Olfactory Series #7 Cinnamon::National Fragrance Week | Smell Good Spa™

It's just the first week of June for many, however, for those creative beings that pay respect to the olfaction, daily, this is the week when all things that smell good are celebrated.  Happy National Fragrance Week!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

To celebrate National Fragrance Week 2014, I'll highlight seven scents that are beneficial for healthy living, in this Olfactory Series.

Yesterday was the last day of National Fragrance Week, and I am concluding this series with my
top-favorite scent.


Cinnamon

Cinnamon oil is extracted both from the bark and leaves of small Cinnamon trees. Cinnamonaldehyde is the compound within the bark, that gifts us with that beautiful flavor and aroma.  Aldehyde is antiviral, and Cinnamon bark contains 41-51% of it. Additionally, Cinnamon leaf contains 68-87% eugenol, an anesthetic, antimicrobial, antiseptic and antioxidant.  Those numbers alone give insight into how beneficial Cinnamon oil is to healthy living.  Cinnamon is recorded in the Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest Egyptian medical textbooks. The Ebers Papyrus dates back to 1550 BC, and contains over 700 health remedies.






Healthy Living Facts:

• Cinnamon bark essential oil killed 92% of gram negative and positive bacterial strains out of 25 tested. (International Journal of Food Microbiology, 2006)
• Cinnamon bark essential oil scored 42.5 (out of 50) in terms of anti-fungal activity. (Saurashtra University, India, 2006)
• Diffusing a blend of cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, lemon and rosemary oils can kill 99% of airborne bacteria in 12 minutes. 

Healthy Living Benefits:

• Balancing Sugar Levels - Cinnamon oil has been proven to reduce glucose levels in those with diabetes. It has especially been helpful for those with type 2 diabetes. 
• Memory Loss - Research has shown that Cinnamon oil is beneficial in helping the brain with memory, stimulating brain activity, attention span, and being able to decrease nervous tension. 
• Purification and Circulation of Blood - Cinnamon oil is thought to remove impurities from the blood. Also, pain caused by poor circulation can be reduced when using Cinnamon oil.  Thus, ensuring the oxygen supply getting to the the cells. 
• Breastfeeding - Cinnamon oil is believed to aid nursing mothers with a healthy supply of breast milk. 
• Aromatherapy/Sex - Sex plays a major role in a healthy lifestyle. Cinnamon oil is used as an aphrodisiac, and is believed to arouse sexual desire.   

Healthy Living Trivia: 

• Cinnamon oil was a part (250 shekels or 6.25 lbs) of the Holy Anointing Oil recipe given by The Most High to Moses (Exodus 30).
• Cinnamon oil was one of the ingredients used in Four Thieves Vinegar (Marseilles Vinegar) recipe.  During the 15th century this recipe protected people from the plague. Here's the kicker: The recipe was created by thieves who robbed graves during that time. Those thieves were workers in the spice industry. 
• The original Coke® contained six essential oils, including cinnamon essential oil.  Yes, the favorite beverage of choice, now ridiculed, had healthy benefits. 

Thank you for giving your time to the Olfactory Series this week.  I hope you walked away a bit more smarter, and are able to use the healthy living benefits.  If so, thank you for letting me serve you in this way. 

By the way, if the scent of Cinnamon has benefited you, share in the Comments. 

Aromatically,

Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before introducing essential oils into your healthy living regimen.

Source(s):

Martin, Nan, LSHC, CRTS. "The Health Benefits of Cinnamon Natural Anti-Inflammatory and Antiviral" ExperienceEssentialOils.com. 19 April 2014. Web. 8 June 2014

Organic Facts. "Health Benefits of Cinnamon Oil" OrganicFacts.net.  2 October 2007. Web. 8 June 2014

Olfactory Series #6 Sandalwood::National Fragrance Week | Smell Good Spa™

It's just the first week of June for many, however, for those creative beings that pay respect to the olfaction, daily, this is the week when all things that smell good are celebrated.  Happy National Fragrance Week!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

To celebrate National Fragrance Week 2014, I'll highlight seven scents that are beneficial for healthy living, in this Olfactory Series.

Sandalwood

Photo Credit: ExplorOz Places

Sandalwood oil is extracted from Sandalwood trees that are 40-80 years old. The older the tree, the more oil it yields, and the aroma is stronger. Sandalwood oil's dynamic therapeutic properties has benefited lives medicinally, culturally and spiritually, for centuries. According to a study conducted by Brigham Young University, Sandalwood oil was effective against breast, prostate, cervical and skin cancer. 

Healthy Living Benefits:

• Natural Sleep Remedy - Sandalwood oil has the ability to cause deep relaxation.  The oil is high in sesquiterpenes, a chemical that stimulates the pineal gland in the brain.  The pineal gland produces melatonin which is released into the bloodstream, regulating the sleep cycle. In addition, Sandalwood oil is also used to elevate meditation.
• Scars - Sandalwood oil is widely used in skincare products, because it is thought to help scars and spots to heal faster. 
• Repels Insects - The sweet aroma of Sandalwood oil repels those small, pesky insects. This is one of the reasons the oil is used extensively in the manufacturing of incense.  Cooking out this summer?  Light up an incense infused with this olfactory bliss.
• "I forgot, again." - When used for aromatherapy, Sandalwood oil is thought to improve memory and to boost concentration. 

Has the scent of Sandalwood benefited you in any of the above situations, or, one that isn't mentioned?  Share with us in the Comments.

Aromatically,

Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before introducing essential oils into your healthy living regimen.

Source(s):

Martin, Nan, LSHC, CRTS. "Sandalwood Essential Oil Uses and Properties" ExperienceEssentialOils.com. 19 April 2014. Web. 6 June 2014

Organic Facts.  "Health Benefits of Sandalwood Essential Oil" OrganicFacts.net.  8 May 2008. Web. 6 June 2014

Olfactory Series #5 Lemongrass::National Fragrance Week | Smell Good Spa™

It's just the first week of June for many, however, for those creative beings that pay respect to the olfaction, daily, this is the week when all things that smell good are celebrated.  Happy National Fragrance Week!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

To celebrate National Fragrance Week 2014, I'll highlight seven scents that are beneficial for healthy living, in this Olfactory Series.


Lemongrass

Lemongrass is native to Southeast Asia, and its oil is extracted from dried lemongrass.  There are fifty different species of Lemongrass; and, depending on the area and climate where the plant grows, the chemistry in certain species alters. Therefore, many species of Lemongrass are not satisfactory for internal use nor medicinal use.  Besides Lemongrass tasting absolutely scrumptious in Thai food, and its oil having one of the best aromas around,  Lemongrass oil can effectively benefit a healthy living regimen.

Healthy Living Benefits:

• Pain Reducer - Lemongrass oil is analgesic, therefore, it has the ability to reduce pain and inflammation.  Lemongrass oil is thought to relieve pain in joints; pain in toothaches and headaches from viral infections; and, pain from muscle-burning activities such as exercise.
• Aromatherapy - Lemongrass oil is noted as both an antidepressant and relaxant. When inhaled or absorbed through the skin, spirits can be uplifted; self-esteem is enhanced; anxiety is relieved; energy is boosted; and, Lemongrass oil can also promote mental peace. Properly inhale Lemongrass oil by placing a few drops on a cloth or tissue, or, using an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer.

Has the scent of Lemongrass benefited you in any of the above situations, or, one that isn't mentioned?  Share with us in the Comments. 


Aromatically,

Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before introducing essential oils into your healthy living regimen.

Source(s):

Martin, Nan, LSHC, CRTS. "The Benefits of Lemongrass are Extensively Documented" ExperienceEssentialOils.com. 19 April 2014. Web. 5 June 2014

Organic Facts. "Health Benefits of Lemongrass Essential Oil" OrganicFacts.net. 7 April 2008. Web. 5 June 2014

Olfactory Series #4 Frankincense::National Fragrance Week | Smell Good Spa™

It's just the first week of June for many, however, for those creative beings that pay respect to the olfaction, daily, this is the week when all things that smell good are celebrated.  Happy National Fragrance Week!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

To celebrate National Fragrance Week 2014, I'll highlight seven scents that are beneficial for healthy living, in this Olfactory Series.
 

Frankincense

Yesterday, I shared the healthy living benefits from Myrrh oil.  Today is all about Frankincense oil, because you rarely see one without the other, and in some cultures there's a refusal to use Myrrh oil without Frankincense oil.  Frankincense oil is extracted from the gum/resin from the Olibanum tree, it is also called Olibanum oil. The Ancients used Frankincense oil for skin care and stomach aliments; The Egyptians also used it for kohl (black eyeliner). Not only was this aromatic commodity traded throughout North Africa and on the Arabian Peninsula, over 5000 years ago, in 1323 BC, Frankincense was found in King Tut's tomb.  Popular in cosmetics, and as a home fragrance product, Frankincense oil has numerous benefits for healthy living.

Healthy Living Benefits:

• Antiseptic and Disinfectant -  The aromatic smoke has the ability to eliminate germs, in the area in which Frankincense is being used. Frankincense oil can also be used for dental hygiene -- add it to warm water for a healthy mouth rinse, or, to DIY toothpaste (how about trying this one?), to combat germs.
• Stretch Marks - Frankincense oil possesses an interesting property for skin health. When applied topically, Frankincense oil is thought to make stretch marks, scars, surgery marks, and other markings on the skin fade at a much faster rate than any other product used.
• Anti-Aging - Amazingly, Frankincense oil helps to tighten skin all over the body, while replacing dying cells with healthy ones.  This is due to Frankincense's effectual astringent capabilities.
• Aromatherapy - Inhaling Frankincense oil when feeling stress or anxious can promote mental peace, relaxation and satisfaction.  To properly inhale Frankincense oil, apply a few drops to a cloth or tissue, or, use an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer. Adding a bit of Frankincense oil to a warm bath can also induce a state of calmness.

Has the scent of Frankincense benefited you in any of the above situations, or, one that isn't mentioned?  Share with us in the Comments.


Aromatically,

Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before introducing essential oils into your healthy living regimen.

Source(s):

Organic Facts. "Health Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil" OrganicFacts.net. 7 April 2008. Web. 4 June 2014

Martin, Nan, LSHC, CRTS. "Frankincense Oil or Olibanum is an Ancient Spiritual Oil from the Middle East" ExperienceEssentialOils.com. 19 April 2014. Web. 4 June 2014

Wong, Cathy, ND. "Frankincense Essential Oil - What You Should Know" Alternative Medicine. About.com. 2 June 2014. Web. 4 June 2014

Olfactory Series #3 Myrrh::National Fragrance Week | Smell Good Spa™

It's just the first week of June for many, however, for those creative beings that pay respect to the olfaction, daily, this is the week when all things that smell good are celebrated.  Happy National Fragrance Week!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

To celebrate National Fragrance Week 2014, I'll highlight seven scents that are beneficial for healthy living, in this Olfactory Series.

Myrrh

Myrrh oil is extracted from the gum/resin of the Commiphora Myrrha tree, native to Egypt (the Myrrha species from Somalia is said to have more powerful healing properties).  The properties that Myrrh oil possess are so dynamic, it's no wonder our ancestors also used it in their healthy living regimen. The wise Ancients maintained their healthy skin, prevented skin aging, and soothed chapped or cracked skin with Myrrh oil.  Did you know that Myrrh is recorded in the Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest Egyptian medical texts on record?  The Ebers Papyrus dates back to about 1550 BC and contains over 700 remedies for almost everything, including cancer, asthma and embalming. Not only is Myrrh a reputable oil in the field of aromatherapy, it has a wealth of medical uses for healthy living, too. 

Healthy Living Benefits:

• Dental Health and Hair Loss and Wounds - Myrrh oil is an astringent, causing the contraction of body tissues. Adding a few drops to a mouth rinse or DIY toothpaste (how about trying this one?) can strengthen the hold of gums on teeth. Healthy gums are essential to heart health. Additionally, adding a few drops of Myrrh oil to a hair and scalp oil, or, infusing an oil using Myrrh resin, and applying it to the scalp, can strengthen the scalp's grip on hair roots.  Keeping a balm/oil containing Myrrh oil, in your medicine cabinet, can come in handy. The astringent properties in Myrrh oil can prevent severe blood loss when wounded (also helps wounds heal quicker). 
• Infections and Bad Breath - Myrrh oil is an antiseptic, a substance that prevents the growth of disease-causing microorganisms. Myrrh oil is thought to prevent small cuts from becoming infected.  Also, adding a few drops to warm water, for a mouth rinse, fights bacteria that causes sour-smelling breath; and, aid in the healing of mouth sores or ulcers.  
• Skincare - When infused in skincare products, Myrrh oil is thought to reduce the appearances of wrinkles, fade dark spots and scars. 
• Aromatherapy - Inhaling Myrrh oil can prevent colds (activates the Immune System), cough, insomnia, sore throat, and works as a calming agent (sedative).  For centuries, (in harmony with Frankincense) Myrrh's aromatic notes has significantly set a peaceful atmosphere to spiritual settings. Apply a few drops to a cloth or tissue, or, use an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer. 

This isn't even the tip of the iceberg. I encourage you to do additional research about Myrrh oil, to completely understand all the benefits it can yield to your healthy living regimen. 

Has the scent of Myrrh benefited you in any of the above situations, or, one that isn't mentioned?  Share with us in the Comments.

Aromatically,

Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before introducing essential oils into your healthy living regimen.

Source(s):

Organic Facts. "Health Benefits of Myrrh Essential Oil" OrganicFacts.net. 27 April 2008. Web. 3 June 2014 
Martin, Nan, LSHC, CRTS. "The Benefits of Myrrh Date Back to the Ancient Egyptians" ExperienceEssentialOils.com. 19 April 2014. Web. 3 June 2014 

Wong, Cathy, ND. "Myrrh Essential Oil - Health Benefits" Alternative Medicine. About.com. 16 May 2014. Web. 3 June 2014 

Olfactory Series #2 Patchouli::National Fragrance Week | Smell Good Spa™

It's just the first week of June for many, however, for those creative beings that pay respect to the olfaction, daily, this is the week when all things that smell good are celebrated.  Happy National Fragrance Week!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

To celebrate National Fragrance Week 2014, I'll highlight seven scents that are beneficial for healthy living, in this Olfactory Series.

Patchouli

Patchouli is a perennial herb native to the tropical regions of Asia.  It is thought to provide excellent benefits to a healthy living regimen. Patchouli is most commonly used in perfume, incense and bath and body care products, because of its superb topical and aromatherapy attributes. 

Healthy Living Benefits:

• Sleep Problems - Sleep is so important to overall health, daily activities and mood.  At times you can be dirt tired, but the brain and eyes just won't work in your favor.  Inhaling Patchouli oil could be the needed element to lull you to a restful sleep -- Patchouli oil is thought to have sedative effects.  
• Aromatherapy - When Patchouli oil is inhaled or topically applied to the skin, it is thought to transmit messages to the Limbic System.  The Limbic System is the region of the brain that controls emotions and the Nervous System.  So, on those days when emotions are heighten, or, the mood is swinging to the point where you are personally getting on your own nerves, sprinkle a bit of Patchouli oil onto a tissue or cloth, sit down and inhale slowly.  Using an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer can also be effective. 
• Insect Repellent - Patchouli oil is said to be great for repelling insects.  Here are a couple of applications that may work for you this summer: 1) Put a few drops into almond oil; Apply to exposed skin before heading outdoors. 2) If you prefer a non-oily method: Mix a few drops with Witch Hazel or Aloe Vera juice; Put into a spray bottle; Spray onto exposed skin before heading outdoors.  Use both methods as needed. 

Has the scent of Patchouli benefited you in any of the above situations, or, one that isn't mentioned?  Share with us in the Comments.

Aromatically,

Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before introducing essential oils into your healthy living regimen.

Source:

Wong, Cathy, ND. "Patchouli Essential Oil - What You Need to Know" Alternative Medicine. About.com. 14 July 2013. Web. 2 June 2014 

Olfactory Series #1 Rose::National Fragrance Week | Smell Good Spa™

It's just the first week of June for many, however, for those creative beings that pay respect to the olfaction, daily, this is the week when all things that smell good are celebrated.  Happy National Fragrance Week!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

To celebrate National Fragrance Week 2014, I'll highlight seven scents that are beneficial for healthy living, in this Olfactory Series.




Rose

Rose otto (attar of rose, attar of roses) or rose absolute, better known as rose oil, is the essential oil extracted from the petals of various types of rose.  Rose oil contains the rose plant's aromatic compounds, which are thought to possess healing properties, therefore, rose oil is commonly used in aromatherapy. 

Healthy Living Benefits:

• Anxiety and Stress Relief - When rose oil is applied topically, studies prove it decreases the breathing rate and lowers the blood pressure, for those who suffer with anxiety and from stressful situations.
• Menopausal Symptoms - It's been reported that women who received relaxing massages with a rose oil blend (including lavender, jasmine, rose geranium oils), weekly, significantly felt better and saw greater improvement in menopausal symptoms. Mild menopausal symptoms appear as early as 25 years of age. Introducing massages using rose oil, even at that young age, is great therapy for healthy living. 
• Menstrual Cramps - When rose oil, with lavender and clary sage oil (and almond oil - never apply essential oils to the skin without a carrier oil), is topically applied to the abdominal, research showed that only a few drops were needed to decrease the severity of menstrual cramps.
• Aromatherapy - For a zen-like atmosphere, rose oil can be used in an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer.  Also, sprinkling a few drops onto a cloth or tissue will create a peaceful state of mind, when inhaled. 

Has the scent of rose benefited you in any of the above situations, or, one that isn't mentioned?  Share with us in the Comments.

Take time to smell the roses.

Aromatically,

Consult a physician or certified aromatherapist before introducing essential oils into your healthy living regimen.

Source:

Wong, Cathy, ND. "What Should I Know About Rose Oil?" Alternative Medicine. About.com. 23 May 2014. Web. 1 June 2014