Fertility Calculator Tips You Must Use
September 4, 2008
As a kinesiologist who uses natural remedies to help women get pregnant, I always recommend you use some form of fertility calculator to short-cut the time it takes you to get pregnant. They’re actually not very difficult to use and at the end of this article, I’ll show you a way to calculate your most fertile days for free.
Many women have used fertility calculators when finding it difficult to conceive and have been successful! Believe it or not, a woman can only conceive 12-24 hours out of the month and usually the problem is simply bad timing.
The variables needed to work out your time of ovulation are usually the same. It doesn’t matter whether you’re using a paper calendar or a high-tech fertility calculator, you still need to use accurate data to get the best results.
You’ll need to enter the date your period started last month, the length of your cycle and an approximation of your luteal phase length.
If you regularly note down the dates of your period in your journal, this will be an easy exercise for you. Then, all you need to do is count the days in between the dates your period starts.
What’s a luteal phase? It’s the second half of your menstrual cycle that occurs once you have already ovulated. It can last anywhere from 10 days to 16 days, and it’s not as easy to work out, because you need to have an idea of when you’re ovulating.
Fortunately it’s quite rare to be asked about the luteal phase, as the majority of programs will only want to know the date your period started and your cycle length.
Some people prefer to use a pen and paper to work out when they’re ovulating. If this is you, and you’re looking at your journal dates, you can count backward 14 days from the time your next period is going to start, and this will be your approximate ovulation date. This is not an exact science, so assume you might be fertile 2 days before and 2 days after that approximate ovulation date.
To get best results, combine the use of a fertility calculations with charting your basal body temperature and identifying when this rises, keeping notes of changes in the way you feel mid-cycle, and checking your cervical mucus every day.
There are tips and tricks to realizing when you are ovulating which I explain on my website and books. Once you become more in-tune with your body using a fertility calculator to get pregnant will be as easy as 123!
Why Is Chakra Meditation So Important?
July 30, 2008
Present in the body of every human being, the chakras are the focal points for our energy. We may or may not be aware of them, but our chakras have an effect on our lives, whether for good (as when they are in alignment) or when they hold us back from getting the most out of our lives (such as when they are out of alignment or blocked).
Chakra is a Sanskrit word that means energy, and while its roots are Hindu, energy is not partial to a religion. Energy is in fact universal and every single person on this Earth has these energies. The chakra is really the vortex that this energy flows through and manifest physically. The chakras are the channels by which universal energy can flow in and out of our aura.
Chakras which are correctly aligned have a wealth of benefits for the mind, body and the spirit, which is why chakra meditation is such a good thing to learn. You will be able to perform chakra meditation if you know where your chakras are and what each chakra does.
Your chakras are sited in vital areas such as your heart and your head. The organs which are in the area of these chakras are used to control the energy of the chakra and are as such directly affected by their chakra. There are seven chakras in the human body.
Located at the base of the spine, the Root Chakra is the first of the seven. This chakra represents our body as well as our relationship to it. Your health and constitution are connected to this chakra ? this chakra is also the one which helps us to understand how we connect to the world outside of ourselves. This chakra’s color is red.
Your second chakra is the Navel Chakra which is, as the name suggests, located in the lower abdomen. This chakra represents your drives towards physical love, including sexual pleasure. This chakra also governs your generosity and is where you will feel giving and receiving. This chakra’s color is orange.
Next we have our Solar Plexus Chakra which is found just below our chest. This chakra is where our will and our sense of change or transformation is located. Our concentration and control of our own personal energies stem from this chakra. Self control and our discipline of our ego is also found here. The color for this chakra is yellow.
The Heart Chakra is found in the center of the chest. It only seems natural then that this chakra control love and understanding. Our feelings of harmony, balance, forgiveness and compassion stem from this chakra. The Heart Chakra nurtures the feelings of divine and unconditional love that goes beyond the physical. The color of the Heart Chakra is green.
The fifth chakra is the Throat Chakra, sited between the chin and the sternum. This chakra governs communication. The Throat Chakra lets us understand the power of honest speech to convey truth, kindness and wisdom. The color of the Throat chakra is sky blue.
Your sixth chakra is the Brow Chakra, which can be found on your forehead (and for this reason is sometimes called the third eye). This is the chakra which controls imagination, intuition and insight. Properly aligned, this chakra lets you examine your soul by looking inward. Experiences of the divine are found here, in the chakra which is also the source of peace of mind. The color of the Brow Chakra is indigo.
The seventh and final chakra is the Crown Chakra, located at the top of the head. This is the chakra which directly relates to the mind and spirit. The Crown Chakra is what allows us to examine our own consciousness and our place in the universe. The higher self is related to the Crown Chakra, whose color is violet.
If you know the function and the location of each of your chakras, you will be able to practice chakra meditation more effectively. You can use meditations which work on individual chakras, or ones which align them as a whole.
The Benefits Of Coral Calcium
July 29, 2008
The number of people who take advantage of the health benefits of coral calcium all over the world is in the millions. Of course, there are different types of coral calcium so it’s bests to be knowledgable before you go out and buy supplements for your health. Here is a bit about marine coral calcium:
Whether it’s organic or inorganic, marine coral consists of two major compounds, calcium and magnesium; and it’s tasteless and odorless. Marine coral diffuses slowly in water, approximately 1% per hour. However, it will dissolve much faster (within minutes) when ingested by capsule into the stomach.
One of the benefits of coral calcium is that it can adjust to the alkalinity of water over a period of time. It also helps in controlling the bacterial content in the water and aids in removing the residual chlorine as well as other impurities.
When you are trying to learn about marine coral calcium it is important to know how a general certificate of analysis of coral calcium should read. It should be 20% to 28% of calcium and 10 to 14% of magnesium. Lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and bacteria should read below critical levels. The coral calcium should also be checked for its content of PCB’s or poltchlorinated biphenyls - man made toxins. The PCB’s should test negative in coral calcium in order for it to provide you with health benefits as they are thought to contribute to many diseases including cancer.
Mineral chelation is another important characteristic to be aware of with marine coral calcium. In nature mineral chelation occurs when organic substances bind to metallic minerals or metal ions. Chelation occurs in coral calcium when the metals are diffused into the body chemistry. Much research has shown that the body can use chelated metals more efficiently than plain minerals.
Though you may not be familiar with all the aspects of this supplement, that shouldn’t stop you from reaping the health benefits of coral calcium. Just be sure you take a good quality product in the right amounts and you’ll be amazed at how your health improves.
Herbs and Therapeutic Essential Oils Can Help Your Health
July 29, 2008
Many people only think of herbs in the kitchen. Although, sometimes they think of them for medicinal purposes. And as far as Essential Oils are concerned, you may think - what’s that?
If you’ve never heard about this, keep reading and you will begin to understand. It’s not as complicated as it may seem. Let’s see what some of the possibilities are.
-In addition to adding extra flavor in recipes, herbs and food-grade essential oils can stimulate your immune system
-Drinking herbal teas can help you sleep better, calm your digestive system, or help detoxify your system
-Use therapeutic-grade oils as an ingredient in your own household cleaning supplies and home-made cold and pain remedies, without all of the harmful and toxic chemicals found in store-bought products
Herbs and essential oils are not some new discovery. We find them written about since history has been recorded. The Bible talks about oils and herbs - frankincense, myrrh, bitterherbs, etc. The Romans knew about them as well. Pliny, a Roman soldier, wrote about the uses of many plants. Many additional uses and improvements to these things have been made over the years.
Even today, herbs are uses in medicine. One example of the combining of herbs and medicine is foxglove. Scientists use this to make medicine that treat specific heart problems.
Given that we have perfected agricultural methods, and ways of extracting the best out of the herbs and flowers that give us essential oils, we are endowed with purer, more potent, and more consistent results. Therapeutic-grade oils are an example of such horticultural, engineering, and scientific achievements.
You should be aware, as you learn about using herbs and essential oils, that not all essential oils are the same. Many are not to be ingested; if you want to use oils for recipes, you must seek out food-grade oils. And if you plan on using oils for aromatherapy, purchase only those labeled “therapeutic-grade.” Not all natural food stores or health food stores carry therapeutic-grade oils. They are different because they are more potent and effective than the every day store-bought variety. Since they are extracted and refined using the best methods available, you can expect much better results with therapeutic-grade oils than if you purchase inferior oils.
So, if you feel that you can be doing more for your family’s health and well-being, you can start with herbal supplements and therapeutic-grade essential oils. You just might notice that your kids are getting sick less often, you have more energy later into the evening, and that’s all of the proof you need that thousands of years of history can’t be wrong.
The Secrets of Chakra Energy
July 29, 2008
Did you know that our bodies have tremendous amounts of energies, which are sufficient to ensure our physical and mental health? This may come as news to many Westerners, but it’s a fact of life proved and followed by many ancient saints and scholars in countries, like India.
Most commonly, this is known as ‘Chakra Energy’, or the energy generated by the seven primary energy centers in the body. These energy centers are situated from the base of spine upwards to the head. A brief description of location of seven Chakras won’t be out of place:
* Root or the Base Chakra (RED) located at the base of the spine, known as the coccyx.
* Sacral Chakra (ORANGE) located in the lower abdomen.
* Solar Plexus (YELLOW) Chakra situated just above the navel.
* Heart Chakra (GREEN) located in the center of the chest.
* Throat Chakra (BLUE) located in the throat region.
* Third Eye Chakra (INDIGO) located in between the eyes.
* Crown Chakra (VIOLET) located on top of the head.
The uninterrupted movement of these Chakras produces the Chakra Energy. It is this energy, which is decisive in determining whether you enjoy a healthy physical and mental body.
Your bodily health, both physical and mental, is entirely dependent on the harmonious movement of these seven primary charkas. Any kind of disharmony in their movements is unacceptable to the body and results in ill health in one form or the other.
So, what’s exactly Chakra Energy and how it influences our physical and mental well being? The Chakra System in our body is primarily responsible for the smooth functioning of every organ. As every bodily organ is connected with the brain through a complex web of nerves, the Chakras rotate to provide the necessary energy for all the nerves and organs so that they perform their natural functions in an unhindered manner. They not only rotate, but also the movement of their rotation is so synchronized that they complement each other in a unique way.
This balance in the Chakra movement is what’s precisely required to enjoy a healthy existence.
Undoubtedly, Chakra Energy plays a decisive role in human lives, but is it possible to work around the Chakras and bring about a balance in their movements? Though Chakra movement is a natural phenomenon, yet you can direct your physical and spiritual energies towards attainment of Chakra balancing. Learning is an art and invariably, a slow process. But if your have determination and perseverance, it’s an achievable goal. The exercise is pretty simple. Firstly, just sit or lie down in the most comfortable posture with eyes closed. The next part is to relax and feel all the body parts from visible organs to the minutest cell within the body. Don’t avoid the distractions, like myriad thoughts. With time, they’ll disappear. Keep it going for about half-an-hour to any length of time for as many days as you can. You’ll surely feel the difference.
You may ask if achieving physical and emotional well being is so simple, then why are the incidents of such ailments on the rise? The answer is pretty obvious. The advancements in the modern day living have translated into our increasing reliance on the materialistic things. In the worldly pursuits, man has slowly but surely lost contact with the spiritual aspect of his existence. This myopic mindset has robbed humans of their earthiness.
Fortunately, everything is not lost forever because the Chakra Energy is within, and you can correct the Chakra movements anytime you want to change your life for better. All it requires is sustained effort and a strong desire to make a healthy change in your life. If you appreciate and understand your body and its simple requirements, then balanced Chakra movements is not too difficult to achieve. Originally, our needs are not meant to go beyond what Mother Earth can naturally provide. However, the imbalance of Chakra movements is the price we have collectively paid for the scientific advancements. And Chakra balancing is the answer to all your health-related questions in the Twenty First Century.
Treating Heart Disease With Acupuncture
July 29, 2008
Numerous drugs are being marketed today to combat heart disease. But along with these drugs comes the risk of unpleasant side effects for the user. This is one reason many patients are using alternative medical treatments to take care of heart disease instead of traditional medicines which can have detrimental side effects.
One treatment that many people are turning to for help in managing their heart condition, or to keep from developing one, is acupuncture. In this centuries-old Chinese practice, small, slender needles are inserted into different areas of the body to enhance health.
The basis for this practice is the movement of energy throughout the body that may become blocked. The practice of acupuncture helps to unblock and redirect that energy. And science is on the side of this practice.
Scientific investigation shows evidence that acupuncture can relieve hypertension, which in turn reduces the chances of heart disease. There is also data that shows it can decrease the risk of angina, which is chest pains caused when the heart’s blood vessels go into spasm. In the studies, those who chose acupuncture to treat their angina recuperated sooner than those who relied on traditional medication.
Acupuncture is generally painless because the needles used are so tiny. It can also be a relaxing experience. Once the needles are inserted into your body, you lie quietly for several minutes and rest.
Before choosing an acupuncturist, do a little homework to make sure of certification by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. This tells you that your acupuncturist has the training required to practice this type of medicine and continues to refresh their education.
Certain insurance companies will cover the cost of acupuncture. However, most do not so you will probably have to pay for the treatment yourself. The cost of acupuncture is dependent upon the area where you live. You can make a few phone calls to find out the average rate.
Generally, you’ll need to make a few visits before you start seeing results. But in the end it will mostly likely be well worth your time since you won’t be experiencing the side effects and possible addiction that normally go along with the use of medication.
Some people are unsure about alternative medicine therapies, but a quick look online can show you that science is beginning to come around to this ancient form of medicine. The Chinese have been practicing it for centuries, and Westerners really are the ones behind the times.
Many studies are confirming what people have known traditionally for a long time - acupuncture does work in many cases.
Gemfibrozil Lopid - Things You Should Know.
July 29, 2008
Gemfibrozil Lopid - when administered at the same time with a special diet - is efficient in treating exceptionally high serum triglycerides levels that may cause inflammation of the pancreas (a condition known as pancreatitis). Serum triglycerides are fatty substances found in your blood. If your body does not react to a plain strict diet, then you may require Gemfibrozil Lopid.
Gemfibrozil Lopid is as well used to decrease coronary heart disease risk in patients who need to lose weight but do not respond to exercise, diet, or any cholesterol- or triglyceride-lowering tablets.
Is Gemfibrozil Lopid for me?
Your doctor can tell you this. As a general rule, though, Gemfibrozil Lopid is only given to those whose bodies do not respond to exercise and other and weight loss ways (especially a strict diet). Gemfibrozil Lopid is not a medication - it is only a supplement to customary weight loss measures. If you want to get all the profits of the medication, you have to stick to the exercise and diet plan that your doctor will also set down. Gemfibrozil Lopid can aid in keeping your cholesterol at average levels and in lowering your heart disease risk - but only if you do your part, too.
What’s the exact dosage?
Gemfibrozil Lopid is supposed to be taken about half an hour (30 minutes) sooner than your breakfast and evening meal, accurately as your doctor prescribed. If you by chance miss a dose, don’t upset - just take Gemfibrozil Lopid yet again as soon as you realize that you’ve missed a dose. By no means take two Gemfibrozil Lopid doses in unison.
Does it have unwanted side effects?
Yes. Like any other drug, Gemfibrozil Lopid may possibly set off side effects that are hard to anticipate, such as abdominal pain, constipation, acute appendicitis, diarrhea, fatigue, eczema, headache, indigestion, vomiting, vertigo, and rash. If these side effects carry on, notify your physician as soon as possible. Only your physician will be able to determine whether you should maintain taking Gemfibrozil Lopid or not.
In some cases, Gemfibrozil Lopid sets of malignancy, abdominal pain (sometimes causing appendectomy), gallbladder disease, or other grave and maybe fatal disorders in the abdomen.
Caution
The next drugs may initiate muscle-wasting if used at the same time with Gemfibrozil Lopid.
1. Lipitor (Atorvastatin)
2. Mevacor (Lovastatin)
3. Lescol (Fluvastatin)
4. Zocor (Simvastatin)
5. Pravachol (Pravastatin)
These drugs lower cholesterol.
Gemfibrozil Lopid is supposed to in addition not be taken by patients whose cholesterol levels are only slightly elevated, as its benefits hardly outweigh the risks of severe side effects.
Aromatherapy Is More Than Just Scents!
July 29, 2008
What, really, is Aromatherapy? In the United States, common use of the term ‘Aromatherapy’ is a bit misleading. The practice has been given a ‘touchy-feely’, ’soft-science’ status to the general public through mainstream media. In much of the rest of the world, however, the therapeutic use of aromatic essential oils has a more elevated, scientifically-backed status. In France, for example, one can only purchase essential oils through a licensed Aromatherapist; this is due to the well-known, powerful interaction of essential oils and the human physiology.
The word ‘aromatherapie’ was first used in 1937 by the French cosmetic scientist Rene Maurice Gattefosse after accidentally discovering Lavender oil’s healing effects on burns he sustained in his lab. He was so impressed by the oils medicinal actions, he wrote a book it that began the modern aroma-’therapy’ revolution. Medicinal use of essential oils is widely accepted in France today, where one can receive a prescription for a blend from their doctor, and have it filled as we do with pharmaceuticals here. The inhalation of essential oils to make one ‘feel good’ - is truely just one aspect of the practice; Aromatherapy includes the entire branch of medicine using volatile (easily evaporated) aromatic compounds naturally occurring in plants. Some consider the most important actions of essential oils to not even be associated with the sense of smell. Beyond acting on through the olfactory senses, essential oils have been shown to have effects ranging from broad spectrum anti-microbials and anti-virals to inflammation reducers and even tissue regenerative properties.
Effects of essential oils on the psyche, along with some biologic effects through the olfactory system, are an important aspect of their use; this should certainly not be discounted relative to the direct effects on the physiology. Many scientifically designed studies have confirmed the effects of aromatic oils on the mind and emotions. Your smell sense is the only one of the five senses directly connected to the brain - all other senses are routed first through the thalamus, then directed to the cerebral cortex and other brain regions. Each ’scent-sensing’ cell is a sort of chemical receiver - every receptor in the nose reacts to some scents and not others. Each of these scent-cells is directly linked to the brain by one nerve fiber. It is difficult to sense an aroma and ‘think’ about it before having a response - the signal does not travel first to the thought centers. Because each sensing cell is in direct contact with the chemical being sensed, and the cell is in directly wired to the brain, the nervous system’s response to smell is quick and powerful.
The olfactory sense is also closely tied to the limbic system, the center of emotions, sexual response, and the formation of many memories. Aroma receptor cells, when stimulated, respond in-kind by stimulating this important brain region. With such close ties continually being revealed between one’s emotional state and one’s physical well-being, it is no surprise that aromas can have such strong influences. Human studies have show the inhalation of natural aromatic oils can be calming, stimulating, uplifting, relaxing, and/or clarifying, depending on the oil being inhaled (as opposed to synthetic ones, which do not have such effects).
This brings us to the great range of non-’aromatic’, therapeutic uses of essential oils. Modern aromatherapy practice includes topical application, ingestion, and suppository use of these natural plant comounds. Safe and effective treatment depends completely on the particular essential oil - some are absolutely not to be taken internally and others are known strong skin irritants. Effects through topical application rely on the small size and lipophillic nature of essential oil molecules - the oil-like compounds pass through the lipid bi-layers of skin cells to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Used this way, essential oils can produce profound physiological responses - again ranging widely depending on the oil. Topical application may be helpful in a variety of skin, joint, and muscle conditions, infectious illness, as well as for more general stress related states. Oral injestion and suppositories are often used in systemic infectious illnesses of microbial or viral natures - the oils are quickly absorbed and able to travel easily throughout the body, again to due to their structure which is quite compatible with human physiology. A knowledgeable practitioner should be always be consulted for such applications, as it is important to preciecly match the oils and the condition being treated. Further, use of essential oils should only be used as an adjuct therapy in serious cases following the advice of a medical professional.
As the acceptance of healing with natural means continues to grow in the US, the concept of aromatherapy for many individuals will expand to include these important and exciting facets. More certified practitioners will be available to utilize essential oils to their true potential, and more ‘end users’ will aquire the knowledge to heal themselves with these incredible gifts from nature. Or should we simply push to change the name? Phytomedicinal Oil Therapy? It does have a ring to it…Hmmm…
Choose Alternative Health
July 29, 2008
The popularity of alternative health has grown for one basic reason: it works. The difference between alternative health care and conventional health care is the emphasis on making and keeping ideal health while preventing illness and disease before they occur. Old time honored methods of maintaining good health and wellness deserve another look. Alternative health routines are becoming more popular. The benefits to alternative health practices are their holistic approach to general wellness and the encompassing of the mind and spirit along with the body physical.
Your Health
Health care is a huge industry across America and alternative health is growing faster than any other segment of that industry. Alternative health offers several things that conventional health care does not, like feelings of inner peace, self-awareness and better mental health leading to better physical health. The most current alternative health therapy options can be learned at Alternatively-Healthier.com. Arm yourself with the knowledge of alternative health options and support your own general wellness, peace of mind and confidence in your health where conventional medicine can sometimes make you feel you are at the mercy of others for good health.
The Body
What does your body need to function properly? Many people are attracted to alternative physicians emphasis on treating the whole person body, mind and spirit. Chiropractic is one form of alternative health care, or complementary and alternative medicine, that focuses on the structure of our body, specifically the spine, nerves, muscles and all their related functions.
Normal living, not just accidents or sports injuries, cause subluxations or misalignments to the spine. These misalignments can cause any number of illnesses in addition to the discomfort or pain whether temporary or chronic to the back and neck areas. Chiropractic involves physical manipulation of the skeletal structure at the spine which radiates out to the rest of the body. Surgery and operations are never part of the chiropractic curriculum. Those who enjoy this natural approach to body care often feel they have more control over the health of the body.
Holistic Medicine
Some research tells us the over 90% of cancers are induced by our environment, and stress is at fault for exacerbating or causing 80% of health problems. Knowing these statistics, looking for a holistic health experience makes sense. Alternative health physicians usually take a holistic approach to health care.
Among the subject matter in these holistic medicine programs are in-depth studies in anatomy and physiology, pathology and disease, detoxification methods, energy healing, herbal medicine (both Eastern and Western modalities), homeopathy, orthomolecular nutrition/holistic nutrition, flower essences and remedies, holistic counseling, iridology, and other natural medicine. There are also courses in holistic medicine that are both degreed and non-degreed.
Today, there are a number of natural healing schools that provide basic holistic workshops and seminars to the general public; which may include beginner classes in self-massage, home herbal remedies, holistic nutrition (including vitamins and supplements), iridology, reflexology, and other alternative health specialties.
Alternative health practice looks at how the Mind-Body-Spirit relates to its external surroundings. Alternative health may include taking vitamin supplements, doing yoga and eating organic vegetables, but more importantly it is about creating health while obstructing disease before it begins.
The increased popularity of alternative health is a bonus to chiropractic medicine as an inclusive part of regular health maintenance. The differences from technology to alternative medicine is a strength in our world. We are responsible for our health and it is good to remember that there is always a choice in medical care. Alternative health continues to grow as we seek holistic solutions to our health complaints so we may hold on to a better quality of life for more years than previously thought possible.
Scientists Validate the Relaxing Effects of Essential Oils
July 29, 2008
It’s taken some time, and some (maybe a LOT) of the Western medical establishment will still make fun, but aromatherapy has been officially validated by science. Not just the killing of microbes by Tea Tree, mind you, but the practice of ‘aroma-therapy’ - the inhalation of essential oil vapors to effect the psyche. Now we can all breathe an even hardier sigh of relief, knowing we’re not crazy for thinking we feel better when inhaling Lavender oil, but stressed out lab rats feel better, too! The natural health and wellness movement gets one more feather in its cap. Yes, this may not be news to long-time practitioners, but this validation has important implications for a therapeutic environment where unnatural medicines currently dominate the landscape.
The body of evidence from controlled, scientifically-valid research has grown significantly over the last decade, demonstrating aromatherapy’s potent anti-anxiety (also called ‘anxiolytic’) action. In most cases, these studies are easily reproduced by the lay practitioner - just rub a little Sandalwood oil on your wrists or diffuse a vial of lavender and you too can partake in the now-proven actions of aromatherapy. A few common oils have significant amounts of research to back them up…let’s have a look at what the science says about these oils, and how you as a regular guy or gal (or mother with one or more active children) can reap these benefits.
Lavender has been the most frequently studied of all the essential oils. Its anti-anxiety (or simply ‘relaxing’) action has been documented both in the laboratory (using stressed-out mice and rats) and in clinical environments with actual human beings. Many, many studies have reported the same thing: inhalation of lavender oil brings calm under a great variety of conditions. At least one study compared Lavender oil aroma to that of Juniper, Cypress, Geranium, Jasmine and Frankincense. It was only the Frankincense that had a somewhat similar effect, but not nearly as effective as Lavender. Several studies compared Lavender’s effect to diazepam (Valium) with Lavender’s aroma having similar (but likely more healthy) calming results. In other studies, Lavender has been shown to improve sleep, decrease conflict between animals, and reduce the amount of pain medication needed by recovering hospital patients.
Sandalwood oil is another well-known stress reducer. For those that may not enjoy the floral aroma of Lavender, Sandalwood could be the oil of choice. Its warm, earthy scent is grounding and centering, being used by some spiritual traditions to enhance relaxed, focused meditative states. The science shows similar results - Sandalwood oil topically applied relaxed the body while stimulating psyche. Studies on sleep/wake cycles using Sandalwood oil topically improved the quality of sleep and lessened waking episodes. A small study using Sandalwood suggested the oil may be helpful in reducing anxiety for palliative care patients. Beyond the scope of Western scientific inquiry, Sandalwood oils and pastes have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of psychological disorders, utilizing its sublime mental-health promoting actions.
While Sandalwood and Lavender have the most data to back them up, many other essential oils have had positive test results. Rose is a standout; it has also been tested alongside Valium (apparently the anti-anxiety gold standard) with better and longer-lasting results. The rose aroma’s effect seem to increase over time, where as benzodiazepines’ effect will tend to decrease - and the test subjects appeared less confused or sedated. Rose, like Lavender, reduced conflict between test subjects as well. For a little variety, you can mix Rose and Sandalwood together (try a 1:4 ratio)…this is a classic Indian aromatic blend combining two of the world’s best known anti-anxiety scents.
Other oils found in research databases include Angelica, Chamomile, Lemon, Lemongrass, Tagetes and Ylang Ylang. Some oils tested didn’t show repeatable results in the laboratory environment, but if you find and oil aroma that you find relaxing, it’s more than likely not purely ‘in your head’; the olfactory (smell) sense is the one of the five senses most directly wired to the brain’s emotional centers. These are, in turn, directly wired to the autonomic nervous system controlling functions such as heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure - all of which are closely tied to one’s level of stress.
So what to do with these stress relieving wonders? They’re really easy to use - one of the great features of aromatherapy. Both topical application and inhalation show repeatable results in laboratory tests. A common method of topical application is to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil like Jojoba down to 10% or less. Essential oils tend to pass easily into the bloodstream when applied to the skin, so nearly any technique will do. A few drops of your mixture can be placed on the wrists and rubbed together (this is nice, as you’ll smell the aroma as well). For inhalation, there’s a great many aromatherapy diffusers available, from little, inexpensive plug in units, to professional models which make a cloud of pure, intense aroma. For anxiety relief, any model where you can smell the aroma will do the job - the higher end diffusers tend to bathe a larger area in your aroma of choice.
How to chose an oil for you, your family or friends? Aromatherapy choices tends to be some personal. Some folks go mad for Rose Geranium, and other folks can only think of ‘grandma’ (in a nice way!) with the bright scents of florals. These same individuals will often love the grounding aromas of the woods: Sandalwood, Frankincense, Spruce, etc. The beauty of the scientific data is that it’s not one type of essential oil that’s effective to support health and wellness naturally - it’s the santalol in Sandalwood, the linalool in Lavender, and the citronellol in Rose that imparts much of the therapeutic effect. Other oils have different chemical constituents that also bring about relaxation. Even the most scientifically aligned practitioners will tell you: if it feels good, use it. Try a variety of aromas if you’re new, and use your favorite with confidence - relaxed confidence, of course - knowing you’re using some of the best medicine nature has to offer, with the science to back it up.
