Summer-fun – How Natural Health Helps Healing Part Two – Beat the Heat

July 17, 2017 By Jacqueline Fairbrass 2 Comments

Summer-fun continues in the Northern Hemisphere. But not for all of us…

Some fair-skinned peeps out here in the real world just don’t get on terribly well with sunshine. Leading to a lack of summer-fun and a whole heap of summer-ick. Yes, I love sunshine, but too much heat and I’m a hot mess!

If this happens to you, or to your children and babes, I’ve got fabulous natural health tips and advice to help you get soothed and calm again.

Summer-fun Heat Rash

For me, it starts with little bumps, that get more and more itchy. And the next thing you know, I’m hating the heat and heading for an air-conditioned room. My Celtic background just doesn’t love a whole-whack of sunshine and/or heat.

What to do? A cooling bath. Ahh…into the tub, with a few drops of lavender essential oil and I’m on my way back to being a happy camper all-over again. But wait…there’s more! How about taking an old tea-towel or wash-cloth and some oatmeal and making a personalized bathing cloth.

Get your fabric and put at least one cup of oatmeal, a nice big-flake one works best. (Scottish works best, as the Irish steel-cut doesn’t have as much surface to soak.) Tie it up in the cloth. (In my Holistic Aromatherapy Training Program I have students tie up herbs etc. in a J-cloth…so be inventive!)

Toss the package into the bath as the water runs. Once the tub is filled, add your lavender essential oil. I use about ten drops myself. Swoosh before you get in. Don’t want an undiluted e/o on your sensitive bits…even if it is gentle lavender. Climb in. Soak for 10 to 15 minutes. The water will be ‘milky’ from the oatmeal. Then use the cloth-bag to rub over your skin. Get out, and gently pat yourself dry.

Still bothering you? Now it’s time for some good old-fashioned calamine lotion to soothe those bumps. But if you catch it in time, the oatmeal and lavender bath will work wonders.

(Why the cloth-bag? Otherwise you’ll be bathing in porridge, and you’ll get more hot and bothered rinsing it out of your nooks and crannies…Hahaha!)

What about the kiddies? Babies and Young Children in the Heat

Diaper or Nappy Rash

Happy babies need happy bums! Summer can really be hard on little bottoms, so here’s some simple ways to help baby stay happy and help mum keep her cool.

Mix 1 drop each of lavender and Roman chamomile essential oils to 20 ml of calendula oil and apply to baby at every change until completely healed.

Also, be sure to take special care to wash and dry baby well after each nappy or diaper change.

Be especially careful of using powders with mineral oils as they clog the skin. Avoid plastic pants and if you can, disposable diapers or nappies as they discourage the circulation of air around the baby’s body, while retaining body heat and moisture.

A little nudey-pants time (no diapers or nappies) after the evening bath is a great addition to the bath routine. Perhaps sit and read a book together. Pop a towel on the sofa, just in case!

Heat Rash

Bathe baby in a bath in which 2 drops of lavender essential oil has been added to one liter (or two pints) of cooled chamomile tea.

Make extra tea to sip as it’s super for keeping calm. And you might need some help with your summer-fun if baby is cranky!

Insect Bite and Sun Burns

In the palm of your hand, measure out one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda. Add one drop of lavender essential oil. Mix into a paste with a little cold water. Apply to the bite or sting.

Apply as often as necessary.

As always, if in doubt, or you have any concerns, go to see your primary health care provider. It’s always better to be careful. And that’s their job, so you aren’t bothering them.

And if you’d like some help with your Natural Health and well-being, you can always contact me or get started and take a course to learn how to help you and your family stay well.

Enjoy the rest of your summer-fun, and remember,

Stay Fabulous!

Want to learn more about how I can help you gain clarity and focus, and let go of worry? Click to read.

The Low-Down on Multi-Level-Marketing and Aromatherapy

May 31, 2017 By Jacqueline Fairbrass 3 Comments

Something that’s been bothering me for a while is the rise of multi-level-marketing (MLM) companies selling essential oils.

(And, to be honest, I get a lot of students and clients asking me about the quality of the essential oils, etc., too!)

So, I went searching and found someone who has done the research. She found that MLM prices are on average 3.22x more expensive than traditional online outlets. With some individual oils being p to 5x more expensive.

Yes, that’s right, up to five times more expensive.

Basically, it works like this. All companies get the essential oils from a small number of international supplies. These suppliers in turn, get them from the growers. So, the bigger the company, and the more the overhead, the higher the price of the essential oils.

With the MLM company structure, the prices have to be higher.

(Now, I’m not saying I’m against MLM, as I do purchase some cosmetics and vitamins from friends via multi-level-marketing companies. And I like that personal touch.)

But I don’t think people realize that the cost is higher than buying essential oils directly from an on-line independent distributor.

Here’s a couple of companies whose essential oils I like (and I’m not an affiliate, just sharing the good stuff.)

Amrita (USA)

Alypsis (Canada)

In addition, (you knew there’d be more, didn’t you?) I personally don’t like the standardization of the essential oils distributed by MLM companies. It’s the same as adulteration, which quite simply means the natural plant essences are altered in a laboratory, so they contain the same chemical constituents every time.

I recommend small companies, and looking for the product labeled with its Latin name. That way, you’re more likely to get essential oil from the plant and not the lab.

If this approach appeals to you, then check out Traditional Holistic Aromatherapy training with us. Click here for more info.

Stay fabulous,

ATA March 2012 How long do Essential Oils last?

March 10, 2012 By boss4e 1 Comment

Question

Good morning Emma,

I just finished reading the School of Complementary Therapies newsletter, and what a treat it was!A quick question regarding oils though (I got the impression that you are the one who knows about these things) … I have quite a number of oils that were purchased over the last few years and I’m not sure how long I should be keeping them. Actually, I don’t even know exactly how old many of them are.

Can essential oils be harmful if they are too old?

Any suggestions would be welcome.
Thanks … Christl

Answer

There are many different ideas around about keeping essential oils. Some of the citrus ones are suggested last no longer than 6 months! On the other hand, some of the heavier oils like Patchouli actually improve with age. So, there is no hard and fast rule.I suggest you open the bottles and smell the oils. If they are still smelling good, then they should be fine to use. If they have faded a little, they will still be okay, but just not as effective. If the aroma is not quite right, I’d suggest you throw them out and get something new.

The main reason for the time rules in Aromatherapy is the “therapeutic” actions of the oils may not be as effective if the essential oil is old. So, we say here at SCT “if in doubt, throw it out”, just like milk and fish! FYI I have some oils that I’ve had for years and they still smell wonderful and have a fabulous therapeutic effect. Just keep your oils carefully, that is in dark bottles, away from the light, pets and kids and preferably somewhere cool. An old biscuit tin works wonders!

Hope that helps, and thanks for writing to us.

Emma Fairbrass, Certified Aromatherapist

ATA Jan 2012 |Carpet odor

January 26, 2012 By boss4e

Welcome to ‘Ask the Aromatherapist’ Monthly! This month we delve into the archives and get a Q & A from Emma Fairbrass

Question

My carpet smells really bad. Is there anything I can use to hide, remove, change the smell?

Thanks Kenny

Answer

Hi Kenny, Try this:

1 cup Sodium Bicarbonate
1 Tbsp lemon peel
1 Tbsp Coriander
5 drops of Lemon essential oil
5 drops Juniper essential oil
5 drops Lavender essential oil
5 drops Cedarwood

Mix together and shake over carpet let sit for 30 minutes and Vacuum. This aromatherapy recipe should help with carpet odor.

Emma Fairbrass, Certified Aromatherapist

August 2011

August 4, 2011 By boss4e

This month Jacqueline Fairbrass gives some great Summertime Aromatherapy and Tips

Stings and Bites

During the summer months it can be easy to find yourself or someone around you on the losing end of an encounter with a bee or wasp. Try using witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) to ease the discomfort and heal the wound. Witch hazel is a liquid distillation of the leaves, bark and twigs of the tree Hamamelis virginiana which may be found on most drugstore shelves in the areas near to rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide.

To treat stings and irritation, douse a cotton pad with witch hazel and apply to the affected area. This treatment is also good for insect bites, sun and wind burn and may also be used in the same manner to disinfect minor cuts and abrasions. Witch hazel has no drug interactions and may be used safely by both children and adults.

Seasonal Allergies

If sneezing and itchy eyes have become part of your day-to-day life through out the summer months you may have allergies. The following herbs may be added to your diet and you can see if they have any beneficial effects on your allergy symptoms:

Try making a strong tea with stinging nettles and butterbur and drinking it daily. Both herbs are reputed to perform as well as antihistamines, without the drowsiness.
Eliminate dairy from your diet to avoid immune-system irritation. I know, that’s a hard one, but there are some soy and rice substitutes for ice-cream that are really yummy!
Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, for example wild Alaskan salmon, freshly ground flaxseeds or fish oil supplements.
Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits such as berries and cherries to help modify the body’s inflammatory response.
You may also want to try nasal douching with a warm saline solution (purchase a neti bottle from your health food store) and drink plenty of water to keep nasal passages hydrated and to flush out your system.

Partying

Sometimes during the summer we drink more alcohol than our body is used to: beers at the barbecue, coolers at the cottage, exotic cocktails when we travel. If you are more frequently using alcohol I suggest you take milk thistle (Silybum marianum) regularly. It is available in capsules, but I believe you get more from using a tincture. Purchase from a reputable health food store and follow the instructions on the label. The use of this herb for liver health comes from the European folk medicine tradition. It is said to enhance the metabolism of liver cells and help protect them from toxic injury. (Milk thistle may also help those with chronic hepatitis, abnormal liver function, and those using pharmaceutical drugs that are hard on the liver, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy). This herb is considered non-toxic and you can stay on it indefinitely.

However, if your alcohol consumption does not reduce at the end of the summer or you perceive it to be affecting your quality of life please call me at 206.201.2764 for an appointment. We’ll assess your health and get you on a personalized wellness Program asap.

Babies and Young Children in the Heat

Diaper or Nappy Rash Mix 1 drop each of lavender and Roman chamomile essential oils to 20 ml of calendula oil and apply to baby at every change until completely healed. (Also, be sure to take special care to wash and dry baby well after each nappy or diaper change. Be especially careful of using powders with mineral oils as they clog the skin. Avoid plastic pants and disposable diapers or nappies as they discourage the circulation of air around the baby’s body, while retaining body heat and moisture.)
Heat Rash Bathe baby in a bath in which 2 drops of lavender essential oil has been added to one litre of cooled chamomile tea.
Insect Bite and Burns Use 1 drop of lavender essential oil in 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda and mix into a paste with a little cold water. Apply as often as necessary.

Essential oil blends may be purchased from the School of Complementary Therapies or specific blends may be made for your personal needs. Contact us with your requirements.

Of course, I have only covered a few things that can benefit from herbs and aromatherapy in the summer time. If there are other issues you would care to discuss or that require a more in-depth consultation,please contact me.

July 2011

July 7, 2011 By boss4e

ESSENTIAL OILS TO REPEL MOSQUITOES

QUESTION

I enjoy being out in nature and I love gardening. Unfortunately nasty mosquitoes are out in nature and they love gardeners! Can you recommend an aromatherapy solution?
Sign me, Itching To Get Out There

ANSWER

Dear Itching,

I received a similar question this time last year (Ask the Aromatherapist, July 2010) but thought it important to respond again albeit a shortened version. Much of Canada and the Northern United States experienced cooler and wetter than usual Spring season this year, contributing to an increase in the mosquito population.

Mosquito Control and National Geographic write that female mosquitoes who are the ‘biters’ locate their bloodhosts by scent, sight, heat and movement. From 100 feet away (30 meters) they can smell our scent, especially the carbon dioxide (CO2) we exhale. They respond to higher-than-normal concentrations, especially when the CO2 is mixed with host-odor; e.g. following exercise or when we are hot. They follow scent upwind and can see us at a distance of about 30 feet (10 meters). (i, ii)

Most mosquito species prefer dark, cool places like trees, grass and shrubs and are more drawn to persons wearing dark coloured clothing. They have a ‘fondness’ for the slightly cooler body temperatures of the extremities, like arms and the lower leg, and are drawn to the chemicals released in our perspiration. Floral and fruity fragrances are a big draw; including perfumes, colognes, hair products and scented sunscreens. If you use aromatic clothes detergent, fabric softeners or dryer sheets you are a walking invitation! (iii)

In aromatherapy the most common essential oils used for their mosquito repellent properties include cedarwood, citronella, geranium, lavender, lemon balm, lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, peppermint, red thyme and tea tree. Catnip or catmint essential oil is not commonly used in aromatherapy but is achieving much attention as a successful mosquito repellent. (The botanical names of essential oils in this article are found at the end of this article.)

It is important to note that while pennyroyal essential oil is often cited as an effective mosquito repellent it is highly toxic to humans and animals in even minute amounts. I do not recommend using pennyroyal essential oil!

Always dilute essential oils in a base or carrier oil. Pretty much any vegetable oil can be used but there is one in particular that is wonderful for your skin and contains its own mosquito repelling properties. It is cold pressed Neem oil (Neem seed oil, Neem tree oil) from India’s native Neem tree, Azadirachta indica. Neem oil is thick and tends to ‘sit’ on the skin for a while so use it sparingly. Neem oil alone is effective against mosquitoes for up to 12 hours!

Fractionated coconut oil is a great carrier oil. It is colourless, odourless, does not turn rancid, absorbs quickly into the skin and easily washes out of fabrics it may come into contact with. It is also light enough to spray from a bottle if that is your preferred way of applying a mosquito repelling blend. Olive oil and grape seed oil are also good carrier oils but are generally too thick to spray through a bottle.

One of my favourite recipes is adapted from a wonderful synergistic blend found in Valerie Ann Worwood’s The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy (1991). Into 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of your chosen carrier oil blend 5 drops red thyme essential oil, 10 drops lemongrass essential oil, 5 drops lavender essential oil and 5 drops peppermint essential oil. Care2.com suggests adding 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of aloe vera gel to insect repellent blends to take advantage of its cooling effect.

If you do not have time to make a blend, rub a few drops of lavender essential oil onto your feet and ankles before slipping on your sandals. Spritz your clothing with lavender hydrosol. And don’ forget that a dab of lavender essential oil on a mosquito bite helps to relieve itchiness and jump start healing. Tea tree essential oil is great for bites as well!

Most essential oil based mosquito repellents evaporate or absorb quickly. Your blend will require reapplication every 30 minutes to remain effective. And if you are wearing sunscreen, get caught in the rain, are perspiring or have gone swimming reapply accordingly.

My personal preference for repelling mosquitoes is the topical application of the above recipe using Neem oil as a carrier. I also like to have on hand a 30 ml (1 fluid oz) spray bottle of fractionated coconut oil into which I have added 30 drops of lavender essential oil. It is simple, portable and easy to apply.

I would love to know how well these work for you. I look forward to your next message signed, ‘The Happy Gardener’!

References
mosquitocontrol.com
animals.nationalgeographic.com
insects.about.com

Common and Botanical Names of Essential Oils
Catnip – Nepeta cataria, Cedarwood – Cedrus atlantica, Citronella – Cymbopogon nardus, Geranium – Pelargonium graveolens, Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia, Lemon balm -Melissa officinalis, Lemon eucalyptus – Eucalyptus citriodora, Lemongrass – Cymbopogon citratus, Peppermint – Mentha piperita, and Tea tree – Melaleuca alternifolia.

June 2011

June 3, 2011 By Jacqueline Fairbrass

Question

I was recently introduced to the beautiful aroma of rose essential oil. Can you tell me a bit about it and what it is used for? It is very expensive. Is there an alternative?

Answer

‘You love the roses – so do I. I wish
The sky would rain down roses, as they rain
From off the shaken bush. Why will it not?
Then all the valley would be pink and white
And soft to tread on. They would fall as light
As feathers, smelling sweet; and it would be
Like sleeping and like waking, all at once!‘
George Eliot

I love that poem!

The two major species of rose plants used for essential oil production are Rosa damascena and R. centifolia. The rosa species are considered native to Europe and Western Asia. My favourite rose essential oil, R. damascena, is produced primarily in Bulgaria, Turkey and more recently in Italy and China. The essential oil produced in Kazanlak, Bulgaria is considered the most prized and it is typically the most expensive. (i) You may hear this species of rose or essential oil referred to as Bulgarian Rose, Turkish Rose, Rose Otto or Damascus Rose.

The rosa plants are typically small prickly shrubs measuring up to two and a half meters high. Their leaves have whitish hairs and the blooms are very fragrant. Whole flower, petals and leaves are used, the choice of which depends on the method of distillation or extraction and the product desired. There are four products of the rose.

Rose otto essential oil is derived by way of a two-stage steam distillation process known as cohobation and uses the whole flower. Rose concrete is a concentrated, semi-solid product created by way of using a liquid solvent to dissolve the volatile compounds of the flowers (and sometimes leaves). Rose absolute is formed by extracting the natural waxes present in the concrete by using an absolute alcohol. It is then filtered or distilled through filter paper which removes most of the alcohol. Trace alcohol is removed by passing nitrogen through the essential oil. Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction may also be used to produce rose oil which is marketed as either an absolute or as a CO2 extract. (ii)

Rose essential oil has numerous therapeutic properties and actions including antidepressant, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, anxiolytic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, cholertic, cicatrisant, depurative, emmenagogue, haemostatic, hepatic, laxative, sedative, stomachic and tonic. According to aromatherapy expert Kurt Schnaubelt and many of us who use rose essential oil in our aromatherapy practice, the scent alone has uplifting and tonifying effects which helps to support stabilization of the nervous system. (iii)

With an impressive list of properties you can imagine all the various roles rose essential oil might play. From treating heart palpitations, irritability and insomnia to its use in creams and lotions for sensitive, inflamed, dehydrated or aging skin. It can even assist the regulation of menstruation and provide relief of menstrual cramps.

On a subtle level it helps to release anger, despair and frustration. Rose essential oil is used to encourage contentment, devotion, inner vision, happiness, inner freedom, acceptance, completeness, patience, love, sensuality and purity. In her book, The Fragrant Mind, Valerie Ann Worwood indicates that rose is used to affect positive states, concentration, contentment, creativity, happiness, joy and peace. (iv)

Rose essential oil is an excellent companion during times of major life transition such as puberty, marriage, birth, menopause and death. Rose comforts and is said to give gentle support in times of sorrow. It is useful for relieving symptoms of hysteria, confusion and despair. It allows for fresh growth and new possibilities to flow in while gently letting go of the old ways and patterns needing release. Rose gently reduces fears and reassures that it is safe to let go, to allow the heart to heal. (v)

Spiritually rose essential oil is the supreme oil of the heart and the heart chakra. It is it often indicated for the crown and sacral chakras and is used to promote direct communication with spirit guides. (vi)

Quality rose essential oil is expensive for sure but in my opinion there is no substitute for the real thing. I tend to use rose essential oil when I am creating a blend that will be applied to the skin. If I am looking for a rose-like aroma to diffuse into the air I reach for geranium. Interestingly Pelargonium graveolens essential oil is also known as the poor-man’s rose. I have had clients who found rose essential oil too strong, preferring the more subtle aroma and energy of geranium.

While a good quality rose essential oil is amazing by itself it blends beautifully with angelica, bergamot, benzoin, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, juniper, lemon, mandarin, neroli, petitgrain, Roman chamomile, sandalwood, vetiver and ylang ylang.

The following aromatic recipe from Aromatherapy and Subtle Energy Techniques is said to encourage the mind to receive direction and love from the angelic realm. Either R. damascena or R. centifolia essential oils can be used for this. Into 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of jojoba carrier oil blend 4 drops of rose essential oil, 4 drops of sandalwood essential oil and 2 drops of angelica essential oil. Apply as desired. Heavenly indeed!

Truth be known, I have been sitting here with my dear friend Rosa damascena close at hand; She ever so gently releasing her spellbinding scent, Me embosomed by Her exquisiteness … Caressing heart, mind, spirit and emotion.

Barbara Power, Certified Aromatherapist

Article Resources
(i) Battaglia, Salvatore. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition. Brisbane: The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, 2003, p 253-257.
(ii) Battaglia, 253; Dr. Wabner, Dietrich. wadi.eu accessed on January 9, 2011; and, Khan, M. Aslam and Shoaib-Ur-Rehman. Extraction and Analysis of Essential Oil of Rosa Species in the (iii) International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 60-8530/2005/07-6-973-974 accessed at ijab.org on January 2, 2011.
(iv) Schnaubelt, Kurt. Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, English Edition. Rochester: Healing Arts Press, 1998, p 87.
(v)Valerie Ann. The Fragrant Mind: Aromatherapy for Personality, Mind, Mood and Emotion. Novato: New World Library, 1996, p 229.
(vi) pureessentialoils.blogspot.com/2010/05/rose-otto-rosa-damascena
Loughran, Joni Keim and Ruah Bull. Aromatherapy and Subtle Energy Techniques: Compassionate Healing with Essential Oils. Berkeley: Frog, Ltd., p 67.

May 2011

May 3, 2011 By boss4e

Treatment for Plantar Warts

Question
Can you recommend something for stubborn plantar warts? I have tried pretty much every wart removal kit out there and I even experimented with duct tape! I have had liquid nitrogen treatments, used salicylic acid, lactic acid, pedophylin and the blister beetle juice called Cantharidin. None of these have worked! Help!

Answer
The Mayo Clinic describes plantar warts or varruca plantaris as noncancerous skin growths on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) that enters the body through tiny cuts and breaks in the skin. There are numerous strains of the virus and no single treatment is guaranteed to get rid of the warts.

Plantar warts often develop beneath pressure points such as the heels or balls of the feet. According to the Mayo Clinic, most plantar warts aren’t a serious health concern, but they may be bothersome or painful, and they can be resistant to treatment. This comes as no surprise to you!

The Mayo Clinic also highlights that plantar warts are more likely to appear on the feet of people with a weakened immune system. So in addition to tackling the wart lesion be sure to boost your immune system with healthy lifestyle practices. This includes a daily diet of nutritional food and drink, regular exercise (protect your feet if you are at the gym or pool), reducing stress and getting adequate sleep.

There are a number of essential oils that can be used to treat plantar warts but the following five are my picks for the stubborn ones. They are also great immune system supporters. Use only high quality essential oils! The botanical names of the essential oils are at the end of this article.

Clove bud essential oil has a number of properties that work well on plantar warts and benefit the immune system. It is antiseptic, analgesic, anti-infectious, antimicrobial and it is an immunostimulant. Its analgesic property helps with the discomfort of the wart.

Lemon essential oil is something of a ‘cure all’ in many cultures. The essential oil is antimicrobial, antiseptic, bactericidal and antiviral and is particularly effective for warts. It should not be used on skin that will be exposed to sunlight as it is phototoxic.

Ravensara or True Ravensara essential oil boosts anti-infectious, antimicrobial and antiviral properties and it is an excellent immunomodulant (supports the immune system). Ravensara is well-known as an active virus and retro virus fighter. Take THAT plantar wart virus!

Tea Tree has antimicrobial, antiviral, antiseptic and immunostimulant properties. It may be used with other essential oils to treat plantar warts or may be applied slightly diluted to the centre of the wart. Tea tree essential oil is known to oxidize if not stored properly which is, of course, counterproductive to healing. Be sure to use only high quality tea tree essential oil, store it in a dark bottle and keep it in a cool place.

Thyme (red thyme) possesses powerful antimicrobial activity and it is also an effective immunostimulant. It is known to stimulate the production of white blood corpuscles. Use this essential oil sparingly and well diluted. It is a dermal irritant.

Let’s get your wart ready for treatment! Emedicalhealth.com offers that the source of discomfort in most symptomatic plantar warts is the thickened layer of horny skin between the nerve-bearing tissues and the pressure created when we stand and walk. Simple, non-traumatic removal of the skin surrounding the wart and the build up of dead skin on the wart lesion can be accomplished with a pumice stone, foot file or scrub after the sole of the foot has been soaked in warm water for 10 minutes. Dry the foot well!

Now for a powerful essential oil blend. Into a small, dark glass sealable bottle with an orifice reducer blend the following:

1 tablespoon of jojoba base oil,
12 drops of lemon essential oil,
4 drops of tea tree essential oil,
3 drops of thyme essential oil,
3 drops ravensara essential oil
and 2 drops of clove bud essential essential oil.

Apply only ONE drop, ONCE a day, directly onto the wart. Cover the treated area with a clean, dry bandage. Treatment may take a number of weeks to be effective. Be consistent, vigilant and patient.

It is important not to injure yourself with wart treatments! No matter which essential oil or essential oil blend you apply to the wart area, be sure to protect the healthy skin surrounding it. If the wart is in a hard-to-reach location apply the blend to a cotton swab and dab the centre of the wart with the swab. Should the surrounding skin become irritated, apply a small amount of Vitamin E or wheatgerm oil with a cotton swab to the reddened area. If irritation persists discontinue using the blend.

While plantar warts are relatively common and typically not something one should be overly concerned about, regularly assess the wart’s progress. If all of your efforts are not making a difference or you notice questionable change in its growth be sure to consult with your primary health care provider or a podiatrist.

Essential Oil Common and Botanical Names
Clove bud, Eugenia caryophyllata; Lemon, Citrus limonum; Ravensara, Ravensara aromatica; Tea Tree, Melaleuca alternifolia; and Thyme, Thymus vulgaris ct. thymol.

Barbara Power, Certified Aromatherapist

Article Resources
mayoclinic.com
emedicalhealth.com

December 2010

December 3, 2010 By Jacqueline Fairbrass

‘Tis the Holiday Season!

Many of us find this time of year very busy and perhaps even stressful … yet the holiday season begs us to slow down, to take a deep breath and appreciate the scents of the season. Aromatherapy uses quality essential oils to encourage relaxation, balance and rejuvenation, with some scents and aromatic combinations creating a memorable holiday atmosphere at the same time. Consider the fresh scent of evergreen, energetic mint, complex sweet spice, joyful citrus, balsamic ‘ancient’ oils and exotic florals. Using the aromatics of quality essential oils to create holiday ambience, to invite a festive mood or to help calm over-stimulated senses can help to make cherished time with family and friends just that much more special, and perhaps even ‘magical’.

Personalize the holiday experience with a blend of seasonal favorites: pine, spruce, cedar, fir or juniper berry; peppermint; clove, nutmeg, cinnamon or ginger; sweet orange, lemon or mandarin; frankincense, myrrh, or sandalwood; and, jasmine, ylang ylang, or rose. Whether diffusing a heavenly blend of essential oils into the air, spritzing artificial greenery, scenting wrapping paper and cards for those special someones or relaxing in an aromatic bath following a harried day, the wonder of aromatherapy offers beautiful holiday season memories.

Be creative and make you own blends or be inspired by the recipes that follow. Ensure that you are using fresh, high quality essential oils in your blends to avoid being disappointed. The botanical names of the essential oils used in the recipes are found at the end of this article.

Diffuser Blend:

This diffuser blend is beautifully layered from the hint of lemon through to the depths of frankincense and myrrh. Into a small glass container (with orifice reducer) blend together

5 drops of cedarwood essential oil,
7 drops of juniper berry essential oil,
8 drops of lemon essential oil,
15 drops of frankincense essential oil
and 15 drops of myrrh essential oil.

Use according to the directions for your particular diffuser.

Potpourri:

If you do not have a diffuser or nebulizer, passive diffusion can be achieved by adding a few drops of the blend to a simple potpourri made by you! In a decorative container combine some cedar shavings (found in pet stores), real or imitation cranberries for color, a few small pine or cedar cones for texture, star anise for interest and perhaps some small glass beads for bling. Apply 4 to 6 drops of the essential oil blend onto the cedar shavings or cones and voila! Simple, beautiful and aromatic!

Aromatic Greenery:

For those who use artificial greenery during the holiday season – I stand among you – this essential oil blend from aworldofaromatherapy.com is sure to transport you among the evergreens. Into a small glass bottle (with orifice reducer) combine together

10 drops of balsam fir essential oil,
10 drops of black spruce essential oil,
10 drops of cedarwood essential oil
and 10 drops of juniper berry essential oil.

Use according to the directions for your type of diffuser. Consider applying a few drops to a terra cotta tree ornament or a small unglazed pot stuffed with cedar boughs. Or make a room mist!

Room Mist:

To make a room mist, follow the above recipe, dropping the essential oils into a quality spray (mist) bottle containing 8 oz (1 cup or 240 mL) of distilled water and 1/2 oz (1 tablespoon or 15 mL) of an inexpensive, unflavored vodka. (The vodka is used as an emulsifier.) Shake well before each misting and avoid getting droplets on wood or precious fabrics.

Kitchen Scents:

Perhaps it is the ‘hard to resist’ aromas of the holiday kitchen that cause you to stop and take a deep breath. This baked-goods inspired essential oil blend may be the one for you. Remember to keep the experience at the nose level! Do not ingest essential oils!

Combine in a small glass bottle (with an orifice reducer)

16 drops of cinnamon essential oil,
10 drops of nutmeg essential oil,
6 drops of sweet orange essential oil,
4 drops of frankincense essential oil
and 4 drops of clove essential oil.

Diffuse according to the instructions for your diffuser. The original recipe suggests a diffusion time of 5 minutes but I find that 15 minutes is perfect when diffused into a large room. This aromatic blend works well when made into a room mist. (Recipe adapted from wlnaturalhealth.com)

Wrap & Unwrap with lovely scents:

Let’s scent some stationary and wrapping paper! Into a small glass bottle (with orifice reducer) blend

10 drops of frankincense essential oil,
10 drops of myrrh essential oil,
10 drops of cedarwood essential oil
and 10 to 20 drops of sweet orange essential oil (adjust the number of drops of sweet orange to reach desired aroma).

Apply several drops of the essential oil blend onto a cotton pad and place it in a plastic bag, or other sealable container, with your selected paper products. Do not allow the cotton pad to touch the paper as it will leave a stain! Seal the contents and let it rest for a day or two, allowing for the full absorption of the aroma. (Recipe adapted from aromaweb.com)

Reminiscent of handmade orange-clove holiday balls this aromatic blend is both refreshing and balancing. Combine

12 drops of sweet orange essential oil,
7 drops of cinnamon essential oil,
5 drops of ginger essential oil
and 1 drop of nutmeg essential oil.

Uplift:

And if you are looking for a seasonal blend that will put some pep into your step consider this ‘head clearing’ blend of

8 drops of cedarwood essential oil,
12 drops of pine essential oil
and 12 drops of peppermint essential oil!

Relax:

Need to slow down and relax? I came upon this ‘heavenly’ aromatic blend from snowdriftfarm.com. Aptly named ‘Angel’s Breath’, aromatherapy bath gifts made with this blessed recipe will be amongst the parcels I send to family and friends who live away.

Into 1 oz (2 tablespoons or 30 mL) of a non-scented base (carrier) oil, such as grapeseed or fractionated coconut oil, add

12 drops of lavender,
6 drops of sweet orange,
4 drops of Roman chamomile,
4 drops of ylang ylang
and 3 drops of sandalwood.

Use as a massage oil or disperse into a bathtub filled with warm water. Consider adding the essential and carrier oil mixture to 16 oz (2 cups or 460 grams) of Epsom salts. Mix well. Use half of the aromatic Epsom salts in a bathtub filled with warm water, and save the other half in a sealable, decorative container. Dim the lights, light a candle or two and plan to soak in the aromatic water for at least 15 minutes.

Staying with an exotic floral theme, consider this precious recipe (also from Snow Drift Farm). Combine

5 drops of rose absolute,
5 drops of sandalwood essential oil,
4 drops of bergamot essential oil,
3 drops of jasmine absolute,
2 drops of sweet orange essential oil,
2 drops of Roman chamomile essential oil
and 1 drop of ylang ylang essential oil.

Beware! This complex blend not for the faint of heart!

Let’s see … we have created festive ambiance, crafted seasonally-scented potpourri, taken an aromatic journey into the evergreen forest, tinged the air with holiday-kitchen spice and citrus, scented stationary and wrapping paper, punched the atmosphere with energetic mint, bathed in ‘angelic’ waters, and drifted to a far away place fragranced with intoxicating florals in a bid for relaxation and rejuvenation. I hope that one of these seasonal offerings resonates with you. Perhaps you are inspired to create your own seasonal blend.

Well … I’m off to do some blending but not before I extend to you my best wishes for a truly joyous, scent-sational holiday season!

Barbara Power, Certified Aromatherapist

Article Resources

i. aworldofaromatherapy.com
ii. wlnaturalhealth.com
i. aromaweb.com
ii. snowdriftfarm.com

Common and Botanical Names for Essential Oils

Balsam Fir – Albies balsamea; Bergamot – Citrus bergamia; Black Spruce – Pacea mariana; Cedarwood – Cedrus atlantica; Cinnamon –Cinnamomum zeylanicum; Clove – Eugenia caryophyllus; Frankincense – Boswellia carteri; Ginger – Zingiber officinale; Jasmine absolute – Jasminum officinalis; Juniper Berry – Juniperus communis; Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia; Lemon – Citrus limon; Myrrh – Commiphora molmol; Nutmeg – Myristica fragrans; Peppermint – Mentha piperita; Pine (Scotch) – Pinus sylvestris; Roman Chamomile – Anthemis nobilis; Rose Absolute – Rosa centifolia; Sandalwood (Australian) – Santalum spicatum; Sweet Orange- Citrus sinensis; and, Ylang Ylang – Cananga odorata.

Graduates

December 3, 2010 By boss4e

Holistic Foot Reflexology student Natalia Kim graduated in December. Natalia has opened a practice in Quebec Canada as a Naturopath registered with the Academy of Naturopaths and Naturotherapists and continues to study more energy medicine modalities. Congratulations!

Crystal Regnier has completed her Holistic Foot Reflexology Certification and graduated! Crystal studied with Instructor Michele Appleby in Ottawa and had to apply for an extension as her daughter was very ill. Despite personal struggles both mum and daughter are doing really well and Crystal was able to complete a case study with her daughter! Congratulations Crystal on all your successes.

Woohoo! Big congratulations to Sue LeShien. After 18 months intensive study Sue has successfully completed all modules of the Certified Natural Health Practitioner program. Sue is now offering Aromatherapy massage and consultations, Reflexology and Reiki at Planet Botanix in Ottawa. Awesome job! Wishing Sue lots of luck in all her future endeavors. Much love!

As part of her Continuing Education SCT Instructor Barbara Power of Victoria, BC has successfully completed the Business Course–Holistic Health Care Business Basics. Way to go Barbara…what magic can you generate next?

Congratulations to Kim Cross of Gananoque! Kim graduated this September as an Holistic Foot Reflexologist after training with Carol Hawksley. She adds Reflexology to her existing wellness practice and is excited to continue her studies with SCT! Woohoo!

Suzannee LeShien successfully completed the Business and Marketing course, Holistic Health Care Business Basics. Suzanne now has new brochures and business cards, a focused vision of her growing practice and a business plan…woohoo!

Oops…in all the Summer confusion we forgot to mention Suzanne LeShien, who has been studying intensively with SCT Founder Jacqueline Fairbrass and Team SCT Instructor Michele Appleby for the past eighteen months. Suzanne graduated as an Aromatologist in June and a fully fledged Traditional Holistic Aromatherapist in July. CONGRATULATIONS SUE! Sue has only two more steps to go to complete the Certified Natural Health Practitioner program…keep up the good work Sue. Team SCT is supporting you all the way! Woohoo!

Holistic Foot Reflexology students Tammy Mattice and Natalie Brundige graduated this July. Under the guidance of Team SCT Instructor Carl Hawksley they both achieved high 90’s in their practical examinations…and both have joined the RRCO for the designation RRPr. Well done Tammy and Mattice and best wishes in your new career paths from all of Team SCT. Woohoo!

Congratulations to Suzanne LeShien for completing the Aromatology Certification this June! Woohoo! Suzanne receives the brand new Certificate designed by TROOL Productions Intuitive Concepts. Check it out.

SCT Instructor Adrian McKeague has completed his professional Wellness Room and is now taking new clients. Contact Ade to make appointments for Reiki, Holistic Foot Reflexology and Relaxation Massage. Check the calendar for his next Reiki classes.

Celebrating graduates from the Advanced Lightworker program, three year course of study graduates includes our own Team SCT Ottawa member Adrian McKeague and two year course of study Team SCT Ottawa Michele Appleby.

Elise Deschênes-Armstrong graduated from our Holistic Foot Reflexology Program this November and is now working at Stella`s Touch in Russell, Ontario. Call (613) 482-0879 for an appointment.

Lynn Shea is now a Level Two Reiki Practitioner, having trained with Adrian McKeague, SCT Team Ottawa. Her private home-based practice is growing nicely, even though her little pet dog has decided that sharing the home with ‘strangers’ isn’t his favorite thing to do! Keep up the good work Lynn!

Lightworker and Reiki Graduate Tanja Kisslinger has moved to Kelowna, BC to begin sharing her gifts. Good luck Tanja!

Remember Stephanie Gunning who graduated in Holistic Foot Reflexology this summer? Check her out now! Congratulations Stephanie and keep up the good work!

Congratulations to Lynne Shea and Suzanne LeShien! Both students have graduated from the Holistic Foot Reflexology Program. Wendy is including Foot Reflexology in her esthetics business. Lynne is combining Foot Reflexology with her Reiki studies and has opened Sole Matters Reflexology in Orleans 613.558.3443. And Sue continues to study and practice as part of her Certified Natural Health Practitioner Program. All three students took their classroom training with our Ottawa Instructor Michele Appleby and loved every moment!

Congratulations to Wendy Greene for passing her Holistic Foot Reflexology Examinations and Practicum with flying colors! Wendy said her secret was setting goals and then making sure she followed through. She’s taking that enthusiasm into starting her private practice. Best of luck Wendy and we’ll look forward to hearing about your future successes!

Congratulations! Sonia McLeave graduated Holistic Foot Reflexology. Examiner Robyn had this to say about Sonia’s practical exam, “She aced the exam 100% and generously did a bit of Reiki to boot! Lucky me 🙂 Well done Sonia, we’ll look forward to adding your Success Story to our growing record.

Congratulations to SCT Instructor Michele Appleby for her successful completion of the Advanced Anatomy & Physiology component of the Traditional Holistic Aromatherapy Teacher Training Program. Even though Michele has been busy teaching Holistic Foot Reflexology : and with her holistic esthetics practice, she found passion to complete A&P and is enthusiastically continuing with her next assignments. Look for a class coming soon!

Congratulations to our latest graduate from the< href=”https://schoolofct.com/career_holistic_foot_reflex.php” linktype=”link”> Holistic Foot Reflexology Training Program,Stephanie Gunning. With a busy young family, Stephanie found the time and energy to complete the course’s practicum requirements working with her family and friends. SCT’s practical examiner, < href=”https://schoolofct.com/robyn.php” linktype=”link”>Robyn Griffiths, said of Stephanie, “she is very pleasant and has a gentle touch!” Let’s hope she doesn’t just keep her skills to working with family and friends!

Big congratulations to Courtney Holmes! Courtney received certification in Nutrition 101 this April.

Good job Sue! Sue LeShien, practicing Reiki Master in Ottawa, Ontario is enrolled in the CNHP Program training with SCT Founder, Jacqueline Fairbrass. This month Sue has received certificates for Anatomy & Physiology and Nutrition 101. Her next step is Holistic Foot Reflexology, which she has taken in class with Instructor Michele Appleby. And Sue has already begun her training with Jacqueline in Traditional Holistic Aromatherapy. We’ll be seeing Sue’s name again soon!

Look out for Lori! SCT Holistic Foot ReflexologyGraduate Lori Chamberland has opened her home-clinic Reflexology practice and is at Planet Botanix in Ottawa on Friday mornings. Check out her fabulous new website www.liftstress.ca for more information on how Lori can help you “tame tension” with Reflexology and Yoga. Look out for Lori’s Success Story coming to our SCT website soon!

Apologies to Holistic Hand and Foot Reflexologist Cheryl Sandiford for getting her location wrong last month! Cheryl has a successful practice in Barry’s Bay, Ontario, not Barrie! Cheryl is certified and registered as an Holistic Foot Reflexologist, is certified in Anatomy & Physiology for Holistic Practitioners and recently added Hand Reflexology to her practice. Cheryl constantly studies and up-dates her studies and specializes in working with women and women’s health issues. If you are in the Barry’s Bay area and would like an appointment with Cheryl call 613.756.9879.

Congratulations to our newest Certified Hand Reflexologists, Joyce Fleming in Dryden, Mary Hughes in Brockville and Cheryl Sandiford in Barrie. All these Ontario students passed with flying colors! All three Foot Reflexologists have now introduced Hand Reflexology into their private practices.

Congratulations to Tanja Kisslinger of Nepean, Ontario for completing her Second Degree Reiki Training with SCT Founder, Jacqueline Fairbrass.

After many years practicing her healing arts in palliative care, retiree Tilly decided to take the plunge to go to the next level. Congratulations to Tilly Dunn for completing Advanced Tibetan Reiki Training with SCT Founder,Jacqueline Fairbrass.

SCT is proud to present Jodi Neddo, Sally Smith and Denise Mahuex with their Holistic Foot Reflexology Certificate after successfully completing the training program. We wish them all the best!

Best wishes to Tanja Kisslinger and Kathryn Graham who have achieved their Reiki Level One with SCT newest instructor Adrian McKeague. We look forward to seeing them at Reiki Level Two.

Well done to Michelle Bobay and Mardi-Lee Plomp who have successfully graduated in Crystal Reflexology.

Congratulations!! to recent graduate Tony (Mazhar Iqbal Dar). Tony graduated June 2008 from SCT’s Holistic Foot Reflexology Program. Tony keeps very busy as he owns his own grocery store and works at the Chinese Medical Centre in Ottawa. He specializes in Swedish Massage, Holistic Foot Reflexology and Chinese Penetrating Foot Massage.

Congratulations to newest graduate from the Holistic Foot Reflexology Training Program Irene McMurray. Irene studied with SCT in London Ontario Instructor Brenda Reid. Irene is practicing in London having graduated with honors after her perfect score practical examination!

Newly graduated from the Traditional Holistic Aromatherapy Training Program, Aimee Igliorte was in Ottawa in June, with baby boy Oliver. Oliver is 8 months old and bouncing around all over the place. Aimee is certainly kept on her toes! Aimee is practicing in her home town of St. John’s and is making plans for new ventures. Keep in touch to hear Aimee’s latest.

Congratulations to Barbara Power. Barbara took the Traditional Holistic Aromatherapy Training Program back in 2004 and has been busy practicing her aromatherapy massage and blending skills since then. In 2007 Barbara decided to make the commitment to re-training so she could complete her practicum, graduate and become a Certified Aromatherapy Health Therapist. This May she completed her practicum and is now a fully-fledged graduate, with a couple of years practice under her belt! She is now completing her Aromatherapy Instructor Training and will begin teaching Aromatherapy in Victoria this year. Stay tuned for Barbara’s progress.

Summer-fun continues in the Northern Hemisphere. But not for all of us…

Summer-fun Heat Rash

What about the kiddies? Babies and Young Children in the Heat

Diaper or Nappy Rash

Heat Rash

Insect Bite and Sun Burns

Something that’s been bothering me for a while is the rise of multi-level-marketing (MLM) companies selling essential oils.

Yes, that’s right, up to five times more expensive.

With the MLM company structure, the prices have to be higher.

Question

Answer

ESSENTIAL OILS TO REPEL MOSQUITOES

Treatment for Plantar Warts

Article Resources mayoclinic.com emedicalhealth.com

‘Tis the Holiday Season!

Welcome To The School Of Complementary Therapies

Article Resources
mayoclinic.com
emedicalhealth.com