Aromatherapy for Stress

Most people turn to Aromatherapy to alleviate stress. There are many types of stress in our busy lives, there is positive stress, normal stress and distress. Positive stress is that high you get when working hard, it is the energising feeling you get when accomplishing a goal. It is this stress that gets us through a day with enjoyment. It is energising and does not require essential oils to treat. Normal stress is where the body performs its functions for survival in response to a situation. This is also a normal function and again there is no need for oils to treat this type of stress. Then there is distress. Distress is where healthy stress transforms itself into a chronic state. You lose the will to go on, energy levels are low and every day pressure becomes too much. This is where oils can be useful. Briefly, we have included a breakdown of the different types of distress and the oils that can assist in helping you through the hard times.

Environmental Stress

• Cedarwood
• Geranium
• Cypress
• Coriander
• Basil
• Roman Chamomile
• Bergamot

Chemical Stress

• Lavender
• Grapefruit
• Rosemary
• Patchouli
• Lemon
• Clay Sage
• Geranium

Physical Stress

• Rosemary
• Geranium
• Lavender
• Thyme
• Marjoram
• Roman Chamomile
• Fennel

Mental Stress

• Bergamot
• Cardamom
• Geranium
• Sandalwood
• Patchouli
• Basil
• Grapefruit

Emotional Stress

• Vetiver
• Geranium
• Sandalwood
• Rose
• Bergamot
• Cardamom

Here is a collection of basic stress/relaxation blends. Add these to 2oz./50 ml. of carrier oil of your choice:

Blend 1

• Lavender 10 drops
• Rosemary 5 drops
• Cypress 15 drops

Blend 2

• Lemon 10 drops
• Rom. Chamomile 5 drops
• Marjoram 15 drops

Blend 3

• Pettigraine 17 drops
• Neroli 5 drops
• Nutmeg 8 drops

These blends are for basic relaxation and mild stress. Consult your aroma therapist for stronger blends and for blends more suitable for your specific problem.

The Next Article: Aromatherapy During Pregnancy

© 2004 Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Centre

Massage Oil Recipe

Here is the standard dilution for therapeutic massage and body oil:

Base Oil Amount            Essential Oil Amount (drops)
1 tsp/5ml                      2-3
1 tbs/15 ml                   6-7
1 oz/25 ml                    12-13
2 oz/50 ml                    25
3.5 oz./100 ml              50

Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Stress Blend: 15 drops Clary Sage/10 drops Sweet Orange Oil/5 drops Lavender

Aphrodisiac Blend: 15 drops ylang ylang/5 drops Jasmine

Help In Sleeping Blend: 15 drops Roman Chamomile 5 drops Ylang Ylang.

Sore Muscles Blend: 3 drops Ginger, 2 drops Black Pepper, 5 drops Peppermint, 5 drops Eucalyptus.

Directions: Mix the oils well and store in an airtight, dark glass container. Apply only a small amount (1/2-1 teaspoon) for each massage.

The Next Article: Aromatherapy for Stress

© 2004 Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Centre

Aromatherapy Massage

Massage is one of the most fundamental forms of therapy. It is both physically and emotionally beneficial to the body and a beautiful way to express caring and help relieve the stress of a loved one. The safe addition of an essential oil blend can enhance your massage experience.

Although a qualified masseuse is always the best way to get your massage aromatherapy, it is easy to do at home. It can be both therapeutic and sensual. There is no better way then to sensually communicate with your partner then to have a warm bath seeped with your sensual oil blend followed by a gentle massage with your complimenting massage oil. The best way to discover the art of massage would be to find a book from your bookshop of library and study. There is so much to know! But we all can share in gentle massage between loved ones by following the below guidelines:

• Do not ever use hard or painful pressure. Hard pressure can feel good, but gentle movements are the safest and most effective in the long term.
• Don’t ever directly massage on bones, and never massage a person with a serious injury such as torn ligaments or broken bones.
• Don’t massage the abdominal area of anyone with stomach problems or who is pregnant.
• Don’t massage over areas of skin infection, rash, sores, cuts, burns or varicose veins.
• Do not ever massage anyone who has had a serious heart attack or any serious medical condition including thrombosis (blood clots) or a recent operation.
• Never massage undiluted essential oils, absolutes or CO2s into the skin. Instead, make a diluted blend following the guidelines outlined below.

In short it is best to apply massage on healthy people and be very careful when massaging anyone with special medical or health issues. Those with special medical issues should receive massage from a qualified massage therapist.

A few more tips:

• Set the scene with soft music and soft lighting.
• Make sure your hands are clean and your nails are short and remove rings.
• Wear loose fitting comfortable clothes.
• Keep your massage oil warm and in a bowl.
• It is best for your massage to be unclothed down to their underwear with a towel for modesty!
• Try to keep your massage gentle until you learn more advanced massage form.
• Enjoy the aroma and go with the flow.

The Next Article: Massage Oil Recipe

© 2004 Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Centre

Aromatherapy Baths

Bathing in essential oils is a wonderfully way to take in you essential oil blend. Relaxing in a bath of hot water compliments the effects of well-chosen essential oils. Aromatic baths provide relief from stress and anxiety, assist with muscle pains, or offer a sensual introduction to a romantic evening with your partner.

Adding Oils to the Bath

Using essential oils in the bath is one of the easiest ways to implement aromatherapy and its benefits. There are two methods of adding your oils to the bath. You can add 5-10 drops essential oil to 1-ounce carrier oil or just add your oils directly under the running bath water and mix well before getting into the tub. Be sure to read the safety data for the essential oils you choose to use.

The Next Article: Aromatherapy Massage

© 2004 Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Centre