Oils
The use of oils as a refreshing unguent was extremely common in the ancient world. The origin and precise symbolism of anointing as a sacred rite can be traced to Israel. It is clear that the purpose of anointing a person or thing was to make it sacred. It was done to priests, the tent of meeting, and the ark. Kings were anointed: it is mentioned explicitly of Saul, David and Solomon. In most anointings it brings the spirit of Yahweh upon the person and impels them to some extraordinary deed: but even where it is not mentioned, anointing made the person a charismatic officer whose mission could be carried out under the impulsion of the spirit.
Oil and Anointing in the Bible
Some quotes you may wish to check
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Essential Oils
Basil:
History: Basil is derived from the latin word basilisca, meaning royal, and since ancient times this herb has been respected for its qualities and used in magical and religious ceremonies. Hindus believed it protected people from evil spirits. The Greeks believed basil to be the antidote to the venom of the "basilisk", a reptile whose breath or even glance was said to be fatal.
Present uses: Basil is good for mental fatigue as it awakens and refreshes the mind almost at once. The aroma is very penetrating and helps to bring clarity of mind and generally stimulate the whole nervous system.
Bergamot:
History: Bergamot has been used since the 16th century in southern Europe to counter fever. It is Bergamot that gives Earl Grey tea its flavour and is used in making Eau de Cologne.
Present uses: Bergamot is a delightful, uplifting fragrance yet it actually has a sedative effect on the body.
Chamomile
History: Chamomile is one of the oldest British medicinal and beauty herbs. It was used as an excellent disinfectant during World War II, and as a tea to treat insomniacs.
Present uses: Chamomile has an antispasmodic and calming effect on the digestive system, soothing away tummy aches and helping with nervous tension. This essence is especially useful for children, allaying fear and anxiety.
Clary Sage
History: Clary sage was once one of the most valued herbs. In Latin "clary" means clear eye; the herb was so named because it made a soothing, healing eye lotion.
Present uses: This oil is is one of the best antidepressant oils as it uplifts spirits, quells anxiety attacks and generally reduces nervous tension.
Cypress
History: The Cypress tree was prized by the Greeks, and was used medicinally by the Egyptians. The mediterranean countries are full of these beautiful trees. However, they are traditionally planted in cemeteries and sprigs are used at funerals a a symbol of mourning. It has the tradition of easing internal bleeding.
Present uses: The oil has a warm, woody smell and a refreshing, invigorating effect.
Eucalyptus
History: Eucalyptus leaves were crushed and used by the Aborigines to heal wounds, fight infection and to relieve muscular pain.
Present uses: Eucalyptus stimulates the immune system which helps the body stay free from infectious illnesses.
Frankincense
History: Since antiquity Frankincense has been highly prized and used in spiritual rites in temples from China to Egypt. It was one of the gifts given to the Infant Jesus, and according to tradition it was used widely at religious ceremonies and for anointing purposes.
Present uses: This oil is ideal for use in meditation, or to melt away worrying thoughts or nervous tension. Frankincense has a strong de-stressing effect on the whole psyche.
Jasmine
History: This plant was held sacred to the followers of Indra, an ancient Indo-Iranian god, and to Vishnu who used the flowers as votive offerings at religious ceremonies. Jasmine means happiness amiability and elegance.
Present uses: Jasmine is the "king" of antidepressant oils as it not only calms nerves but seems to impart confidence, joy and new-found positivity.
Lavander
History: Lavander has been used for centuries because of its amazing versatility. The Egyptians grew in their walled gardens using flowers for perfume. The Romans used it for bathing, while Victorian women tucked small lavander bags under their pillows to ensure a restful sleep.
Present uses: Lavander is a "warm", comforting oil whose pleasing scent melts away nervous tension, anxiety and lifts depression. The healing qualities of this oil are remarkable and it blends well with most other oils.
Lemon
History: This fruit is widely believed to help maintain good health generally. It was used by the British Navy as a preventive measure against scurvy on long voyages. Since the 1980's some Japanese companies have diffused lemon oil in the working environment of their employees.
Present uses: It is useful for clearing the head whether you have a cold or are mentally exhausted. Lemeon refreshes and envigorates.
Marjoram
History: Marjoram was sacred in India and Egypt. Both Roman and Greek tradition dictated that newly-weds should be crowned with wreaths woven from the herb for good fortune and long life.
Present uses: This oil not only exerts a physically warming effect but an emotional one too, comforting and calming people who have experienced shock or have recently lost someone they love.
Sweet Orange
History: Over 4000 years ago the oranges were being used by the Indians and the Chinese for cosmetic as well as medicinal uses.
Present uses: Children usually love orange aroma as it is one they recognise. The oil is very relaxing. This well known scent seem to impart memories of warm sunshine and vitality making it a useful tonic for people who need fresh energy or zest in their lives.
Patchouli
History: The Arabs, Chinese and Japanese used patchouli as a protection against infectious diseases. It was revived in the 1960's whenit was worn by the hippies as a sign of peace and love.
Present uses: The essential oil has a woody, earthy sweet smell that is pungent and persistent. It stimulates in small amounts and sedates when used more generously.
Peppermint
History: The ancient Egyptians, Chinese and Romans all cultivated mint. Athletes used it to anoint their muscles before competitions. Mint is aptly described in the language of herbs as it is said to represent "eternal refreshment".
Rose
History: Native to ancient Persia, the Rose or "Queen of Flowers" has been linked with beauty, love and war through the ages.
Present uses: Rose exerts a powerful healing influence on the emotions, lifting depression and helping to relieve shock, grief, anger, fear and anxiety. Generally rose is very relaxing and conforting, it warms the heart, bringing joy and serenity.
Rosemary
History: The Romans held this herb to be sacred and it was given to newly-weds as well as placed on graves as a symbol of remembrance and friendship.
Present uses: Rosemary is an ideal one to start the day. This essence is invigorating, refreshing and stimulating to the mind. It stimulates the energises the mind and body while imparting a strengthening effect on the emotions.
Sandalwood
History: Sandalwood was valued by the ancients for its divine scent and they used it to make temple incenses. Many Hindu temples were actually built from the wood o this tree.
Present uses: Sandalwood has a beautiful, subtle and lingering aroma. It soothes away stress and has an uplifting and harmonising effect on the spiritual and emotional plane.
Using Essential Oils
| Vaporisation
Scenting the scene
|
Using an essential oil vaporiser
|
Massage
To relax and tone the body, add aromatherapy massage to your daily routine. Massage is so important - it promotes circulation,
stimulates the release of toxins through the lymphatic system, and provides
a sense of warmth and wellbeing. We all need to experience and share touching
to maintain our emotional and physical balance.
|
Massage for yourself
Massage is usually thought of as being applied by another person. With aromatherapy you can explore the pleasures and benefits of self massage. Take time to massage your own body from head to toe and renew your own body awareness. Nurturing and caring for your self will increase your self esteem and your own sense of worth. The sensory experience of using essential oils enhances self awareness and will turn a normal everyday activity into a joyous aromatic and sensual experience. Making your own blend Blending your own massage oil can be part of your aromatherapy ritual. This also gives you the freedom to choose different oils for your massage. By personalising your blend you will maintain your own quality control and make a combination of fragrances which especially suits you at the time. |
| Bathing
Bathing is one of the most delightful ways in which you can use essential oils. The benefits of aroma bathing are best realised through the experience , especially at the end of an active day when you need to relax and release the tensions that have built up. Aromatic oils can also be used beneficially at the beginning of the day to invigorate and refresh after sleep. add 5-10 drops of essential oil into a full bath, agitate the water to disperse the oil molecules over the surface of the water. Blends of essential oils can also be used here, as bath treatments. Optimum soaking time is 15 minutes. Suggestions:
|
Direct Application
Since pure essential oils are highly concentrated, only the minutest quantity is required for maximum effect. When applying essential oils directly, you can apply a single oil to specific points or small areas on the body, e.g. to chakra points or pulse points. Suggestions
|
Inhalation
Inhalation is another way in which vaporisation of essential oils is used to balance physical conditions and for the release of emotions. Take a stainless steel or glass bowl and half fill it with nearly boiling water. Add a few drops of of oil to the water and agitate gently to release the vapours. Close your eyes and breathe deeply over the bowl with a towel over your head. Continue for up to ten minutes for maximum benefit. Suggestions:
|
Compresses
There are two specific uses for a compress. For facial skin care, it is a gentle way to soften the skin and promote cell regeneration. For therapeutic applications, compresses may be used in first aid and therapies. Add to the water 3-6 drops of the chosen oil/oils. Agitate the water to disperse the oil molecules. Holding a compress cloth taut, very quickly place and lift the cloth to and from the water. Apply to the area of the body requiring attention. Suggestions:
|
| Guide to Base Oils for Aromatherapy Massage
These are excellent base oils, which can be sued as carrier oils to make aromatherpy blends . Base oils can be used alone or blended together. Avocado Oil A highly penetrative oil, high in Vitamins A and E. Excellentfor dry skin. A rich addition to other oils Jojoba Oil A natural, non greasy fluid wax. Gives a luxurious nourishment to the skin. Quickly absorbed. Excellent preservative properties, does not turn rancid. Macadamia Nut Oil High in vitamins A, I and U this oil has a warm nutty aroma. It regenerates and moisturises the skin and quickly penetrates. Olive Oil An excellent base oil to bring a warming quality to the whole organism |
Peach Kernel Oil Very fine quality oil, ideal for facial massage. Sweet Almond Oil Light, fine, odourless oil containing natural vitamins. Most versatile base oil to use. Wheatgerm Oil Rich in vitamin E, an excellent anti-oxidant and preservative
for blended oils.
|
How to make an Aromatherapy Massage Oil
Start with a small glass or stainless steel bowl. Pour in the base of cold pressed oil(s). Then add 2,5% of essential oils. For example: For a full body massage -
For face, neck and shoulders
- 10 mls base oil(s)
Suggestions
|
Application and Dosage of Essential
Oil
The link above will show a graphical illustration of the application and dosage of essential oils. |
