herapy is a natural healing science employing essential oils extracted from aromatic plant sources to treat and balance the body, mind and spirit. During pregnancy, aromatherapy can prove to be extremely beneficial and helpful alternative, while also being very easy to employ and use. In order to use essential oils safely during pregnancy a few extra safety guidelines will need be followed. Though, there are reports of side effects, the user must be cautious enough to report any adverse effects to the physician immediately. Essential oils are extremely concentrated and volatile. They must be diluted before use. A common dilution for aromatherapy blends during pregnancy is 2 %, which would equal approximately 10 drops essential oil to 1 ounce or 2T carrier oil (this is the most preferred oil). For an aromatherapy pregnancy bath, add 6-10 drops of essential oil to the tub and mix well before getting in to the tub. 3-6 drops essential oil in a bowl of warm water wrung out in a washcloth works well for a compress. Use the same dilution in a bowl of steaming hot water for a steam inhalation. An aromatic bath is supposed to provide relaxation to the taut pelvic muscles and aid in avoiding stretch marks. How ever, there are many essential oils that need to be avoided during pregnancy. The following list contains oils that should be avoided during pregnancy and oils that are recommended for use during pregnancy. OILS TO AVOID DURING PREGNANCY Use of essential oils should be extremely limited or avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy, but has many wonderful uses in the last two trimesters and especially during labor. Oils to avoid during pregnancy include: Basil, Cedar Wood, Cinnamon, Clary sage (during labor), Clove, Cypress (after 5 months), Fennel, Hyssop, Jasmine (during labor), Juniper, Lemongrass, Myrrh, Parsley and Pennyroyal OILS RECOMMENDED DURING PREGNANCY The following oils will be comfortable for using during pregnancy. As always, use caution if you have allergies or a family history of allergies. If you feel you may be allergic to oil, do a patch test first. Good oils for pregnancy include: Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress (after 5 mos.), Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium (avoid in early pregnancy), Grapefruit, Lavender. Lemon, Mandarin, Neroli, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Rosewood, Sandalwood and Tangerine If you are currently pregnant and have been using any of the essential oils that need to be avoided, but are not experiencing any bleeding or cramping, then there most likely is nothing wrong. However, it is strongly encouraged you to consult your doctor or midwife and discontinue use of the “to be avoided” essential oils. Aromatherapy Benefits for Pregnancy Listed below are some of the benefits and therapeutic effects of the essential oils recommended for use during pregnancy:

Bergamot: Analgesic, antiseptic, antidepressant, uplifting, and refreshing. Helpful for cystitis during pregnancy.

Chamomile: Antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. Soothes pain from muscular aches, headaches, toothaches and Indigestion.

Cypress (ok after 5 mos.) Antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent and diuretic. Helpful for Varicose veins, hemorrhoids and swollen ankles.

Eucalyptus: Antiseptic, antibiotic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral. Helpful with respiratory congestion.

Frankincense: Antiseptic, astringent, sedative, warming

Geranium (ok after 3 mos.) Antiseptic, antidepressant, astringent, refreshing, uplifting. Eases aching legs and is good for poor circulation.

Grapefruit: Astringent, digestive aid, lymphatic stimulant. Helps with Water retention.

Lavender: Antiseptic, antibiotic, analgesic, antidepressant, healing, Relaxing. Helps soothe aches and pains of pregnancy, encourages cell renewal and helps with fluid retention.

Lemon: Antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, stimulant, Tonic. Useful as an inhalant for morning sickness and in Massage for varicose veins.

Mandarin: Antiseptic, refreshing, tonic, mild relaxant. Can ease fluid retention in leg and ankle massages.

Neroli: Antiseptic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, Relaxing. Useful in pregnancy to promote healthy skin cell Regeneration and for easing nervous tension.

Patchouli: Antiseptic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, nerve sedative. Eases confusion, indecision and apathy. Petitgrain: Antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative, refreshing, tonic. Helpful in dealing with pre or postpartum depression.

Rosewood: Antiseptic, sedative

Sandalwood: Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, sedative. Helpful for cystitis during pregnancy.

Tangerine: Antispasmodic, lymphatic stimulant, calming, sedative. Helps to prevent stretch marks.

Tea Tree: Antibiotic, antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral, disinfectant. Can be used to treat thrush during pregnancy.

Ylang Ylang: Antiseptic, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, sedative, lowers blood Pressure. Restorative when overworked or tense.

Essential oils made from herbs, leaves, flowers, and bark is both fragrant and therapeutic. Each aromatherapy oil has its own therapeutic properties so it’s a good idea to learn and understand them.

Aromatherapy oil is very concentrated so you will only need a small amount in your application. After you know the values of the most popular oils you can choose your oils more effectively. And don’t forget to choose the aromatherapy oil that you like too.

Basil is an aromatherapy oil that is both stimulating and uplifting. It has a fresh, sweet, spicy scent and it combines nicely with frankincense or geranium. Its properties include antiseptic, antidepressant, analgesic, antispasmodic, and uplifting. You can use it for bronchitis, colds, constipation, insect bites, migraine, nervous tension, rheumatism, or sinus congestion.

Bergamot is an aromatherapy oil that is both refreshing and uplifting. It has a sweet spicy scent and it combines nicely with chamomile, lavender, or geranium. Its properties are antiseptic, antidepressant, or antispasmodic. You can use it for abscesses, acne, chicken pox, colds, cold sores, cystitis, mouth infections, and sore throat.

Chamomile is an aromatherapy oil that is relaxing and soothing. It has a sweet fruity scent and it combines nicely with lavender, geranium, and bergamot. Its properties are antiseptic, analgesic, antibacterial, and a digestive stimulant. Use it for acne, blister, boils, colitis, depression, got, headaches, IBS, neuralgia, nervous tension, and rheumatism.

Frankincense is an aromatherapy oil that is relaxing and uplifting. It has a warm sweet scent and it combines nicely with lavender, rose, and neroli. Its properties include analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antiseptic, expectorant. Use it for asthma, bronchitis, colds, healing wounds, nervous tension, respiratory conditions, and skin care,

Jasmine is an aromatherapy oil that is soothing and relaxing with a warm floral scent that works well with citrus oils and chamomile. Its properties are antidepressant, antispasmodic, and antiseptic. Use for anxiety, cough, headache, mental tension, or dry skin.

Lemongrass is an aromatherapy oil that is refreshing and toning with a sweet citrus scent. It combines nicely with cedarwood, lavender, and basil. Its properties are antiseptic and diuretic. Use for colic, fatigue, muscle aches and pains, and stress.

Neroli is an aromatherapy oil that is relaxing and it has a refreshing floral scent that mixes nicely with lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood. Its properties are antispasmodic, sedative, and antidepressant. Use for depression, dry or sensitive skin, IBS, headache, nervous tension, stress, and panic attacks.

Orange is an aromatherapy oil that is refreshing and relaxing with a fresh citrus scent that combines nicely with lavender and frankincense. Its properties are antidepressant, antispasmodic, detoxifying, tonic and sedative. Use for anxiety, cellulite, depression, digestive issues, dry skin, aging skin, insomnia, muscle aches and pains, and stress.

Patchouli is an aromatherapy oil that is relaxing with its sweet spicy woody scent. It combines nicely with lavender and neroli. Its properties are astringent, sedative, and anti-inflammatory. Use for anxiety, cracked ski, depression, eczema, scar tissue, and water retention.

There are many other essential oils and there is no right or wrong aromatherapy oil. What’s important is that you choose the one or ones that you enjoy.

 

Aromatherapy is one of the best ways to treat one self. It is pampering and nurturing and very satisfying experience.

Aromatherapy is effective in dealing with stress, depression and its related disorders. Depression is an umbrella term encompassing a spectrum of problems and symptoms which could lead to more serious illness.

Though aromatherapy cannot fix the root of the problem, but these essences have an uplifting effect on the mind and emotions. It helps to you to relax, be energized and creates a feeling of well being. Aromatherapy can help in mild forms of depression by easing mental fatigue and help with sleep. Depression related disorders, such as digestive problems, stress and other mental problems, can be treated by Aromatherapy.

Just the right blend applied in massages, baths, diffusers and personal perfumes can all be helpful at such times. In extreme cases of depression, additional support and therapy are necessary.

Few commonly used essential oils for depression are basil, bergamot, clary sage, geranium, lavender, lemon, jasmine, neroli, rose, sandalwood, orange, and ylang ylang.

Bergamot – a happy uplifting oil, works well against tensions, headaches and anxiety either through massage or a diffuser.

Geranium – has a powerful effect on depressive moods negative feelings diminish and are replaced with feelings of wellbeing.

Ylang ylang – helps to balance and calm emotional trauma. Great relaxer for anxiety, depression and insomnia.

Clary Sage – treats insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Basil – used to lift fatigue, anxiety and depression.

Rose – great on the entire nervous system and disorders

Sandalwood – the sedative properties are good for treating depression and tension.

Lavender – used for nervous system disorders such as depression, headache, hypertension, insomnia, migraine, nervous tension, stress related conditions.

Jasmine – increase the beta waves in the front of the head which can give you a more alert and responsive state of mind.

Orange & Lemon – helps in cases of sadness, irritability, lack of energy, and depression.

Neroli – A gentle sedative rejuvenates the skin and relieves anxiety.

Blends to help with Depression

Blend 1 – 1 drop Rose, 3 drops Sandalwood and 1 drop Orange oil

Blend 2 – 3 drops Bergamot and 2 drops of Clary sage

Blend 3 – 1 drop each of Lavender, Ylang Ylang and 3 drops Grapefruit

Blend 4 – 2 drops frankincense, 1 drop Lemon and 2 drops of Jasmine or Neroli

The above mentioned essential oils can be used in the correct blend for massages, baths, diffusers and even personal perfumes. You will enjoy the uplifting feeling that will rid your life of depression.

If there is an abnormal response triggered by the immune system, because of some food items, it is known as food allergy. There are various foods that cause allergy in humans. If the allergic reactions are very serious, it is capable of creating a serious condition or even death. Peanuts and tree nuts and two food items that cause a very serious condition called anaphylaxis.

There are some foods that cause allergies very commonly in humans. They are fish, such as shellfish, crabs and lobster with shrimp. There are some others such as eggs and even milk. Milk, eggs and nuts affect children especially. Soy and wheat are also responsible for food allergies in the body. Some reactions to food may not be called as allergies, but they may be called as intolerance to food. The immune system is not responsible for causing any intolerance to food. They may feel like a food allergy, and thus you will have to consult a doctor about the same. Some individuals may be allergic to various types of food, but there are certain foods, which cause allergies in about ninety percent of humans.

They are the food types mentioned above. The body will believe that these foods are harmful, and in turn will react to protest against the intake of them. The protein that triggers the food allergy is known as the allergen. There are several millions of people around the world who have food allergies, and the number is rising every day. About eight percent of children below the age of five have food allergies, and about four percent of the adults have them. There are about hundreds of deaths every year around the world because of food allergies. Food allergy will be distinct compared to food intolerance and other food diseases. Doctors will be immediately able to diagnose the same.

The treatment will include a list of food items, which you will have to avoid, in which the individual will have to avoid all the food types that they are allergic to. Inhaling or touching the food avoidance may also be recommended for those who are very sensitive to the foods. If the surface has come in contact with the food, then the surface will also have to be avoided. If certain people have food allergy, then it is recommended as they carry emergency kits, or as recommended by the doctor. There are various symptoms, which are associated with the food allergies. They are itching in the throat, skin, mouth and eyes. There could also be abdominal pain, stomach cramps, vomiting and nausea.

There can be difficulty swallowing or there could be nasal congestion. Some food allergies may be genetic, and this also has to be consulted with the doctor. If an individual faces symptoms of food allergy while consuming certain foods, then it is a must that they avoid such foods in the future. If consumed again, it could lead to serious conditions. Maintaining a history of food allergy is a good suggestion for such patients.

The term ‘Anxiety’ covers multiple forms of abnormal pathological disorders connected to fear, phobia and nervousness of mind. Anxiety may emerge with sudden manifestation or develop gradually over a period of time that may constitute several years.

The individual suffering from anxiety may fail to fulfill the needs of his/her social life and may falter during normal course of daily routine. Both the fear and anxiety are different phenomenal emotional patterns connected to specific scientific disorders. These two words can hence be used interchangeably. A phobia for instance, which is a state of mental anxiety, stands to be defined as a persistent or irrational fear.

Anxiety is a common occurrence of a body’s reaction to a perceived or imagined danger. But when the worry becomes excessive and persistent, it inhibits a person’s daily activities. It then leads to a disorder called generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It occurs when a normal level of anxiety becomes severe and persists over more than few months.

Symptoms:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder symptoms are lined into three categories which include psychological, physical and behavioral aspects.

Psychological aspects.In this aspect of GAD, a person finds it difficult to stop his/her anxious thoughts. They constantly experience the chronic worry about events that are unlikely to occur. Often, they have trouble in sleeping and stay awake for long times. Due to these, they are always restless and finds difficult to relax. Any kind of psychological disturbance or problem can lead to GAD.

Physical aspects- lack of energy, muscular tension, stomach problems and chest pains could be the frequent problems experienced by the patient. Other minor physical problems include twitching or trembling, headaches, grinding of teeth, sweating and dizziness. This makes the patient inactive in their day to day activities.

Behavioral aspects- A patient with GAD finds it troublesome to concentrate on important things. They are incapable and cannot complete their daily tasks. This reflects in the productivity and lead to irritability. The patients are prone to procrastination and easy startle.

Treatments:

Generalized anxiety disorder can be treated by psychotherapy and medication.Psychotherapy known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the effective method of treating GAD patients. Medication is considered as the temporary measure to relieve symptoms at the beginning of the treatment. If the medication is suggested along with psychotherapy, it becomes a longterm tool for overcoming the disorder. Good care and a happy state of mind can avoid the Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

Aromatherapy can be used to arouse romance by stimulating your sense of smell, body and mind. Using essential oils for massage is not only therapeutic; it can be very sensual. Many plant oils contain natural aphrodisiac properties and when used in massage oil, they can put both of you in the mood for romance.

One of the most powerful natural aphrodisiacs is Patchouli. With its strong woody scent, Patchouli appeals to both men and women. You can use Patchouli by itself in candles or diffusers to let its aroma fill a room.

If you prefer to use aromatherapy candles, you may want to select natural Soy wax candles. These candles are made out of 100% pure Soy wax and they burn without leaving any residue or soot behind after it burns. Patchouli oil may be added to the Soy for a wonderfully natural and exotic candle that will help enhance your romantic setting.

If you wish to create a romantic mood with natural exotic aphrodisiacs, then you need to choose your scents carefully. Obviously, if you choose wrongly, you may feel that you can hardly smell any romance in the air. This is especially true if you are using Patchouli and blending scents. Patchouli blends with Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Myrrh, and Clary Sage. Sandalwood is another popular aphrodisiac. You can blend Sandalwood with Basil, Geranium, Rose, Vetiver, Lavender, Frankincense, Rose, Neroli, and Lemon.

You can choose either Patchouli or Sandalwood as your basic aphrodisiac oil. By adding either of these oils to one ounce of carrier oil, such as Jojoba oil, you can make an exotic perfume that you may apply.

Essential oils are in concentrated form, and may be very irritating to the skin. You can also check to make sure that you will not have any sensitivities or allergic reactions to an essential oil too. Simply apply one drop of the oil to the nape of the neck, or the crook of the arm, then wait at least fourteen hours to determine if there is a reaction. If after fourteen hours, there is no reaction, it is safe to assume that the oil is safe to use.

A very exotic and sensual massage oil may be made by adding two drops of Patchouli, three drops of Geranium, and three drops of Rose oil to one ounce of carrier oil. A good carrier oil of choice may be Sweet Almond oil. Blend thoroughly and store in an amber bottle. This oil may be heated before using for a full body sensual massage. However, if you are pregnant, do ensure that you only use essential oils that are safe for you and your baby.

You should always check the labels and make sure that the oils are ok to use. As long as the oils are safe, you can enjoy a nice warming massage by placing the oil in an amber colored jar, and by heating it by placing it in a bowl of hot water.

Consult with an experienced aromatherapist and ask for advice or recommendations, if there is a specific feeling that you wish to arouse. Then, sit back and let the essential oils work its magic between you and your partner.