About Patricia Brooks

Patricia Brooks is the founder and editor of Aromatherapy Thymes magazine, a popular e-periodical. Patricia’s passion for aromatherapy led her to launch aromatherapythymes.com in the late '90s as a resource website for consumers interested in essential oils. When response to the website was overwhelming, the magazine was a natural progression. Patricia’s unique approach to aromatherapy integrates scientific information with holistic principles, making it the perfect blend of essential oil knowledge for both the curious novice and the seasoned aromatherapy enthusiast. As an advocate and champion for small farmers and local essential oil distributors, Patricia has participated in panel discussions and workshops on essential oil safety at Whole Foods markets and other organizations in the Los Angeles area. Prior to launching Aromatherapy Thymes, Patricia worked for the renowned music producer Quincy Jones at Quincy Jones Entertainment and Qwest Records.

Essential Oil = Antiseptic

The antibacterial action of essential oils may be their most studied effect, in part because these are simple experiments to perform. Place a piece of filter paper saturated with an essential oil in the center of a petri dish and watch the growth or lack of bacteria around the paper. The larger the area where bacteria does not grow, the stronger the action of that particular essential oil inhibiting that particular strain of microbe. French scientist Dr. Paul Belaiche popularized this test, known as an aromatogram. Through extensive research, Dr. Belaiche found which oil combinations would work best against many types of infection. Many studies have shown that carvacrol, the primary molecule found in oil of oregano, has exceptionally strong antimicrobial activity. It turns out that nature has been doing a remarkable job of therapeutic blending. For example, tea tree in the forest of Tasmania defends itself against an army of various microorganisms. Oregano in the rolling hills of Tunisia is also growing in an unforgiving environment, with its own indigenous microbes. Oregano and thyme may be the best solution for a case of stubborn nail fungus, yet these oils are far too strong alone or for use on soft tissue of any kind except in diluted blends. Formulas and methods of application Tea Tree is known for its protective properties against infections, and may be hands-down the most used antiseptic essential oil. It helps with general skin infections, and will speed up the healing process. The antifungal properties of this oil work wonders to fight athlete’s foot and nail fungus. It is well documented that tea tree leaves have been used for centuries to heal wounds and with ten times the antiseptic power of phenol (a benchmark chemical used in studying antimicrobial action). Lavender often called the “medicine chest in a bottle” is the most versatile oil in use today; a known antiseptic, and antilytic, lavender is helpful when used on scrapes and wounds because of its antiseptic properties. Lavender disperses heat and inflammation and brings relief from pain, spasms, and general unrest. Eucalyptus is called “Nature’s Cure-All.” The tall, water-loving eucalyptus tree is one of the most useful trees in the world. Native to Australia, it is regarded as a ‘cure-all’ by indigenous Aborigines and it is also used in malaria-infested areas to purify the soil and air. In the early 1850s, the German botanist and explorer, Baron Ferdinand von Muller, suggested that the fragrance of the trees might prove antiseptic. Then in 1855, the French government sent seeds to Algeria to grow eucalyptus and consequently many disease-ridden areas were converted to healthy dry ones. Tip: Want to purify the air you breathe? Eucalyptus oil purifies your environment. In a diffuser it will kill germs in the air and reduce the number of airborne bacteria. Geranium with a softer aroma and gentle effect on skin, is the choice for frequent use. An antiseptic, astringent, and general tonic, geranium is traditionally indicated as a remedy [...]

2020-09-22T16:16:20-07:00By |

7 Interesting Facts About Essential Oils

1. Essential oils are not oils at all. Without having a fatty acid component, they aren’t actual oils. The emphasis should be applied on “essential,” for these oils or liquids carry the essence of the plants from which their health benefits derive. 2. Essential oils that come from wood help us go deep, they offer peace and clarity, and are often used for mediation and relaxation. i.g., Cedarwood, frankincense, rosewood, sandalwood. 3. The use of essential oils may seem trendy; however, their use can be traced back to ancient civilizations including the Chinese, Egyptian and Greek, along with recorded uses in the Bible. 4. Neroli oil (orange blossom), is one of the most expensive and precious essential oils on the market. The highest quality neroli is the sweetest. The best neroli comes from Tunisia (Africa). Neroli is a common floral base for perfume blending, found in more than 10 percent of scents sold in today’s beauty market. In her  guide for healthcare professionals  entitled “Aromatherapy Science,” author Maria Lis-Balchin calls neroli euphoric, hypnotic and an aphrodisiac. 5. Almost all essential oils are antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antispasmodic. That said, they can  be used for health, for cleaning, and when mixed with carrier oils essential oils are excellent in beauty care. 6. Tea tree oil has a strong smell, but all the qualities of this beneficial oil outweigh the aroma. There are close  to 300 varieties of Melaleuca alternifolia, but only one produces the medicinal oil. Tea tree can be used “neat” or if you have sensitive skin it should be used with a carrier oil. From skin issues to depression to cleaning your home, tea tree works. Tea tree is one of the best essential oils to always have in your home. 7. Our sense of smell is the only sense directly tied to the limbic area of the brain - the emotion and memory headquarters. So when essential oils are inhaled, they go directly to the brain. The four other senses must first travel through the thalamus before reaching the brain area.   Aromatherapy really brings all of nature to us in the best possible ways. If you take time to go eye level and inspect all botanicals you will truly see the beauty and what a benefit essentials oils are. References (3) - Aromatherapy Thymes, Introducing Tea Tree, Spring 2016 - Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press, USA, (1995). - Mojay G. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, Henry Holt and Company Inc., England, (1996). Safety Do not take any essential oils internally. Do not use essential oils undiluted on skin. Test diluted essential oils on skin area before general use. Use photosensitizing essential oils cautiously. (i.e. lemon, lime, grapefruit) Consult with a health practitioner before use if pregnant, nursing or suffering from any medical condition, or taking medication. Keep essential oils out of reach of children Do not use essential oils internally. Less is more [...]

2019-01-18T18:38:12-08:00By |

13 Important Essential Oil Properties

1. Analgesic Effect Acts to relieve pain. Essential Oils Chamomile, clary sage, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, juniper, lavender, sweet marjoram, peppermint, rosemary, sandalwood, thyme, tea tree, frankincense 2. Antibacterial Effect Agent used to disinfect surfaces and eliminate potentially harmful bacteria. Essential Oils Geranium, lavender, lemon, oregano, tea tree. Plus: bergamot, cassia, clove bud, marjoram, sweet, niaouli, palmarosa, patchouli, peppermint, pine, ravensara, sandalwood, thyme 3. Antidepressant Effect Used to prevent or alleviate depression. Essential Oils German and roman chamomile, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, jasmine absolute, lavender lemon, melissa, neroli, patchouli rose absolute, spruce, vetiver, ylang ylang 4. Anti-inflammatory Effect The property of a substance that reduces inflammation or swelling. Essential Oils Basil, beragmot, eucalyptus, clary sage, coriander, roman chamomile, cinnamon, clove, fennel, ginger, geranium,  juniper, jasmine absolute, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, melissa, sweet orange, oregano, patchouli, peppermint, rose  absolute, sandalwood, tea tree, thyme,  wintergreen,  ylang ylang 5. Antiviral Effect Medication that reduces the ability of virus to multiply and suppresses its ability to replicate. Essential Oils Bergamot, cinnamon, clary sage, clove, eucalyptus, geranium, juniper, lavender, lemongrass, melissa, neroli, rose, rosemary, tea tree, thyme 6. Aphrodisiac Effect A substance that increases libido, sexual response, and intimacy. Essential Oils Clary sage, neroli, patchouli, rosewood, sandalwood, ylang ylang Absolute Rose, jasmine 7. Astringent Effect A substance used that causes the contraction of skin cells and other body tissues. Essential Oils Cedarwood, clary sage, cypress, geranium, sandalwood, juniper, lemon, myrrh, patchouli, sandalwood 8. Digestive Effect Facilitation of the intestinal tract, reduction of gas. Essential Oils Anise, basil, fennel, ginger, grapefruit, juniper, lemon, lemongrass, mandarin, neroli, orange, roman chamomile, peppermint, rosemary, sweet marjoram, tangerine 9. Diuretic Effect Causing increased passing of urine. Essential Oils Cedarwood, caraway, cypress, eucalyptus, fennel, grapefruit, geranium, juniper, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, mandarin, patchouli, rosemary, pine 10. Expectorant Effect Promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, mostly used to treat coughs. Essential Oils Eucalyptus, cedarwood, ginger, lavender, peppermint, tea tree 11. Sedative Effect Promotes calm, or induces sleep Essential Oils Bergamot, clary sage, cedarwood, frankincense, helichrysum, lavender, neroli, patchouli, ylang ylang 12. Stimulant Effect Raises levels of physiological or nervous activity (in the body or any biological system. Essential Oils Basil, bergamot, cypress, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, lemon, sweet orange, peppermint, rosemary 13. Vulnerary Effect A substance used to heal wounds and sores. Essential Oils Bergamot, chamomile, clove, frankincense, lemon, geranium, helichrysum, lavender, myrrh, peppermint, tea tree   It’s important to note that all essential oils should be diluted with a carrier oil prior to topical application. We are told lavender and tea tree can be used “neat,” meaning without a carrier oil. Long-term use of using essential oils neat can cause dermatitis and/or sensitivity. Always be wise when using essential oils. It is highly advisable that all essential oils be used according to appropriate dilution guidelines. General Dilution: Safe dilution is 5% (5% essential oil in 95% carrier)  that is about 30 drops of an essential oil in a 1 ounce bottle of carrier oil. For full body [...]

2019-01-18T18:34:50-08:00By |

Introducing Helichrysum

Common Names Everlasting, Immortelle, Helichrysum, Curry plant There are over 600 species of flowering plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). The type species is Helichrysum orientale. The name is derived from Greek words (helisso, to turn around) and (chrysos, gold). It should be noted over 244 different species reside in South Africa, Madagascar, Australasia, and Eurasia.   Plant Part Used and Aroma Helichrysum essential oil used in aromatherapy (commonly known as immortelle) is steam distilled from the helichrysum plant (flowering petals) growing often in the mountains of Corsica, France. The oil is pale yellow, with a rich aroma similar to maple, and a mild undertone resembling a cup of steeping tea.   My Introduction to Helichrysum With a little imagination and some stretched geography one would think Rivendell Aromatics in Ojai, California was in Provence, with all the rolling hills of lavender. Thankful and grateful for an invitation, my journey to Rivendell led me to my introduction to helichrysum. While showing me the lavender farm, her home, and amicable landscape, the owner Sandy Messori also picked some helichrysum and gave me some of the plant and essential oil for my travels back to Los Angeles. I always like to smell an essential oil before I read about it. That makes it organic. I remember being excited to read more about it, to touch it and to let it touch me, and to reminisce the sensation of movement much like the rhythm of my favorite black dress dancing in the evening wind. When I do workshops on essential oils, I always ask the attendees to open the bottle of essential oil, and write down their first impression of the oil that makes it more natural to the senses. Helichrysum is exquisite and powerful. The smell is redolent, somewhat like maple. After reading about it, the spirit of this oil certainly stands up to its meaning, “gold of the sun.”   Skin Care In aromatherapy, Helichrysum italicum is the preferred essential oil for its effectiveness in skin care. Helichrysum is often used to prevent signs of aging and referred to as “The Everlasting Flower” because of its rejuvenating benefits for the skin and ability to improve the complexion instantly. The oil contains components that fight germs on the surface; therefore it helps skin stay clear and smooth. My skin has never looked better, a few drops in my hand with jojoba oil and my skin feels amazing. A mask of helichrysum essential oil and myrrh powder is my secret instant facelift. When it comes to skin care there is nothing like helichrysum and rose absolute, and what I find so valuable about both of these oils, is they both have feminine energy; nurturing the spirit, promoting inner calm, and they bring out natural beauty inside and out.   Other Uses Research has found that helichrysum reduces muscle and joint pain by improving circulation and reduces inflammation and swelling. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it an effective [...]

2019-01-22T20:43:32-08:00By |

Say Yes to Sea Salt

For your home, skin, hair and stress - sea salt is one of the best natural products.   Sea salt is salt that is produced by the evaporation of sea water. It is used as a seasoning in foods, cooking, and cosmetics. It is also called bay salt, solar salt, or salt. Like mined rock salt, production of sea salt has been dated to prehistoric times. Keep it Positive! Sea salt is excellent to help clear negative energy and is considered a symbol of purification. Sea salt can be used alone or mixed with spring water and placed in certain areas of the home. If you are adding water, just add some sea salt to a bowl filled with water. After a few hours drain the water in the washbasin, be sure to not touch the sea salt. If you prefer sea salt only - pour sea salt into a few pretty bowls around your home, and keep for up to a week, and discard. Beauty Treatment From head to toe, sea salt works wonders on your skin and hair. Sea salt is full of vitamins and minerals, which are required for providing nourishment to the skin cells. If you have acne prone skin, go for the sea salt as a pore cleanser, plus it is a natural exfoliate, leaving skin radiant and firm. It is excellent for people with oily hair because it adds volume and makes the hair softer. Brighter Teeth Means a Bigger Smile. Sea salt helps remove the stains on your teeth because it contains natural fluorine. Mix one ½ teaspoon of sea salt and ½ teaspoon of baking soda, add a few drops of water, and 1 drop of peppermint or tea tree essential oil. Rinse and smile. Say no to Stress! A sea salt bath is a perfect way to de-stress the day away. Sea salt restores balance in your body and relieves stress. All you need is 1 cup of sea salt in your bath water, and 20 minutes and the stress of the day is wiped away. Feeling fatigued? Adding sea salt to your diet refreshes your body and aids in general functioning because it is rich in electrolytes, and lastly if you suffer from insomnia, sea salt is packed with magnesium and will help you get a good night sleep. Historical Facts The Egyptians began trading salt (in the form of salted fish) to Middle Eastern societies like the Phoenicians circa 2800 BC. The Phoenicians, in turn, traded with everyone else around the Mediterranean. By 800 BC, the Phoenicians were also producing large quantities of salt from lakebeds in North Africa, and they traded it, along with salted fish, for other goods across the Mediterranean.2. Written records describe the production and trade of sea salt in China, and dates back to 1800 BC, as well. The Chinese process involved “putting ocean water in clay vessels and boiling it until reduced to pots of salt crystals.’ “The [...]

2018-11-15T18:25:28-08:00By |

Introducing Rosemary

Plant Part Used The essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the fresh flowering tops. - The main chemical components of rosemary essential oil include a-pinene, borneol, b-pinene, camphor, bornyl acetate, camphene, 1,8-cineole, and limonene. Rosemary essential oil is one of the most popular and powerful oils distilled and used. It is extracted from the herb rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). It is native to Mediterranean regions and has blue or purple flowers that give it its unique beauty. For thousands of years, rosemary has been used to soothe digestive issues, improve memory, and relieve muscle pains and aches. Rosemary essential oil is clarifying, invigorating and warming and the smell is strong and woodsy. It is a good remedy for mental fatigue and increases alertness, improves memory and acts as an all-around brain tonic. It is also useful for respiratory issues and makes a good expectorant/decongestant; a few drops on a tissue is great to open the lungs. Inhaling rosemary oil is said to lift your spirits. Emotionally and spiritually, rosemary says, "hey wake up, pay attention." If you are a student or working late, it is one of the best oils to diffuse as it increases concentration and helps in studying efficiently. Choose rosemary - because it has the ability to revive the body, mind and spirit! Recipes Diffuser Blend 7 drops rosemary - Rosmarinus officinalis 3 drops lemon - Citrus lemon 4 drops lavender - Lavandula angustifolia In diffuser, combine essential oils. Follow diffuser directions. Brightening Aromatic Spray Use this spray to invigorate and clear your mind in the morning or whenever you need a pick-me-up. The blend of essential oils is not only cephalic, but immune supporting too; consider diffusing the essential oil blend to clear the air and your mind. 2 ounce glass or PET bottle with spray top distilled water 3 drops rosemary ct cineole (Rosmarinus officinalis ct 1,8 cineole) 8 drops scots pine - Pinus sylvestris 6 drops juniper berry - Juniperus communis 6 drops Black pepper - Piper nigrum 6 drops Lemon - Citrus limon How to make: Ensure the bottle is new and/or sterilized. Add the essential oils to the bottle followed by the distilled water. Secure the spray top to the bottle and label appropriately. How to use: Shake vigorously each time before using to disperse the essential oils. Use daily or as needed. Keep your eyes closed when misting your face.  Rosemary and Lemon Reach for this blend when you need an instant pick-me up! 2 drops rosemary - Rosmarinus officinalis 3 drops lemon - Citrus lemon Rosemary and Lavender Reach for this blend if you are having trouble living in the moment. Find contentment! 3 drops cypress - Cupressus sempervirens 4 drops lavender - Lavandula angustifolia Hair and Scalp Oil Rosemary is one of the best essential oils for the hair. 4 ounces jojoba oil 22 drops rosemary - Rosmarinus officinalis 22 drops tea tree - Melaleuca alternifolia Blend ingredients and store in a bottle. [...]

2018-11-15T18:14:55-08:00By |

Fall Essential Oils and Your Health

A season of transition from hot to cool can have many changes in the body and spirit. These oils can help keep you in step on many different levels.  Eucalyptus Latin name: Eucalyptus globulus One of the most universal and versatile of essential oils. Some of its many uses include analgesic, antiseptic, deodorant and expectorant. The active therapeutic and principal constituent of the medicinal oil is 1.8-cineole. Eucalyptus has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and therefore should assist those suffering from depression and lethargy. Known as a stimulating expectorant due to its invigorating action on the mucus membranes, it is widely considered an effective remedy for respiratory ills. Additionally, eucalyptus is used to relieve muscular aches and pains. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, eucalyptus essential oil can treat colds - add a few drops of the oil to hot water and inhale the steam. Alternatively, add a few drops to your pillow to ensure a good night’s sleep if you are troubled with congestion, it is an exceptional remedy for clearing phlegm from the lungs. Peppermint Latin Name: Mentha x piperita From childhood we’re all familiar with the uplifting and refreshing scent of peppermint. The oil is considered one of the most important massage oils for its ability to increase circulation and penetrate deep within the tissues to produce a warm stimulating effect on the body. When rubbed over the abdomen it relaxes the muscles and helps in the digestion of heavy meals. It is an antiseptic and extremely effective in reducing cramping, nausea and specific disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome. Many bacterial and viral infections are destroyed by it. Research is showing that peppermint plays a vital role within the respiratory system to manage conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. Lemon Latin name: Citrus limon The therapeutic benefits of this incredible oil has touched every part of the world. Lemon is recognized universally as an antiseptic and antibacterial. Lemon is known to stimulate the lymphatic and digestive system and can be effective for throat infections, and colds. With a light, sweet citrus aroma and being easily detected this powerful essential oil is antimicrobial and a wonderful natural diuretic. One of the best oils in skin care, lemon is detoxifying and is therefore great for blemishes (use with carrier oil). Writing in her 1931 book on herbal medicine, Maude Grieve says, “The lemon is the most valuable of all fruit for preserving health.” Diffusing lemon essential oil is one of the best ways to bring the sunshine in your home. Try it this fall! Recipe Eucalyptus Tea 2 cups water 1 teaspoon organic eucalyptus leaves Place a pot with water and bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and let them steep for  15 minutes. Sweeten with honey. You can also add fresh lemon juice. Benefits of Eucalyptus Tea - Tea prepared from the eucalyptus leaves is an ideal drink for boosting the immune system - Treats symptoms of the common [...]

2018-11-15T17:01:40-08:00By |

What’s Beneficial in an Orange?

“A man ought to carry himself in the world as an orange tree would if it could walk up and down in the garden, swinging perfume from every little censer it holds up to the air.” - Henry Ward Beecher   Oranges make a healthy and refreshing snack. They are loaded with vitamin C and are relatively low in calories. The vitamin C in oranges is an important antioxidant. It is also vital in keeping your immune system healthy. It helps to neutralize pollutants, plays a role in antibody production, and boosts the absorption of nutrients. One medium size orange contains about 82.7 milligrams of vitamin C. What Other Vitamins Are in Oranges? Vitamin A Vitamin A aids in cell reproduction. It stimulates immunity and hormone development and promotes bone growth and tooth development. Vitamin A also helps healthy skin, healthy hair and vision. A medium size orange contains 269 IU of vitamin A. B1 (Thiamin) Oranges are a good source of Vitamin B1, which is also known as thiamine. B1 helps your body convert blood sugar into energy. It is also instrumental in maintaining the health of the following bodily systems and functions: cardiovascular system, muscular function and the nervous system. A medium size orange contains 9.17 milligrams of vitamin B1. Dietary Fiber Oranges are also a good source of dietary fiber. An average orange provides 28 percent of the RDA of dietary fiber. Soluble fiber is instrumental in promoting good cardiovascular health. Folic Acid Oranges are a good source of folic acid, which is the naturally-occurring form of vitamin B9. Folic acid facilitates the making of protein, red blood cells and DNA, the carrier of your genetic identity. One cup of orange juice holds about 80 milligrams. Niacin Aids in proper blood circulation and promotes skin health. This vitamin supports nervous system function and helps your body metabolize proteins and fats. A medium orange contains about 0.6 milligrams of niacin. Minerals found in Oranges Magnesium Is necessary for healthy bones and developing new cells. It is also needed for insulin secretion and function and helps with the absorption of calcium, vitamin C and potassium. One cup of fresh orange juice contains 27.28 milligrams of magnesium. Phosphorus Along with calcium, phosphorus is needed for the development of healthy bones, teeth and nerve cells. 40 milligrams of phosphorus is in an 8-ounce glass of fresh orange juice.  Potassium Is a mineral, the right balance of potassium and sodium properly conducts electricity in your body, which maintains the health of your cells and enables them to work properly. A 6-ounce serving of orange juice contains 332 milligrams of potassium. Trace Minerals Found in Oranges Copper, Iron, Manganese, and Zinc are also in oranges. It has always been said that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. This seems to be also true of oranges. However, you choose to enjoy this healthy snack, be it eating an orange or drinking a fresh glass of orange juice, [...]

2020-09-28T16:35:56-07:00By |

Top Note Essential Oils

Change Your Mood with Essential Oils!   TOP NOTES: Tend to be light, fresh and uplifting in nature and evaporate fast. Are usually derived from flowers, flowering herbs, leaves and citrus fruit. Are highly volatile, fast acting, give the first impression of the blend and are not very long lasting.   Essential Oils: *Sweet Basil Ocimum basilicum ct linalool - Herbaceous, - Natural Muscle Relaxer Bergamot Citrus bergamia - Fresh, Fruity, - Eases Mental Stress Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus - Camphoraceous - Brings Harmony Grapefruit Citrus paradisi - Citrus, Fruity - Promotes Clarity Lemon Citrus limon - Citrus Fruity - Promotes Happy Thoughts *Lemongrass Cymbopogon citratus - Fresh, Sweet - Purifies the Mind and Spirit Lime Citrus aurantifolia - Citrus, Fruity - Renews the Spirit *Neroli Citrus aurantium var amara - Sweet, Floral - Promotes Happy Thoughts Sweet Orange Citrus sinensis - Citrus, Fruity - Brings Balance and Clarity Peppermint Mentha x piperita - Camphoraceous, Minty - Clears the Mind Pine Pinus sylvestris - Earthy, Fresh - Refreshes the Spirit Spearmint Mentha spicata - Fresh, Minty - Helps Bring Balance Tangerine Citrus reticulata - Citrus, Fruity - Promotes Happiness and Joy *Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia - Medicinal - Eases Mental Stress   *Sweet Basil, lemongrass, neroli, tea tree = Middle/Top Notes Citrus top note essential oils are phototoxic. Top note essential oils will oxide, store in a cool, dark place to maximize shelf life. -  Please note this list is not a complete list.  Safety - Do not take any essential oils internally. - Do not use essential oils undiluted on skin. - Test diluted essential oils on skin area before general use. - Use photosensitizing essential oils cautiously. (i.e. lemon, lime, grapefruit) - Consult with a health practitioner before use if pregnant, nursing, suffering from any medical condition, or taking medication. - Keep essential oils out of reach of children - Do not use essential oils internally. - Less is more - don't overuse essential oils. References (4) 1. Valerie Ann Worwood, The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, 1991 2. Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press, USA, 1995 3. Mojay G. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, Henry Holt and Company Inc.,England, 1996 4. Tisserand R. The Art of Aromatherapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1977 Aromatherapy Thymes magazine at barnesandnoble.com  http://instagram.com/aromatherapythymesmag http://twitter.com/atmagazine

2018-09-18T12:44:26-07:00By |

Why We All Need Patchouli!

All You Need to Know About Patchouli!   Aroma: earthy, sweet, woody About the Name: the name patchouli comes from a Tamil word, paccilai, meaning “green leaf.”   The smell of patchouli is strongly associated with the “hippie” crowd of the 60s when it was used to evoke a mood of warmth, togetherness, and a more organic lifestyle. It has a distinctively sweet and earthy smell that is long-lasting and unlike other essential oils, patchouli actually improves with age. In aromatherapy, patchouli is considered a great balancing and grounding oil. Its effect on the emotions helps relieve depression, anxiety, and banishes lethargy. It slows the mind and stops negative thoughts, therefore ushering in positive ones. You don't need a lot of this oil, a few drops go a long way. Patchouli at bedtime helps with insomnia. If you are looking to relax after a long day and want to try something different from lavender, try patchouli. Patchouli has so many positive benefits - this oil was created to keep you full of joy. Many complain about the smell, but if you can get past the smell, patchouli is said to be an oil of prosperity and abundance. Keep it handy as it has magical powers. All hail patchouli! Blends Well With: Bergamot, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, rose absolute, sweet orange “Patchouli has always been a part of my fragrance, like a line through my life.” Julia Roberts   Quick Tips: - For skin support apply 3 drops with gentle massage for that glow! - Add to your hair products for healthier hair. - For emotional support/perfume, apply topically using 4-5 drops in about 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil and rub on your wrist or the back of the neck.   Safety - Do not take any essential oils internally. - Do not use essential oils undiluted on skin. - Test diluted essential oils on skin area before general use. - Use photosensitizing essential oils cautiously. (i.e. lemon, lime, grapefruit) - Consult with a health practitioner before use if pregnant, nursing, suffering from any medical condition, or taking medication. - Keep essential oils out of reach of children - Do not use essential oils internally. - Less is more - don't overuse essential oils. References (3) 1. Valerie Ann Worwood, The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, 1991 2. Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press, USA, 1995 3. Mojay G. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, Henry Holt and Company Inc., England, 1996 Aromatherapy Thymes magazine at barnesandnoble.com  http://instagram.com/aromatherapythymesmag http://twitter.com/atmagazine

2018-09-13T17:26:41-07:00By |

Are You Using Your Words Wisely?

Words Matter   Words. So often, we just blurt them out and within a few moments we think, wow, I could have used a better word or said that differently. Also, the response from the receiver of the words will make you ponder or look baffled by what was said. When you start to become aware of the words you consciously choose to use, they become more positive. It is so important to take your time to hear your words, so say them slowly and softly. Words reflect our inner spirit and heal or hurt, create life or destroy life. Positive words can make a huge difference in our relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and everyone you encounter; a positive attitude is contagious! It is important to really understand the words you use. We say words without knowing their true meaning. There are some really cool dictionary applications. Download one on your Smartphone. It is actually fun to learn new words, and the correct pronunciation and origin. When we understand the power of words and realize that we can choose what we think and speak, our lives can be transformed. What we say not only affects others, but it also affects us. Start living and giving by the words you say to yourself and to others. A word journal is a good way to end each day, see how your life becomes every word you say to yourself, or give out; it can help you stay on a positive road which can only lead to a life of joy. Pick a word today, give it out proudly and see what it gives back to you. I am sure you have heard the saying, “You are going to eat those words.” It may sound like a mere phrase to us, but in reality we do eat our words. “Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with shades of deeper meaning.” ― Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

2018-09-07T19:25:30-07:00By |

Words You Need to Know When Using Essential Oils

All You Need To Know About Aromatherapy   This glossary gives a brief description of popular words used in aromatherapy. Also most of these words are on the bottles of essential oils. Others are important to know because they are often mentioned when reading about essential oils. Absolute Indicates a practice of using solvents or chemicals to extract essential oils from plants, where as authentic aromatherapy uses natural methods such as steam distillation, cold press or extraction by soaking plant petals in natural base oils like olive oil. Examples of absolutes are: jasmine, rose, vanilla. Aromatherapy The art and science of using essential oils for their therapeutic, emotional, physiological and aesthetic attributes and benefits. Base notes One-third of the scale method (top, middle, base) of identifying the evaporation and stability rate of essential oils. The fragrance from base (ex: patchouli, myrrh) notes linger in the air the longest. Botanical names Usually a Latin nomenclature method to classify species of plants that share a similar structure, characteristic, origin, behavior and ancestry. More times than not the names will be used in italic. Bulking Is a cost reducing post distillation procedure of combining oil from one species with another, usually by vaporizing and then condensing the synthesized oils in a large vessel called a still. Carrier oils As the name implies, carrier oils assist in the delivery, transport and absorption rate of essential oils. They play a vital role in how fast or slow an essential oil will release its therapeutic volatile oils. Cold pressed We are familiar with manual or cold pressed extraction, which is probably the first process used to get oil from fruit rinds and flowers. In citrus, the volatile oils are near the surface and tight squeezing is enough to capture the essential oil. Diffuser There are many different types of diffusers. In many ways an ancient incense burner uses the same process. Oils are placed inside a secure vessel, large or small, then fire is used to either heat water to produce steam aroma or the fire is placed directly below the chosen oil. Effleurage A steam distillation process that uses essential oils to saturate purified fat that is placed on a glass surface. This is the original procedure for making pomades. Essential oils Essential oils are complex volatile oil essences that are extracted and released from plants, flowers, bark, citrus rinds and other natural plant sources and is the foundation of aromatherapy. Extenders A procedure that some distillers and manufacturers use to increase the volume of their essential oil supply. It is not uncommon for this type of method to adulterate authentic oils and make them less therapeutic, but it is becoming a moribund practice in the industry. Extraction Refers to the variety of methods (distillation, cold pressed, solvent, effleurage) used to release essential oil from plants. Floral water Another name for floral water is hydrosol. It refers to the aromatic water that remains after steam or cold press distillation of [...]

2018-08-31T18:00:13-07:00By |

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