Aromatherapy to Soothe and Relax

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils to improve a person's mood, cognitive function or health. Essential oils are the pure essence of a plant, flower or herb, free of additives or base oils.

Inhalation is the simplest method of using essential oils. Different types of diffusers are available, such as light rings and potpourri pots. Use as a mist by adding ten drops of essential oil to one cup of distilled water, pour into a mist spray dispenser to spritz into the air or onto your linens.

For relaxation, add ten drops of your favorite fragrance to a warm water bath. Blend six drops of an essential oil with two ounces of jojoba oil and massage into your hair, leave on for 20 minutes and shampoo as a treatment for dry hair. Blend six drops of essential oil with olive oil or almond oil for a relaxing massage.

Some of the best known essential oils and their uses are:

Lavender

Lavender oil is gentle enough for children. It is a relaxing sleep aid and a natural antiseptic. To soothe a cranky baby, put a drop of lavender oil on a soft cloth or blanket and place the baby, tummy down, near enough to inhale the relaxing aroma of the oil.

Ease headaches with one drop of lavender, peppermint and rosemary oil. Drop the oils in the palm of your hand and apply to the temples and base of the skull.

Peppermint Oil

For stomach ache, place one drop of peppermint oil and rub into your gums to sweeten your breath and aid digestion. Place one drop of peppermint oil at the bottom of the rib cage, and massage the oil directly into this a spot for quick relief of stomach ache and indigestion. Add five drops of Peppermint oil to each gallon of water to use for a refreshing foot soak.

Note: When purchasing peppermint oil be sure you select "food grade" peppermint oil.

Angelica Oil

Angelica offers emotional and physical strength. When struck by heat exhaustion or anxiety place a drop of angelica in the palm of your hand holding it near your nose and breath deeply. Angelica is an excellent sedative, having a soothing effect on the adrenal glands. Blend five drops of Angelica into one ounce of a carrier oil and use for a relaxing massage.

Jasmine Oil

Jasmine is considered a sensual oil. It is a relaxing anti-depressant which helps to relieve tension, anxiety, depression or fear and promotes confidence making it an excellent choice for a relaxing massage oil.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a strong antiviral and antifungal that is used in everything from toothpaste to dandruff shampoo. It works wonders on athlete's foot, but must used sparingly because of its ability to dry the skin. Add one drop to a cotton ball and dab affected area daily. Tea tree oil is excellent for the treatment of acne. Lightly dab a drop of tea tree oil on each blemish.

For removal of a tick on a person or a pet, place one or two drops of tea tree oil on a Q-tip, dab it on
the tick and it will back out allowing it to be easily removed. Use a drop of tea tree oil on the area where the tick was located for an additional disinfectant.