Healing powers of essential oils. Fundamentals of Modern Aromatherapy

Essential oils are a topic that is gaining more and more popularity. last years There is growing interest in the use of natural substances in various areas of life. They are odorous products of the secondary metabolism of plants, have wide application in folk medicine Food Industry as fragrances, in the cosmetic and perfume industry, many are confident in their magical properties.

In this article we will study the most interesting, mysterious and even magical properties essential oils, their areas of application, and for ease of perception, some of the information will be summarized in tables.

Varieties of essential oils

Antimicrobial and antibacterial capabilities have been known to mankind for thousands of years. essential oils. Even in the Bible there are references to such essential oils as laurel, myrtle, frankincense, sandalwood. They are also mentioned in the works of the great healers of the past Hippocrates and Avicenna.

In the last decade alone, more than 500 studies have been conducted on the properties and applications of essential oils, aromatherapy, their results have been published, systematized in tables and are available for study by everyone.

So what are the types of oils?

According to the method of extraction

Without identifying the main varieties and subspecies, it makes no sense to study such an extensive issue as essential oils: properties and applications. The table below shows their varieties by extraction method.

Loot source	Oil variety
Berry	Cloves, allspice, juniper.
Wood	Camphor, sandalwood, rosewood.
seeds	Nutmeg, sandalwood, anise, celery, cumin.
Bark	Cinnamon, cassia (Chinese cinnamon), a relative of laurel sassafras.
rhizomes	Ginger, Potentilla erect (galangal).
Resin	Myrrh, frankincense, styrax wood, benzoin.
Root	Valerian.
Leaves	Laurel, basil, sage, eucalyptus, patchouli, pine, mint, thyme, rosemary, lemongrass, cinnamon, tea tree, oregano, buchu.
Peel	Orange, tangerine, lemon, grapefruit, lime, bergamot.
inflorescences	Orange, Clary Sage, Chamomile, Hemp, Jasmine, Hops, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Marjoram, Damask Rose.

Advice! Note that the same plant can produce different kinds oils such as sandalwood. Add just a few drops of it to a tablespoon olive oil and rub into the skin with massage movements. This mixture has wonderful anti-aging properties.

distillation (from leaves and bark) - separation into fractions and evaporation of the liquid component;
extraction (from inflorescences, petals and roots). In special extractors, raw materials are combined with a special extractant substance, which is then removed, leaving a pure, high-quality essential oil;
pressing (from the peel and fruits) - mechanical extraction.

It has been noticed that the smells of certain herbs, flowers and seeds relieve fatigue, the consequences of stressful situations and neuroses. There are fragrances to awaken passion, cheer up, fight fear. And there are essential oils that have their own magic (they are also present in our table), their properties and scope are more unique, they are used to restore such subtle matter, like an aura, in case of damage caused by someone else's ill will and envy.

Advice! Drop just a couple of drops of chamomile oil on a table lamp, and soon a wonderful rich aroma will spread around the room, giving a feeling of peace, conducive to reflection and meditation.

Medicinal and cosmetic properties

Spectrum biological activity essential oils is very wide. Some of them are excellent antispasmodics, relieve headache, others are antiseptics, they are recommended for treating wounds and cuts of the skin, there are oils to soothe and, conversely, excite the nervous system, stimulate mental activity.

However, almost all of them are strong drugs, capable of providing both help and harm, with fuzzy adherence to recommendations for use. Therefore, a thorough and methodical study requires such a question as essential oils: properties and applications. The table below will help make this difficult task easier (positions marked with an "*" should not be used in the sun).

Advice! After cutting, apply diluted lavender oil. You will be pleasantly surprised by the speed of wound healing.

Features of the use of essential oils

The easiest way to make an essential oil safe to use is to dilute it with water. During cosmetic and medical procedures most often it is necessary to mix the oil with a base, which can be milk, honey, wax, cream, lotion, but most often it is another transport oil. They are called a number of vegetable oils that have both solid (shea butter) and liquid textures (olive, sea buckthorn, coconut, almond and others). The purpose of the carrier oil is to allow the essential oil to penetrate into skin to provide a therapeutic effect.

Advice!To avoid burns, do not use pure undiluted essential oils, especially for children, unless otherwise indicated in the instructions for use. Also refrain from aromatherapy for pregnant women and allergy sufferers.

Most often, essential oils are used for the following procedures:

baths and baths;
massages;
inhalation;
compresses;
improvement and enrichment of cosmetic preparations;
aromatherapy with lamps and stones;
aroma coulombs.

There is a special magic in the properties of essential oils, so that their use does not turn into harm, use the dosage table.

Let's take a closer look at the most common uses for essential oils.

Baths and baths

To relieve stress and create a pleasantly relaxed state, use sandalwood, lavender, geranium or rose oil. After hard work in the gym, tense muscles also need relaxation, for this purpose, use juniper or verbena oil. Cure the beginning of a cold will help lemon or pine oil.

When mixed, the properties and characteristics of essential oils open up new facets. Using them according to the schemes given in the table, you will achieve an excellent cosmetic effect.

Description of the problem	Oils used
Being overweight	Mix a few drops (no more than 5) oils: nutmeg, pine, rosemary, juniper, tangerine, lemongrass. Prepare a mixture of 5 drops of juniper and no more than 2 drops of lemon, cypress, orange.
"Orange" peel (cellulite)	Prepare a mixture of oils of juniper, grapefruit (3 drops each), lemon (4 drops), pine (5 drops). Mix the following oils: orange, tangerine (3 drops each), rosemary (4 drops), bergamot (5 drops). Take 6 drops each of neroli, sandalwood and limmet.
Stretch marks	At your choice, mix a few drops (no more than 5 each) of the following oils: rosemary, grapefruit, geranium, frankincense, mint, hyssop, neroli, fennel, tea tree.

Rules for compiling aromatic baths:

Scrub the skin with a hard sponge.
Water should not be too hot, optimally up to 38C.
The base for the mixture can be kefir, whey, natural sea salt, honey, any transport oil, milk.
Do not use shampoos, shower gels, lotions, etc. while taking an aroma bath. cosmetics.
The duration of the aroma bath should not exceed 25 minutes, the procedure is carried out no more than three times a week.
After you have finished taking the aroma bath, let your body dry. naturally should not be wiped dry with a towel.

In a bath or sauna, it is recommended to add essential oil directly to a bucket of water, which is then poured onto hot stones. For these purposes, usually any coniferous oils are used, if desired, by mixing the essential and transport oils, you can moisten the brooms.

Massage with essential oil

Massage is undoubtedly useful for getting rid of many health problems, maintaining a figure, eliminating cellulite, treating after various types of injuries, essential oils will help enhance its effect. Moreover, depending on the selected component, its effect will also differ.

Advice!Take clove essential oil with you to a massage session, it will increase blood circulation and speed up the warm-up process, orange oil will help in the breakdown of fatty tissues, sandalwood has a lifting effect, and oil nutmeg relieve rheumatic pains.

Rules for massages using essential oils:

When choosing an oil for a massage session, evaluate not only it therapeutic properties, but also the smell, it should be pleasant to you, not irritate and not cause unpleasant associations.
After completing a massage session, spend about a quarter of an hour in a relaxed atmosphere, do not immediately run outside to meet new business and problems.
During massage with essential oils, preference is given to soft circular movements.
For compiling massage mixture use a few drops of essential oil (no more than 5) and 1 tablespoon of base oil, olive, almond, coconut, apricot can act as it.

Inhalation

A common, recognized and popular method of treating colds is inhalation. This procedure improves drainage function body, reduces inflammatory process, reduces puffiness, improves blood flow to the mucous membrane.

Prophylactic inhalations have the following properties:

stimulation of local and general immunity;
improvement of the psycho-emotional state;
stimulation of mental activity;
uplifting mood;
antibacterial, antiviral effects;
acceleration of regeneration.

Inhalations are of two types:

Cold, when the essential oil is dripped onto the corner of the pillow, a napkin, a cloth, and the inhalation process itself is carried out by inhaling the released aroma. The duration of the procedure is no more than 5 minutes.
Hot, using a special device - an inhaler. A few drops of the selected essential oil are dripped into a special container filled with hot water, after which it is necessary to inhale the released steam, covering yourself with a towel and closing your eyes.

Advice! If the child refuses to carry out the hot inhalation procedure, drop 1-2 drops of essential oil on the corner of the pillow.

Aroma stones and lamps

With the help of aroma lamps and stones, disinfection and aromatization of premises is carried out. The first is a ceramic bowl heated by a candle flame into which water and a few drops of one or more essential oils are added. Rocks with a porous structure, such as peat or sandstone, are used as aroma stones, they are able to simultaneously serve as flavors and decorate the interior.

The room must be well ventilated before aromatization; for each type of room, mixtures with certain properties are used:

for the bedroom - sensual, harmonizing and soothing;
for the office - stimulating, strengthening, invigorating;

for the child's room, where harmony should reign and good mood- harmonizing, soothing, cleansing.

Advice! Do not forget that the process of aromatization of rooms should not be endless, its recommended duration is from a quarter of an hour to 120 minutes.

Enrichment of cosmetics

Essential oils are also widely used in the cosmetic field, they are used to enrich care products, adding useful properties to them.

Advice! Give a "new" life to an unused cream by enriching it with essential oil.

Essential oils are added to the following cosmetics:

Cream (no more than 15 drops per 150 g);
Shampoo (no more than 30 drops per 250-300 ml bottle);
Face and body masks (no more than 10 drops per serving);
Water for steaming the face, baths for hands or feet (a few drops per bowl).
To create compositions with enhanced properties, it is recommended to mix and apply different types of essential oils. The table below shows their compatibility.

The healing power of herbs and flowers of many plants has long been known. Fragrant essential oils are produced from fruits, flowers, leaves. Even the ancient Egyptians used fragrances for cooking, disinfecting rooms and filling boudoirs with incense. And from the 12th century they began to use it in Europe.

Essential oils prepared from herbs help the body to establish the process of self-regulation without disturbing the harmony in the work of organs. They help maintain health, youth and beauty. Often we use them without even knowing it. They are just part of the human body- These are shampoos, perfumes, creams, lotions, toilet water and even detergents.
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Use of essential oils

Natural products have found application in cosmetology, medicine, and cooking.

The medicine

Essential oils are harmless, have no side effects, act on the body gently and gradually. In addition, they go well with chemicals and even help the body. the best way absorb medicines. Natural products have been used in medicine due to their useful qualities as: antiviral, antimicrobial, analgesic effect on the body. In addition, they help with allergies, and regenerative properties are used in the treatment of cuts, burns, and bruises.

A beneficial effect on the psyche has been revealed: they normalize sleep, stability, increase concentration, perseverance, performance, and creativity.

Cosmetology

Essential oils have a positive effect on the condition of the body, face, hair, nails, hands. Certain natural products have become popular due to their anti-aging effect and anti-cellulite effect.

Varieties of essential oils

According to the type of raw material, several types are distinguished:

citrus fruits: orange, tangerine, grapefruit, lemon;
woody: cedar, pine, spruce;
herbal: rosemary, mint;
floral: chamomile, lavender;
spicy: cinnamon, ginger;
exotic: ylang-ylang, patchouli;
resinous: myrtle, fir.

In addition, essential oils are divided according to the time of evaporation of the smell: light ones disappear in half an hour (mint, all citrus fruits), medium ones keep the smell for an hour (melissa, fir), and heavy ones evaporate in 2-6 hours (cedar, jasmine).

Useful properties of aromas

Aromatherapy professionals approach each patient individually, finding out what smells he likes, and others cause discomfort. This makes it easier to find out aromas that can help the patient overcome ailments faster. Aromatherapy works well. The slow accumulation of aromas in the body due to small doses does not cause an overdose. And with regular intake, it sets up the body for self-healing and self-regulation.

Bactericidal and antiviral effects

The phenol, terpene, alcohol that are part of the oils are able to suppress harmful bacteria. This effect is exerted by the esters of nayoli, tea tree, thyme, kayapute, cedar, eucalyptus, pine, ginger, spruce, nutmeg.

Ketones and aldehydes present in aromas act on viruses. This distinguishes the aromas of geranium, bergamot, mint, ylang-ylang, lemon, fennel, lemon balm.

disinfecting effect

It is provided by alcohol, phenol, terpene. The best disinfecting effect is seen in the aromas of lemongrass, cloves, thyme, cinnamon, rosemary, citronella.

Anti-inflammatory effect aroma components have on the vessels, improving their condition and oxygen metabolism, stimulating the recovery process, removing swelling. Acute inflammation will help remove the esters of clove, thyme, basil, nutmeg, sage, juniper, clove, bergamot, lemongrass, citronella. With sluggish inflammation, it is recommended to take anise oils, rosewood, geraniums, verbena, myrtle, nutmeg, oregano, pine, spruce, marjoram, hyssop. At chronic diseases recommend using the aromas of orange, sandalwood, neroli, lemon, grapefruit, incense, ylang-ylang.

Antioxidant effect

It is due to the chemical composition natural products. Researchers have proven that by adding anise, geranium, lavender, vetiver, jasmine, rose, neroli, rosewood, sandalwood, frankincense, fennel, myrrh, and lime ester to facial cosmetics, the rejuvenation effect is increased by 3-4 times.

Stimulation of immunity

It is increased by esters of bergamot, geranium, ylang, valerian, grapefruit, hyssop, cedar, palm, lavender, rose and juniper, pine, sage, neroli, petitgrain.

Action on the nervous system

To relieve irritation and overexcitation, use the oil of lemon balm, neroli, sage, lemon, rosemary, juniper, mint, spruce, pine, cajuput.

Biomassage to improve blood circulation

It is carried out with aromas. For a warming massage, esters of cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary, and sage are used. And for a cooling aroma - incense, myrrh, mint, lavender.

Cosmetic impact

Removal of inflammation, restoration and regeneration of the skin, nails, hair is achieved with the help of esters of rose, jasmine, neroli, chamomile, sandalwood, rosewood.

For problems with the hair, ethers of cedar, pine, thyme, frankincense, bay are used.

For normal state nail aromas of pine, lemons, ylang-ylang are useful.

Application methods

Using beneficial features essential oils, developed various ways their applications.

Aromatherapy: performed to relieve mental and emotional states, when using special lamps, you can disinfect the room with the scent of fir.
Inhalation: performed for treatment respiratory tract.
Rubbing: used to relieve muscle pain. For example, a massage sea buckthorn oil relieves the injured area.
Compress: used to reduce fever, tissue regeneration in wounds and burns.
When adding a couple of drops to a cream or lotion, the beneficial effect on the skin increases. Bergamot will help with dry skin, patchouli will help with oily skin.
Drops of fragrance on the comb will help solve problems with hair: dandruff, hair loss. For beautiful and healthy hair apply.

Cautions

Most oils are highly concentrated and cannot be applied to the skin without dilution (except lavender ether, tea tree). They are recommended to be mixed with any base: olive, jojoba, sweet almond and others.

Remember, any oil must first be tested for allergies!

Fragrances contraindications

Cannot be used in case of individual intolerance.

Harmful for pregnant women, whose sense of smell is exacerbated during this period.

The beauty of the body and self-confidence will be supported and preserved.

ATTENTION:

Recipes traditional medicine most often used in combination with conventional treatment or as an adjunct to traditional treatment. Any recipe is good after consultation with a specialist.

Do not self-medicate!

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From the book of the Orthodox doctor and psychologist K.V. Zorina health without magic. The Orthodox doctor answers the readers.
Medical science and practice do not reject the unique positive experience of folk healing. Biologically active ingredients many medicinal herbs and roots are natural essential oils. They also have an excellent health and hygienic effect. In the 20th century, scientists learned how to isolate essential oils in a concentrated form. This greatly facilitated the work with essential oil plants.
Let's say, what's the point now of applying clove buds to an aching tooth or laying them around to repel mosquitoes? Isn't it easier to take ready-made clove oil?
Based on the richest data of traditional medicine, aromatherapy offers natural and available ways treatment of diseases and promotion of health. Old recommendations take on a new meaning. Approaches remain the same, and technologies are improved.

General principles

The importance of essential oils increases especially in our days, when the psychological atmosphere is deteriorating sharply, ecological situation and geomagnetic conditions. Increasingly, we are in conflict, experiencing stress, nervous and physical overload, less and less rest on fresh air, we do less and less exercise. A citizen big city breathes fumes, chemicals, exhaust fumes, synthetic fragrances and perfumes. He suffers from the frantic rhythms of civilization, abnormal pace of life, extinction and destruction. forest areas, rising greenhouse effect, appearance ozone holes and magnetic storms.
Living in such an artificially created world, we maintain our health in an artificial way. A city dweller cut off from nature and imprisoned in the "stone jungle" is a potentially sick person.

Most reliable way escape from the catastrophic onslaught of civilization - to be closer to nature and its Creator. But, alas, it is not always possible to go out into nature, and then it remains to “invite” her to your “guest”. In this plan natural healing plant aromas, primarily consecrated in the Church, are indispensable. By the grace of God, they at least partially compensate for what we have lost, restore the inner balance and vigor that our ancestors had due to communion with nature. Experts compare the role of essential oils with the functions of some vitamins, hormones, enzymes and other biologically active compounds. There is logic here. Aromatic substances, firstly, protect plants from harmful microbes, insects and adverse environmental conditions (overheating, hypothermia, etc.), and secondly, they regulate physiological processes(for example, they attract insects for pollination).
Since for thousands of years people have lived in close contact with the plant world, we depend on each other. The complete absence or deficiency of aromatic substances in the inhaled air causes malfunctions in the functioning of various organs in animals and humans, followed by the development of somatic and mental disorders. Foreign and domestic researchers believe that to maintain health, a person should receive 3-4 mg of essential oils daily (Soldatchenko S.S., Kashchenko G.F. Prevention and treatment of diseases with essential oils. - Stavropol: Atlant, 1998. - P. 10 )

The rapid development of organic and inorganic chemistry led to the creation of a large number of medicinal substances. The natural resources bestowed by nature were undeservedly forgotten. However, the euphoria from the variety of synthetic medicines gradually gave way to disappointment and fear in front of them. terrible complications and side effects. That is why people again remembered natural medicines and, comparing them with modern drugs found many advantages in them.
Indeed, in some cases, essential oils are as effective as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Science has proven the ability of essential oils to stimulate the immune system and kill resistant forms of microbes that are resistant to antibiotics. Unlike the latter, oils do not act on the principle of "scorched earth" and do not suppress the beneficial flora of the body. It is noticed that the use of essential oils in combination with antibiotics increases the results of treatment by 4-10 times. (Soldatchenko S.S., Nikolaevsky V.V., Kirolenko E.S. and others. Essential oils are the oldest remedy. - Stavropol: Tavrida, 1995. - P.12)

Herbal aromas normalize metabolism, increase mental and physical performance, weaken the effect of radiation and some toxic substances, delay aging and at the same time are not addictive. Aromas help to cope with fatigue, nervous tension, anxieties and fears that are filled with modern world. The versatility of the healing properties of essential oils allows them to be used in the treatment of a variety of diseases, and the treatment makes it easier and more enjoyable.

Classical aromatherapy is the prevention and treatment of diseases with the help of essential oils introduced into the body through the respiratory tract and skin.
Regardless of the type of procedure, oils enter the body in two ways. For example, during a bath or massage, we not only come into contact with oils through the surface of the body, but also inhale their aroma. And when inhaled, the oils penetrate both into the lungs and are absorbed by the skin of the face. Healing components enter the body unchanged, in the natural, in kind. When oils are taken orally, digestive juices change their chemical composition and properties. A number of authors identify two more mechanisms of the influence of essential oils on the body - stimulation of lymphatic drainage and effects on biologically active zones body surface (during massage).

Let us repeat: essential oils are mainly absorbed through the skin (massage, bath, compress, etc.) and lungs (inhalation, aroma lamp, etc.). The olfactory system is extremely sensitive and almost instantly transmits the received impulses to the brain. Therefore, mental reactions to smells are so instantaneous and strong. Oils penetrate the skin a little slower, but are better absorbed. Skin pores allow them to reach the blood vessels in a matter of minutes. So, with any method of aromatherapy, healing molecules are quite well absorbed by the body. Hence the many indications for use. There is no essential oil that would help with only one disease or any form of ailment. For example, lavender oil is good antiseptic and at the same time soothes depression, relieves headaches and fatigue, improves mood. And thyme oil, on the one hand, increases blood pressure with hypotension, on the other hand, it alleviates coughing attacks.

The diverse functions of essential oils are explained by the complexity of their chemical composition and mechanism therapeutic effect. Therefore, it is difficult to establish exactly what role certain components of the oil play, although the effect of it is generally known.
Because in pure form essential oils are not used, they are added to any basic (transport) base oil. For this purpose, they take soybean, almond, castor, corn, olive or ordinary refined sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is better for oily skin, olive oil is better for dry and normal skin. Mineral oils such as petroleum jelly and paraffin penetrate the skin much worse and dry it out.
In addition to essential oils and base oils, a home aromatherapy kit should contain cotton, gauze, bandage, filter paper (napkin, blotting paper), 100 ml of ethyl alcohol, 100 g natural honey a little sea salt. If necessary - an aroma lamp, a cup for evaporation, an inhaler.
Now let's take a closer look at some methods of aromatherapy.

Application Methods

1) Inhalation

This method originates in ancient times. Even then, sick people fumigated themselves with balsamic resins and inhaled the vapors generated during the brewing of plants. Inhalation is simply a more technological process, especially with a medical inhaler.
If it is not there, then the plants are brewed in a saucepan and, covered with a towel, breathe over the steam. Convenient for home inhalation coffee pot. A wonderful place and method of treatment with inhalations is a bathhouse. Usually the duration of the procedure is 10-15 minutes. Course - 5-10 inhalations. After the procedure, it is advisable to refrain from talking for an hour, do not smoke, do not eat, and do not leave the room for about an hour.
For oil inhalations essential oils are mixed with olive, peach, almond, camphor or sea buckthorn oil. In the absence of a medical inhaler, the essential oil is added to a small container with hot (45-50 ˚С) water and, covered with a towel, inhale the aroma for about 5-8 minutes. To protect the eyes from irritation, they are kept tightly closed.
The procedure is carried out no more than 2-3 times a day. After it, it is recommended to rest, since in the next 40-60 minutes essential oils continue to act on the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx. The rest of the tips are the same as for steam inhalation.
If you can not use the above methods, do cold inhalation. On a natural fabric folded in several layers (for example, a handkerchief), 5-7 drops of essential oil are applied. The aroma is inhaled alternately through the right and left nostrils. You need to breathe deeply and calmly. Duration 7-10 minutes.
For cold inhalation, aroma medallions are also used (best of all from burnt clay). 1-2 drops of essential oil are placed in them and put on the neck.

2) Aromatic lamps (aroma smokers)

Aromatization of the air has a beneficial effect on psycho-emotional sphere and respiratory organs, disinfects the air from harmful impurities and microbes. Specially selected compositions of essential oils create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere in the house, help to relax or, conversely, increase mental and physical performance. Before starting the procedure, it is necessary to ventilate the room and close the windows.
An aroma lamp is a ceramic, metal or stone vessel, consisting of two parts. Warm water with essential oils is poured into the upper cup (at the rate of 2-3 drops per 5 sq. M of the room area). Then a candle is lit in the lower arch, which gradually heats the bottom of the bowl. Due to the slow evaporation of water, the air is evenly saturated with aroma. The aroma lamp can work continuously for no more than 2 hours, but it is used up to 4 times a day.
In the absence of a special aroma lamp, hot water is poured into a glass, metal or porcelain cup (t˚ not higher than 45-50 ˚С) and essential oil is added. The cup is placed in a warm place (for example, on a battery) so that the water evaporates and does not cool too quickly.
Another way: essential oil is dripped onto a cold base (lampshade) of a switched off electric lamp, and then it is lit. To avoid ignition, oil should not fall on the glass bulb of the electric lamp and lighting fittings.
The incense of aromas is also produced with the help of an ordinary lamp. A special stand (“spider censer”) is placed on it, where essential oil is poured. The wick burns and the oil evaporates.

3) Aromatic baths

This is one of the most convenient aromatherapy methods at home. Depending on the indications, general and “sitz” baths are made, as well as for hands or feet. Baths can be taken no earlier than 2.5-3 hours after eating. Shower first. Instead of soap, it is better to use mustard powder, cereals or egg yolk.
Water is poured warm (35-38 ˚С). Hot water causes intense sweating, prevents essential oils from being absorbed into the skin and promotes their rapid evaporation. The oils are pre-mixed with the solvent. To do this, take the sea or table salt(3-4 tablespoons), honey, sour cream, cream, kefir (2-3 tablespoons), whey, whole milk(100-200 ml). Soap, shampoo, washing gel for dissolution are undesirable, since they reduce the therapeutic effect of the oil on the skin. To keep the aroma, the door is tightly closed, and when the bath is full, essential oil is diluted in it.
Approximately 8 drops are needed for a dense bath, 4 drops for a hand or foot bath. With daily procedures, the dosage is halved. The course of treatment is 10-20 procedures. The duration of each of them ranges from 5 to 30-35 minutes. Time increases gradually from time to time. It is not necessary to rinse the body with water after a bath. But a 30-40 minute rest, and without alcohol, fixes the positive effect well.
Oil can also be added directly to water. But it will not dissolve and forms a thin film on the surface. Therefore, the area of contact with the body will decrease.

4) Applications, compresses

For applications required amount oils are dissolved in 10 ml of alcohol or any base oil. Soak a small piece of cotton wool (gauze) with this mixture and apply it to the sore spot for 10-15 minutes.
For warm compresses, approximately 15 drops of essential oil are diluted in 30 ml of vegetable oil. The tissue is moistened with this solution, applied to the skin, covered with compress paper, insulated with cotton and fixed with a bandage. The duration of the procedure is 2 hours.
Ordinary warm water is also suitable for warming compresses, where essential oil is added in the appropriate proportion. Then, a natural tissue (cotton wool, gauze) is moistened in the solution, slightly squeezed and applied to a sore spot or in projection to a diseased organ. A warming bandage is put on top (a woolen scarf, jacket, etc.).
For headaches, migraines, injuries, as well as to reduce body temperature and eliminate edema, cold compresses are used. In 100 ml ice water add 4-5 drops of oil. Then a natural fabric is moistened in the solution, squeezed out excess water, applied to the sore spot and bandaged. The procedure is repeated 3 times a day for 15-20 minutes.

5) Rinsing, washing, douching

With diseases of the mouth and throat, it is difficult to do without rinsing. Take 3 drops of oil, dissolve them in 1 teaspoon of honey, and then - in 300 ml warm water or herbal tea soda solution(1 teaspoon per glass of water), sea salt solution (1 teaspoon per glass of water). Everything is thoroughly mixed.
The nose is washed with the same solution in case of a runny nose and sinusitis. When douching with a jet of aromatic water (t˚ not lower than 37˚ C), the walls of the vagina are treated from a syringe.
Each time, it is advisable to prepare the solutions anew so that they are fresh.

6) Massage, self-massage, rubbing

Massage is one of the most effective and beneficial medical procedures. His technique has been trained for years. The skill of a massage therapist depends on work experience, taking into account the characteristics of the disease and the patient's health, the degree of mastery of techniques and many other factors. I recommend that readers refer to the specialized literature on this subject.
Aromatic massage and self-massage are more effective than just massage and self-massage. Essential oils are applied to the skin only in diluted form. To do this, add up to 30 drops of one or more essential oils to 30 ml of heated base oil. The solution should be stirred and massaged into painful areas of the body with light movements so that all the oil is completely absorbed. The duration of the session is approximately 3-5 minutes. cooked massage oil store in a dark and cool place, and shake before use.
For rubbing, use 10 ml of 30-50% ethyl alcohol or 10% alcohol solution(extract) of propolis, or the same amount of base oil. 10 drops of essential oil are added to them and gently rubbed into the sore spot.

7) Internal use

A number of authors recommend taking essential oils orally. But rather it is a method of herbal medicine, rather than aromatherapy. Essential oils should not be consumed by children and pregnant women. Adults decide this issue after mandatory consultation with the attending physician. This is due to the side effects that occur when the rules and dosages are violated, the use of synthetic, low-quality and undiluted oils. Many of them irritate the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.
Never ingest essential oils of jasmine, rose, patchouli, thuja and some other plants. The remaining oils are pre-diluted. As a solvent, honey, sour cream (1 teaspoon), milk, kefir (1 tablespoon), red wine (1 tablespoon per glass of water) or alcohol (1 dessert spoon per 100 ml of water) are used. Tea, coffee and alcoholic drinks are not suitable for this purpose. Essential oils of citrus fruits are added to juices and salads, spicy oils(cinnamon, cloves, mint, etc.) to vegetable salads.
Treatment is carried out against the background vegetarian diet and abstaining from fried and fatty foods. safe dose- 2-3 drops daily for no more than three weeks in a row.

Safety

Essential oils cannot be used uncontrollably and unsystematically. Particular caution is required in relation to children, pregnant women and persons prone to allergies. Aromatherapy contraindications are individual intolerance essential oils, various allergic reactions(dermatitis, rhinitis, bronchial asthma etc.), acute respiratory, cardiovascular, renal and hepatic insufficiency, gross violations heart rate and some other pathological processes.

There are essential oils that irritate the skin and mucous membranes digestive tract, raise blood pressure, lead to overexcitation and insomnia, provoke attacks of epilepsy. Sometimes oils are incompatible with alcohol and homeopathic preparations. Citrus plant oils are phototoxic: it is best not to apply them to the skin before going out in the sun. In case of kidney diseases, juniper, pine, thyme are not recommended, and after strokes and heart attacks - basil, cypress, coriander, pine. People with overexcited nervous system cedar, clove and sage are not shown; suffering increased clotting blood, thrombophlebitis - basil and cypress.
Note that the International Association of Aromatherapists for bathing does not recommend choosing essential oils of basil, eucalyptus, cloves, cinnamon, thyme (thyme), ginger and peppermint. In people with hypersensitivity they can cause bronchospasm and skin irritation similar to a chemical burn.
Before treatment, carefully read the characteristic features of essential oils and be sure to consult with your doctor. In fairness, I note that we are not immune from complications when using any medicines. For example, an overdose of aspirin causes stomach ulcers and excessive blood thinning. But this does not mean that aspirin must be urgently withdrawn from pharmacies. It's just that all the pros and cons need to be weighed very carefully.
To determine the individual sensitivity of the body to essential oils in medical institutions, the method of electroacupuncture according to R. Voll is used, at home, skin and olfactory tests are performed.

a) Skin test
One drop of essential oil is mixed with a quarter teaspoon of olive (sunflower) oil. A small amount of this mixture is rubbed into the skin behind the ear, on the elbow (from the inside), on the wrist or in the sternum. If after 12 hours there are no signs of irritation (redness, rash, itching, etc.), then this essential oil will do for bath, massage, compress and other methods of exposure mainly through the skin.

b) Olfactory test
1-2 drops of the above mixture of essential and vegetable oils are periodically applied to filter paper (blotter, napkin). From time to time, the paper is held at a distance of 10-15 cm from the nose, avoiding contact with the skin. The test is carried out for two days. If there are no spasms of breathing, coughing, sneezing and shortness of breath when inhaling the smell, then, according to the test, this essential oil is suitable for ingestion, aroma lamps, inhalation and other methods of exposure through the lungs.

It is necessary to accustom yourself to essential oils gradually. Therefore, treatment begins with minimum dose, which is most often selected individually. In small quantities, oils act gently and beneficially. For the sake of enhancing the effect, the dosage should not be increased. Load doses cause the body to experience unnecessary shock and inhibit vital functions.
Please note: a well-composed aromatherapy mixture does not contain more than five types of essential oils. Their smell should be pleasant to the patient. Unsuitable is that which is subjectively disapproved, causes hostility and rejection. For example, some people cannot stand the smell of musk, although it may benefit them. Trust and willingness to heal is the key to success.
The effectiveness and safety of an essential oil are also determined by its origin, quality and storage conditions.

Only natural oils, isolated from a strictly defined part of the plant, at certain collection times and using sometimes very labor-intensive technologies. Oils produced by the perfume industry therapeutic purpose are not used, since they are subjected to chemical and physical processing to obtain a standard smell.

High cost aromatic oils is fraught with the fact that before they hit the market they are diluted and adulterated with chemical additives. One of the first signs of a fake is a low, extremely affordable price. It is sure to alert the thoughtful buyer. Let's remember folk proverbs: "Miser pays twice"; "Free cheese only happens in a mousetrap." Cheap and at the same time high-quality oils do not exist, and poor-quality drugs are dangerous with unpredictable complications.
That's why, when buying an essential oil, you need to demand certificate of compliance with the standards and norms of the Pharmacopoeia. The most reliable are:
ISO standard - international organization standards;
EOA regulations - American Association essential oils;
British Pharmacopeia (BP) and Polish (FP) guidelines;
Standards of the Pharmacopoeia and GOST, OST, TU of Russia.
Quality essential oil is natural, homogeneous, undiluted and transparent. It is devoid of synthetic components, sediment, foreign inclusions and contains minimal amount oxygenated hydrocarbons. It is quite difficult to determine a fake “by eye”.
To some extent, it is possible to reveal the deception with the help of the following experiment. Apply 1 drop of essential oil to a white sheet of paper. Normally, after evaporation, it does not leave a greasy stain. If the oil had any coloration, the paper may change color. It is very important that the IFRA (International Fragnance Association) does not prohibit the use of this or that essential oil. Great importance it is necessary to give information about the manufacturer and supplier, the safety of the packaging and the date of production of the oil.

Essential oils are stored away from fire, out of the reach of children, in a cool, dark place, in glass bottles with a tightly closed lid. Maximum term storage - 3 years.
If the essential oil of rose and patchouli is obtained from excellent raw materials and without violating technology, then over time, as in good wine, its quality improves. But in general it is better not to use oils after the expiration date. Pine and citrus oils are kept for no more than 1 year, and only in the refrigerator (otherwise they quickly oxidize).

Brief outline of the basics modern aromatherapy I will conclude with the aphorism of the prominent ancient Roman philosopher Seneca: “For a person who does not know which harbor he is heading for, not a single wind will be fair.” To prevent this from happening to us, we will discuss characteristics and practical advice on the use of essential oils.

Plants are an ideal natural raw material that is used in many areas of human activity. We decorate the house with them, cook food from them, use them in perfumery and, of course, in medicine - for the treatment and prevention of many diseases. Today we will focus on essential oils - fragrant, volatile substances, concentrated, for the most part, in fruits, flowers, leaves and roots.

Even in Ayurveda, the oldest teaching about health, there is a mention that using essential oils, you can find a state of perfect balance of spirit and body, since the fragrance of aromas is nothing but a fellow breath. In ancient Egypt, the priests, who were considered interpreters of the divine will, actively used fragrant extracts from plants to prepare healing potions for the treatment of ailments, as well as for sacrifices in temples.

Ancient Greek medicine borrowed from Ancient China, Indian and Mesopotamian knowledge of use essential oils for healing, as well as for aromatherapy. And until the beginning of the twentieth century, during the heyday of pharmacology, and with it allopathic medicine, they "ruled the show", because they had the most powerful properties.

What is the value of essential oils?

If in the pre-scientific period knowledge about useful and healing properties plant extracts were purely empirical in nature, today they have an authoritative scientific background. modern science proved that natural essential oils have:

Anti-inflammatory, bactericidal and analgesic properties;
Immunostimulating action;
Positive effect on the dermis and epidermis;
Positive effect on the circulatory system, as well as on the respiratory and digestive organs;
radioprotective effect.

It is worth moving from generalization to concrete facts.

decline inflammatory reactions using essential oils is achieved due to the fact that their aromatic components actively influence the reactions occurring at the tissue level. They significantly reduce the permeability of the walls of microscopic vessels, optimize the course of vascular reactions, and astringent action, reduce puffiness, stabilize the processes of cell assimilation and stimulate the processes of growth regeneration.

Action deserves special attention. essential oils towards pathogenic microorganisms. Thanks to highly active biological molecules, they destroy cytoplasmic membrane some gram positive and negative bacteria. Thus, they modify internal environment microorganism, as a result of which the processes of its aerobic respiratory chain are disrupted - in an understandable language, they simply “suffocate”. This results in the death of pathogens. This explains the antibiotic and antiseptic action aromatherapy.

Wherein essential oils for the most part, they are absolutely harmless to the human body, and when they are used, the effect does not weaken over time, and microorganisms do not develop resistance to them. St. John's wort, sage, celandine, lavender, basil, lemongrass and many other plants have a similar effect.

Scientists during numerical studies proved that simultaneous application vegetable essential oils and synthetic antibacterial drugs and action increase the effectiveness of the latter from 5 to 10 times (summation effect).

Prevent, not cure

Aromatherapy helps not only as a therapy for diseases, but also their prevention. Using natural aromas and incense of plants, you can activate the immune system due to the activation of the lymphocyte system and the formation of interferon. So you can prevent the pathology of the upper respiratory tract, lungs, liver, intestines, urinary organs, skin diseases.

And with seasonal outbreaks of SARS, the issue of using essential oils is especially relevant. At acute inflammation products based on tea tree, oregano, bergamot, evergreen eucalyptus pine, cedar and spruce, nutmeg, cloves and citronella have proven themselves excellently. Their action in given vector is based not on the elimination of the pathogen - a virus, less often bacteria - from the body, but on an increase in its own barrier functions due to the above mechanisms.

Pulmonologists and phthisiatricians note positive influence essential oils in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. In particular, they:

Lower body temperature to normal values by getting rid of inflammatory reactions;
Normalize the composition of the blood;
Return the patient's appetite, and with it the weight;
They have a destructive effect on the cell wall of the Koch bacillus (with the exception of L-forms).

In case the natural aromatic plant matter contained in the inhaled air they maintain homeostasis - biological balance - at the cellular level, activate the synthesis of biologically active substances and satisfy the "information hunger" olfactory center brain.

The main rule is not to "overdo it" with the use of essential oils and use them as an additional, but still not the main therapy. And it is important not to overdo it with the dosage, because even Theophrastus Paracelsus in the 15th century argued that everything is poison, and only the dose makes it a medicine.

It remains only to remember that you need to purchase essential oils from trusted sources, as there is a high risk of getting a fake product. Exceptionally high-quality and natural products are offered by Makeup, one of the leaders in online sales in Eastern Europe. We wish you to be healthy!

With the help of essential oils, you can effectively deal with the most various ailments- bodily and spiritual. Aromatics based on essential oils are used internally and externally as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, irritant, hypo- (lowering pressure) and hypertensive (increasing pressure), insecticidal, locally irritating, tonic and calming nerves.

They are used as antidepressants, deodorants, antiseptics and aphrodisiacs.

Aroma oils are used in different ways: they are used for inhalation, inhaled with aromatic candles and incense burners, added to baths, body wraps are made, sometimes they are taken orally, but very carefully, in meager doses and only as directed by a doctor. The easiest way is to flavor tea: drop 2-4 drops of essential oil into an empty container, pour 100 g of tea leaves into it, close the lid tightly, shake it several times, let it brew for a day. After that, tea can be brewed in the usual way.

For internal use, 1-2 drops can be dropped onto honey, milk or dairy products(1-2 tablespoons of cream, sour cream, fermented baked milk, kefir). Since the main action of the oil at internal application occurs in the oral cavity, it is recommended to hold it in the mouth for 30-60 seconds, then you can swallow or spit it out.

When applied externally, essential oils are used mainly in the form of inhalations, compresses, massages, baths, and for aromatizing indoor air.

To relieve headaches, stress, nervous tension using aromatherapy or rubbing oil into the temples and the back of the head. Aromatization of indoor air with essential oils is most conveniently carried out using an aroma burner (aroma lamp).

Aroma massage is useful, for which it is necessary to apply an oil composition to the skin. It usually consists of a fatty base in the form of 1 tbsp. tablespoons of vegetable oil (you can use honey, cream, milk or cosmetic lotion, etc.), to which 10 drops of the desired essential oil are added.

Essential oils are added to compresses - cold, warm or hot. Cold compresses are done for migraines and injuries, hot and warm - for muscle pain, rheumatism and arthritis. Compresses are applied to a diseased organ or skin area.

The principle of preparing a compress is simple: in water, alcohol, milk, honey or vegetable oil heated to a certain temperature, you need to add essential oil according to the recipe. In the composition, lower a strip of cotton fabric (you can use cotton wool or gauze), wring it out slightly and apply it to sore spots. The duration of the procedure is from 5 minutes to 2 hours.

The duration of taking essential oil should not exceed 2 weeks. During this period, fried, fatty and spicy foods, preference should be given to easily digestible and predominantly vegetarian food.