AHN workshop students - Teach You Nutrition · 2018-10-22 · teaspoon of carrier oil and pour into the bath, stirring well. Massage: Many techniques for body massage For ease of

Aromatherapy-CSNN set 1 of 2 Prepared for the exclusive use of CSNN AHN workshop students

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Introduction toAromatherapy

CSNN AN112

Agenda

INTRO TO AROMATHERAPY

CARRIER OILS

THE ESSENTIAL OILS

APPLICATIONS FOR SPECIFIC CONDITIONS

HOUSE & HOME

BEAUTY

WHAT IS AROMATHERAPY?

A healing art involving the therapeutic use of scents to promote physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Used medicinally by many ancient civilizations, incl. Roman, Greek, Egyptian, Chinese

Made popular in ‘modern’ times by French chemist Gattefosse (the “Father” of Aromatherapy”, b. 1881)

Jean Valnet MD: WWII physician and surgeon using e.o’s

Robert Tisserand: aromatherapy enthusiast and researcher bringing Gattefosse’s work to the fore for public access and use.

What are Essential oils? Volatile, aromatic compounds naturally found in bark, stems, roots,

leaves, and flowers of plants

responsible for the fragrances released by plants and many of their medicinal actions

Composed of many constituents:

Terpenes

Alcohols

Esters

Ketones

Aldehydes

Etc.

Why do they exist?

Essential oils serve several purposes in nature:

Attract beneficial pollinating insects

Repel pests and predators, better enabling survival of the plant

Extraction and concentration

Steam distillation is the most common method used to separate essential oils from other plant components and concentrate oils of the same plant species

Citrus oils extracted from peels require only pressure to extract

Beware: cheaper brands may have used chemical solvents

Caution: Concentration can be extremely high

Example #1: 1 drop of peppermint oil = 25 bags of peppermint tea

Example #2: For massage oil: only 2-3% essential oil (of any kind)



Absorption of oils

Chemically very complex combinations of esters, alcohols, terpenes, aldehydes, …

Each essential oil carries multiple uses.

Example: clove oil is anaesthetic, analgesic, carminative, antiseptic, etc.

Small molecular structure and fat-soluble nature enables rapid absorption into the blood stream via inhalation and skin application

Essential oil BasicsEssential oils are used in various ways:

Topically (skin): directly on the skin (usually diluted by a carrier oil and massaged into the skin)

By inhalation (Lungs): using a diffuser, the oil is added to an amount of water and diffused into the air.

Orally* (mouth/stomach): in highly diluted form, may be consumed for the treatment of health afflictions

Inhalation MethodsSafest and most therapeutic way to enjoy the oils for those with:

Skin sensitivity

Respiratory congestion

Options:

Diffuser: the oil Is applied to a small container of water and electronically dispersed into air

Burner: the oil is heated above a flame in a ‘birdbath’ and evaporates into the air

Room/linen spray: add to a water-filled atomizer (small pressurized container/hand pump)

Through the skinBath:

Add several (4-8) drops to a bathful of warm water; stir well.

citrus oils and spices are not recommended for bathing.

For a moisturizing bath, add 4-8 drops of essential oils to 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and pour into the bath, stirring well.

Massage:

Many techniques for body massage

For ease of application (glide), start with a carrier oil before adding chosen essential oils

Care and storage of essential oils

Oils should always be obtained from, and stored in, dark glass bottles.

Never use plastic.

Stainless steel is OK

Store away from heat and light

Cap oils tightly after use to prevent oxidation (spoilage).

No refrigeration is necessary except in hot climates.

Carrier oils A carrier oil: an unscented vegetable-sourced oil used to dilute an essential

oil before it is applied to the skin.

Examples of carrier oils:

Jojoba oil

Grapeseed oil

Sweet Almond oil

Fractionated coconut oil

Olive oil



The Essential oil Scale of ‘Notes’

Oils can be classified by their degree of aromatic persistence

Top notes: the most temporary of scents, quickly identifiable but evaporating quickly after application

Examples: lemon, lime, orange, peppermint, cardamom, lavender, eucalyptus

Middle Notes: more persistent than top notes; the lasting “heart” of the blend

Examples: rosemary, pine, cassia, geranium, ginger, juniper, ylang ylang

Base notes: the most persistent of odours, heavy; derived from roots or bark:

Examples: cedarwood, patchouli, sandalwood, vetiver, frankincense

Evaporation rate comparison

Eucalyptus 5 (TOP NOTE)

Chamomile 47 (MIDDLE NOTE)

Frankincense 75 (BASE NOTE)

Lavender 85 (TOP NOTE)

Patchouli 100 (BASE NOTE)

THE LOWER THE NUMBER, THE FASTER THE EVAPORATION

DOES NOT ALWAYS CORRESPOND WITH WHERE THE OIL IS ON THE OIL SCALE

Safety

Essential oils are highly concentrated constituents of plants and must be used sparingly

Never use essential oils near the eyes. Keep diffusers a good distance away from the face (or keep eyes closed during inhalation therapy).

Spice and citrus oils can cause skin irritation.

Citrus oils should not be used immediately after or before sun exposure.

If redness or itching occurs, pour a small amount of carrier oil onto the area, then absorb it with a dry cloth. Do not rub. Follow with application of a cold wet cloth to soothe irritation.

Some oils are poisonous and not to be ingested: eucalyptus, wintergreen, blue tansy

The safest of oils

Essential oils with a very low risk of skin irritation may be applied “neat” (undiluted), to all but the most sensitive skin

Examples: melaleuca (tea tree) and lavender

safe and supportive in skin injury or inflammation

CARRIER OILS Essential oils are too concentrated to

be used safely without dilution; pure organic cold-pressed vegetable oils (including seeds and nuts) are the vehicle used for topical applications.

The PURITY and QUALITY of a carrier is essential, since it will be used for body applications. We do not use animal oils, petrochemical products such as mineral oil (including baby oil).

The selection of a carrier oil is as important as the selection of the essential oils for the blend, as they bring their own attributes to the mix.

POPULAR CARRIERS

CASTOR OIL: Contains up to 90% ricinoleicacid, a powerful antiviral and antibacterial. External use only, very healing and useful for ‘drawing’ compresses. DO NOT USE ON ANIMALS OR UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN.

FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL: Processing removes all vitamins and minerals. However, its hydrophilic properties make it very useful for making water-soluble cleansers and creams. Highly moisturizing, gives good ‘glide’, will not stain sheets and does not turn rancid.



AVOCADO Persea gratissima. Vitamins A, D,

B1, B2, D, E, plus many minerals, fatty acids and Chlorophyll. Stable. Do not refrigerate.

Similar to sebaceous fat, easily absorbed into the deeper levels of the skin. The oil should be a rich, dark green.

Skin care, especially for ‘experienced’or dry skin; plumps up lines, helps maintain suppleness, soothes eczema.

Can be used up to 25% of the carrier oil blend.

JOJOBA

Simondsia chinensis. Extremely stable golden-coloured liquid wax, 66-71% Eicosenoic Acid; rich source of Vitamin E, and Myristic Acid (an anti-inflammatory).

An excellent highly emollient base for facial oil blends, Jojoba absorbs quickly and is non-comedogenic.

Excellent for emulsifying clogged pores (Jojoba is almost identical to sebum); restores natural pH balance to skin and hair, so excellent for use after shaving or waxing.

Best choice for diaper rash, as it heals as well as providing a barrier between baby’s bottom and a soiled or wet diaper.

MACADAMIA NUT Macadamia integrifolia. Only known plant

that is high in Palmitoleic Acid, an EFA found in sebum. Very stable (3+ year shelf life).

Finest quality oils are from Australia. Non-comedogenic.

Said to be non-allergenic (Len & Shirley Price)

Gives ‘cushion’ to mature skin, excellent for psoriasis. Rapidly absorbed, good for oily skin.

Can be used at 100%, or in combination.

Highly toxic for dogs.

ALL-PURPOSE CARRIERS SUNFLOWER OIL. Helianthus annus.

73.5% Linoleic Acid (pre-cursor to GLA), rich in A, D, E. Stable. Excellent carrier for massage.

GRAPESEED OIL. Vitis vinifera. High in Linoleic Acid, slightly astringent, odourless, penetrating. Good for oily skin. Stable.

SWEET ALMOND OIL. Prunusamygdalus var. dulcis. Highly nutritious, rich in Linoleic and Oleic Acids, as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and E. Stable. Especially good for itchy skin conditions, burns and spider veins.

QUALITY ISSUES Look for the least refined and most natural oil available and,

as with all your products - know your supplier

Many oils labeled as ‘pure’ and ‘cold-pressed’ have been heated to clarify the oil. These oils have a clear appearance, but the heating process renders the oil useless as a therapeutic agent

If possible, check the colour of your oil – i.e., Avocado should be a rich, dark green colour. If not, it is refined

Shelf life is variable; some oils, like Jojoba and fractionated coconut oil have longer shelf lives (omega-9), while others, like Rosehip Seed and Evening Primrose (omega-6), oxidize very quickly and must be refrigerated.

GLA CARRIERS BORAGE (Borago officinalis), 20-26% GLA

BLACK CURRENT SEED, Ribes nigrum, 15-20% GLA

EVENING PRIMROSE (Oenotherabiennis), 8-10% GLA

All GLA-containing oils are easily oxidized. Must be refrigerated.

Gamma-linoleic acid, converts to Prostoglandin E1 > anti-inflammatory properties.

Particularly valuable carriers for eczema, seborrhea, and‘experienced’ skin: 2-10% dilution.



SPECIAL SKIN CARE CARRIERS ROSEHIP SEED OIL. Rosa

rubiginosa. Rich in EFA’s, Vitamin C, and minerals. Regeneration of skin cells, improve elasticity, reduce formation of wrinkling. Must be refrigerated.

CAMELLIA OIL. Camellia sinensis. Rich in anti-oxidants, excellent for skin & hair conditioning, nail strengthening and for anti-scarring treatments

POMEGRANATE SEED OIL. Punicagranatum. High levels of anti-oxidants, punicic acid, ellagic acid make it ideal for soothing, healing and protecting skin, eczema; for mature skin.

Carriers, cont’d... RASPBERRY SEED OIL. Rubus idaeus. 83%

fatty acids, Omega 3’s & 6’s, high level of Vitamin E, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, possible UVA, UVB blocker: SPF range of 28 -50.

RICE BRAN OIL. Oryza sativa. Oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids, rich in gamma-oryzanol (strong antioxidant), phytosterols, tocotrienols; absorbs UV light. Moderately stable (about a year). Great treatment for dry hair. Excellent moisturizer and pruritic (anti-itch).

ST. JOHN’S WORT OIL. Hypericum perforatum. Phototoxic. Traditionally macerated in Olive Oil. The macerated oil has none of the anti-depressant effects of the herb. Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic. Good for wounds w nerve damage, hemorrhoids, burns, muscular pain.

CALENDULA A therapeutic must-have. Usually

macerated in olive, almond, sunflower, jojoba, or fractionated coconut oil; the benefits of the specific base oil work in synergy with the therapeutic properties of Calendula.

Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, bactericide, assists bile production and wound healing.

Excellent for bed sores, chapped and cracked skin, varicose veins, oily skin, burns, cuts, insect bites, rashes.

SEABUCKTHORN BERRY Hippophae rhamnoides, CO2 extraction,

Lithuania (avoid oil from China - it is extracted from the kernel, not the pulp and does not contain adequate vitamins A & E)

Contains: 30% palmitoleic acid, carotinoids (including a high level of beta-carotine), tocopherols, alcohols, (vitamins A, C and E). 1900 IU of Provitamin A per gram of extract. (Info from Marge Clark of Nature’s Gift)

Free radical scavenger; UV protection, skin regeneration; good for dermatitis, skin ulcers, acne, wound healing, radiation burns. Cosmetic skin care, especially for retarding maturation.

Use in 1% dilution (less IS better).

SAFETY.... AGAIN

DO NOT USE WHEAT-GERM OIL ON CLIENTS WITH CELIAC DISEASE OR GLUTEN SENSITIVITIES.

DO NOT USE NUT OILS ON CLIENTS WITH NUT ALLERGIES.

DO NOT USE SESAME SEED OIL ON CLIENTS WITH A SESAME ALLERGY.

WHEN THERE’S A CHOICE TO MAKE - ALWAYS ERR ON THE SIDE OF CAUTION.

ESSENTIAL OILS



Therapeutic Actions of Essential Oils

Galactagogue

Anti-microbial

Analgesic*

Hepatic

Sialagogue

Anti-emetic

Demulcent…

Expectorant

Anti-inflammatory

Emollient

Astringent

Vulnerary

Alterative (a.k.a. ‘blood cleansers’)

Emmenagogue

Therapeutic Actions of Essential Oils

Diuretic

Diaphoretic

Laxative

Rubifacient

Sedative

Cholagogue

Anti-tussive

Digestive stimulant

Tonic

Nervine

Hypnotic

Anodyne*

Carminative

Anti-spasmodic

LAVENDER Lavandula angustifolia

Do not confuse with spike lavender (lavandula latifolia)

aka UNIVERSAL HEALER

One of the few oils that can be used ‘neat’.

Known for skin care; also supports PMS and anxiety.

Amphoteric effect: Sedating in small amounts, excitatory in larger amounts.

Analgesic, anti-microbial, diuretic, sedative, vulnerary, anti-spasmodic, hypotensive…

TEA TREE Melaleuca alternifolia. Antiseptic,

antifungal;

can be used neat

Medicinal odour reminds us of its gifts

Unadulterated, fresh oils are excellent for any fungal infections, including Candida and Athlete’s Foot, for acne, cleaning cuts, as an addition to shampoo and soaps for dandruff, lice, etc.

PEPPERMINT Mentha piperita

An adaptogen, it cools/warms, relaxes/stimulates. Antiseptic, antibacterial.

SAFETY: Peppermint acts by constricting blood capillaries. May exacerbate GERD.

Applications: headaches, indigestion, nausea, motion sickness, sluggish circulation, acne, congested sinus’

Cephalic, it helps with concentration, memory formation and retrieval.

An analgesic, it is useful for sore muscles, etc., also for poison ivy, insect stings and bites (add a few drops to a baking soda paste or Calamine lotion).

CHAMOMILE

Matricaria Recutita (German)

Anthemis nobilis (Roman). Not to be used if allergic to the Compositae family (ie., Hay Fever, allergic rhinitis)

Analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, carminative, hepatic, tonic, vulnerary, anti-spasmodic, …



EUCALYPTUS Eucalyptus globulus (65-85% cineole)

Applications: respiratory support

Analgesic, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, febrifugal, stimulant, rubefacient, anti-rheumatic

DO NOT take internally. Eucalyptus is scheduled as a poison in Australia & must be sold with a child-resistant closure. Some clinical trials have also suggested that cineole has a similar neurotoxic profile to that of camphor, and is associated with increased susceptibility to convulsions.

GERANIUM

Pelargonium graveolens

Antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, antifungal, cicatrisant, diuretic, deodorant, haemostatic, sedative, styptic, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary.

Regulating effect on nervous system, excellent for the relief of stress, nervous tension, headaches, anxiety.

Stimulant of the adrenal cortex, recommended for fluctuating hormone conditions like PMS and menopause

ROSEMARY Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary is reported as having hyperglycemic and insulin release inhibitory effects in a study involving rabbits.

R. ct. camphor-borneol is a heart tonic and benefits cardiac fatigue, palpitations, hypotension, circulatory problems.

R. ct. 1,8-cineole is a CNS stimulant, a cephalic, useful combined with Peppermint and Lavender for alleviating headaches, and the best chemotype for respiratory applications.

R. ct. verbenone is the most gentle chemotype. It stimulates hair growth, prevents dandruff, is astringent and is extensively used in skin care. It strengthens the liver and the gall bladder and is also a mucolytic.

THYME Thymus vulgaris

6 chemotypes, 3 commonly available: T. ct. thymol, T. ct. carvacrol, T. ct. linalool. T. ct. Thujanol is more rare, and is similar in chemical composition to Origanum vulgare (Oregano).

Antiseptic, antispasmodic, bactericidal, cardiac, carminative, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, hypertensive, insecticide, stimulant, tonic, vermifuge. Strongly fungicidal.

T. ct. thymol - fights respiratory infections

T. ct. linalool - lowest dermal irritant of the thymes, so indicated for skin infections

The constituents carvacrol and thymol are phenols, which are responsible for the dermal and mucous membrane irritant properties.

Thyme (all chemotypes) is contraindicated in presence of hypertension and is a potential sensitizer. Except for T. ct. linalool, contraindicated in pregnancy or for children.

LEMON

Citrus limon

Lemon essential oil typically contains about 70% limonene, a monoterpene. This is the constituent which gives analgesic, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, general tonic and stimulant properties

diuretic, rubefacient, carminative, astringent, a febrifuge, a vermifuge and a hypotensive. It is also a cephalic.

Photo-toxic - do not use on skin for at least 12 hours prior to exposure to daylight.

CLOVE BUD Syzygium aromaticum

Leaf oil or clove stems used to adulterate some supplies of the oil.

Analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, stomachic, local analgesic (ie. toothache).

Clove oil can be toxic in low concentration, especially in young children, in whom it can cause CNS depression, hepatic necrosis, and convulsions.

Potentially hazardous oil. A skin irritant and sensitiser. Must be kept away from children and animals. Less than 5mL can be fatal..



ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL OILS

BLACK SPRUCE Picea mariana, Canada. Steam distillation of

needles and twigs

High ester content (30-40%), makes the e/o strongly anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, analgesic, and also to have some specific anti-fungal (candida) and anti-bacterial properties.

Strong immune stimulant...Research indicates that Picea mariana may stimulate thymus activity, promote regeneration of the adrenal cortex and have cortisone-like properties.

Useful for arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid conditions, bronchitis, dry eczema, acne, inflamed prostate, hyperthyroidism, candida.

Catty suggests its use on the adrenal area for three weeks at each change of season, to fortify the immune system.

Information source: Suzanne Catty

BLUE TANSY Tanacetum annum. Steam distilled, Morocco

The oil has an intense, deep blue colour as a result of its chamazulene content (which is higher than in German Chamomile). The constituent Chamazulene is “...a potent hydroxyl radical scavenger and effectively inhibits lipid peroxidation” (Rekka E.A., Kourounakis A.P., Kourounakis P.N. (1996) Res.Com. Mol.

Parmacol), which is why the ‘blue’ oils are such effective anti-inflammatories.

For skin damage (sunburn, radiation burns): a blend of three drops Helichrysum and two drops Tanacetuum diluted in carrier oil (recommended by Kurt Schnaubelt, the leading North American authority and author of the book Medical Aromatherapy.

Blue Tansy is also an anti-histamine and anti-allergen, which makes it an excellent defense against Hay Fever and allergic dermatitis.

It contains theophylline, a bronchodilator, which makes it an excellent therapy for asthma and emphysema (diffusing is recommended for emphysema).

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is not the same essential oil as Tansy, which is a hazardous oil derived from Tanacetum vulgare.

CYPRESSCupressus sempervirens

Antiseptic, antispasmodic, antisudorific, astringent, calmative, cicatrisant, deodorant, diuretic, haemostatic, hepatic, vasoconstrictor, venous decongestant, respiratory tonic.

An excellent oil for broken capillaries, varicose veins, phlebitis, oedema, haemorrhoids and lymphatic congestion. Traditional for diarrhoea, muscle spasms, dysmenorrhoea, asthma, bronchitis, acne and excessive perspiration.

The most commonly suggested e/o for Cellulite.

CEDARWOOD Himalayan: Cedrus deodora

Atlas: Cedrus atlantica

Virginian: Juniperus virginiana (not actually Cedar)

Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, astringent, anti-seborrheic, diuretic, mucolytic, expectorant, insecticide, sedative.

Encourages lymphatic drainage. Skin and hair care, excellent for the treatment of cystitis and UTI’s, as well as for reducing stress, anxiety, and tension.

GRAS, but some experts recommend it not be used during pregnancy (neurotoxic and abortive effects; toxic doses are cumulative); others don’t agree.

SANDALWOOD- INDIAN Indian: Santalum album (also grown in

Western Australia)

Endangered, sporadic availability. Very slow growing small trees do not reach maturity for at least 30 years. Only the heartwood is used; method of harvesting is to pull the tree out by the roots.

Anti-inflammatory (alleviates inflammation), antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, astringent, carminative, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, sedative, tonic.

Indian Sandalwood is an antiphlogistic, so it also reduces inflammation).

AHN workshop students - Teach You Nutrition · 2018-10-22 · teaspoon of carrier oil and pour into the bath, stirring well. Massage: Many techniques for body massage For ease of

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