The A to Z of Essential Oils What They Are Where They Come From How They Work
Although fragrances have been used by humans since the dawn of time, aromatherapy is a modern, increasingly popular way to bring emotional tranquility and beauty into peoples lives. It is also gaining recognition as a way to enhance physical health. This illustrated volume points out the different parts of plants that make essential aromatic oils. They include herbs, fruit rinds, seeds, flowers, and bark. The author describes methods of extracting essential oils and discusses proven benefits of aromatherapy, including anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anti-bacterial, and cell-regenerating effects. She also discusses the benefits of visiting an aromatherapist, and instructs on applying essential oils with invigorating body massages. Her books most important section alphabetically catalogs the 64 of the most beneficial essential oils, and gives recommendations for uses of each. The oils include essence of rosewood, myrrh, lemon grass, cardamom, citric oils, frankincense, nutmeg, basil, vanilla, ginger, and many others. The text is enhanced with more than 200 attractive color illustrations.
Aromatherapy A Z Hay House Lifestyles
Aromatherapy AZ is a fresh and easy step-by-step reference guide. The authors have compiled a vast amount of information on essential oils, humankinds first medicine. Well-preserved oils were found in alabaster jars in King Tuts tomb, and in biblical times, frankincense, myrrh, rosemary, hyssop, and spikenard were used for anointing and healing the sick. Essential oil recipes and blends were found in the Bible and ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics.
Sacred Luxuries Fragrance Aromatherapy and Cosmetics in Ancient Egypt
The art of modern fragrance-making owes much to practices developed in ancient Egypt. The Egyptians attached great importance to perfumes and cosmetics, which men and women wore to make themselves attractive and alluring, to restore vitality and good health, and as a means of venerating the gods and of negotiating a passage to the realm of the hereafter. In this lavishly illustrated, oversized book, Lise Manniche looks at the role played by scents and cosmetics in ancient Egyptian society and discusses their preparation–in some cases providing actual recipes.
Marjoram
Marjoram was used by the Greeks as a part of their perfumes and potions. It was also used as an antidote and used medically to purge the system. This herb is grown worldwide and produces an amber coloured essential oil. It has a warm and slightly spicy aroma which makes it popular for use in masculine fragrances.
Marjoram is a warming agent and can relieve spasms or used in general to treat the nervous system. Its main uses are for anxiety and insomnia but it can also be used to help treat arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, circulatory problems, headaches, rheumatism, constipation, muscle strains and menstrual symptoms. Marjoram can be used with inhalation aromatherapy, massage or in an aromatherapy bath. Marjoram blends particularly well with Bergamot, Lavender and Rosemary. It is warm and relaxing particularly in an aromatherapy bath.
Frankincense (Or Olibanum) Boswellia Thurifera
This natural essence is made from the gum of the tree which results in tear shaped blobs of hardened gum when it comes in contact with the air. Frankincense is spicy and with camphor undertones and can become somewhat lemon like when mixed with myrrh. Frankincense is a famous fragrance in Christianity where the three kings offered Frankincense to Jesus on his birth.
Frankincense has an uplifting effect and helps to increase concentration. It can also be used to treat bronchitis, coughs, colds and laryngitis. It is also known to have beneficial effects on the skin, reducing wrinkles. Frankincense can be used by inhalation, massage or an aromatherapy bath. Inhalation works particularly well for catarrh and the bath is the perfect medium for relaxing. It blends well with Myrrh, Basil or Sandalwood.
