Herbal Medicine in the form of Essential Oils
Herbs have been recognised since first recorded history about 4000 years ago by the ancient Sumerians for their therapeutic properties. Aromatic plants have been used to promote physical and psychological well-being, science having demonstrated that not only do the chemical constituents of essential oils work on our physical problems but via the olfactory system (sense of smell) to the limbic system in the brain they have an effect on our emotional and psychological selves.
Most often, essential oils are used either by inhalation or by applying topically to the skin. In inhalation, a diffuser or an essential oil burner is used, where droplets of the essential oils are breathed in and absorbed through the lungs. Topically, the oils are added to a carrier oil (such as sweet almond or coconut oil) and are applied to the skin, either on pulse points or during the course of a massage.
Essential oils should never be taken by mouth unless prescribed by a medical doctor or a qualified practitioner who has been trained to a medical standard.
Here are a few essential oils, some may be familiar and others not so much. Note that each herb has been described as having hot/cold and/ or warm/dry properties. To determine the choice of oil, for instance if addressing inflammation (a hot condition), one will choose a cooling herb, if addressing a damp, mucousy condition one will choose a drying herb.
Geranium (cool, moist) – clears inflammation and hear; eases frustration and anxiety, eases frustration; reconnects feeling with life, after grief.
Lavender (cool, dry) – soothes tension and frustration, used for insomnia; inflammatory skin conditions, respiratory problems.
Fennel (warm, dry) – indigestion; the over-analyser; frees up stagnated feelings.
Eucalyptus (cool, dry) – clears damp; decongests respiratory infections; for people who feel hemmed in by their circumstances.
Rosemary (warm, dry)- joint pain of a cold, fixed and cramping nature; indigestion and abdominal distention; poor sense of self-worth, a self-confidence booster.
Myrrh (warm, dry) – mouth infections; lowers blood cholesterol; eases sorrow and grief, rejection & loss; worry, overthinking. Brings stillness & peace.
Thyme (warm, dry) – congestion, chills & aches, abdominal distention; dispels anxiety, & instils drive.
If you would like to see how using essential oils might help you, please give me a call to make a time for a consultation.