infections. In addition, this method is best done before bed so as to obtain the full benefits.
Reducing High Cholesterol
Oregano oil has been known to lower cholesterol and help to maintain homeostasis within the body. When mixed with food on a daily basis, patients in a recent study reportedly experienced a drastic change in their cholesterol levels.
Using this oil isn’t recommended as a replacement for traditional medication. As always, consult with your health care physician prior to adding a natural supplement into your medical routine.
The side effects of oregano oil are mild, with the threat of an upset stomach. Individuals who choose to use this product topically may experience burning or redness on their skin.
If you have a known allergy towards food in the Lamiaceae family, it is best to avoid oregano oil by any means. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare professional prior to consumption.
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
When searching for a calming and beautiful essential oil to add to your collection, Ylang Ylang is an awesome addition. With a fun name and countless mental benefits, this wonderful essential oil is jam packed with positivity.
It is originally derived from the blooming flowers of the ylang-ylang tree in the Asian rainforests.
The flower is aesthetically interesting as the petals droop from the stem. It begins as a bright green bud and eventually blooms into a pale pink color. It almost looks as if the flower has pink claws aiming to grab something on the ground.
Nevertheless, the oil distilled from this flower is quite precious. If you are seeking a holistic option to assist with your overall wellness needs, consider the many benefits of utilizing ylang-ylang oil.
Assistance With Depression and Anxiety
Ylang-ylang is quite calming and can provide immediate relief for those suffering with anxiety or depression. Although relaxing in its aroma, it also comes packed with a revitalizing aroma that can assist with mood improvement and regulation.
When placed in a diffuser or even mixed with oil and used topically, this essential oil can provide a major mood booster when dealing with difficult experiences.
Regulate Blood Pressure
Ylang-ylang oil can help to lower blood-pressure when taken orally. You can mix this oil with a flavorful oil or even add a few drops into a beverage daily.
There are no known interactions between ylang-ylang oil and medical prescriptions. However, it is still wise to consult with your health care professional prior to regular consumption.
Assistance With Insomnia and Sleeping
Since ylang-ylang has a relaxing effect, it can also be a handy tool to use when facing issues surrounding falling asleep. One way to benefit from this oil is to add a few drops to your nighty tea to receive the sedative effect. This oil can also be placed into a diffuser and inhaled. This will result in an immediate feeling of calm and relaxation.
An Essential Oil Of Love
The romantic aroma that ylang-ylang oil releases can help to circulate an energy of love and intimacy. Couples will see a drastic change in their sexual health by mixing a few drops of ylang-ylang into a diffuser and allowing the aromatic benefits to take effect.
This oil can also be blended with lotions to be used as a massage oil. This offers a sweet and romantic addition to any date night!
A Holistic Fight Against Bacteria
When the body has a build-up of bacteria either internally or on top of the skin, there is an ever-present system of antimicrobial agents that fight against recovery.
Ylang-ylang oil has been known to defend against this bacterium and immediately start the healing process. When mixed topically or ingested orally, ylang-ylang can fight against bacteria buildup due to yeast infections, bites, or even certain viruses.
Supplementary Benefits Of Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang-ylang oil is also a great addition to any aromatherapy blend. It can be mixed with earthy or floral notes to create a pleasant scent.
Ylang-ylang has also been known to assist with other ailments, such as:
- Malaria
- Stomach and Digestive Issues
- Asthma
- Gout
If you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or on a regimen of prescription medication, consult with your health care physician prior to implementing any holistic essential oil into your daily diet.
Ylang-ylang is universally safe to consume and has mild-side effects such as headaches or possible upset stomach. This petite and romantic essential oil can be a great addition to your aromatherapy or even wellness routine.
If you suffer from any medical conditions, you should ask your doctor before using essential oils or any other complementary type of therapy.
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