Aromatherapy ❦ ❧

Aromatherapy is used for the treatment or prevention of disease by use of essential oils. It can be offered as form of alternative medicine or as a complementary therapy. Some of it uses include pain relief and anxiety reduction, enhancing energy and short-term memory, relaxation, hair loss prevention, and reducing eczema-induced itching.

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plant oils and plant materials (essential oils), and other aromatic compounds for the purpose of altering one's mood, cognitive, psychological or overall physical wellbeing. Utilizing blends of therapeutic essential oils can be issued through topical application, massage, inhalation or water immersion to stimulate a desired response.

The use of essential oils for therapeutic, spiritual, hygienic and ritualistic purposes goes back to a number of ancient civilizations including the Chinese, Indians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans who used them in cosmetics, perfumes and medicines.

Undiluted essential oils suitable for aromatherapy are termed 'therapeutic grade'. The market for essential oils is dominated by the food, perfume, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, giving aroma-therapists little choice but to buy the best of whatever oils are available.

Popular uses:

• Tea tree oil has demonstrated anti-microbial effects.

• Lemon oil (in vapor form) is said to be uplifting and to relieve stress, enhancing one's mood, and help with relaxation.

• Peppermint oil is often used to deter ants, by applying a few drops on their trail.

• Lavender, jasmine, chamomile and peppermint are used for anti-stress, anti-anxiety and as anti-depressants.

• Sage oil has been suggested to boost short-term memory performance and as a dietary supplement.

Aromatherapy application includes:

• Diffusion: for environmental fragrancing or aerial disinfection.

• Inhalation: for respiratory disinfection, decongestion, expectoration as well as psychological effects.

• Topical applications: for general massage, baths, compresses and therapeutic skin care.

Some of the materials used include:

• Essential oils: Fragrant oils extracted from plants chiefly through steam distillation (eg, eucalyptus oil) or expression (eg, grapefruit oil). However, the term is also occasionally used to describe fragrant oils extracted from plant material by any solvent extraction. This material includes incense diffusers.

• Absolutes: Fragrant oils extracted primarily from flowers or delicate plant tissues through solvent or  fluid extraction (eg, rose absolute). The term is also used to describe oils extracted from fragrant butters, concretes (a near solid wax-like substance called a concrete that is left after the solvent has been removed), and enfleurage pommades (oldest and most expensive extraction process of flowers) using ethanol.

• Carrier oils: Typically oily plant base triacylglycerides that dilute essential oils for use on the skin (eg, sweet almond oil).

• Herbal Distillates/Hydrosols: The water based by-products of the distillation process (eg, rose water). There are many herbs that make herbal distillates (a liquid product condensed from vapor) and have culinary uses, medicinal uses and skin care uses. Common herbal distillates are chamomile, rose, and lemon balm.

• Infusions: Water based extracts of various plant material (eg, infusion of chamomile).

• Antimicrobial: Various volatile organic compounds from plants that kill microbes. Many terpene-based fragrant oils and sulfuric compounds from plants in the genus "Allium" are phytoncides (exterminated by the plant).

• Vaporizer (Volatized)/Raw Herbs: Typically higher oil content plant based materials dried, crushed, and heated to extract and inhale the aromatic oil vapors in a direct inhalation modality.

Safety Concerns:

Essential oils are normally diluted with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, olive oil, or coconut oil, for topical application because essential oils are highly concentrated, causing skin irritation.

Many essential oils have chemical components that are sensitizers (meaning that they may, after a number of uses, cause reactions on the skin).

When exposed to sunlight, reactions may occur with citrus peel oils such as lemon or lime.

Some of the chemical allergies could even be caused by pesticides, if the original plants are cultivated.

Some oils can be toxic to domestic animals, particularly with cats.

Two common oils, lavender and tea tree, have been implicated in causing gynaecomastia (an abnormal breast tissue growth in prepubescent boys). The report is, however, based on observations of only three boys, two of which were significantly above average weight for their age, thus already prone to gynaecomastia).

As with any bioactive substance, an essential oil that may be safe for the general public could still pose hazards for pregnant and lactating women.

Some very common oils like eucalyptus are extremely toxic when taken internally (licensed aromatherapy professionals do not recommend self-prescription due the highly toxic nature of some essential oils).

Doses as low as one teaspoon have been reported to cause clinically significant symptoms and severe poisoning can occur after ingestion of 4 to 5 ml.

A few reported cases of toxic reactions like liver damage and seizures have occurred after ingestion of sage, hyssop, thuja, and cedar.

Accidental ingestion may happen when oils are not kept out of reach of children.

Oils that are ingested and applied to the skin can potentially have negative interactions with conventional medicine, (eg: topical use of oils like sweet birch and wintergreen may cause hemorrhaging in users taking the anticoagulant warfarin).

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Ping-o-matic

Cannabis Flower Oil ❧

Cannabis Flower

Cannabis flower essential oil is a volatile oil that is a mixture of volatile compounds, which has a fragrance that is sweet, earthy and floral. The pale yellow to light green liquid, is used in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, and candles, as well as a flavoring in foods–primarily candy and beverages.

As a naturally growing herb, Cannabis and hemp have been used for thousands of years. However, its reputation as a drug in many parts of the world have complicated the relationship in certain parts of the world.

Manufactured primarily in France and Switzerland, from both low and high varieties of Cannabis, cannabis flower oil (also known as hemp essential oil) is obtained by steam distillation from the flowers and upper leaves of the Cannabis plant. It should not be confused with hemp oil, which is a vegetable oil that is expelled from pressing the seeds of low-THC (the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis) varieties of hemp.

Cannabis flower buds

Cannabis sativa appears naturally in many tropical and humid parts of the world. It has been documented by archaeological finds in prehistoric societies in Euro-Asia and Africa. The oldest written record of usage is the Greek historian Herodotus's reference to the central Eurasian Scythians (c. 440 BCE) taking cannabis steam baths. Classical Greeks and Romans were using cannabis and in the Middle East, its use spread throughout the Islamic empire to North Africa. Cannabis spread to the western hemisphere in 1545 where Spaniards imported it to Chile for its use as fiber, and in North America, in the form of hemp, was grown for use in rope, clothing and paper.

CANNABIS FLOWER OIL - USE & BENEFITS

Cannabis oil contains Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids which are key components in maintaining healthy skin. The linolenic acid present has anti-inflammatory properties that are necessary to treat acne. The oil produced is said to resemble the protein found in human blood plasma.

The cannabis flower essential oil may be used in enhancing treatment of certain ailments ranging from insomnia and women’s hormonal imbalances to respiratory tract issues, which includes hay fever, asthma, and sinusitis.

The essential oil from the cannabis flower may also be used to improve emotional problems (creating a tranquil and peaceful feeling), relieving stress and boosting energy, thereby enhancing confidence and increasing one's well-being.

It can also be useful as an insect repellant. This essential oil has insect repelling properties that can effectively drive away insects and bugs. It can be applied topically on the skin to ward off insects like mosquitoes.

The oil of the cannabis flower is good at killing plant fungi. It can be mixed with water and then used as spray to protect indoor and outdoor plants.

Although this list clearly shows that cannabis essential oils can be an effective remedy for many common health conditions, it is still a potent chemical substance extracted from a plant with psychotropic substances. Therefore, one should always take precautions when using essential oils. Before adding any new elements into your health regimen, it is advisable to speak to a professional about mixing essential oils with any present medications.




Acne - Due to its light consistency, cannabis essential oils are great for acne-prone skin. Using hemp essential oil as the carrier oil, add a few drops of neem oil, to heal and restore dark spots left from acne. You may also wish to add a bit of my lavender oil. Use this as a moisturizer, which prevents any hormonal acne by prevention of clogging pores. It also has a low SPF that I helps protect from the sun. If you burn easily, you will still need to apply a sunscreen.

Anti-Aging - The powerful components of cannabis essential oil are also used to protect the skin, and can be consumed both internally and applied externally. It assists removal of dead skin and faster re-growth, giving a healthy glow, while preventing wrinkles and signs of aging. It also protects against eczema and psoriasis.

If you have particularly oily skin, this weekly regimen, will decrease excess oils. Make a cleanser with one part hemp oil, one part tea tree oil, a few drops of lavender oil, and jojoba oil.

Anxiety and Stress - The natural compounds found in cannabis essential oil, work well for releasing pleasure hormones and relaxing the mind, reducing stress and inducing a sense of calm and relaxation. Use the same recipe(s) above, or add the essential oils to a nebulizer, diffusing the aroma throughout the room.

Appetite Booster - Cannabis essential oils can stimulate the digestive system and regulate appetite by inducing hunger. This is helpful for people who want to gain weight quickly, particularly after an extended illness.

Glaucoma - Cannabis essential oils have been linked to a reduction in glaucoma and a prevention of macular degeneration. Eye health is one of the major reasons why people turn to cannabis essential oils as they age.

Headaches and Migraines - Topically applying some cannabis essential oil at the temples or the spot of intensity for a migraine or headache can be an effective way to get relief.




Heart Health - The volatile oils in cannabis essential oil can help to improve heart health by balancing out the negative oils in your system. It can stimulate antioxidant processes as well, scraping off excess cholesterol and maximizing the health of the cardiovascular system.

Insomnia - For people who suffer from insomnia, anxiety during night time hours, or simply just want to get a restful night of undisturbed sleep, cannabis essential oil work wonders. It reduces heart rate and clears the head, inducing a lower energy level, relaxing body and mind.

Pain Reliever - Cannabis essential oil works well as a pain reliever, particularly for people with inflammation, chronic pain, as well as emergency pain relief. It also regulates female hormone balancing (symptoms of PMS to reduce painful cramps and lessening emotional distress), and works as an anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling and alleviate muscular stiffness and spasms.

Respiratory Problems - Beneficial for respiratory tract /infections such as asthma, hay fever, and sinusitis.

Skin Reactions - For eczema, psoriasis, and rashes, simply dab unrefined, cannabis or hemp oil on the affected area throughout the day. If your skin condition spreads or is not healing, check in with your doctor to ensure that is not a more severe problem.

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pingler

Camphor Oil ❧

Camphor laurel in fruit

The camphor tree (camphor laurel) a large evergreen tree found in Asia, can grow up to 98 feet tall. The leaves are glossy with a waxy appearance and smell of camphor when crushed. In spring, trees produce bright green foliage with masses of small white flowers, and clusters of black berries around 1 cm in diameter. The pale bark is very rough and vertically fissured.

Camphor laurel contains volatile chemical compounds in all plant parts–the wood and leaves are steam distilled for the essential oils.

Camphor, a waxy, white or transparent solid with a strong aromatic odor, is found in the wood of the camphor laurel. Dried rosemary leaves, in the mint family, contain up to 20% camphor. Camphor is used for its scent, as an ingredient in cooking (mainly in India), for medicinal purposes, and in Hindu religious ceremonies. Camphor oil was one of the ingredients used by ancient Egyptians for mummification.

• Camphor was used in ancient Sumatra to treat sprains, swellings, and inflammation.

• In the 18th century, camphor was used in the treatment of mania.

• Based on the writings of Hahnemann, camphor (dissolved in alcohol) was also successfully used to treat the 1854-1855 cholera epidemics in Naples.

• In ancient and medieval Europe, camphor was used as an ingredient in sweets, and as a flavoring for drinks.

• Camphor is believed to be toxic to insects and is thus sometimes used as a repellent.

camphor laurel

Hindus worship a holy flame by burning camphor, which forms an important part of many religious ceremonies. Camphor is used in the Mahashivratri celebrations of Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and (re)creation. As a natural pitch substance, it burns cool without leaving an ash residue, which symbolizes consciousness.

Camphor, readily absorbed through the skin, produces either a cool or warm sensation–acting as a slight local anesthetic and antimicrobial substance. It is the active ingredient in anti-itch gels and cooling gels. Camphor (along with menthol) is used as a cough suppressant and as a decongestant–an active ingredient in vapor-steam products. Camphor cold compresses are impressive for sprains, strains, and minor bruises. It is used carefully and in low dosage in baby oil for its calming effects. It is used as a cough suppressant and as a decongestant. It is also used for aromatherapy. Camphor may also be administered orally in small quantities (50 mg) for minor heart symptoms and fatigue.

Effects on the body

• Small dose - Its effects on the body include heart rate exceeding the normal resting rate (tachycardia), widening of blood vessels in skin flushing, slower breathing, reduced appetite, diuretic, increased secretions and excretions such as perspiration.

• Large Dose Toxicity - Camphor is poisonous in large doses, producing symptoms of irritability, disorientation, lethargy, muscle spasms, vomiting, abdominal cramps, convulsions, and seizures. Lethal doses in adults are in the range 50–500 mg/kg (orally)–generally, 2 grams cause serious toxicity and 4 grams are potentially lethal.

Medicinal Remedies

Astringent - To tighten and tone the skin, mix 1 cup of rose water, to ½ cup of witch hazel along with 1 tablespoon of camphor oil. To help make the astringent stronger, include a pinch of alum. (Also store a small amount of crushed camphor mixed with water in the refrigerator, to energize and refresh. Simply dip a cotton ball in the mixture and wash over the face.)

Massage Oil/Cream (for every-day use) - Heat equivalent amounts of coconut oil and lanolin, gradually adding warm rose water. Beat the mixture thoroughly, and add a tablespoon of camphor oil to create an invigorating massage cream. Camphor helps sweating and is also relaxing.

Chest rub - Heat 1 ounce olive oil in a small sauce pan. When the olive oil is warm, add 2 teaspoons of beeswax pellets, stirring until melted. Add 3-5 drops of camphor oil, blending completely. Pour the mix in a tiny jar and allowed to cool just before putting the lid on and store at room temperature. Add vitamin E oil to the mixture for longer shelf life.

Liniment – Combine 1/2 cup coconut oil, 2 teaspoons beeswax pellets, 2 teaspoons camphor crystals or 5 drops camphor oil, 2 teaspoons menthol crystals or 5 drops peppermint oil, 5 drops ecualyptus oil.

Melt the coconut oil and beeswax pellets together in a small saucepan on the stove for 1-2 minutes, turn the burner off (can be heated in microwave, or a double boiler). Add the coconut oil and beeswax. Stir until melted.

Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes, add camphor crystals or oil, menthol crystals or oil, and the eucalyptus oil.

Put in a container and allow to cool completely. When it is completely cooled it will be a solid (but when applied to warm skin it will liquefy again). Makes it perfect for massaging onto sore muscles and joints.

Keep in the fridge for a longer shelf life. Also, adding vitamin E oil to the mixture helps to preserve it.

Bath Soak - Add 3-5 drops of camphor oil towards hot running water. Soak sore muscles and aching joints. It will also open respiratory cavities to assist in cold and flu relief.




CAMPHOR OIL USES

Acne & Anti-aging - Camphor extracts have considerable antioxidants which assist in lessening the process of oxidation (creating free-radicals). Free-radicals are chemicals which could disrupt or damage skin tissue as well as cells within the body, over time. Antioxidants are reducing agents that limit oxidative damage.

Camphor’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents treat acne and eliminate dark scars, keeping skin free of oil and eliminating impurities through the surface offering a fresh glow and improving complexion.

Mix camphor oil with olive oil, apply to assist in relieving pain and swelling of pimples, acne, and boils.

Antiseptic - Camphor oil is a wonderful disinfectant and germicide. Ayurvedic herbal tooth powders include camphor, simply because it assists in eliminating bad smelling breath. For painful gums, combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda, pinch of salt with a pinch of edible camphor to make a paste. Massage your teeth and gums and rinse.

Anxiety - It behaves as an excellent local anesthetic, leading to numbness of the sensory nerves in the area of application. Additionally, it decreases the harshness of nervous disorders as well as convulsions, epileptic attacks, nervousness, as well as chronic anxiety.

Aphrodisiac – Food grade camphor oil, when consumed, stimulates the portions of the brain responsible for sexual desire. Externally utilized, it will act as a stimulant which boosts the activity of the circulatory system and increase blood flow.

Arthritis & Joint Pain - As a detoxifier and stimulant, camphor oil excites blood flow and provides relief to rheumatic diseases, arthritis, and gout. Applied topically camphor has a healing icy feel causing numbness and decreasing pain. Massaging the body with hot coconut or sesame oil, combined with camphor right before a warm shower or bath reduces inflammation, aches and pain due to the sedative and stimulating qualities of camphor.

Burn Scars – To lessen burn scars, mix a pinch of camphor in water and apply daily. It is not advisable to apply to fresh burns as it may irritate affected area.

Cold & Flu - The powerful aroma of camphor oil is an effective decongestant, instantly reducing blockage. Inhaling the vapor of camphor, (by placing 2-3 drops in a vaporizer), provides advantages for clearing mucous, assisting normal breathing through the elimination of congestion of the lungs and nasal passages, as well as bronchial tracts.

The chest rub recipe can be utilized (or, if accessible, heat a few drops of eucalyptus oil with a couple drops of camphor) by applying to chest, back and forehead.

Use this on babies over the age of 6 months. For infants, it is advisable to treat the lactating mother. If the mother isn’t breastfeeding, decrease the camphor to the mere grain as well as rub the oil only around the baby’s back. Alternatively, you can preserve a pot of water or a vaporizer using a drop of camphor oil and leave it in the baby’s room.

Cracked Heel - One of the advantages of camphor is it treats cracked as well as rough heels. Soak feet in camphor bath for a couple of minutes and follow up with a scrub.




Cramps/Spasms - It is an extremely powerful antispasmodic and provides instant relief from spasms as well as cramps. Additionally it is efficient at healing severe spasmodic cholera.

Digestion - Camphor has been to promote digestion as it works well for secreting numerous juices and enzymes necessary for digestion of food.

Fungal infection - Feet and toe nails are definitely the main regions for fungal infections. A combination of camphor as well as water whenever placed on these areas (should avoid using it on broken skin) helps heal these types of infections. Camphor ointment/oil relieves onychomycosis (toenail fungus) and the sign of warts, eczema, hives, as well as psoriasis.

Hair Growth - Camphor is wonderful for the hair as well, fortifying roots and giving it shine, as well as combatting dandruff or dry scalp. When combined with various other essential oils, camphor oil can easily boost hair growth, relax the mind and reduce stress. Massaging camphor oil heated with coconut oil assists in strengthening weak roots as well as encouraging hair growth.

Indigestion/Gas - Camphor energizes the secretion of gastric juices eliminating gas and aiding in digestion. For treatment of vomiting, take edible camphor, cardamom, and ajwain or caraway seeds and boil in water. This is often stored for later use and can be transported when traveling, to utilize for indigestion, vomiting and diarrhea.

Insecticide - Camphor is an insect and moth repellent. The lingering aroma on a piece of cloth soaked in camphor oil (or place 2-3 drops in a diffuser/nebulizer) and left in the open or placed in cupboards helps drive away insects such as fleas, mosquitoes, and flies. The oil is additionally great for eliminating head lice.

Insomnia - For an excellent night’s sleep, add a pinch of edible camphor to warm milk and consume at bedtime.

Rashes/Itchy Skin - Skin problems such as irritation from rashes and itchy skin may be treatable by making use of camphor around the affected region. Simply use a few drops of camphor oil diluted in olive oil, massaging around the affected area for immediate relief. Using a liniment or soaking in a bath with camphor, will provide significant relief.

CULINARY CAMPHOR

In ancient and medieval Europe, camphor was used as an ingredient in sweets. It was used in a wide variety of both savory and sweet dishes in medieval Arabic language cookbooks. It also appears in sweet and savory dishes, in a book written in the late 15th century, for the sultans of Mandu, the Ni'matnama. An early international trade made camphor widely known throughout Arabia in pre-Islamic times, as it is mentioned in the Quran 76:5 as a flavoring for drinks. By the 13th century, it was used in recipes everywhere in the Muslim world, ranging from main dishes such as tharid (a traditional Arab dish made of pieces of bread in vegetable or meat broth), and stew to desserts.

Currently, camphor is used as a flavoring, mostly for sweets, in Asia. It is widely used in cooking, mainly for dessert dishes, in India where it is known as kachha karpooram or "pachha karpoora" ("crude/raw camphor"), and is available in Indian grocery stores where it is labeled as "edible camphor".

Rust Prevention

Solid camphor releases fumes that form a rust-preventative coating and is therefore stored in tool chests to protect tools against rust.

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Pingoat

Basil Oil ❧

Basil

The word basil comes from the Greek, meaning "king". Basil is also known as "Holy basil" or "king of herbs". Possibly native to India, basil has been cultivated there for more than 5,000 years. It is highly revered in Hinduism, as it is believed to have been found growing on the original cross of Christ when it was discovered by the Empress Helena, and hence has religious significance in the Greek Orthodox Church, where it is used to sprinkle holy water.

The half-hardy annual plant is best known as a culinary herb, prominently featured in Italian cuisine, and Southeast Asian cuisines of Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Taiwan. Depending on the species and cultivar, leaves may taste somewhat like anise, with a strong, pungent, often sweet smell.

There are many varieties of basil, as well as several related species or hybrids also called basil. The type used in Italian food is typically called sweet basil, as opposed to Thai basil, lemon basil and holy basil, which are used in Asia. While most common varieties of basil are treated as annuals, some are perennial in warm, tropical climates, including holy basil and 'African Blue'.

The various basils have such different scents because the herb has a number of different essential oils that come together in different proportions for various breeds. The strong clove scent of sweet basil is derived from eugenol, the same compound as actual cloves. The citrus scent of lemon basil and lime basil reflects their higher portion of citral, which causes this effect in several plants including lemon mint, and of limonene, which gives actual lemon peel its scent. African blue basil has a strong camphor smell because it contains camphor and camphene in higher proportions. Licorice basil contains anethole, the same compound that makes anise smell like licorice, and in fact is sometimes called anise basil.

Basil is used for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda, the traditional medicinal system of India. It is also used in drinks in Southeast Asia. It is traditionally used for supplementary treatment of stress, asthma and diabetes mellitus in India. Studies have established that compounds in basil oil have potent antioxidant, and antiviral properties, with potential for use in treating cancer. The antifungal properties of the extracts are very toxic to mosquitos, and therefore useful as an insect-repellant. It was noted by herbalist, John Gerard, that those stung by scorpions would feel no pain if they ate of basil.

BASIL ESSENTIAL OIL

Avoid using if you have epilepsy or during pregnancy (use in cooking is fine). Test for skin sensitivity prior to use.

Basil is found to have an antioxidant effect on chronic bronchitis when mixed with rosemary and eucalyptus essential oils. Basil is also found to have anti-depressive, energizing and restorative properties, therefore helpful in dealing with feelings of anxiety, fear, or nervousness. It is calming, making it perfect for stress and fatigue, and even assist a person in overcoming addiction.

Addiction/Anxiety - Use basil essential oil in a diffuser or nebulizer, or inhale from the bottle, or cupped hands as desired, to clear negative thought patterns, reduce cravings, and address negative symptoms that come from an addiction.

Bronchitis - Diffuse the oil throughout the room or home, adding 1 to 2 drops of basil, rosemary and eucalyptus essential oils to a steam tent. vaporizer or bath, or massage directly on the chest.

Canker Sores - Add a drop to water and rinse mouth 1-3 times a day as indicated. You may also add a drop of lemon essential oil.

Cramps (Abdominal) - Can be taken internally via capsules or massaged into the inflicted area.

Cuts - Use to prevent infection by diluting basil oil and applying to the area.

Ear Ache - Dilute 1 drop of basil essential oil with 3 drops of carrier oil and massage behind, over and around the ear, or add a couple drops on a cotton ball and place just over the ear.

Fatigue - Use one drop of basil essential oil with three drops of coconut oil topically on the feet and toes or by diffusing aromatically.

Insect Bites/Stings - Dilute the basil essential oils with three drops of carrier oil and massage into the bite/sting as needed.

Joint/Muscle Pain – Dilute 1 drop of basil oil with 3 drops of coconut oil into a carrier oil and apply to the affected area. For carpal tunnel syndrome, massage toward the shoulder, putting moderate pressure along the tendons and.

Labor - Massage into the lower back and into the reflex points of the feet during labor (may add to a carrier oil for larger application area).

Lactation (Increasing) - With a drop or two of basil oil, massage breasts (towards lymphs under the arms). Fennel oil is also good for this.

Migraines/Headaches - Diffuse aromatically to relieve pain or massage into the temples, and/or base of neck.

Oily Hair - Add a drop to your regular shampoo, or mix with baking soda, water, and apple cider vinegar to make a rinse, and shampoo as normal.

CULINARY USES

Dried Basil

Basil commonly used fresh in cooked recipes, is generally added at the last moment, as cooking quickly destroys the flavor. The fresh herb can be kept for a short time in plastic bags in the refrigerator, or for a longer period in the freezer, after being blanched quickly in boiling water. The dried herb also loses most of its flavor, and what little flavor remains tastes very different, with a weak coumarin flavor, like hay. Basil is one of the main ingredients in pesto—a green Italian oil-and-herb sauce.

The most commonly used Mediterranean basil cultivars are "Genovese", "Purple Ruffles", "Mammoth", "Cinnamon", "Lemon", "Globe", and "African Blue". The Chinese also use fresh or dried basils in soups and other foods. In Taiwan, people add fresh basil leaves to thick soups. They also eat fried chicken with deep-fried basil leaves. When soaked in water, the seeds of several basil varieties become gelatinous, and are used in Asian drinks and desserts. Most commonly in Thai, basil is steeped in cream or milk to create an interesting flavor in ice cream or chocolates (such as truffles). The leaves are not the only part of basil used in culinary applications, the flower buds have a more subtle flavor and they are edible.

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Feed Shark

Anise Oil ❧

Anise

Anise, also called aniseed, is a flowering plant native to the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. Its flavor has similarities to such spices as star anise, fennel, and liquorice. First cultivated in Egypt and the Middle East, anise was brought to Europe for its medicinal value.

The anise plants grow best in light, fertile, well-drained soil. Seeds should be planted as soon as the ground warms up in spring. The plants have a taproot that do not transplant well after being established, so they should be started in their final location or transplanted while the seedlings are still small.

The main use of anise in European herbal medicine was for its carminative effect (intended to prevent formation of gas, combatting flatulence or upset stomach), and has been used to treat menstrual cramps and colic. It has also reportedly been used as an insecticide against head lice, scabies and psoriasis.

Star Anise

Anise, also distinguished by its characteristic flavor, is sweet and very aromatic. The seeds, whole or ground, are used for preparation of tea, alone or in combination with other aromatic herbs. Western cuisines have long used anise to flavor dishes, drinks, and candies, such as black jelly-beans and humbugs, for its licorice-like flavor. The most powerful flavor component of the essential oil of anise, anethole, is found in both anise and an unrelated spice called star anise which is widely used in Asian dishes. It is a key ingredient in Mexican atole de anís or champurrado, which is similar to hot chocolate. In India, it is taken as a digestive or breath freshener after meals.

Western cuisines have long used anise to flavor dishes, drinks, and candies. The word is used for both the species of herb and its licorice-like flavor. The most powerful flavor component of the essential oil of anise, anethole, is found in both anise and an unrelated spice indigenous to northern China called star anise widely used in Asian dishes.

Anise Liquor

Anise is also used to flavor spirits or liquors, and also used in some root beers, such as Virgil's in the United States. These liquors are clear, but on addition of water become cloudy, a phenomenon known as the ouzo effect.

ANISE OIL USES

Anise is an excellent source of minerals and essential B vitamins, as well as anti-oxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin A.

As with anything, anise should be used with caution. Anise has a narcotic effect that can slow down respiration and circulation, therefore children should not be given high doses. It may cause allergic reactions to certain skin types and should be avoided by cancer patients or during pregnancy.

Cold and Flu - Anise has antibacterial properties that are effective in countering colds and flu, clearing congestion in the lungs and the respiratory tracts for conditions like asthma and bronchitis, phlegm, and ease coughing.

A couple drops of anise essential oil can be rubbed on the chest to alleviate a runny nose, or by drinking anise tea by adding 1 teaspoon of crushed anise seeds, or 1 teaspoon of dried (or 3 teaspoons of fresh) crushed anise leaf to one cup of hot water, steep for a few minutes and flavor with sugar, cinnamon, or honey if desired.

In the Middle East, this special hot tea called yansoon, and is given to mothers in Egypt when they are nursing to increase milk flow.

Indigestion – Anise essential oil relieves gas and promotes digestion. Add a few drops of anise essential oil to a warm glass of water, or chew anise seeds, after a heavy meal.

Pain – Anise essential oil can stimulate circulation and relieve rheumatic and arthritic pain, and menstrual discomfort by stimulating blood circulation and by reducing pain in affected areas. Being a relaxant and an anti-spasmodic by nature, anise essential oil relaxes contractions and can be used in relieving pain during childbirth.

Antiseptic – Anise essential oil also has antiseptic properties which creates an effective protective layer against infections, aiding in faster healing of wounds.

Diuretic/Stimulant - Increases urine flow, boosts metabolism and it can stimulate the nervous system and the brain to make us more active and alert.

Sedative – Contrary to its stimulating properties when administered in lower dosages, anise essential oil has a narcotic and sedative effect by slowing down circulation, respiration and nervous response, which can be calming when administered in higher dosages. It is effective for anxiety, stress, nervousness, depression, anger, epileptic convulsions, as well as for symptoms of insomnia due to its tranquilizing and relaxing effects. However, use with caution, as heavy dosages can have adverse effects, particularly in children.

Male Menopause - Use anise to treat symptoms of “male menopause” and increase sex drive.

Oily Skin/Acne - Use Anise essential oil to treat oily skin and acne, by rubbing a few drops together in the palms of your hands and massaging into the affected area. Has also been used directly on the scalp to treat psoriasis and lice.

Insecticide – Anise essential oil is toxic to insects (and smaller animals), and can also kill intestinal worms. The oil can be used in vaporizers and sprays, as insects don’t like the smell of anise.

<< ❧❦ Essential Oils Guide - Benefits & Uses ❦ ❧ >>

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Natural Flea Repellent for Pets

Fleas are wingless, agile, external parasites, 1/16 to 1/8-inch long, and usually dark in color. Similar to the tick, fleas have mouthparts adapted for piercing skin and sucking blood from mammals and birds.

Fleas have long hind legs well adapted for jumping. A flea can jump vertically up to 7 in and horizontally up to 13 in, making the flea one of the best jumpers of any known species, relative to body size. In comparison, if humans had the jumping power of a flea, a 6 foot person could make a jump 295' long and 160' high.

The flea body is laterally compressed, hard, and covered with many hairs and short spines, allowing them ease of movement through the hairs or feathers on the host's body. The tough body is able to withstand great pressure. Even hard squeezing between the fingers is normally insufficient to kill a flea. However, rolling them back and forth a dozen times disables their legs, resulting in death.

Fleas lay tiny, white, oval eggs better viewed through a magnifying glass. The larva is small and pale with bristles covering its worm-like body, lacks eyes, and mouth parts adapted for chewing. The larvae feed on various organic matter, especially the feces of mature fleas, while the adult flea's diet consists solely of fresh blood.

Fleas are a nuisance, causing an itching sensation which in turn may result in the host attempting to remove the pest by biting, pecking, scratching, etc. in the vicinity of the parasite, leading to hair loss as a result of frequent scratching and biting by the animal, and can cause anemia in extreme cases. Flea bites generally cause the formation of a slightly raised, swollen itching spot with a single puncture point at the center (similar to a mosquito bite), often appearing in clusters or lines of two bites, and can remain itchy and inflamed for up to several weeks afterwards.

Flea adults, larvae, or eggs can be controlled with insecticides. Lufenuron is a veterinary preparation (known as Program) that attacks the larval flea's, but does not kill fleas. Flea medicines need to be used with care because many of them also affect mammals. Flea treatments meant for dogs can be hazardous to cats.

Flea and tick ointment is also hazardous to humans. The label of a commercial preparation warns: “First aid: If on skin or clothing, take off contaminated clothing, rinse skin immediately with plenty of water for 15 – 20 minutes; call a poison control center or doctor for treatment advice. . . Although (the product is) applied only between the shoulder blades and at the base of the tail, the dog’s skin and hair oils carry the product over the entire body . . . Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling . . .”

See Also: Natural Tick Repellent for Pets and Natural Insect Repellents

Natural Repellent for Pets

Vinegar - In a spray bottle, mix 1 cup of water with 2 cups of white vinegar, and add 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil or almond oil, which contains sulfur.

Lemon Juice, Citrus, or Peppermint - To make a repellent that will deter fleas, mix in a few teaspoons of lemon juice, citrus oil, or peppermint oil, any of which will repel ticks and fleas while also creating a pleasant smelling repellent. Spray onto the pet’s dry coat, staying away from sensitive areas such as eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals. When outdoors for an extended period of time, spray this solution on two to three times per day.

Cedar - Cedar essential oil is a (nontoxic natural substance) which has proven effective in the eradication of infestations in pets. Use of some essential oils containing phenols, such as basil, clove, oregano and thyme, can be hazardous to cats.

Bathing - Can dramatically reduce the flea population on a badly infested animal, especially when in combination with a mild detergent or shampoo, and brushing or combing.

Repellent for You and Your Family

In a spray bottle, mix 2 cups of distilled white vinegar and 1 cup of water. To make a scented solution, add 20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Eucalyptus oil is a calm, soothing scent, while peppermint and citrus oils give off a strong crisp scent that will also repel ticks.

Shake well to mix, spray onto clothing, skin, and hair before going outdoors. Reapply every four hours. Examine your skin and hair when back inside.

For the home

Vacuuming - Combatting a flea infestation in the home takes patience because for every flea found on an animal, many more could be developing in the home. A combination of controlled humidity, temperature, and vacuuming should eliminate fleas from an environment. The vacuum must be used around everything your pet frequents, to pick up all the larvae and eggs. Disposing of the bag after each vacuum is recommended.

Baking Soda - Safe for family and pets when used inside the home on carpets and floors. A layer can be sprinkled on carpets and worked into the fibers down to where the larvae and eggs are—dehydrating and killing them. The baking soda can be easily vacuumed up afterwards and safely disposed of. Treatments of 2-3 times per week will be required to remove an infestation completely.

Diatomaceous Earth - A food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) can also be used as a home flea treatment. Application is effective on both the interior and exterior of one's property. The effectiveness of diatomaceous earth is diminished when it gets wet. It is also effective to simply leave it exposed in areas typically vulnerable to fleas and other insects. DE dust can be harmful when inhaled, so use of a dust mask is recommended when applying it.

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Natural Tick Repellent for Pets

Ticks are small arachnids, closely related to the family of mites. They are external parasites which satisfy their nutritional requirements by living on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians. Ticks are carriers of a number of diseases, such as Lyme disease, that affect both humans and animals.

For an ecosystem to support ticks, the population density of host species in the area must be high enough, and humidity must be high enough for ticks to remain hydrated.

There are 'soft ticks' (over 200 species) and 'hard ticks' (over 700 species). The hard ticks have a hard shield, which generally can resist the force of soft-soled footwear, especially on soft ground. It requires a hard sole on a hard surface to crush the tick. However, stepping on an engorged tick, filled with blood, kills it easily, though messily.

Hard ticks will attach to a host and will bite painlessly and generally unnoticed, remaining in place until they engorge and are ready to change their skin; this process may take days or weeks. Some species drop off the host to moult in a safe place, whereas others remain on the same host and only drop off once they are ready to lay their eggs.

Ticks find their hosts by detecting breath and body odors, or by sensing body heat, moisture and vibrations. As they are incapable of flying or jumping, many tick species will wait in a position known as "questing"—holding on to leaves and grass by their third and fourth pair of legs while holding the first pair of legs outstretched, waiting to climb on to the host. When a host brushes the spot where a tick is waiting, it quickly climbs on. Some ticks will attach quickly while others will wander around looking for thinner skin like the ear. Depending on the species and the life stage, feeding preparation can take from ten minutes to two hours. On locating a suitable feeding spot, the tick grasps the skin and cuts into the surface.

Harpoon-like structure

With a prominent head that projects forward from the body, ticks extract the blood by piercing a hole in the host's skin, into which they insert a harpoon-like structure near the mouth area, allowing them to anchor themselves firmly in place on a host while sucking blood. This mechanism is normally so strong that removal of a lodged tick requires two actions: One to remove the tick, and one to remove the remaining head section of the tick.

Topical Treatments

Topical flea and tick medicines may be toxic to animals and humans. Phenothrin and methoprene were popular topical flea and tick therapies for cats. Phenothrin kills adult fleas and ticks, while methoprene is an insect growth regulator that interrupts the insect's lifecycle by killing the eggs. However, the EPA required at least one manufacturer of these products to withdraw some products and include strong cautionary statements on others, warning of adverse reactions.

Removal

Engorged tick attached to child's head.

In general, the best way to remove an adult tick is to do it manually. First, take a lint roller (not too sticky) and roll it over your dog or cat's fur. You can also use this on your clothing. This should get rid of any small number of tiny 'seed ticks' and fleas. Secondly, to facilitate prompt removal, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and detach it by applying a steady upward force without crushing, jerking, or twisting in such a way as to avoid leaving behind mouthparts or provoking release of infective fluids into the wound. It is important to disinfect the bite area thoroughly with rubbing alcohol after removal of the tick. The tick can be stored, in case of signs or symptoms of a subsequent infection, for identification purposes together with details of where and when the bite occurred. If the tick's head and mouthparts are no longer attached to its body after removal, a biopsy may be necessary to remove any parts that have been left behind.

See Also: Natural Flea Repellent for Pets and Natural Insect Repellents

Natural Repellent for Pets

Vinegar - Ticks hate the smell and taste of vinegar, and are easily repelled by it.

In a spray bottle, mix 1 cup of water with 2 cups of white vinegar, and add 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil or almond oil, which contains sulfur (also good for repelling ticks).

Lemon Juice, Citrus, or Peppermint - To make a repellent that will also deter ticks, mix in a few teaspoons of lemon juice, citrus oil, or peppermint oil, any of which will repel ticks and fleas while also creating a pleasant smelling repellent. Spray onto the pet’s dry coat, staying away from sensitive areas such as eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals. When outdoors for an extended period of time, spray this solution on two to three times per day.

Cedar - Cedar oil is a (nontoxic natural substance) which has proven effective in the eradication of infestations in pets. Use of some essential oils containing phenols, such as basil, clove, oregano and thyme, can be hazardous to cats.




Repellent for You and Your Family

In a spray bottle, mix 2 cups of distilled white vinegar and 1 cup of water. To make a scented solution, add 20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Eucalyptus oil is a calm, soothing scent, while peppermint and citrus oils give off a strong crisp scent that also repels fleas.

Shake well to mix, spray onto clothing, skin, and hair before going outdoors. Reapply every four hours. Examine your skin and hair when back inside.

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