The Power of Aromatherapy
Have you ever been in a eucalyptus grove or in the pine forest of a mountain? Did you notice how refreshing the air was? In each of these instances, the trees gave off aromatic components that had the effect of ionizing the air about them. That's right! Certain essential oils have the effect of ionizing and refreshing the air. That's why in many hospitals throughout Europe, especially in France, an aromatherapy diffuser is used to disinfect and clean the air. It should be noted that European hospitals using this means of air purification do not have problems with the airborne staph bacteria that are rampant in many American hospitals. EO's are well documented as to the effect they render on bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds and other germs, as well as the cleansing effect they have upon the air.

Essential oils have a specific affinity for the nerve tissues of the body. The most immediate point of nerve contact is that of the olfactory membranes located in the sinus cavity. These membranes contain the nerve endings which are responsible for the sense of smell. These nerves connect directly to a part of our brain known as the olfactory bulb, which has direct connections to many other areas of the mind.

One of these connections is to the hypothalamus, the stalk of the brain that controls the pituitary gland, which controls, in turn, the rest of the glandular system. Thus, aromatherapy is being shown to have a powerful impact on our endocrine system. Aromatherapy oils can relieve menstrual irregularities, enhance energy and even sexual desire.

The sense of smell is also intimately connected to that part of the brain called the limbic area, the area of memory. The limbic area deals with responses like fight or flight, pain and pleasure and perceptions of bad and good. Here we see that the sense of smell also has an immediate and powerful impact on both memory and emotion. Perhaps this is why we say, "the nose knows."

Choosing Essential Oils
As the molecules which make up an essential oilmake contact with the olfactory nerves there is a distinct neurochemical response that takes place in the brain. This response almost always results in an immediate memory reflex throughout the body, which is usually felt most strongly in the solar plexus. This solar plexus response will usually be either a relaxed, calm, settled sensation or a tense, uptight, squeezing feeling. This is the first indicator of whether a particular essential oil or aromatherapy blend is compatible with the body (and the emotions) at that point in time. Tension indicates the oil is having a negative impact, while relaxation suggests a positive one.

The smell and taste approach to determining which EO's to use or recommend is also quite effective. In aromatherapy the premise is: "If it smells or tastes good to someone that person's body needs it. If it smells or tastes bad then the body doesn't need it.” The body is designed so that generally bad aroma and taste is a warning-stay away. Pleasant fragrances are usually associated with influences which are vitalizing and replenishing and have positive influences on the body and nerves. Likewise, decay and petrifacation give off foul odors, warning us to "stay away”.

Applications:

• Massage: Mix approximately 7-15 drops of essential oil with one tablespoon of Massage Oil and apply amount desired for massage.
• Diffusion: Place 10-25 drops of undiluted essential oil in diffuser.
• Cooling: Add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel to 7-15 drops of a "cooling" essential oil like lavender. Mix well.
• Compress: Add 4-6 drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot or cold water. Soak small towel and squeeze out excess water. Apply to affected area.
• Bath: Draw bath, then add 10 drops of essential oil. Agitate water in a figure-eight motion. If desired, add 1 teaspoon Nature's Sunshine Concentrate as water is running. Soak for 15 minutes. Try a sitz bath with just enough water to cover lower body and add 5 drops of essential oil.
• Shower: Put 1-2 drops of essential oil on a washcloth and rub body with it while showering.
• Inhalation: Place 6-8 drops of essential oil in a bowl of hot water. Place a towel over your head, lean over bowl and inhale for five minutes. Be careful not to let essential oil irritate eyes. You may also inhale oils directly from the bottle.
• Vaporization: Add 10-20 drops of undiluted essential oil to the water unit of a vaporizer or humidifier.
• Gargles and Mouthwashes: Add 3 drops of essential oil to 1 teaspoon of water, mix and gargle.
• Hot tub: Add 10 drops of essential oil to water.
• Household: Add a few drops of essential oil to a dishwasher or washing machine to promote hygiene and aroma freshness. For general household use, add 10 drops to a bucket of warm water. If desired, add Nature's Sunshine Concentrate.