Essential Oils

[beatle]

A couple (or few) months back there was a thread about essential oils... it also came up in another thread in another forum (in another universe, in another galaxy far far away).

Just wondering if anyone has got anywhere using these. I mean, using them to help specific problems and health issues. I know Determinator was onto them, and I'm sure there are others using them... so there must be some interesting info/experience to share out there.

I'm grateful for any advice, insight, etc.

[MyOwnWoman]

You know Beatle, I've messed with oils here and there, but am pretty oblivious to anything unless it hits me like a truck -- so if there has been benefit I've not noticed. For instance, I found an essential oil blend specially formulated to help with breaking addictions. So I bought it, put it on, and very likely went to the other end of the store and got a bottle of wine.

[beatle]

You are so like me MOW! That's the sort of thing I constantly did. Like first a trip to the health food store to stock up on Milk Thistle and Yogi Detox tea, and then off to the liquor store for a litre of vodka. Ah the good old days.

But as for the essential oils, one I have tried is Neroli, a ridiculously expensive one (because I think it takes something like 1,000 tonnes of orange blossoms to make one tonne of the stuff). Anyway, you only need a dab at pulse points, so it lasts a really long time (hence not really so expensive)... it is supposed to relax you and make you feel calm.

I put some on in the early evening, around the time I would normally have had a drink, and it does seem to take the edge off quite a bit. It also smells fantastic (it is an ingredient in almost every perfume).

I've also sprinkled a minute amount on my pillow and it is wonderful to go to sleep with it... and it has lasted for days on the pillow.

[flyinhigh]

I am a big lavender girl here.....I love the calm feeling it gives and it is medicinal.
I do find that when I wear my oils as perfume (rose, jasmine, lavender....) I feel better and more...what's the word.....wholesome, and I don't want to taint that with something ugly like AL or a cig.

I also have found, certain ones that are for more "sensual" moments, patchouli and sandalwood....um, that does really work....I do have some raw data, if you really need to know.....

Sorry I can't offer any real insight here...but I do love the oils!

[headless1]

There are many anecdotal ideas floating around. I have done some research into essential fatty acids (essential because our bodies need them but cannot produce them). I believe that I am missing the enzyme which permits our bodies from transforming linoleic acid to Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) because of a family disease that makes me prone to not having the delta- 6-desaturase enzyme which is necessary to convert oils like flaxseed oil into GLA which our bodies desperately need. Not to ramble on too much but our diets and lifestyle are stacked against anybody who has the enzyme because all the trans/fats and unhealthy balance of diet leads to a shortage of GLA in the body. This essential oil is necessary for the formation of prostaglandins (which are hormone like substances that regulate an array of bodily functions). O.k. that's enough for now, but here are 2 leads to look at if you are interested
Borage oil
Diagnose-Me: Treatment: Essential Fatty Acids

P.S.--Borage seed oil is a great source of GLA. So if you supplement with this and cut down on the bad fats and alcohol your body will smile at you. Sorry for the ramble it's just there is so much info on this subject.

H

[gelgit]

I love essential oils. Lavender is also one of my favorites. I rub rosemary oil all over my feet, ankles and legs for circulation support when I am going to be satnding for long periods. I use oregano for any skin problems, and I rub the soles of my feet with valerian oil when I am too restless to sleep.... knocks me right out!!

My favorite is rose oil, it makes me practically swoon (and soo does the price!)

[Ripple]

I am a patchouli fan...everthing for me is PATCHOULI! because i am so fearful of insects i use this...oils, liquid deodorant and lotions and incense..they call me patchouli..

[JMT]

Patchouli!!! Oh my gosh, I thought I was the only person in the world that liked it!! LOL My husband hates it but I've worn it since highschool! LOL

[Ripple]

yup, they call me the old hippie....well that I ain't...LOVE PATCHOULI! its the best.

[hippie37]

Originally Posted by flyinhigh

I also have found, certain ones that are for more "sensual" moments, patchouli and sandalwood....um,

Yeah I'd go along with that flyin!!lol I just love patchouli oil and used to dowse myself in it!!!. Ylang Ylang is another good oil to mix with a good base oil for sensual massages. Don't buy these expensive massage oils from the likes of The Body Shop. Make your own, it's much more fun!!

Love and Happiness
Hippie
xx