September 8, 2011

How Aroma Therapy Can Relax and Sooth a Headache

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is an alternate medicine branch that makes use of oils and their aromatic properties to heal the specific health challenges. This is getting popular these days as it has negligible or no side-effects at all. The results of for treatment are found to be effective having a long-term effect.

Pains due to migraine or any other type of headache can be very tough to handle and bear at moments. Sometimes this pain renders a person’s working abilities to worthless as that person becomes unable to discharge any task at all. Traditional treatments like allopathy are found least effective in such kind of headaches. Aromatherapy provides an effective and lasting solution for these headaches using some specific aromatic oils.

The basis understanding about the methodology of aromatherapy for headache is somewhat like this. The limbic center in the brain controls our emotions and certain behavior that are generally common to all human beings. Limbic center is responsible for generating the myriad of emotions like love, passion, hate, care, protection, sadness, happiness, etc. apart from some specific personal memories. Researchers and practitioners in this field believe that scent or affects our health and mood to a great extent as the limbic center in the brain is connected to the olfactory center of the nose. The limbic center reacts to the various scents that pass through the olfactory in the nose. It is also believed that aromatherapy is able to affect our nervous system for good to increase our immunity. One thing that needs to be taken care of is doctor’s advice particularly in case of asthma, pregnancy or any such sensitive case.

You can use aromatherapy for headache treatment in a number of ways like adding few drops to slightly warm water-bath or in diffuser by rubbing few drops to the temples. The impact of aromatherapy for headache treatment can vary person to person.

Certain aromatherapy oils are found to be more effective in aromatherapy for headache. Lavender’s oil’s pleasant scent has been used for generations for reducing stress and headache. It generally sets the mood on. Peppermint oil is also believed to be very effective in curing headache when rubbed over the forehead. A bad headache often leads to mental fatigue. Sandal-wood is found to be effective in treating this fatigue.

It is now time to say good bye to headaches.

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August 11, 2011

Aromatherapy Oils: Good For The Body and Mind

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oils and candles are usually used in homes to provide that olfactory satisfaction of breathing in pleasant scents. Most housewives and even people living alone use these to liven up a room and to set a mood for a particular day. Scents of lavender which makes one feel relaxed, citrus and coffee which are good pick-me-uppers particularly during gloomy and rainy days are among the popular scents used. For people who are fond of purchasing oils and candles from home depots and department stores, you may want to know that other than its ability to make a room smell beautiful, it can help you fight off some diseases.

What are aromatherapy oils?

Aromatherapy oils are extracted from plants, meaning these are natural products, and are processed so that it can be used as oils, perfumes, soap, and others. The use of aromatherapy oils can been traced back to early Egyptians who used them to relieve pain and nowadays, the use of these oils improve the mood and reduce stress which can give you a sense of well-. It is also used to treat allergies, some skin conditions such as acne and swelling, and emotional disorders.

How does aromatherapy work?

Aromatherapy oils can be inhaled, added to bath water, used as massage oil, or applied as hot or cold compress. Once it is inhaled, the olfactory nerve, which is responsible for a person’s sense of smell, sends signals to the brain where it said to have an ability to affect the neurologic, cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune system. For the neurologic system, it has a favorable effect with emotions and in enhancing memory. It also affects heart rate and blood pressure which are critical for the body to perform well. As for the respiratory system, it poses a role in breathing affecting its depth. It also has beneficial effects to the way the body responds to certain disorders.

Lavender is used to reduce stress and headaches and is effective in promoting sleep. Arthritis or painful joints, fever, cold sores, and respiratory problems such as cough, colds, and inflammation of the membranes of the lungs and sinuses can be treated with the use of eucalyptus. Cinnamon, which is popularly used in food preparations, can help with eliminating fatigue, exhaustion, and gastrointestinal problems such as difficulty in bowel movement, and having excessive stomach gas. Peppermint, famous for its flavor in gums and candies, is used to relieve the feeling of the need to vomit and fever.

What are the important things to remember when using aromatherapy oils?

It is important to remember that the production of aromatherapy oils may differ in quality and the process used. Different brands have different amounts of oils being prepared. Some may even be toxic when inhaled in large quantities. It should not be used near the eyes as it can be an irritant to your sensitive eyes. It is necessary to be aware of the proper dilution of these oils before applying them on your skin. These oils are available for external use only and must not be taken in. To be assured that it cannot cause allergic reactions; a skin test must be done initially. Its use must be stopped and must be immediately rinsed off when the skin shows signs of allergic reaction. Aromatherapy oils are not only good for our sense of smell, it can be beneficial to our body as well as long as we know the proper way to use it.

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August 6, 2011

Mandarin Essential Oil – A Safe Remedy for Children With Hyperactive Behaviors

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with hyperactivity are described to be quite restless and easily distracted. Such can be disturbing at home and at school. The level of how disturbing a child is depends on up to how much an observer can tolerate the behavior. In some circumstances, activity levels of a child may differ with his/her environment. If you find that your child’s behavior is peaceful at home, you may be surprised to learn that his/her classmates think otherwise.

Let us be clear. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a diagnosed disease that can affect both children and adults although it is more prevalent among young boys. The disease has specific symptoms to watch out for. The three main signs are impulsivity, inattentiveness, and hyperactivity. These three should be present. Only qualified physicians are capable of such diagnosis.

A child with hyperactivity behavior therefore does not necessarily mean that he/she has ADHD. In a solid example: a child has difficulty to sit still for extended periods while a child diagnosed with ADHD will have a hard time to sit still at all.

Child with hyperactive tendencies may therefore be within normal range especially with boys. The cause for a child to display such behaviors may be due to a sudden change in a boy’s life such as death in the family or parent’s divorce. During these times that a child will experience anxiety and depression and that the resulting behavior is hyperactivity. The outward behavior of affected children is due to their defense mechanisms secondary to depression aggravated with their inability to fully cope up with stressors.

Among many of the remedies that cater to anxiety and depression, one oil favors many children. This oil is which is extracted from the fresh peels of the citrus fruit. The candy-like scent appeals mostly to children because of its immediate uplifting effect to the mood. The oil can be used using that promotes calmness. The oil is also safe enough to be used for both children and the elderly. Take precaution however for its phototoxic effects on the skin.

The described properties of this oil only display how well this oil is suited for children with hyperactivity behavior. Please also note that children with ADHD would require pharmacologic interventions and that mandarin essential oil would not prove to be enough although. However, it would be a great addition to provide immediate results.

Note: The information provided on this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to assess, diagnose, or prescribe for any medical condition. Always seek the counsel of a qualified holistic health care practitioner for concerns.

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July 26, 2011

Your Questions About Herbal Treatment For Anxiety

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David asks…

is there a very good /panic that actually work?

i suffer from panic disorder & was placed on lorazepam for the anxiety & panic attacks, but its not helping at all. I am not depressed, so the psychiatrist decided not to put me on any antidepressant. i have a very weak systems against drugs & cant handle them wel, and this drug is absolutely draining me. My anxiety causes me be lightheaded/drowzy & even with this drug i am actually more nervous & dizzy. Does anyone know good alternatives, I AM DESPERATE PLEASE….

Chloe Adisson answers:

Lemon balm teas were traditionally administered to calm the mind. For ages, people have relied on its extracts to treat the symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders; and infusions of the herb were prepared to treat headaches and nervousness. Its bioactive compounds – flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, and triterpenes contain antioxidant and anti-hemorrhoidal properties that are relevant in healing nervine conditions. The herb induces relaxation by curtailing modes of anxiety and irritability.

Lavender on the other hand is regarded as the ultimate relaxation herb. It contains linalool and lavandulyl acetate-active constituents that help ease nervous tension. Linalyl Acetate, an anti-inflammatory substance known to effectively ease nervine pain, is also present in its extracts. Lavender extracts are traditionally used to relieve stress, headaches and fatigue. As a tonic, it reinforces the nervous system against episodes of exhaustion. Meanwhile in , the herb is used to clear moods of depression while inducing sleep.

Passion Flower is yet another herb that contains a boost of flavonoids known for its anti-anxiety effects. Traditionally administered to ease nervous restlessness, the herb has been observed to lower blood pressure as a way of promoting relaxation to the body. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, the herb can help relieve neuralgia and as an antispasmodic, the Passion Flower eases the tremors and nervous shaking associated with panic attacks.

In line with its natural constituents, the body easily adapts to the active compounds of herbal remedies and therefore promotes healing without ensuing negative physiological consequences. Today, herbalists have come up with standardized herbal supplements for anxiety and panic attacks, such as PureCalm, which have been formulated from the expert combination of lemon balm, lavender, and passion flower extracts, and prepared in a concentrated tincture format to holistically promote the routine functions of a healthy nervous system. Using herbal supplements such as PureCalm to calm nervous tensions during the day will give you that perfect peace of mind you have been yearning for all along.

Mary asks…

Has anyone tried herbal treatment for anxiety/depression? Did it work?

I have been suffering with depression/panic attacks for a few months now and I am on Zoloft but I talked with a herbalist and they gave me Omega 3 to take 2 times a day and a liquid called Rescue , for anxiety. I’m just a little worried about all of it. If anyone has tried it let me know please.

Chloe Adisson answers:

I have been taking flax seed oil (high in omega 3 & omega 6 fatty acids) to help with my depression & it does work. With no side effects. Go for it!

I’ve also read research papers that claim that pharmacological doses of saffron are as effective as Prozac in treating depression, with none of the side-effects. Unfortunately saffron is very expensive.

Good Luck!

Mandy asks…

Is there a natural herbal treatment for anxiety and OCD?

Chloe Adisson answers:

I am a firm believer in alternative medicine but I also believe that you must first have a diagnosis from a traditional medical professional– especially in your case considering I have read your other questions.

=0)

Chris asks…

Natural/herbal treatment of depression, anxiety, cloudiness?

I have been on various prescription medications in the last few years for depression, anxiety, and overall cloudiness [almost positive it's depersonalization disorder], but they seem to make me feel like a zombie, on top of numerous unwanted side effects.
What are some remedies, pills, or herbs I can take to help with these illnesses?
Also, I have been off of medication since March.

Chloe Adisson answers:

Some of the most popular natural products for helping with mood are St. John’s Wort, SAMe, 5-HTP (or Tryptophan), Rhodiola Rosea, and some stress-relievers like GABA or L-Theanine can help, too.
On the flip side, if you have taken any antidepressant recently, you may want to check with a pharmacist or doctor to see how soon you can safely take these… A lot of antidepressants interact negatively with a lot of supplements, especially mood supporters like these.

Aside from supplements, you can also try going out and doing things you enjoy, spending time with friends, or even having a good cry. If that’s not enough to help, maybe talking it out with a trusted friend or an objective third-party person (like a counselor).
Just remember, even though you might feel bad, it’s never as bad as it may feel. Everyone goes through tough times and we can all get through it… Sometimes we just need a little extra help ;-) Good luck!

Sandra asks…

Herbal treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

My mom doesn’t want me on pills. I have done everything like exercising, praying, meditating, watching crappy DVDs, I have gone like 4 days without even thinking about much anything but I still had that worry feeling in the pit of my stomach.

Are there any herbal treatments for this?

Chloe Adisson answers:

Poor thing, I have been where you are and its not pretty….

Definitely see a natural therapist who can give you a herbal mixture to take to ease your stressed out nervous system. I can’t remember what was in mine (hawthorne, ginger etc springs to mind) but I had to take 5ml x 3 times a day. It worked wonders for me. Additionally, my naturopath put me on fish oil, protein shakes (helps with serotonin production), magnesium and B Vitamin supplement in one.

I also saw a psychologist to talk about why I was so stressed/anxious which really helped. I think this is really important also, as the herbal treatment won’t work unless you are mentally ready to tackle things.

This seemed to help for me, hope it does for you too. Good luck!

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July 18, 2011

Try Aromatherapy for Well Being

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Have you ever considered using in a spa or at home? Today holistic and natural healing techniques are increasingly used by people worldwide. This particular form of uses natural oils extracted from flowers, barks, stems, leaves, roots, or other parts of plants. These oils are used for healing, , and energizing through massage and inhalation techniques.

Natural Healing

The word Aromatherapy comes from the fusion of two words, scent and healing or cure. The alternative form of medicine is gaining momentum and has a variety of applications including pain relief, mood enhancement, and increased cognitive function. The variety of oils has its own healing properties.

Ancient Origins and Benefits

The alternative healing techniques with essential oils traces its origins in various ancient cultures including Greek, Persians, Romans, Indian, and Chinese. This form of therapy through scents and aromas is not just about good smells, it has many benefits. Some of them are as follows:

* Relaxation and stress relief.
* Boosts the immune and respiratory systems, and improves circulation.
* Some of them are skin-care agents.
* It reduces muscular aches and increases muscle relaxation and tone.
* Aromatherapy spa and wellness products can improve digestion and can also alleviate constipation.
* Tension headaches can be relieved.
* These therapy products can help heal grief, depression, and anxiety.
* The alternative therapy can be used for relieving menstrual cramps, improving sleep, enhancing lymphatic drainage, and is good for acne treatment and even sore throat.
* Essential oils are good for warts, rashes, insect bites, cuts, and coughs.
* Some essential oils are good for irritable bowel syndrome and nausea.

How It Helps

Aromatherapy combines the physical and emotional effects of gentle massage with the medical and therapeutic properties of essential oils. The essential oils are concentrated extracts taken from roots, leaves, and blossoms of plants. Essential oils are the purest essence of plants and are completely natural. There are a number of essential oils available, each with its individual healing properties.

The essential oils stimulate the scent receptors in the brain. This triggers a response in the part of the brain affecting the heart rate, blood pressure, stress levels, memory, and hormone balance. The alternative healing method can be used for bathing, massage, and poultice to heal various conditions of the mind and body.

Inhalations and infusions can have positive effects of calming and easing your negative emotions as well as for the body. When the oils are used for massage, it is mixed with base oils which are from grape seed, almond, or coconut. Oils can be blended together in proper proportions; this is done by professional therapists. It is all very scientific and has to be done correctly and safely.

Buying Products

Aromatherapy products should be bought with care and authenticity and should be checked. The purity of the ingredients, origin, and production method are all important when you buy therapy products. You can buy the products in many varieties including beads, essential oils, fragrances, bath products, candles, potpourri, herbal teas, and many others. Try this alternative form of holistic healing and enjoy its benefits.

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May 10, 2011

Mellow Out

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Without a doubt, getting older happens to all of us. It’s an inevitable organic process that cannot be stopped; although, many attempt to slow it down or hide it as I have witnessed while working in oral surgeon’s offices. Men and women alike make appointments to receive anti-aging injections; yet, all the while wanting to keep it a secret to the outside world including their spouses and / or partners. On the other hand, I’ve frequently heard countless others saying they refuse to give aging the time of day and that the lines on their faces are badges of honor, indicating a challenging yet great life!

The fact of the matter is aging is a holistic progression of sorts, affecting both the inside as well as the outside of the body; and, for as often as I hear people claim that they’re not worried about the effects of aging, the fact of the matter is, most of us are doing something to lead a healthy life for as long as we can. This my friends on some level is an anti-aging program.

Think about it. You may not give any attention to the wrinkles developing around your eyes or across your forehead as other people do; however, if you’re changing the way you eat, have taken up exercise, and / or are taking medications for one of those conditions we get as we get older, you are, in fact, honoring an anti-aging protocol BECAUSE you want to feel good and live a healthy life for as long as possible.

With this in mind, I’m wondering, ‘Do your medications honor your physiology all the while an effective course of action that rectify the issue or are they merely methods of symptom relief while hastening the aging process?

Here’s an interesting correlation between medication, sleep and aging: Sleep is an important facet of life. Getting the appropriate amount keeps the heart healthy, lowers stress, improves memory, boosts the immune system, assists with controlling weight, and reduces the chance of diabetes and mood disorders. In other words, it enhances the quality of our life. In contrast, lack of sleep not only causes us to look and feel older, it also increases our risk for developing diseases associated with aging such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and heart disease. As a matter of fact, the medications prescribed for these conditions can potentially interfere with our ability to sleep which only adds to the dilemma. If it’s absolutely necessary to take these drugs, oils (& other modalities) can assist with regulating the hormonal system which does grow to be imbalanced due to the meds. Conversely, if insomnia is the only concern at this point, then stimulating and resetting the system with supplements, oils in addition to other holistic modalities such as massage and acupuncture are effective options over treating the symptoms with an over the counter pill or two.

Medications such as Lopressor, Prozac, Depakote, Rhinocort, Nasonex, Flonase, Inderal, Ocupress work to support our bodies with mood disorders, blood pressure, and immune system issues. What’s more, they rob us of the melatonin necessary for the regulation of our sleep cycle as well as the rise and fall of other hormones.

Melatonin equals sleepiness; rising at night, peaking in the morning, and receding throughout the day and the reason so many people use the hormone to help them fall asleep, overcome jetlag and adjust to shift changes. Due to extensive studies throughout the late 1990′s, research is suggesting that melatonin is not only very helpful in slowing down the aging process but it’s highly valuable with reducing the risk of cancer. There are also further indications that this hormone is an effective libido enhancer as its production increases during puberty.

Regardless, melatonin is primarily manufactured in the body with only minimal amounts found in food. There are no recommended daily allowances at this time simply because ‘we’re’ not quite sure just how much can be taken without triggering side effects; although, one to three milligrams per day seems to be well tolerated by most people. Therefore, if needing to take a supplement, take small amounts and avoid taking in the morning. Some side effects caused by getting too much are headaches, dizziness, irritability, abdominal cramps as well as transient feelings of depression (be careful ~ anti-depressants will rob your system of melatonin and…….)

All in all, sleep supports our body, keeping all systems in check and is reasonably manageable. The breakdown exists when we attempt to correct a natural system with something other than nature. Maybe it’s time to try something like (essential oils Frankincense, Sandalwood and Cedarwood stimulate the Pineal Gland where melatonin is produced), Acupuncture, Massage, Energy Work or another modality to assist you with regulating and restoring an out of balance system; and whether you’re worried about getting older or not, consistently getting a good night’s sleep assures you of a healthy and active life for as long as possible.

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May 5, 2011

Bergamot Essential Oil – The Relaxing Aromatherapy

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It has been said that after the stressful days of work, its time to give some rewards to your body and mind. Watching television programs or even sleeping is good. But then your body needs more than that. After all, your body and mind is your main source of productivity that you need to nurture and give the best of what the world could offer.

massage could be one of the best ways to relieve the tensions on your body, leaving it peacefully in rest. And choosing the best oil that suits your need may not be that difficult, essential oil can be the most suitable oil for you.

Bergamot essential oil is known to be an effective relaxant. It is in a way that would leave one’s body and mind free from worries and anxiety but more over energetic enough to face the day in a more stable good condition. The quality of this essential oil makes it more helpful for those who had gone an overly stressful life and with side-effects such as high blood pressure, overeating, sleeplessness and fatigue.

This is commonly used by aromatherapists to and energize the body all throughout without compromising its health. It has a refreshing smell that can be a great tool in instilling more positive thoughts in life and it can also help for urinary tract infections treatment and prevention, and as it also helps in providing the liver stronger resistance against complications since its one of the major organ of our body and it needs extra care.

It is also simultaneously combating against oily skin, acne, other skin infections and cold sores. When you are depressed or experiencing some of the personality disorders such as Seasonal Affected Disorder or maybe feeling blue, or you are just somebody badly needs some self-confidence when you are required to report or do some tasks that needs self-confidence, then you might want to consider using this essential oil.

Using Bergamot essential oil can be done in many ways. You can spread it throughout a room using a spray bottle or aromatherapy diffuser, it can drive away bad mood and sadness and bring back the joy and relieves tensions that no one would like to have and linger. Don’t you worry when it is mixed with alcohol and sprayed on as a perfume or blended with carrier oil because it doesn’t change its effect.

So when you need anti-stressor oil for aromatherapy use. Better choose Bergamot oil and undeniably it will provide the more relaxed environment you wish to have. And eventually would create a world wherein peace and tranquility is within reach. Feel its touch and be captivated more than what you expect for.

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