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vedA Beginner’s Guide

To Aromatherapy

Soothing Scents

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Copyright © 2016 by Namastra International Ltd.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

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Table of ContentsIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Chapter 1 Aromatherapy Basics . . . . . . 5

Chapter 2 History of Aromatherapy . . . . 8

Chapter 3 Why Bother? . . . . . . . . 10

Chapter 4 The 8 Namastra Select Oils . . 12Lavender . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Eucalyptus . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Peppermint . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Clary Sage . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Cinnamon . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Jasmine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Sandalwood . . . . . . . . . . . 19YlangYlang . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Chapter 5 How does it all work? . . . . .

LET’S...GET...TECHNICAL! . . . . 21

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Welcome to your guide to one of the oldest healing techniques known to man: Aromatherapy!

What is aromatherapy?

The practice of aromatherapy involves the use of the natural oils extracted from plants to improve psychological and physical well being. The inhaled aroma created by a dilution of these essential oils within a diffuser is believed to have a variety of positive effects on the central nervous system.

Introduction

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In other words, the pleasant smells created by essential oils within a diffuser can also have healing effects on your body! Aromatherapy can help with any of the following:

Mood Enhancement

Pain Relief

Stress Reduction

Help with Meditation

Increase Concentration (Brain Function)

Sinus Issues

Respiratory Problems

And many more

Got an exam to study for? Why not have a diffuser going with a few drops of your favorite essential oil to set the mood? Or have it on overnight to help get a good night’s rest.

Aromatherapy has been used in combination with other stress reduction techniques such as massage and meditation but can also be used independently as a form of alternative medicine to improve your quality of life. The bottom line is that you can’t go wrong with aromatherapy. It can help with many different parts of your life and be a huge benefit to you.

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Chapter 1­­ Aromatherapy Basics

Let’s begin with a quick overview of aromatherapy.

The foundation of aromatherapy is the use of plant-derived essential oils. Flower based oils are intended for strongly aromatic users while oils from other sources are used more for the properties of wellness they can promote.

In other words, some of the root based and less fragrant oils can also have healing benefits. It’s not as simple as just picking the best smelling oil and recieving all the possible benefits of aromatherapy. Different scents will have different effects on the body.

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Elements of aromatherapy are starting to become more popular in the culinary world, especially to appeal to those with sensitive palates. An enticing aroma can enhance a dish and elevate it to its true potential.

Did you know it can take 40-50 pounds of an essential oil flower to make just one small bottle of essential oil?

Due to the healing benefits of the essential oils, aromatherapy can be used to help with sore muscles, colds, sore throats, stress, a busy mind and much, much more. Direct inhalation is encouraged to improve respiratory congestion, tightness in the chest and other respiratory symptoms. Topical applications of essential oils can be used to encourage relaxation such as when used with massages, baths or spa treatments.

Feeling a bit nervous about loading up on pills and chemicals when you’re feeling sick? Aromatherapy is considered a safe treatment option to act as an alternative to more invasive or chemical options. In addition to being a soothing and pleasant treatment for many ailments, it can also be used as a preventive tool against a lot of diseases caused as a result of an immune system which has been weakened.

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Not only that, it can also be used to assist the individual in achieving a state of relaxation which can contribute to a higher rate of recovery when combined with other more scientifically accepted forms of treatment!

How does that work you might ask?

Great question! Using aromatherapy encourages the body to be in “rest and digest” mode which is the state in which healing can occur. When an individual is stressed the “fight or flight” state is dominant within the body and delays the body’s healing functions. You’ve probably heard that something called cortisol is bad for you. It is! You can’t heal as quickly when you’re stressed due to the action of the cortisol on your body. Aromatherapy to the rescue!

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Take a trip with me to the beginning of the aromatherapy.

Although the term aromatherapy had not been in widespread use until the 1920’s, the use of essential oils dates back at least a thousand years. Humankind has used aromatic plants for incense, medicine and perfumery for thousands of years which far precedes the use of essential oils. Hippocrates (commonly referred to as the “Father of Medicine”) studied the effects of essential oils on health and promoted their use due to the medicinal effects he observed.

Chapter 2­­ History of Aromatherapy

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Did you know that steam distillation of essential oils dates back several centuries?

French chemist René Maurice Gatttefossé created the word aromatherapy as a result of a laboratory accident. While working in his laboratory, Gatttefossé quenched a bad burn when he reflexively plunged his arm into the nearest liquid which happened to be a vat of Lavender oil! He was amazed by how quickly the burn healed and without scarring. He then began to study essential oils and through his study and writings on the subject, Gatttefossé is now remembered as one of the pioneers of Aromatherapy. Dr. Jean Valnet also used aromatherapy to treat soldiers during World War II, using the oils as antiseptics to stimulate wound healing.

There is debate about whether the use of essential oils alone is effective as a method for disease prevention. However, when coupled with conventional medicine, it has been found to produce impressive results. This is likely due to the fact that your body doesn’t go into the “fight or flight” response and instead starts the “rest and digest” response. Bottom line, your body relaxes and heals instead of stressing out and slowing down healing.

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Now that you are a history buff on aromatherapy it’s time to ask the most important question: why bother? Let’s explore that question a bit further.

The overall goal of aromatherapy is to allow the scent of an essential oil to diffuse in the air and create an environment which is pleasing and relaxing to both body and mind. Essential oils have also been used with success to treat some cases of eczema and acne. However, take this with a grain of salt as their have been few, if any, studies done. Please pay attention to dosage or the severity of the starting condition. It is for this reason that any claims made must be taken with caution to avoid improper use.

Chapter 3­­ Why Bother?

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Aromatherapy is often useful to assist in a practice of meditation due to its soothing nature. It has also been used to assist with the practice of yoga, tai chi, visualization and self hypnosis. Ultimately, the type of oil used for each activity will be dependent on what effects are felt by the individual. Aromatherapy can be considered a method of “setting the mood” to create a frame of mind which can help achieve the desired result.

Although there is a lack of conclusive evidence to support the claims that aromatherapy can be used to treat particular diseases, many individuals have found it helpful. Aromatherapy is effective in treating stress, anxiety and tension which are all components which contribute to disease and illness within the body. So even though the evidence to support the claims being made is largely anecdotal, aromatherapy can be considered as a part of a personal health plan.

Why bother? Because it can help improve the quality of your life!

Did you know that the bible has over 180 references to the use of essential oils or their plant derivatives?

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These are the oils currently sold by Namastra and for your convenience, we have provided a quick reference guide to assist you in selecting the right essential oil for the occasion.

Chapter 4­­ The 8 Namastra Select Oils

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LavenderDepression, insomnia, stress, hoarseness, headache, burns, acne, sore muscles, sprains, stiff joints, nervous tension, hair loss and childbirth.

Add 3 5 drops in a diffuser with the recommended amount of water (determined by the size of diffuser) and breathe naturally. The addition of 5 drops to a bathtub of water has been used to increase the soothing effect achieved by a hot bath.

Lavender and its offspring lavandin are simple and safe to use as well as the most versatile essential oils. Both the flowers of the plant as well as the leaves have aromatic properties and both parts are used in the distillation process.

Lavender has been recognised throughout history for its calming qualities and was commonly used by the classical Greeks and Romans to perfume their bathwater. It was also burned as incense to appease their gods. A 12th century nun and herbalist named Hildegard von Bingen wrote about lavender: “[It is] especially good for all forms of headache and migraine, as a restorative and tonic against weakness, spasms, giddiness, colic and vertigo. It causes melancholy to go away and raises the spirits.”

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History

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EucalyptusCough, cold and sinus, respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, coughs, sore throats, typhoid fever, malaria and tuberculosis.

As a fragrance in an electronic diffuser for respiratory issues. Put 10 drops in a very warm bath. Try a couple drops as a spot remover or even gum remover (try in an inconspicuous area first and see how it goes).

Eucalyptus are among the tallest trees in the world and are native to Australia. It is also one of the world’s fastest growing trees and can reach a height of up to 200 feet (61m). Due to its sensitivity to cold and frost, it has been introduced to several tropical and semi-tropical parts of the world.

The year 1788 is the first documented time this oil was used. Two doctors used this distilled oil to treat issues with the chest. German doctors started to notice its benefits on respiratory problems and as an antiseptic. In 1855 the French government sent seeds to Algeria where the Eucalyptus was used to treat meningitis. The Aborigines of Australia also used the Eucalyptus tree as a sort of cure all for thousands of years.

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PeppermintDigestive aid, an anti depressant and in the treatment of fevers, colds, flu, nausea, respiratory disorders and kidney, gallstones, soothe sore muscles, aches and pains.

As a fragrance in an electronic diffuser for sinus issues or throat problems. Make a muscle pain relief rub with coconut oil and 15 drops of Peppermint Oil. A natural bug spray with 1 part oil to 10 parts water.

Peppermint oil is distilled from the fresh leaves of the perennial peppermint. It is widely used in many commercial products such as chewing gum, toothpaste, mouthwash, candies and liquors. The primary chemical component of peppermint oil is menthol which has a distinct cooling sensation.

The history of peppermint oil can be traced as far back as the Romans. Roman scientists and cooks used peppermint in all its forms. From a spritz at the dinner table for a nice aroma to adding leaves and oils to food. The ancient Greeks also used peppermint essential oils as medicine and for many other uses.

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Clary SageReduces emotional stress and relieves premenstrual tension, helps with blood pressure regulation, can be used to encourage labor and aid in childbirth.

DUE TO THE IMPLICATIONS DURING CHILDBIRTH, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE

PRACTITIONER BEFORE USING THIS OIL DURING PREGNANCY OR LACTATION.

As a fragrance in an electronic diffuser to relax and remove stress from your life. Use as a deodorant with many recipes online. Add 10 drops to bath water to help with menstrual pain.

This oil is used in perfumery and is known for its sweet and herbaceous scent. It is mildly intoxicating. It is inhaled to induce a feeling of euphoria.

Clary sage gets its name from the Latin word “clarus” which means “clear.” It was referred to as “clear eyes” during the Middle Ages. It is widely believed to be effective for improving age related vision loss.

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CinnamonAntiseptic, antifungal, dry heaves, sexual stimulant, lowers cholesterol, improves wound healing, kills bacteria and assists the body to fight off stomach flu.

As a fragrance in an electronic diffuser to help with headaches or migraines. Rub directly on skin to help with acne and fungus infections. Also great in a diffuser to deodorize your entire home.

German health authorities have approved the use of cinnamon bark oil for treating mild gastrointestinal spasms, stimulating appetite, and relieving indigestion based on the positive results seen in animal studies.

The history of Cinnamon and Cinnamon Oil is long and varied. It is one of the oldest spices known to man. It is difficult to find a legitimate history on Cinnamon and especially the essential oil due to its long history with humanity. From the ancient Egyptians, Romans, Persians to many other peoples around the world, cinnamon is used in every culture in every form.

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JasmineSpastic coughs, stomach cramps and other spasms within the body, aphrodisiac, can be used to treat depression, it promotes relaxation and supports childbirth.

As a fragrance in an electronic diffuser to help set a romantic and sensual mood. Add a couple drops on your sheets for a more romantic night. Rub a drop on hands to moisturize. Rub a drop or 2 into your abdomen and rub in to help with stomach issues.

Jasmine essential oil is extracted from the white flowers of the plant which can reach 10 15 feet. The flowers of the Jasmine plant usually flower at night. It is a highly sought after oil and generally on the more expensive side.

Jasmine is native to Persia and Kashmir. It was brought to Europe in the 17th century. Jasmine is known as an exotic scent and a strong aphrodisiac in many cultures.

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SandalwoodDry skin, bladder infections, nervous tension, acne, strep and staph infections, diarrhea, depression, a sedative and an aphrodisiac.

As a fragrance in an electronic diffuser to lessen tension and create a more cheerful mood. Add to coconut oil and rub into hair to help with dryness. Add 2 drops to 1 tablespoon of olive oil to put on acne or other skin irritations.

Sandalwood oil has a sweet, woody scent and has been commonly used in massage oils and perfumes.

Sandalwood has a long history of use dating back over 4000 years ago for the building of temples and furniture in Egypt, Greece and Rome.

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YlangYlangAphrodisiac, a sedative, a euphoric, impotence, depression, insomnia, acne and insect bites.

As a fragrance in an electronic diffuser to really help with depression and insomnia. Add a few drops to your bath for an amazing relaxing experience. You can add a few drops on your pillow to help sleep at night.

Ylang ylang oil is made from the flowers of the ylang­ylang tree which is usually found in the rainforests of Asian and South Pacific Islands such as Indonesia and the Philippines. The scent of ylang ylang is used in many hair, bath and body oils as well as in perfumery.

Ylang Ylang originated in the Philippines and means “fragrance of fragrances”. In the Philippines and Indonesia, Ylang Ylang has been used for centuries to heal animal bites and cuts. In Victorian England, the oil was mixed to make a hair pomade. It was so popular that companies sold protective coverings for this pomade so it would not stain furniture. In Oriental medicine, Ylang Ylang is used for its calming effect on the heart.

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vedLET’S...GET...TECHNICAL!

Alright, time to get a little technical here and delve into the human biology that can help explain why aromatherapy is so effective. If you’re already snoozing, this section may be a bit of a bore for you but we have included a more complex explanation for those of you who would like a deeper understanding of what is happening in the body.

Chapter 5­­ How does it all work?

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Did you know that during the 17th century, if you were caught using herbs for medicinal reasons, you were hanged as a witch?

Aromatherapy can influence the limbic system through the olfactory nerve. The limbic system is the part of the brain thought to be responsible for emotional regulation and the olfactory nerve is the nerve which sends the signals for smells to the brain. The olfactory nerve travels a very short distance from its sensory organ (the nose) to its origin point in the brain. Scents have a strong influence on all human behavior because of the preservation of nerve signal intensity while travelling such a short distance to the brain. Aromatherapy seeks to use the natural human anatomy to encourage healing through the use of scents created by essential oils.

The Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine was awarded in 2004 for the discovery of the odorant receptors for the sense of smell and the organisation of the olfactory system within the human genome. Remarkably, the amount of the human genome dedicated to smell is many times larger than the amount of the genome dedicated to any other sense. This can help us to understand why aromatherapy has the potential to be so effective. A powerful biological response to smell is hardwired into our genes!