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Smell is a potent wizard that transports us across a thousand miles and all the years we have lived. - Helen Keller
http://www.sepulvedaba
sinwildlife.org/vegeman
age.html
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Smell is our most primitive sense
Memories recalled by smells often feel more vivid and emotional than those associated with sights, sounds and tastes.
Unlike the other sense organs, the nose sends information directly to the limbic system, a primitive part of the brain concerned with memory and emotion.
An aromatherapy garden focuses on the scents of the plants and flowers in it. The scents are the basis for the essential oils used in aromatherapy.
Essential oils are volatile (from the Latin volare, meaning to fly), which means they evaporate at or above room temperature.
Heat releases the fragrance of the oils (essentially the plant's perfume or flavor), hence the more noticeable fragrances generated by a walk through a summer garden. In the winter these fragrances are less noticeable as the cooler air prevents easy evaporation of the oils from plants.
A scentless garden would have amazed the ancient Greeks, Romans, Persians – even the Victorians!
Foliage steamed to treat nasal congestion and colds
Other Wood used for shelters by native
Californians
Wood still used as insect-resistant lumber, fence posts, railroad ties, venetian blinds, greenhouse benches, siding, decking, cedar chests, pencils and shingles.
Cedar oil (cedarwood oil; Cypress oil) is an essential oil derived from the foliage, and sometimes the wood and roots, of various types of conifers, most in the pine or cypress botanical families.
The most important cedar oils are produced from distilling wood of junipers and cypresses (Juniperus and Cupressus spp. - family Cupressaceae), rather than true cedars (Cedrus spp., of the family Pinaceae).
Similar oils are distilled, pressed or chemically extracted in small quantities from wood, roots and leaves from plants of the genera Calocedrus.
The main components of cypress oil are a-pinene, camphene, sabinene, b-pinene, d-3carene, myrcene, a-terpinene, terpinolene, linalool, bornyl acetate, cedrol and cadinene
The main components of Incense Cedar oil are: δ-3-carene, limonene, α-pinene, terpinolene, α-fenchyl acetate, with some cedrol.
Essential oils are volatile, natural, complex compounds characterized by a strong odor and are formed by aromatic plants as secondary metabolites.
Chemically, essential oils are very complex natural mixtures which can contain about 20–60 components at quite different concentrations. They are characterized by 2–3 major components at fairly high concentrations (20–70%), compared to other components present in trace amounts.
Generally, these major components determine the biological properties of the essential oil. The components include two groups with different biosynthetical origins: the main group is composed of terpenes, and the other of aromatic and aliphatic constituents, all characterized by their low molecular weight.
Various essential oils have been used medicinally at different periods in history. Medical applications proposed by those who sell medicinal oils range from skin treatments to remedies for cancer, and often are based solely on historical accounts of use of essential oils for these purposes. Claims for the efficacy of medical treatments and treatment of cancers in particular, are now subject to regulation in most countries.
Contains a reactive four-membered ring; very reactive.
Found in the oils of many species of many coniferous trees, notably the pine. It is also found in the essential oil of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis
Known for its growth-inhibitory activity. α-pinene inhibits early root growth and causes oxidative damage in root tissue through enhanced generation of ROS, as indicated by disruption of membrane integrity and elevated antioxidant enzyme levels.
In the atmosphere alpha-pinene undergoes reactions with ozone, the OH radical or the NO3 radical
The terpenes Large/diverse class of organic compounds,
produced by a variety of plants, particularly conifers though also by some insects (termites; swallowtail butterflies)
The major components of resin, and of turpentine produced from resin
Often strong smelling; may have a protective function.
Terpenes/terpenoids are primary constituents of the essential oils of many plants/flowers; used widely as natural flavor additives for food, as fragrances in perfumery, and in traditional and alternative medicines such as aromatherapy.
Emitted in substantial amounts by vegetation, and these emissions are affected by temperature, light intensity.
A fragrant compound with demonstrated effects on animals: Autonomic NS effects in many animal
species: decreases heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and respiratory rate in humans.
Anti-microbial: human skin microbial flora Staphylococcus
Anti-tumor: (+)-Cedrol was identified as one of the terpene compounds showing activity against human renal adenocarcinoma and amelanotic melanoma cell proliferation.
What's fascinating about the studies on cedrol is that it seems that we don't need to actually be able to smell it to be affected by it! The reaction isn't necessarily about smelling it!
Cedar oil has an overwhelming effect on insects – in an unusual way.
The aroma of cedar oil breathed in by an insect causes a respiratory blockage; the insect cannot continue to breathe, therefore it suffocates.
This is why many research studies show the quick and high mortality rate of insects when they come in contact with cedar oil. Unlike pesticides that have to be digested or touched, cedar oil only needs to permeate in order to eliminate an insect.
This works very well with pheromone-driven insects that need to follow a "chemical trail" in order to complete tasks.
Insects like bees, wasps, butterflies and other non-pheromone-driven insects will simply stay away from this aroma.
Smudging - French hospitals, which use much more aromatherapy than ours, used a rosemary/juniper smudge as a disinfectant until fairly recently.
Incense Cedar (as well as juniper and cypress) traditionally used in sweat lodge ceremonies as spiritual purifiers and for the attraction of good energy, while eliminating negative energies.
Usually with stems square in cross-section, 4-sided, and flowers in long clusters, heads, or interrupted whorls on the stem.
~ 180 genera and 3,500 species nearly worldwide.
The Mediterranean region, the chief area of diversity, has produced many spices and flavorings; various mints, oregano, marjoram, thyme, sage, and basil. Catnip and lavender are also in the family.
Native Californians used both the roots and leaves for medicine. A tea made with the leaves and an infusion of the tops were used to cure such conditions as chills and fever.
Was used for a variety of conditions: stomach upset, colds, sinus headache, sinusitis, fevers, tonic, stimulant, increases perspiration, relaxant (stomach), colic, breath freshener.
Different molecules in the same essential oil can exert different effects. Remember, essential oils are complex mixtures of chemicals
A single species of plant can have several different chemotypes based on its chemical composition. A plant grown in one area might produce an essential oil with a completely different chemistry than the same species grown in another location.
d-Limonene One of the most common terpenes in nature - produced by many plants
Some forms have distinct scent of citrus
Uses: As a scent agent in food, cosmetics &
perfumes
As a cleaner/de-greaser
As a solvent for paint removal, glue removal, clearing tissues for histology - can replace a wide variety of products, including mineral spirits, methyl ethyl ketone, acetone, toluene, glycol ethers, and of course fluorinated and chlorinated organic solvents.
As it is combustible, limonene has also been considered as a biofuel
Should not be applied directly to the skin in their undiluted state
Dilute with passive carrier oils before ingestion or topical application. Common carrier oils include olive, almond, hazelnut and grapeseed. A common ratio of essential oil disbursed in a carrier oil is 0.5–3% (most under 10%).
Some can cause severe irritation, provoke an allergic reaction and, over time, prove hepatotoxic. Try low dose test on your skin to determine sensitivity.
Some essential oils, including many of the citrus peel oils, are photosensitizers.
Consult the material safety data sheets (MSDS) for hazards and handling requirements of particular oils.
Handling
Can be aggressive toward rubbers/plastics
Are oils – spills will stain
Use in Pregnancy
The use of essential oils in pregnancy is not recommended due to inadequate published evidence to demonstrate evidence of safety.
Ingesting essential oils Used extensively as flavoring agents - according to strict Good
Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and flavorist standards in low doses
Ingestion of essential oils for therapeutic purposes should never be done except under the supervision of someone licensed to prescribe such treatment.
Some common essential oils are toxic internally.
The internal use of essential oils can pose hazards to pregnant women and should not be used during pregnancy.
Flammability The flash point of each essential oil is different. Many of the
common essential oils, such as lavender and citrus oils, are classed as a Class 3 Flammable Liquid, as they have a flash point of 50–60 °C.
1. Cut healthy herb branches mid-morning from plant. The best time to cut herbs for drying is just before they flower—this is when they contain the most oil, which is what gives them their aroma and flavor.
2. Pull off any diseased/dry leaves; make sure there are no insects on leaves.
3. Pull off lower leaves from herb branches, so that you have space to tie them together.
4. If dirty, rinse herbs with cool water; gently pat dry with a paper towel.
5. Combine 5-6 herb branches together then tie with string.
6. Label a paper bag with the name of the herb(s). Make several holes in the bag then place the herb bundle, leaves down, into the bag so that the stems are at the opening of the bag. Gather the open end of the bag around the stems and tie closed. Hang the bag in a well ventilated, warm room (70 to 80 degrees F). You can dry herbs without placing them in a paper bag, but the paper bag helps keep dust off of the herbs while they’re drying.
7. Check herbs in approximately two weeks then periodically until dried. The drying process should take approximately 2 to 4 weeks.
the skin and produces a feeling of cooling similar to that of menthol, and acts as slight local anesthetic and antimicrobial substance.
There are anti-itch gels and cooling gels with camphor as the active ingredient.
Camphor is an active ingredient (along with menthol) in vapor-steam products, such as Vicks VapoRub. A recent publication in Pediatrics suggests the topical application of VapoRub may improve symptoms of colds and sleep quality when compared to a control
Also found in camphor laurel, bay leaves, tea tree, mugwort, sweet basil, wormwood, rosemary, sage and other aromatic plant foliage.
Fresh camphor-like smell and a spicy, cooling taste
Used as a flavoring at low levels (0.002%) in various products, including baked goods, confectionery, meat products and beverages.
Medical uses: for colds, runny nose; also reduces pain & inflammation in topical applications; kills oral bacteria; may improve concentration abilities
Gather small branches (ask the plant for permission before cutting).
Let herbs sit for several hours to a day until they become slightly limp.
Choose the twine for wrapping the smudge stick. Use a natural material like cotton or hemp. Take a length of string and measure three and a half times the length of the branches.
Lay out your cuttings and form an easy to wrap bundle.
Tie a loop on one end of the twine; make a slipknot. Place the slipknot loop around the bottom of the stems, pulling tight.
Wrap the twine around the smudge stick until you have reached the top. Be sure to keep a moderate tension. If the twine is too tight the smudge stick will not burn well - if it is too loose your smudge stick will fall apart.
When you have reached the top, reverse the direction, wrap again to the bottom, and tie a knot.
Some people like to tie the twine in several places as they wrap
Dry the smudge stick for several weeks in a warm, dry place
Light the tip of the stick well. Make sure the sage has plenty of air for the flame to really get going. Allow the sage to smolder.
Use a feather or other fanning device (your hands work just as well) to direct the smoke where you'd like it to travel. Inhale the smoke lightly as you visualize all negativity leaving your body and environment.
Sachets can be placed in drawers with sweaters, gloves, lingerie, and linens to give them a beautiful scent.
They can also be hung on hangers under dresses and shirts or even placed inside shoes, or put into suitcases or in the pockets of winter coats being stored through the summer.
Select or make a small bag with a somewhat open weave. Be sure to leave one side open, if you are making bags. Purchased re-useable tea or herb bags work fine
Mix together enough dried herbs to fill the bag.
If you’d like to enhance the scent, a few drops of essential oil can be added; orris root powder can be used as a fixative.
Fill the bag with the flowers and herbs.
Either sew the bag closed, or tie the end tightly with ribbon or string.
Enjoy. Rubbing the bag gently will further crush the herbs and release their fragrance.
A soothing potpourri if you want to know how to make poutpourri might include: lemon balm, lemon verbena, rose petals, lavender, calendula, meadowsweet, chamomile…
For sachets tucked in with clothes you might try rose and lavender mixes or a blend of citrus peel, spearmint, lemon verbena, and thyme, with a drop or two of pine essential oil.
Native peoples used artemisia for the treatment of coughs and colds. It is said to help alleviate menstrual cramps in women and to ease labor. The Cahuilla Indian word for this plant is hulvel. Like many sages, California sagebrush can be used in cooking as a spice.
The smell of Californian sagebrush reminds many Californians of the smell of grandmother's house. A pleasant smell, like Californian sagebrush, can help the patient remember long-lost memories. Aromatherapy is a very powerful way of bringing back pleasant memories.
The Luiseño and Cahuilla tribes used coastal sagebrush in girl’s puberty rights; smoke from the leaves purified and perfumed the skin and clothes of the young girls in the ceremony.
A tea of the stems and leaves was also used by women at the beginning of each menstrual period and after giving birth.
For respiratory ailments, a decoction of the leaves and stems was used externally for the relief of colds, cough, and asthma, and a decoction was taken internally for bronchitis.
Some tribes used a decoction of the plant as a bath for rheumatism. The scents and warmth added to the soothing effect
Some Indians of the California coast used the leaves to relieve tooth aches and as a poultice for wounds, and the Cahuilla chewed and smoked the leaves mixed with wild tobacco.
The pungent smell of the coastal sagebrush makes it effective as an insect repellent
They say that the tea can be drunk safely, in moderation, and that it will bring back pleasant memories.
Used also for irregular periods
You could also use this as a room freshener or insect repellant
12 cups water 2 Tbsp dried California sagebrush (loosely packed)
Bring water to a boil and remove from heat. Add sagebrush and let steep for at least 4 hours. It’s best to let it steep overnight, strain out the sagebrush, and refrigerate the remaining amount.
Make an herbal infusion (basically a strong tea), using a handful of herbs and a quart of boiling water. Let it steep for half an hour to an hour, then strain and add to the drawn bath.
Soak a handful of herbs in a quart of warm milk for several hours. Strain and add the milk to the drawn bath.
Place herbs in a muslin bag or tea strainer. Than place the bag or strainer under the water as you run your bath (use hot water). When the bath is drawn, place the bag or strainer in the tub. Let the water cool, then enjoy your bath. Squeeze the herbal bath sachet gently to extract the remainder of the herbs' essence. You can either leave the herbal bath sachet in the water during the bath or remove it.
To make your bath more emollient (skin softening), add almond meal or skim milk powder. Or soak finely ground oatmeal or barley in warm water, strain, and add the water to your herbal bath.
1 cup sea salt, kosher salt or epsom salts 1/2 cup sunflower oil (or other oil – almond is nice) 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional) 1 tablespoon dried herbs ground very fine (parsley, mint, lavender, sagebrush or a combination) 1 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
1. Mix together all ingredients and pour into clean jar with tight-fitting lid.
2. To use: While standing in the tub or shower, take a handful of the scrub and gently massage into skin. Massage salt all over body, rinse with warm water and pat dry. Do not use soap or other cleansers, to preserve the moisturizing effect.
3. Store any leftover scrub in a cool, dry place or refrigerator.
CA Mugwort - Artemisia douglasiana CA Mugwort - Artemisia douglasiana
Much of non-desert CA: WA to Baja
Many Plant Communities including Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral, Freshwater Marsh, Mountain Meadow, Mixed-evergreen Forest, Southern Oak Woodland
A plant of moist/riparian places
Named for David Douglas (1798-1834), Scottish botanist who made several journeys to America. Douglas provided the material from which some 300 species of California plants were to be described
‘Mugwort’ from use of this species in mugs to flavor beer prior to hops
Usually in damp places in drier surroundings - a ‘facultative wetland indicator species’
grows vigorously in the late winter through the middle of spring
When the sun is shining it inverts its leaves so the pale undersides face the sun, reflecting most of the rays and keeping the plant from losing valuable moisture
Ground cover on naturally landscaped slopes, hillsides
Under trees/shrubs like Mule Fat
In planters & pots – contained situations
For erosion control
This is an important medicine plant
for Native Californians. Used as a
purifying plant in ceremonies. Also
good for treating stomach & other
gastrointestinal illnesses
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Some traditional uses of Mugwort
It was used for flavoring beer before the introduction of hops. The plant was gathered when in flower and dried. Malt liquor was then boiled with it so as to form a strong decoction, and the liquid thus prepared was added to the beer.
Mugwort is occasionally employed as an aromatic culinary herb, being one of the green herbs with which poultry are often stuffed during roasting.
The leaves used to be steeped in baths, to communicate an invigorating property to the water.
Placed among woolen cloths it prevents and destroys the moths.
Anti-stomach ulcer – promotes body defenses (mucous production; anti-inflammatory (anti-mast-cell)) Anti-bacterial against helicobacter pylori – may be promising
new treatment for resistant strains
Anti-oxidant activity
Good at keeping moths out of clothes and areas
When rubbed on the skin, the leaves have a natural moisturizing effect
Mugwort ‘helps to direct the psychic life into its proper sphere, gradually opening the soul to expanded consciousness’.
‘Mugwort is used to promote lucid dreaming. Mugwort intensifies the dreaming process. It may cause nightmares or restless dreams. Some say it causes a specific type of dream’
Chumash, Paiute, and other California Indian tribes burned or inhaled smoke from the leaves to promote healthy sleep, sacred dreams, and to ward of ghosts or evil spirits.
Mugwort contains thujone a compound which is said to induce hallucinations and convulsions. When mugwort is smoked or taken as a tea, or used in oils or dream pillows very little thujone is present. Extracts of mugwort made with alcohol are (generally) not recommended, as they can be too concentrated and potentially dangerous.
To use dream sage, collect the stalks, leaves and seeds, dry them and sew them into a small pillow.
Place the small pillow under the normal pillow to promote dreaming. Dream sage contains camphor, linalool, cineole and other pleasant-smelling compounds.
The pleasant, sage smell of the dream sage induces aromatherapy that will help promote dreaming. This helps heal the spirit. When the spirit remembers to be normal, the body can heal.
One of the most romantic things a young man can do for his girlfriend is to make her a small pillow of dream sage. This shows her that he cares about her and her dreams. Hopefully, she will dream pleasant dreams about him.
Dream pillows are for those who want to enhance their dreaming or wish to remember their dreams. To create a blend that encourages dreaming, blend any of the following:
Catnip: Relaxing, helps bring deep sleep. Chamomile: Calming, relaxing, and said to keep bad dreams away. Cloves: Brings warmth/exotic feeling to dreams, add only 2-4. Hops: Relaxing and brings peacefulness. Lavender: Soothing, relaxing and eases headaches. Lemon Verbena: Uplifting, used to add “lightness” to dream blends. Mugwort: Greatly enhances lucid dreaming and helps with remembering of dreams. Peppermint or Spearmint: Enhances clarity and vividness in dreams. Rose petals: Brings warmth and love, may be used to evoke romantic dreams. Rosemary: Traditionally used to bring deep sleep and keep away bad dreams.
Dried foliage used to make a calming tea, season foods
Infusions of flowers and leaves used for inflammatory and infectious conditions
A poultice of crushed leaves makes an antibacterial dressing for wounds
‘Fragrant natural cleansing bar, with the healing qualities of Desert Lavender (Hyptis emoryi) and organic jojoba oil extracted from the seeds of Simmondsia—both native to the desert Southwest--partner here with the best French lavender essence to achieve moisturizing aromatherapy as you bathe.’
Dried foliage has been used instead of mothballs - fragrance is said to repel moths
Start with a base like arrowroot, cornstarch, or fuller’s earth. (You may even want to try sifted rice flour, which was used for body and face powder for centuries.)
Add herbs that you’ve pulverized with a mortar and pestle or in a spice grinder— lavender or rose petals for example—and a bit of orris root to fix or hold the scent (if desired).
Use about equal parts base and herbs.
Store your powder where it won’t get damp, in a covered container.
Design the pillow to make it easy to change the herb stuffing often. Enclose the herbs in an inner case made of a double thickness of cambric, muslin, or other tough lining material.
For extra comfort enfold the herbs in a layer of cotton or polyester batting, cut to fit inside the lining and sewn up on three sides.
Fill with any preferred mix of dried herbs and potpourri flowers (avoiding anything too lumpy or hard) until comfortably firm, then hand-sew the remaining side.
Any pretty pillow or cushion cover, perhaps antique or home-made, can serve as the outer case for a dream pillow.
Scenting your bedroom with sleep-inducing aroma is a wonderful way to make the transition to sleep. Lavender is a favorite for room or linen spritzers, but try other aromas, too, like lemon verbena, jasmine, or rose, for example.
To make your own spray, simply steep about a tablespoon of herbs in one cup of boiling water for 15 to 30 minutes, then strain through a fine strainer or cheesecloth.
Once cooled, place in a spray bottle and store in the refrigerator. Spritz your bedroom just before it’s time to turn in.
To scent your linens, squirt your spray on your sheets and pillowcases before you put them in the dryer, or make your own dryer sheet with a small, clean cloth that’s been soaked in the spray and then tossed in the dryer with the linens.
Various California Indian tribes used the warmed fresh leaves as a poultice to bring boils to a head.
Similarly, a poultice could be used to relieve toothaches.
Wild ginger was among the various plants that California Indians used as a sedative for nervousness, insomnia, and hysteria, and stems were placed in a baby’s bed to promote calming and to relieve illness.
A tea made from the leaves was used as a wash for sores and a tea made from the roots was drunk for indigestion, colds and constipation.
A family of carcinogenic, mutagenic, and nephrotoxic compounds commonly found in the Aristolochiaceae family of plants, including Aristolochia and Asarum, which are commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine.
Have been linked to several recent outbreaks of kidney damage (including kidney failure). In addition, some patients have developed certain types of cancers, most often occurring in the urinary tract.
The fact that this plant contains aristolochic acid means it is best to not consume this plant, even if it was used in the past
Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises consumers of Aristolochic acid to discontinue use.
Gardeners, landscapers, or nursery workers who handle or transplant Aristolochia or Asarum plants could potentially be exposed to aristolochic acids. Handling Aristolochia or Asarum plants could result in dermal exposure, which, as of 2010, has been associated only with dermatitis. To reduce the likelihood of accidental ingestion, workers should wash their hands before eating, drinking, or smoking.
Plant scent chemicals can have medicinal effects; they can also affect our mood and bring back pleasant memories. We should probably consider using them more in our daily lives.
Plant materials can be used in a simple manner – or you can experiment with more complex ‘scent crafts’ like soap-making or candle-making; the choice is yours
Lots of great advice, recipes, etc. on the internet – just remember to use your common sense
Enjoy – and create! Scented projects offer a wide range of possibilities that can keep you busy for a long while.