Aromatherapy Blog

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Methods of Essential Oil Application

Posted: November 16, 2020 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

Pure essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic benefits. Whichever method you chose, their effect will generally positively affect body, mind, and emotions. Here’s a simple guide to the different methods of essential oil application.

AROMA DIFFUSER

This method is beneficial for mood enhancement and upliftment. It disinfects the air and can boost immunity through inhalation. Fill the bowl with water, add 5-15 drops and enjoy

Calming Aromas: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Roman Chamomile, German Chamomile, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Litsea Cubeba, Mandarin, Marjoram, Orange, Palo Santo, Pine, Rose, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang

Uplifting Aromas: Basil, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Grapefruit, Ginger, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Litsea Cubeba, Orange, Peppermint, Rose, Rosemary, Spearmint

Energizing Aromas: Basil, Black Pepper, Cardamom, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lemon, Litsea Cubeba, Peppermint, Rosemary, Black Spruce

Immune Boosting Aromas: Bay Laurel, Cinnamon, Cypress, Fir, Lavender, Lemon, Niaouli, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme.

STEAM INHALATION

This method is used mainly for upper respiratory problems such as bronchial and sinus congestion, colds, coughs, and influenza. Fill a large bowl with boiling water and add three drops of essential oil. Lean over the bowl with your eyes closed and a towel over your head and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.

Useful Oils: Bay Laurel, Cinnamon, Cypress, Fir, Lavender, Lemon, Niaouli, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme.

EASY INHALATION

For a quick relaxation or uplifting effect, place 3-4 drops of essential oil on a tissue. Place the tissue under the nose and inhale.

COTTON BALL

For better sleep, put four drops of essential oil on a cotton ball and tuck it under the pillowcase.

Oils that promote sleeping: Bergamot, German and Roman Chamomile, Lavender, Mandarin, Marjoram, Orange, Palo Santo, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang.

VAPORIZER

An effective decongesting method for respiratory conditions. Add from 3 to 9 drops of essential oil to the water of the vaporizer. Run overnight.

Decongestant oils: Bay Laurel, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Juniper Berry, Lavender, Lemon, Niaouli, Peppermint, Niaouli, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary, Spearmint, Tea Tree, Thyme

COMPRESSES

Excellent for topical application to ease pain from strained muscles, menstrual, or stomach cramps. Dilute a total of 5 drops of essential oils with one tablespoon of carrier oil. Apply diluted oil to the affected area. Fill a bowl with hot water for cramps or cold water for swollen conditions or pain of a “burning” nature. Soak a washcloth or towel in the bowl and apply it to the indicated area. Leave on for 5 minutes as needed 1-2 times daily.

For pain relief: Alternate compress hot/cold: Basil, Bay Laurel, Black Pepper, Cardamom, Cedarwood, German Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Fir, Frankincense, Ginger, Lavender, Marjoram, Niaouli, Peppermint, Pine, Rosemary.

For menstrual cramps: Alternate compress hot/cold German and Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage, Cypress, Fennel, Geranium, Jasmine, Marjoram, Rose, Rosemary.

MASSAGE WITH CARRIER OILS AND LOTIONS

Good for muscular fatigue and aching, nervous tension, stress, and anxiety. Mix 2-3 drops of essential oil with one teaspoon of the carrier oil or lotion. Or add a total of 60 drops to a 4oz bottle of carrier oil.

BATHS
The best way to relax. Especially beneficial for stress, insomnia, and tired, sore muscles. Fill the bath with warm water, add 6-10 drops of essential oil to a tablespoon of unscented shower gel, and add to the bathwater. The shower gel allows the essential oils to disperse within the water. Feel the tension melt!

Avoid Cinnamon, Fennel, Orange, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Lemongrass, Orange, Peppermint, and Spearmint.

FOOTBATH

Great for colds, insomnia, and circulation problems. Place feet up to ankles in hot water for 20 minutes before going to bed. Mix a total of 7 drops of essential oil with one tablespoon unscented shower gel and add it to the water.

Avoid Cinnamon, Fennel, Orange, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Lemongrass, Orange, Peppermint, and Spearmint.

SITZ BATH

Invaluable in cases of cystitis, hemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, or stitches after childbirth. Dilute 4-6 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon olive oil. Combine this mixture with 1 cup of plain organic yogurt. Run a bath with warm (not hot) water to hips level, add the yogurt essential oil mixture, and sit for approximately 10 minutes.

Useful oils: Bergamot, Lavender, Tea Tree

GARGLES

Particularly beneficial for sore throats, respiratory problems, and loss of voice. In an empty glass, put ½ teaspoon olive oil, add 4 drops of essential oil and mix well. Add 1 teaspoon sea salt, the juice of one lemon, and ½ cup warm water. Stir well, gargle, and spit it out. DO NOT SWALLOW. Gargle twice daily.

Useful oils: Bergamot, Lavender, Tea Tree, Niaouli.
As you can see the methods of essential oil applications are very versatile depending on the specific need you have.

© 2020, S. Cristina Proano
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy, and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

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Aromatherapy News

See Palo Santo Trees in their natural habitat

Posted: December 18, 2019 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

Visit the natural habitat of Palo Santo, where the trees are protected, and no harvesting is allowed.

My niece Carolina Carrion is visiting us from Ecuador. Carolina is a Geospatial specialist at the Charles Darwin Foundation in the Galapagos Islands. And she is part of the research team that maps invasive plants with drones and satellite images in the islands. Her team’s primary goal is to have maps of the distribution and abundance of invasive plant species to support conservation efforts in Galapagos.

Palo Santo in Ecuador

Two species of palo santo trees are distributed in the Galápagos archipelago, the native Bursera graveolens, and the endemic Bursera malacophylla (Burseraceae). Native Bursera graveolens is the same variety you can find in mainland Ecuador and other countries like Peru. It is called native because it is not an introduced plant, but it came to the islands naturally, thousands of years ago. Bursera malacophylla, on the other hand, grows exclusively in the Galapagos Islands. Palo santo trees (Bursera Jacq. ex L.; Burseraceae) are among the most common and easily recognizable indicator species of the dry and transition zone flora in the Galápagos archipelago. Most of the year, the tree is leafless, but in the rainy season, it quickly produces thin blue-green leaves with toothed edges. The olive shapes fruit turn bright red when ripe, and burst open to reveal black seeds inside. Palo Santo trees (Bursera graveolens) lose their leaves during the dry season to help stop water loss.

What are the Galapagos Islands, and where are they located?

The Galapagos archipelago consists of 13 major islands, six smaller islands, and scores of islets and rocks lying athwart the Equator 600 miles west of the mainland of Ecuador. In 1978 the islands were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz promotes scientific studies and protects the indigenous vegetation and animal life of the Galapagos.

The Galapagos archipelago is best known for its fantastic array of endemic species. These plants, invertebrates, and vertebrate species have evolved due to isolated island life. Endemism is high in all living organisms on these islands from lichens, flowering plants, insects, and land snails to finches, giant tortoises, and iguanas. Darwin first studied the wildlife of the islands taking note of the evolution of the land birds such as finches and mockingbirds that adapted to a specific niche in the available habitat. These islands are a natural, living laboratory with minimal human disturbance. The variation in elevation, size, and distance between the islands has contributed significantly towards the species diversity and level of endemism on each island.

Is Palo Santo used for commercial purposes in the Galapagos Islands?

No. The status of National Park and UNESCO World Heritage allows for strict control of flora and fauna in the Galapagos. The ecosystem is very fragile, and nobody is allowed to cut the branches or to gather the dry sticks from the ground. The endemic Palo Santo trees will be in the Galapagos Islands, untouched and protected. No matter what's going on in the rest of the world, the Galapagos National Park Service will assure this.

When visitors come to the Islands, they have to follow these rules:

Do not remove any plant or animal, dead or alive, or even bones, wood or shells from the islands
Do not bring any live material or food to the islands or from one island to the other
Do not bring palo santo sticks from the continent
Stay within the permitted areas and only visit the islands with a licensed guide
Do not leave any trash anywhere on the islands or throw it into the ocean
Do not deface rocks

How can I see Palo Santo Trees in their natural habitat?

I have put together a fantastic visit to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, where you’ll experience 5-star service in a safe and meticulously coordinated trip. During this trip, you’ll visit first Ecuador’s mainland with its breathtaking landscapes and cities at different altitudes and with a variety of climates and diverse cultures. We’ll get to visit a farmers market where those who want can experience a spiritual cleansing with native herbs and palo santo. Then we will fly to the Galapagos Islands, where we will board a deluxe catamaran that we have chartered just for our group of friends. You’ll visit nine specific points of the Galapagos Islands with a naturalist guide. Lodging and meals will be provided onboard the catamaran.

How many people can come on this tour?

This tour has a capacity for 16 passengers. Reserve right now as it is almost sold out.

Where can I find more detailed information and prices?

You can find the whole itinerary, prices, methods of payment, and Frequent Asked Questions on this link: Ecuador and the Galapagos islands 2020

See you in Ecuador!

Cristina Proano-Carrion

References:

Carolina Carrion Klier: https://www.darwinfoundation.org/en/component/contact/contact/154?Itemid=150
Mapping Invasive Plants with Drones and Satellite Images https://www.darwinfoundation.org/en/research/projects/mapping-invasive-plants
World Wildife Fund, Galapagos Islands: https://www.worldwildlife.org/places/the-galapagos
Galapagos Islands: https://www.britannica.com/place/Galapagos-Islands
Bursera graveolens (Kunth) Triana & Planch https://www.darwinfoundation.org/en/datazone/checklist?species=232
Bursera malacophylla B.L. Rob. https://www.darwinfoundation.org/en/datazone/checklist?species=233
Phylogeography of palo santo trees (Bursera graveolens and Bursera malacophylla; Burseraceae) in the Galápagos archipelago
https://academic.oup.com/botlinnean/article/161/4/396/2418350

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Aromatherapy Article

4 Easy Tips to Optimize Your Fitness Routine, Using Essential Oils

Posted: August 21, 2019 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

From Monday to Friday at 10h00, I teach Zumba™ classes. I love it because it keeps me alert, in good shape, and it has allowed me to connect with beautiful people. I have been able to improve my daily fitness routine, using essential oils.
Here’s how:

1. Concentration and Alertness

Zumba™ and other kinds of exercises or sports require our minds to stay awake and alert. It’s essential to have the body and the mind synchronized, and many times, the distractions of our daily lives prevent focus and total concentration. Before starting the class, I spray my face with Alert Mist made with energizing and stimulating oils for the mind: peppermint, rosemary, cardamom, and spearmint. I also use it after the class when I feel hot and sweaty. I recommend you use this spray before performing any exercise routine, even before going for a walk.

2. Muscle pain

When we exercise correctly and intensely, we will often feel muscle aches. After teaching, I like to apply some Pain Begone Body Oil on the sore areas, especially feet, and knees. The combination of essential oils in this preparation is beneficial due to their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and detoxifying effects.

3. Control your appetite

I am sure that you are very aware of what kind of diet is best for you to stay fit. My interest is not to give you any diet recommendations, but to give you a piece of advice that will help you stick to it and avoid falling off the bandwagon.
It’s very simple: smell essential oils that trick your body into thinking that you have eaten enough and that you’re satiated. Science says that it is not our stomach that tells you when to stop eating, but your hypothalamus [1]. The hypothalamus sends the signal to the body that you must stop eating. The hypothalamus is directly connected to the sense of smell. When you smell certain essential oils, the hypothalamus sends the signal to the stomach to stop eating. Place a drop of the FIT essential oil blend onto a handkerchief and inhale three times with one nostril and three times with the other. Do it for about two minutes before eating or before you open the refrigerator or pantry to eat unhealthy snacks. You’ll notice that your prone to eat smaller portions and to stick to your diet.

4.Help your body detox naturally

With a healthy diet and exercise our body will eliminate toxins, and we can give it a boost using essential oils that can promote circulation and lymphatic flow, and break down fat and water deposits in the cells. Cedarwood, fennel, rosemary, and orange are the essential oils I used to formulate the Detoxing Body Oil. Apply some of it on your abdomen, hips, arms, and thighs. You can do this every morning.

As you can see, it’s very easy to stick to your fitness routine using essential oils.
[1] Scentsational Weight Loss: At Last a New Easy Natural Way To Control Your Appetite Paperback – January 7, 1998 by Alan R. Hirsch

© 2019, S. Cristina Proano
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy, and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

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Aromatherapy Article

What are carrier oils?

Posted: April 23, 2019 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

The term carrier oil refers to the vegetable oil in which essential oils are diluted. This carrier oil becomes the vehicle through which the essential oil travels within the body in a slow and controlled manner. It can also be called base oil.

There are different types of carrier oils and these not only serve as transports of essential oils, but they also have therapeutic properties, essential fatty acids, and vitamins.

In aromatherapy we use only non-refined vegetable oils; this means that no external heat or chemical solvents have been used for its extraction.
The vegetable oils found in supermarkets have gone through processes of high temperatures and the use of chemicals, where all their therapeutic properties are lost and are not recommended in aromatherapy. Mineral oils, such as baby oil, tend to clog pores and are not easily absorbed by the skin. Therefore, they are also not recommended in aromatherapy.
The benefits of the topical application of essential oils are due to the permeable power of the carrier oils that we use. Unrefined vegetable oils have an abundance of nutrients that are immediately absorbed into the skin.

How to dilute essential oils in carrier oils

1% dilution (for preparations for babies, the elderly, people with sensitive skin, facial skin care)
5 to 6 drops of essential oil per 1 Fl.oz. of carrier oil

2% dilution: This is the most common dilution, children over 5 years of age, adults without sensitivity problems
10 to 12 drops of essential oil per 1 Fl.oz. of carrier oil

3% dilution: For acute cases such as muscle aches and cramps
15 to 18 drops of essential oil per 1 Fl.oz. of carrier oil

Common Carrier Oils

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is extracted from the dried pulp and the inside of the shell, hydraulic dams are used followed by centrifugal extraction. It has a greenish color, which indicates that in addition to having vitamin A, D, lecithin, and potassium, it contains chlorophyll.

For rashes, eczema, dry and mature skin, and dry scalp. It is valuable for preparations for muscle pain relief. It has anti-wrinkle properties, and it is recommended for dry skin.

It is an ideal moisturizer after extreme exposure of the skin to the sun.

Aromandina products with Avocado Oil: Argan Elixir for Hair Loss

Jojoba

Jojoba is, in fact, a wax, not an oil. The seeds produce a liquid wax that does not turn rancid, which gives it long shelf life. It contains the anti-inflammatory agent myristic acid, which makes it a beneficial agent for rheumatism and arthritis. Its consistency is similar to human sebum, so it is recommended for acne, oily skin, oily scalp. It is also beneficial for cracked skin such as rashes and eczema.

Aromandina products with Jojoba Oil: Golden Jojoba, Argan Elixir for Dry Hair, Argan Elixir for Hair Loss

Coconut Oil

This oil is produced by pressing the pulp of the coconut. It inhibits moisture loss from the skin. It helps soften the skin and is an excellent moisturizer after the sun. It is solid in cold temperatures and liquid in hot temperatures.

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated coconut oil is separated from the whole coconut oil to produce a superior carrier oil that will not become rancid. The non-chemical separation process leaves no toxic waste to worry about. This fine carrier oil. It remains liquid even at very low temperatures.
It has an infinite useful life, it never gets rancid. Leaves the skin with a silky and smooth sensation, without feeling greasy.
Aromandina products with Fractionated Coconut Oil: Body Oils

Sweet Almond Oil

It is one of the most common carrier oils, its color is pale yellow and it is slightly viscous. It is known that the Romans used it for skin preparations. It is an excellent emollient for cracked hands. It nourishes dry skin and helps relieve inflammation. It can be beneficial to ease the itching produced by eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Midwives use the oil to massage the perineum and avoid tears.

Remember that if the almond oil smells of almonds, then it is not a true oil. Almond oil should have a neutral odor.

Sesame Seed

Used for more than 5000 years in China, Egypt, and ancient Rome. High in vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Do not use the dark oil extracted from the toasted sesame seeds, but the cold pressed oil that is odorless and colorless.

Rosehips Oil

It is produced in Chile and has recently become very popular for its regenerative properties. It is extracted from the seeds of a rose bush that grows on in Southern Andes.
Clinical studies have been carried out where the rosehip has been found to have tissue regeneration properties for burns, wrinkles, and scars. This oil is excellent to reduce wrinkles, to counteract the dehydrating effects of the sun where you begin to notice the crow’s feet and fine lines around the lips.
Useful to attenuate scars either surgical or by accident and to reduce the formation of keloids.
It could be that all these qualities come from the high content of linoleic fatty acids.
In 1978, Dr. Carlos Amin Vasques reported that he found that rosehip oil was superior to any other treatment for severely burned patients, allowing accelerated healing and rejuvenation.

Foraha Oil

Calophyllum Inophyllum, also known as Foraha Oil, is renowned for its remarkable healing properties. It has been shown to aid healing of wounds, including severe cuts and burns, and acts as an active germicide to kill or prevent infection. Interestingly, while most vegetable oils are present in the ripened fruit, Foraha Oil forms as the nuts dry, a process that occurs over about eight weeks. The oil is extracted from the nuts by cold-pressing and filtration.

Benefits: Rejuvenating to mature skin, anti-inflammatory, assists with pain relief, speeds healing with cuts and burns, relieves sunburn, very effective on dry or scaly skin
Aromandina products with Foraha Oil: Therapeutic Carrier Oil

References:

Complete Guide to Aromatherapy by Salvatore Battaglia

Aromatherapy for Health Professionals (Price, Aromatherapy for Health Professionals) by Shirley and Len Price

The Aromatherapy Companion: Medicinal Uses/Ayurvedic Healing/Body-Care Blends/Perfumes & Scents/Emotional Health & Well-Being (Herbal Body)by Victoria H. Edwards

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Aromatherapy News|How do Essential oils work|Methods of Essential Oil Application

How to Use Essential Oils

Posted: April 3, 2019 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

How to use essential oils? This is a question that my clients, my students and my followers on Facebook ask me every day. Essential oils are very versatile, their benefits are emotional and mental. Likewise, the methods of use are versatile. Here we offer you a basic guide on how to use essential oils.

Aromatherapy Burner of Diffuser: For mood enhancement and upliftment. To offer a soothing or energizing atmosphere.
Burner: Fill the container with water, add 5-15 drops of essential oil depending on the area of the room, light the candle and enjoy the aroma permeating the environment. Diffuser: follow the instructions of the device.
You do not need to keep a burner or a diffuser on all day long. One hour a day is more than enough.
Calming effect during the day: Joyful Time, Autumn, Frankincense, Palo Santo
Sedative effect before going to sleep: Meditation, Sleep Time, Vetiver, Lavender, Mandarin
Romantic atmosphere: Romance, Ylang Ylang, Ginger
Sweet, feminine, soothing environment: Radiant, Sweet Serenity
To keep you alert and energized: Memory, Energy, Summer
Happy and positive effect all day long: Fiesta, Citrus Delight, Spring

Topical application:Remember that essential oils should NEVER be applied undiluted to the skin. We have a range of Body Oils that are safe to apply to the skin. If you prefer to make your own body oils, dilute 40-50 drops of essential oils in 4 oz of carrier oil.

Steam inhalation: Useful for acute respiratory conditions like colds and sinus infections. Add 3 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm water and inhale for around 10 minutes. Care should be taken to prevent any burns from hot water or steam. Use this method of application only for acute conditions, not as a regular method of use.
Recommended essential oil blends and single oils: Immune Support, Allergy Calm, Winter, Niaouli, Hyssop decumbens, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Bay Laurel

Quick inhalation: Place 3-4 drops of essential oil on a tissue or paper towel, place it under the nose and inhale directly. This method is recommended for a quick calming or energizing effect.

Pillow: For better sleep, put 4 drops of essential oil on a cotton pad and tuck it under the pillowcase. Do not put drops directly on the pillowcase.
Oils that help sleep better: Sleep Time, Chamomile, Lavender, Mandarin, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang

Vaporizer: Add 10 drops of chosen essential oil to water, run for a couple of hours. – This method is useful to diffuse essential oils with anti-microbial properties and may be helpful for colds, flu, respiratory conditions in general: Immune Support, Eucalyptus, Fir, Spruce, Bay Laurel, Hyssop, Niaouli, Ravensara, Thyme

Compress: Useful to allow essential oils to penetrate a particular area of the body. This method of use is recommended for acute pain such as headaches, menstrual cramps, abdominal pain, and muscle contractures. Dilute 5 drops of essential oils with 1 tablespoon carrier oil or other cold pressed vegetable oils. Apply this preparation to the affected area: (head, abdomen, sore muscles) and cover the area with hot or cold compresses. Reapply the compresses for 5 to 15 minutes.
For headaches: Roll Headache Begon Roll On on forehead and back of the neck and cover with alternate compresses, hot and cold for 10 minutes. You can also dilute the following essential oils: Peppermint, Lavender, Rosemary, Cardamom, Eucalyptus, Lemon
For menstrual cramps: Apply Women’s Health Body Oil on abdomen and cover with alternate compresses, hot and cold for 10 minutes. You can also dilute the following oils: Marjoram, Clary Sage, Blue Chamomile, Basil, Frankincense, Carrot seed, Fennel, Geranium, Rose absolute
For an upset stomach, dyspepsia, sluggish digestion, flatulence: Apply Detoxing Body Oil on the abdomen and cover with alternate compresses, hot and cold for 10 minutes. You can also dilute the following oils: Chamomile, Bergamot, Mandarin, Orange, Cardamom, Fennel, Hyssop decumbens, Spearmint, Peppermint, Black Pepper, Rosemary, Lemon, Cinnamon, Ginger
For sore muscles and joints: Apply Pain Begone Body Oil on the affected area and cover with a cold compress or dilute one or more of the following oils: Bay Laurel, Cypress, Chamomile, Black pepper, Rosemary, Ginger, Peppermint, Pine

Baths: This is one of the most essential and useful forms of treatment in aromatherapy. Remember to dilute your essential oils in an emulsifier before adding them to the water. Dilute them first in one tablespoon of non-greasy vegetable oil or with one tablespoon of a natural, sulfate-free bath base (shampoo or shower gel). Fill bathtub with warm water, combine a total of 10 drops of essential oil with your preferred base (vegetable oil or bath base). THE FOLLOWING OILS MAY BE IRRITANT IN THE BATH, SO IT’S BEST TO AVOID THEM: Memory, Fit, Basil, Cinnamon, Fennel, Ginger, Orange, Oregano, Peppermint. Spearmint, Thyme

Footbaths: Very helpful when a full, aromatic bath is not possible. The oils are going to be absorbed through the feet and travel to the rest of the body. Essential oils are rapidly absorbed by the skin on the soles of feel. Fill a foot pan with warm water, combine one tablespoon of vegetable oil with 7 drops of essential oils and immerse feet up to the ankles in this water for 20 minutes before going to bed. THE FOLLOWING OILS MAY BE IRRITANT IN FOOTBATHS, SO IT’S BEST TO AVOID THEM: Memory, Fit, Basil, Cinnamon, Fennel, Ginger, Orange, Oregano, Peppermint. Spearmint, Thyme

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Aromatherapy Article|Aromatherapy News

Can aromatherapy work if you have no sense of smell?

Posted: March 14, 2019 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

What happens if you have no sense of smell, does aromatherapy work? What a great question!

Yesterday I taught two aromatherapy classes at a local college and one of the students asked me that question which left me thinking.

Aromatherapy works with two very important senses, our sense of smell and our sense of touch. I call them “the senses of the heart” because we react to what we smell and what we touch with our emotions, more than with our logic. It’s easier for us to determine if we like or dislike a specific scent than to describe in words that scent.

Our sense of smell

In my classes, firstly, I ask my students how do you call a person who can’t see? Everybody knows the answer, blind.
Secondly, I ask them how do you call a person who can’t hear? The answer is deaf, right?
Now, how do you call a person who can’t smell? – Very, very seldom somebody knows the answer. Do you know the answer? The person who can’t smell is called anosmic.

Anosmia is a complete loss of the ability to smell. Some people lost their sense of smell as a consequence of a nasal condition or brain injury, while others are anosmic from birth.

What happens if you have no sense of smell?

An anosmic person, a person with no sense of smell is a person who has many disadvantages compared to those of us who can smell.

They can’t taste: Did you know that 80% of our sense of taste comes from our sense of smell?
Our sense of taste can only determine the following flavors: salty, sour, sweet, bitter and umami. But when you can’t smell, you can’t tell the difference between a chocolate and a vanilla ice cream. It’s just sweet, no difference.
They are exposed to certain dangers – our sense of smell is like a radar, always telling if there are dangers around us (e.g., smoke, gas, rotten food)
They may have a low sexual response: Our sense of smell is part of the limbic system of the brain, the area in the brain that is in charge of our memory, our sexual response, and our appetite control.
They tend to be more depressed: They feel that life is unenjoyable. Life is full of odors and tastes that they can’t enjoy.

The sense of touch

Another sense that people forget its importance is the sense of touch, here are some reminders about how useful our sense of touch is:

Our sense of touch allows us to interact with each other and with our environment.
It has a significant role in emotional interaction between humans.
It’s the first sense we experience in the womb and the last one we lose before death.
Physical touch not only feels nice, but it’s also essential for our well-being.

Aromatherapy, combining the sense of smell and the sense of touch for complete well-being

Let’s put an example here:

Your partner is having difficulty sleeping, and before they go to sleep, you will give them a short massage on their neck, the soles of the feet and the solar plexus area with our Sleep Time Body Oil. The relaxing and sedative properties of the essential oils in this product, lavender, mandarin, marjoram, and palo santo, are going to be perceived by the olfactory receptors of your partner’s nose, therefore inducing a sense of rest, peace, and relaxation.

At the same time, your soft strokes on their skin, are allowing the same essential oils to penetrate through the different skin layers, to the blood vessels, to the rest of the body.

Now what if your partner has no sense of smell?

What if I tell you that even with no sense of smell, our body can perceive the benefits of these wonderful oils? Actually, essential oils are made out of-of many chemical compounds. Studies show that the detection of chemical odors isn’t limited to the nose, but other organs of the body, such as the skin, the heart, liver, and gut.

In conclusion, even with no sense of smell, the loving application of diluted essential oils into the skin, through massage, will produce a positive effect on the person. In other words, not only the person will receive the well know benefits of massage, but also, through this application, the essential oils can travel through the skin to our bloodstream, and interact with our olfactory receptors in our skin.

Moreover, you’ll find that many older adults have lost their sense of smell, however, they will be very receptive to receive a soothing massage on their hands, arms, feet, legs. Go ahead and give it a try, there’s nothing to lose here.

References: The Impact of Olfactory Disorders in the United Kingdom
Human Skin Can “Smell” Odors
TIL: You Can Smell Through Your Skin

Related articles on the Aroma Blog:
Your Sense of Smell Could Predict Your Life Span!

© 2019, S. Cristina Proano
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a health care professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

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Aromatherapy News

Rekindle your love life with aphrodisiac essential oils

Posted: January 5, 2019 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

In a relationship, it is always important to rekindle the flames of love and desire, to look for new adventures together that will help the couple maintain that spark of love and attraction. One of the easiest and most effective ways is the use of aphrodisiac essential oils to potentiate your love life.

Here’s a list of the aphrodisiac essential oils divided by scent types:

Spicy Scents

These oils are generally warm, like that seasoning that you add to your food for flavor. By using these oils, you are adding heat and spice to your relationship. In other words, these aromas not only warm the body but the emotions, revitalizing and igniting a loving encounter.

Black Pepper: Light again the flame of passion with this very hot aroma. *
Cardamom: Spicy, stimulates the mind and evokes our sexual nature.
Cinnamon: Stimulates the senses, calms the tension, helps us forget the setbacks of the day. *

Floral Scents

By nature, flowers are feminine, but both men and women can use them. The flowers awaken our sensual side, they allow us to connect better with our environment, help us to appreciate more intensely what we hear, touch, smell, and taste. Therefore, flowers help us feel more sensual and feminine, we can accept ourselves the way we are and release inhibitions.

Ylang-Ylang: Very aphrodisiac. It enhances libido and increases the attraction between lovers.
Rose: The flower of seduction, love, and forgiveness. Relieves the sadness of lost love while soothing painful feelings.
Jasmin: Sensual and seductive. It triggers passion between lovers.
Geranium: Improves the ability of intimate communication.
Clary Sage: Euphoric and profound. Helps to calm melancholy and stress.

Leafy Scents

We’re talking about leaves with intense aromas, those that keep the mind awake, those that promote physical and mental vitality, and help us keep fantasies alive. In ancient times, men used these leaves for war as well as for love.

Basil: Awakens a loving relationship that has been losing interest or intensity.
Laurel: Improves self-esteem, releases inhibitions.
Rosemary: Raises the moral, provides vitality, inspires us to appreciate the joy of love.

Rooty, earthy scents

When you see their color and consistency immediately you will know what we’re talking about: essential oils that smell like dirt. These oils help us to awaken the root and sensual chakras. This scent is powerful, penetrating, bold, never shy.

Patchouli: Stimulating, voluptuous and suggestive. It penetrates deeply into the emotions.
Vetiver: It helps eliminate fears and doubts: strengthening, sexual stimulant.
Ginger: It melts and warms up those emotions that are frozen or cold. It rekindles desire and revives passion.

Citrus scents

These are not aphrodisiac essential oils, they are what we call evocative. Citrus oils help us have a positive and optimistic attitude. When we combine them with the oils mentioned above, they give a very pleasant aroma to the blend.

Bergamot: It improves the lovers’ mood with its uplifting and refreshing aroma.
Orange: It puts us on the mood for joy and sensuality. It eliminates boredom.
Grapefruit: It intensifies feelings of confidence and positivism.

How to use them

One of the best ways is to diffuse your erotic essential oils with an aromatherapy diffuser, burner or nebulizer to create a romantic and sensual atmosphere. What is the environment you want to achieve? What is the purpose? What reactions do you want to produce? This intimate moment is a playful experiment for both of you. Talk to each other and choose together what is the aroma that best identifies you as a couple.

To complement the atmosphere, it’s time to get down to business by giving each other a sensual, gentle massage, not a deep tissue massage, but a massage to awaken the senses of touch and smell.

For this you need a romantic massage oil:

Take a bottle of Therapeutic Carrier Oil
Add a total of 50 drops of essential oil
To get a balanced mixture, choose a maximum of 4 essential oils.

*Black Pepper and cinnamon essential oils are irritating to the skin, it’s better to use them in the diffuser rather than in the massage oil.

Here’s an example of a romantic diffuser blend:

2 drops of black pepper
4 drops of bergamot
2 drops of rosemary
2 drops of clary sage

Here’s an example of a romantic massage oil:

15 drops of ginger
5 drops of jasmin
25 drops of orange
10 drops of basil
Add to 1 bottle of Therapeutic Carrier Oil

Start following these guidelines and bring the art of love-making to a whole another level.

References: Aromantics by Valerie Ann Worwood
The Art of Sensual Aromatherapy by Nitya Lacroix

 © 2019, Cristina Proano-Carrion, Aromandina LLC
This information is based on traditional use of aromatherapy, and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a healthcare professional. No part of this article may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.

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Aromatherapy Article|Aromatherapy News

Aromatherapy — An Easy, Effective Way to Eliminate Stress!

Posted: September 17, 2018 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

Stress bombards us on a daily basis. Whether you’re stressed out over that big work project, something your kids did, or the mess in the kitchen, it’s a miserable way to live. You wind up feeling exhausted, getting a headache, and even suffering tummy troubles.

Luckily, though, there’s an easy way to knock stress right out of your life — aromatherapy!

People are always asking me which essential oils are best at combating stress, and the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all recipe that will fight every single type of stress you encounter during the day. That’s why I came up with three different essential oil blends that can help you eliminate stress throughout the day — without making you feel groggy or foggy.Read more

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Aromatherapy Article|Aromatherapy News|Essential Oil Profile

Rosemary Can Increase Memory by 75%, Says Latest Research!

Posted: September 15, 2018 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

“Oops! I forgot”, is a common refrain and a very embarrassing one too – especially when you forget a loved one’s birthday or when a seemingly important task simply skips your mind. Maybe it is our stressful lifestyles or maybe we are just not attentive and alert enough to make a mental to-do list, but forgetfulness is something that most of us experience more often than we’d like. If you have been wondering what you can do to help yourself out of this annoying tendency, here’s something that will pique your interest.Read more

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Aroma Tip|Aromatherapy Article|Aromatherapy for children

Essential oils for focus and concentration

Posted: September 6, 2018 by Cristina Proano-Carrion

Aromatherapy for Concentration

When I used to talk at a radio show in Ecuador, I would choose themes that would provide helpful tips to listeners. During my experience, I discovered that as the first school trimester was coming close to its end, parents were nervous about their children failing the tests. I talked about the benefits of using essential oils that not only stimulate the nervous system but are cephalic as well, meaning that they improve memory and concentration. Hundreds of mothers tried out the essential oils and reported after the school exams that the oils definitely helped.

The essential oils for memory and concentration are:
Spearmint Essential Oil: restorative, strengthens memory, stimulates the mind
Peppermint Essential Oil: stimulates nerves and brain, improves concentration and study
Cardamom Essential Oil: fortifying, tonic of the brain and nervous system
Rosemary Essential Oil: clears the mind, sharpens the memory and boosts the nervous system

A solution for lack of focus and motivation

Based on that experience, I combined all those oils into a single product, Memory Essential Oil Blend.

I tried it first when my son when he was in 4th grade and was having problems with his spelling tests. While he was learning and memorizing the spellings, he sniffed a tissue that had 2 drops of the Memory essential oil. The next day, right before school, he took a few sniffs of the oil again and carried the tissue to the exam room. When the exam came along, he was able to identify with the familiar smell and relate it to the moments when he was studying.

This helped him immensely in recalling what he had learned the previous day and gave his memory an instant boost. As a result of this simple therapy, he ended up with straight A’s in spelling.
Now he is in college and Memory is part of his everyday routine at home. He puts 5 drops of the essential oil in an aromatherapy diffuser on his desk – this helps him focus without getting distracted.

Another great help for focus and concentration is our Alert Body Mist if you have trouble staying alert during the day while you work or while you drive, just spray a couple of times on your face to help you gear up for day to day. This method can be beneficial for children with ADD and ADHD and to anybody needing some extra help with their concentration.

Related articles: 6 ‘Back to School” Aromatherapy Tips

© Cristina Proano-Carrion – All rights reserved. This information on this blog is based on the traditional use of aromatherapy, and it does not intend to diagnose or treat any condition. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counseling with a healthcare professional. No part of this blog may be reproduced in whole or in part without the explicit written permission of Aromandina.