Untitled - Canadian Alliance Of Aromatherapy

t*nt*ntsWORKSHOPS:

Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt: "Aromutherapy und Cancer"

Farida lrani: "Ayurvedic Aromatherapy"

Michuel Scholes: "The Business of Aromatherapy" l3

CHAPTER MEETINGS:

Clove & Turmeric

Sciatica

Neem Tree & Foraha

Calendula & Carrot Seed 3l

Addictions JJ

Fennel, Corn Flower, Helichrysum, Black Spruce Hydrosols

Eating Disorders 38

Bi-polar Disorder 38

Greenland Moss & Canadian Wild Ginger 51

Diabetes (Types I &2) 55

Monarda & Valerian

The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of the editor; B.C.A.P'A., its

directorc ormemberc. lnformation provided is nzt intended to replace professional medical

advice. B.C.A.P.A., its directorc and memberc cannot be held responsible forthe misuse of

essential oils orany othertherapeutic methods presented herein.

Page 4

"Aromatherap3,,' and Cancerou

Proceedings 2004

Dr. I{rrrt Schnaubelt - Peer Review

Another Approach to

The Theorv and Practice ofAromatherapy

as Presented by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt

I was really impressed with Dr.Schnaubelt's idea that "it is time inaromatherapy to seriously ask thequestion 'why' or 'how' are the effects ofessential oils truly mediated?" and hisfollowing suggestion that we as aprofession must put forth a Theory (a

theory being "the best approximation totruth available at a given time"); thereforeoffering a method to build our futurel

Dr. Schnaubelt suggests that foraromatherapy to come into its own, itneeds to develop a theory that explainsand predicts its effects. As a startingpoint he presented 5 Laws ofAromatherapy for our consideration.Following is my personal take on thelaws. Please do give me your own input,as this is a chance to take some hugesteps forward as a profession in a unifiedand solid manner.

Kurt Schnaubelt's 5 Laws ofAromatherapy:

Essential Oils are interactivesubstances ofthe plant secondarymetabolism to which we haveadapted over the course ofbiologicalevolution.

Naturals are Different.

The popular practice ofaromatherapy is encountered almostexclusively among women inwestern industrial societies.

Aromatherapy benefits its userswithout the need for conventionalexpertism.

r Aromatherapy wiil be furtherdefined by tensions between theopposing poles of the intuitive,esoteric and appeal oftraditionalhealing systems on the one side and

the demands for rigorous scientificexperimentation on the other.

My Personal Opinion:

GREAT!

Great - but could we add somedescription for the layperson? Perhaps:" N aturals ar e D ffir ent : fundament ally,biologically, and spiritually we do notreqct to synthetics in the same way wereact to natural substances which ourbodies have evolved to recognize."

Can't support this one. As a therapist,I'd like to see and encourage the use ofaromatherapy by all age groups, races,

and sexes, regardless ofwhat's currentlyhappening. I believe a better way ofputting this is:"It can be argued that the popular use ofAromatherapy in l4/estern Societyrepresents an instinctual rejection ofconventional medical offerings based onsynthetic drugs and superficial symptommanagemenL"

Again, I just can't support this one. As aRegistered Aromatherapist, I am strivingto make my profession an integral and

respected part of preventative lifestyles.I can't tell my clients that they do notneed me. I can, however, say:"(Jnder the guidance of a trained

pr ofess ional, anyone c an b enefit fr om

t her ap eut i c ar om at her apy. "

This is true - it's an on-going processand we protect ourselves with thisstatement by saying that we are alwaysresearching and gaining more completeknowledge.

I think Dr. Schnaubelt was on the righttrack here! We've got to have someguidelines that will help us in making

decisions about our future as

professionals in a professional field.I'd love some feed back on all of this.

What do you, as an Aromatherapist inBC feel about these laws? Is thissomething we could or should adopt?

Let me know:

Lisa Lamont, Registered Aromatherapist# 168

Board Member of the BCAOA & BCAPADrawing Down the Moon AromatherapyCIinicBus: (604) 514-2332, Cell: (604) 551-5039website: wwrv.naturalrelief.cae-mail : drawingdownthemoon@telus. net

Proceedings 2004

'oAi"omatherapy a$CDr. Kurt $chnauhelt

Cancer"- peer RevietAr, C{:*t"

Page 5

A Review of Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt'sPresentation in May

(Cancer & Aromatherapy)

I don't know about anyone else but theidea of chemistry as related to Aro-matherapy is as scary as chemistry as

related to nuclear physics to me! Iknow that the chemistry side is some-thing I personally need to work on tofeei more comfortable with the oils, butDr. Schnaubelt presented something Ifeel has been missing for quite some

time:

BIOCHEMESTRY

I don't know what's different, but thisstuff makes total sense to me! Anddefinitely we need to be dealing withAromatherapy from a far more biologi-cal point of view. This, I believe, wasDr. Schnaubelt's point. We're dealingwith biological beings here, let's comeat it from a biological point of view.Check out his book "Biology of Essen-

tial Oils" for more info on this topicl

Dr. Schnaubelt moved on to discuss thebiological evolution of the planet (verybriefly) and how this has affected everybeing on the planet. We've all evolvedinteracting together, feeding (literallyand figuratively) offeach other and ourstrengths. As a simple example Dr.Schnaubelt used Basil. We really enjoyBasil both for its taste and its medicilalproperties; so that particular species isproliferating because we choose togrow it. On the flip side, those species

which we did not enjoy are not doingnearly as well, and may have becomeextinct. The species we grow evolvedto have many properties other than tast-ing good. It grows in stressful situa-tions and thus has evolved to deal withthose stresses. And what is Basil great

for - stress in humans! Why? Because

it has to deal with stress and will actuallycreate phenols to protect itself. Then weingest it and benefit from those very same

phenols.

These chemicais that are created to dealwith non-essential life processes are calledthe Secondaty Metabolites of a plant.They are not necessary to survive, but theyare necessary to encourage and supportlife. A great example of these chemicals ispheromones: chemicals used by plants tocommunicate with one another. Thesechemicals encourage the proliferation ofthe plant species, and therefore only thehighest quality of pheromones succeed.

Those strains that create chemi-calsipheromones which do not help to pro-liferate the species die off. And over thelast 4 million years we've all evolved to-gether resulting in the secondary metabo-lites that are currently present. Thus wecan say that Essential Oils are biologicalentities that are a direct result ofevolution.They tmly are the life force of the plant!

And, as a side note, it is now biologicallyaccepted that there is more than just cellsand molecules to life - scientists,&iologistsagree that there is 'something more' to life.

So what does this all have to do with Can-

cer? Well through evolution we have some

processes that occur. We know that theseprocesses (i.e. cell growth) are overactivein Cancer. We can therefore inhibit thosefactors in order to prevent further cellgrowth. What do you use?

TERPENOIDS

SIDE NOTE: Many carcinogens have

been created in the past 50 years. These

newly developed molecules, as well as

newly isolated molecules, hwe no historyof interaction with us and therefore nohistory of evolutionary give and take withany biological organisms. Thus we oftenget immune responses that the body thinl<s

might work. ("This kind of lool<s likemolecule A so I'll send out Anti -A")

Incidentally it takes 3-4 days for this im'mune response to occur. So what's the

24-hrJlu al about?

Terpenoids are secondary metabolites, and

therefore they confer a survival advan-

tage. So the experimental data are:

Terpenoids are ffictive in blocking, sup-pressing, and shrinking tumors. Theyencourage Apoptosis which is natural and

normal cell death, which means that there

will be no inflammatory reaction, and

therefore no symptoms.

What is the most relevant action of Terpe-

noids? They induct hepatic detoxificationenzymes. There are two phases to these

enzymes, imaginatively called: Phase I &Phase II.

SIDE NOTE: Not everyone has the same

enzymes, this is why some of us can dealwith certain molecules and others can't,some ofus can digest anything, others

can't.

Phase I: your typical immune response.

The body recognizes a foreign moleculewhich is not soluble in water, creates an

antigen in response which attempts to

oxidize the foreign molecule, making itmore soluble.

There are 60 known enzymes. These en-

zymes are created from molecules thatcome from the breathing cycle, and are

therefore very aggressive oxidators. Theirbyproduct is harmless and the other halfflushes toxins out ofthe body (note the

free radical / anti-oxidant connectionhere.)

Page 6 Proceedings 2004

"A-CInlather*py and Cancer"Dr. Krirt Schnauirelt - Peer R.eview, c$nt.

Phase II: takes place in the liverwhere more molecules are attached tothe offender and it is sent out throughthe kidneys.

Terpenoids are also important in an-other process in the body. They havethe specific ability to inhibit HMG Co-A Reductase much more effectively incancer cells than in healthy cells. Theyare also necessary in the production ofCholesterol. Cholesterol is necessaryfor proper cell growth and strength ofcell membranes.

So here comes the scary chemistry:

(HMG Co-Enzyme A Reductase mustbe present)

Acetic Acid (Co-A) in the presence ofHMG Acid Enzyme 6 Mevalonic Acid6 Isoprene 6

Terpenes 5 Cholesterol d

Regulation of HMG Co-Enz)ryne AReductase.

This is a Negative Feed Back System.HMG Co-Enzyme A Reductase ismade, used, and destroyed. This func-tion works well in plants and healthyeukaryotic cells (i.e. humans). How-ever this function does not work wellin fungi, yeasts, protozoans, tumorcells, and healthy growing cells (i.e.

the fetus).

SIDE NOTE: A growing body needs

cholesterol, and this is why the processdoes not occur in the growingfetus -he/she needs as much cholesterol as

she can get in order to keep growing,so the negativefeed backfunction does

not occur

Since we know that there are plantswhich fight fungi, and that cancer cellsand fungi have a similar weakness, wecan use those plants to fight tumors.We can selectively starve the tumor cellsby turning offcholesterol because thenegative feed back system will not en-gage and cells will not grow.

Since cancer cells are 50 times moresensitive to key enzyme deficiency thanhealthy cells, you can be fairly aggres-sive with EO's because they will notharm the healthy cells. The terpenoidswill discourage the negative feed backprocess by creating a deficiency ofcho-lesterol and therefore of HMG Co-Enzyme A Reductase.

It's important to remember that all essen-

tial oils contain anti-carcinogenic chemi-cals - so go to it, you can't go wrong!

Some Terpenoids found to be effectiveagainst tumors:

Geraniol

Farnesene

d(+)limonene

perillyl acid

All Essential Oils are Beneficial, how-ever Geranium, Rose & Lemon werementioned specifically.

Lisa Lamont, Registered Aromatherapist# 168

Board Member of the BCAOA & BCAPADrawing Down the Moon AromatherapyClinicBus: (604) 514-2332, Cell; (604) 55i-5039website: www.naturalrelief.cae-mail : [email protected]

Proceedings 2004

'uA]:omatheraFy anclilr. Kurt Schnaubelt

Can*er"* Peer Review* c$nt"

Page 7

A Word on Where to Go Next

A call to Action after Dr.Schnaubelt's Presentation

Statement: Aromatherapy has used

chemistry to explain and justify thetherapeutic use of essential oils, how-ever this approach does nothing to ad-dress the synergistic, or biological ef-fects these compiete oils have. In manyof our respected references, isolatedcomponents are represented as holdingthe key to an oil's effectiveness, butcompleteness ofthe oil is presented as

equally important to this effectiveness.

"Considering the immense complexityof aromatherapy, where the myiad ofparameters of essential oil compositionis potentized by the complex interactionevery single component ofan essentialoil can have with multiple physiologicaltarget systems in the human organism, itmight be wise to resort to methods ofbiology."

Thus one cannot study an oil from theangle of chemistry or pharmacologybecause there are simply too manychemicals affecting too many systemswithin our bodies. We must study theeffect of each oil from a holistic point ofview, noticing everything ffom thephysical effects to the spiritual effects.

Suggested Action:A Group Study: Study each oil and see

whatyouget...Exchange relaxation massages (no deep

muscle or therapeutic massage here)using only the essential oil in one carrier(like grapeseed or almond). Then ob-serve: Not what is this oil supposed todo, but what does it actually do in real-ity? We can share our findings witheach other on some sort of message

board or e-mail system.

Statement: Let's explore the purpose ofthe chemical components within theessential oil of a plant as well as in

inter-organism and inter-species reia-tions. This way we will gain a betterunderstanding of how we can use theoils.

Many of the effects of essential oils are

based on their ability to induce detoxifi-cation enzymes within the human body.This suggests the ability of essential oilsto trigger the safe and effective meta-bolic removal of pathogens is barelyutilized; especially in the case ofcancerprevention and treatment.

The possibilities of for aromatherapeuticappiication ofessentiai oils are dictatedby the purpose of their biosynthesis (whydid the plant make them in the firstplace?). Cto, Czo, &Cmare generated inthe chloroplast as a direct consequenceof photosynthesis (carotenes). Crs & C:o

are synthesized in the Endoplasmic Re-ticulum (cholesterol, steroid hormones);thus their purposes in the metaboiism ofthe plant are apparently different.

Suggested Action: Ask: How can weuse this knowledge to more effectivelyuse our oils?"

Statement: Disproportionate amounts ofenergy and discussion have been ex-pended reiterating the known facts abouttoxicity of any given component. Yetconsiderably less effort has been spentdiscussing the potential hazards ofstan-dardized products. It appears tantamountto even the casual observer that aro-matherapy needs to be extremely clear ineither its admission of standardized orotherwise adulterated oils Qt ers onalnote: NOOOOOOOI) or in its demandfor authentic oils and the refusal ofstan-dardized oils.

A very basic and fundamental argumentto this point is the isotope distributionfactor. Isotope distribution may evenvary between plant species with differentphotosynthesis mechanisms. This varia-tion does not occur with synthetics:Laboratory synthetics often employharsh reactants to achieve the desired

outcome. Enzymatic processes, by dehni-tion, produce only physiological compo-nents, where as laboratory reactants andconditions often lead to non-physioiogicaiand toxic by-products.

This constant variability of compositionwithin natural substances could in fact be

beneficial for human use (don't get me

started - I could write a whole paper juston that statement!). Science telis us thatthe more complex the oil, the better itprovides protection against viral and mi-crobial challenge for the host plant. Whyalter that? An authentic oil provides theuser with the intent of the plant organism -

survival and shength. Standardized oilreflects the intentions ofits creators -cutting costs, producing copies, directingincome away from the original producers... I don't want that in my oils!

Suggested Action:Use your buying power to demand highquality, authentic oils.Start up a co-op or buying group ifyoucan't afford to buy on your own.Ask companies you respect to offer dis-counts to RA's.

Lisa Lamont, Registered Aromatherapist # I 68

Board Member of the BCAOA & BCAPADrawing Down the Moon AromatherapyClinicBus: (604) 514-2332, Cell: (604) 551-5039website: www.naturalrelief. cae-mail : [email protected]


n'A3ntrve di c Ar* math e rap3t"

Ira niF"aricla

A Journey with Ayurveda

Aromatherapy

Ayurveda, the age-old science of Indianmedicine, which means science of life,extends back 4.000 years in writtenscript, but the origins of this ancientscience are said to be over 40,000 yearsold, Sorne years ago, Holistic Practitio-ner - Farida lrani stumbled across therare Ayurveda Aromatherapy Oils, onone ofher regularjourneys through In-dia. Farida began researching and thera-peutically experimenting with these oiltreasures and has found their results tobe profound and astounding. Farida has

since become the first to teach the mod-ern application ofthese unusual oils inAustralia, New Zealand and the FarEast. We have asked Farida to intro-duce Ayurveda Aromatherapy to us.

Understanding Ayurveda

toAyut' means life and "Veda" meansscience. Apparently in Latin Americanlanguages, knowledge is referred to as

"Veda."

Ayurveda is defined as a combinationof Sharira (body), Indriya (senses),

Satva or Mana (mind) and Atma(spirit/soul). Without a good healthymind the body cannot be healthy andwithout Atma, the soul or the spark ofthe Divine, the cosmic life force or om-nipresent Prana, a body cannot survive.When the Atma (soul) combines withthe body mind and senses we have Pu-rusha (human being).

So in order to have a Swastha Sharira(healthy body) one needs to have anequilibrium of the mind, senses, Doshasand Agni (digestive and metabolic en-zymes and energy), which leads toproper functioning of the Dhatus(tissues) and Malas (wastes).

Above all the Atma has to be in ahappy joyous state.

The aims of Ayurveda are three fold:

To preserve health

To promote good health

To cure diseases through the eightbranches of medicine as outlined below.

Long before the birth of Christ, Ay-urveda had eight schools of medicine inthe following fields:

(1) Psychiatry, (2) Surgery, (3) Paedi-atrics and Gynaecology, (5) InternalMedicine, (6) Toxicology, (7) Rejuve-nation and Vitality, (8) Ophthalmol-ogy.

The Rasayana branch deals with the pro-motion of health and the others deal withdiseases.

The objectives of Ayurveda are to strivefor:

(l) Dharma-meaning to observesocial and moral rules and to be aware ofyour satvic qualities.

(2) Artha-understanding our body,our environment, our senses, our wellbeing and above all else our divinity.

(3) Kama-means desires and urgesof various kinds. We should avoid sup-pressing or overindulging ow desires.

(4) Moksha-means salvation. Tobreak the cycle of birth, death and rebirthand to understand yourselfon a soul levelas to "Who Am I?" When worries houndus or we have stress and mental distur-bances and we sink into these concerns,we should be able to pull ourselves outvia meditation. Getting in touch with ourinner self, we become an observer of thislife's drama and realise it is only a lessonwe are learning for the evolution of ourAtma, the soul.

In order to achieve the above objective,Ayurveda insists that every person mustfollow Dincharya (daily routine), Rutu-chary a (seasonal routine), Sadwitta(Ethical routine), encompassing all theabove aims and obiectives. It also stressesobserving a proper Ahara (diet), Nidra(sleep) and Brahmacharya (avoiding over-indulgence in sex mentally or physicallywithout purpose).

Man is a microcosm of the macrocosm thatis, a part of this vast Universe. He is made

up of trillions of cells. These cells are

made up of molecules and the moleculesare made up of atoms. These atomic forcesare what matter is made up of. So all thisleads to oneness with the universe or one-ness with Brahma the Creator.

What are these atomic forces or basic ele-ments which get recycled through all mat-ter that exists which has recycled throughthe bodies of Buddha, Christ, Krishna and

all of the great Masters and Sages?

Panch Mahabhutas - five basic elements

The forces are the Panch Mahabhutas orthe five great basic elements or materialforces.

(l) Eanh-Prithvi

(2) Water-Aap

(3) Fire-Teja

(4) Air-Vayu

(5) Space (ether)-Akash

Without the five elements, mankind or theuniverse could not be in existence.

Ayurveda has specified ways in whichAromatics, diet, herbs and even cosmet-ics could help to sustain mental equilib-rium as the good mind is of utmost im-portance for the physical, emotional andspiritual well being. The Ayurveda oils

Proceedings 2004

' uAylrrr,'edic Ara m a Lh e rap3r"Farida Irani, cont.

Page 9

are very beneficial for beauty, skin-care, and to compliment various otherailments.

For beauty and daily body care, the In-dian women have always used flowersand oils. They decorate their hair withthese aromatic flowers and oils to en-

hance their sensuality. They used to drytheir iong hair in the old days by lyingdown and spreading their hair over sweetscented, heated rocks, the aroma fromthe steam would go into the hair.

Special oils were used freshly extractedby crushing the sweet scented exoticflowers like the rose, champa, chameli,mogra, kewda, lotus, jasmine and ap-plied for a specific period of time on thebride to be, to prepare her for the wed-ding ceremony. Saffron was used as a

foundation for glowing skin. Kajal wasextracted by burning pure ghee withneem, camphor and other herbs, the sootwas collected in a silver container. Thisis the kajal which is the modern dayKohl pencil. We now get these in stickform to accentuate the eyes and have themystical eye look, enhancing the eyes

and giving the face a very sensual look.The kajal is both for beauty and therapyas it cools, cleanses and nurtures theeyes. Even babies in India have the kajalor surma applied daily.

Indian Ayurveda clay has been usedfor face packs and body wraps sincetime immemorial.

The philosophy ofthis ancient science ispractised to date in lndian householdsand we are reviving the science of usingrare and unique essential oils and attars,

as most Ayurvedic Institutes and Phar-macies use decoctions and infusions ofthe herbs and not the essential oils them-selves. This is now being revived bypeople like us who are fortunate to be

Ayurveda practitioners and clinical Aro-matherapists.

The Indian science of Ayurveda Aro-matherapy is based on inherited genetic

constitution. Due to overindulgence infood and sensuous pleasures, toxins ac-

cumulate in the bile and blood, resultingin ailments and ultimately ageing. Allhumans are oriented either to gas, bile orphlegm.

There are three types of personalitiesor Prakrutis

Vata (Air and Ether - light, dry andcold. governs movements. respiration,circulation and nervous system / mentalequilibrium). Imbalance leads to pain,

stress, depression, digestive problems,

reproductive disorders, dryness, nervous

disorders, and anxiety.

Pitta (Fire and Water - hot and wet,governs enzymes, hormones, digestivefires, vision, confidence and intelli-gence). Imbalance leads to indigestion,heafiburn, skin rash, hot flushes, anger,

and heat conditions.

Kapha (Water and Earth - cold, moist,slow and heavy, governs digestion, lym-phatic system, fluids, lubrication in or-gans/ joints, skeletal system, mental bal-ance and stability). Imbalance leads tophlegm, congestion, obesity, fluid reten-tion, lethargy, lack ofenergy, and insta-

bility.

Aromatic correspondences

Yata

Fierce smelling aromatic substances,

which are wet, heavy, calming andwarming, invigorating, and upliftingare beneficial to Vata (gas oriented)people or Vata disorders.

i.e.: Black Pepper, Cumin Seed, Saffron,Aj owan, Coriander Seed/Leaf,

Turmeric, Wild Turmeric, Cubeb, Rhuk-hus, Tulasi, Cardamom, Cinnamon,Clove, Ginger, Frankincense, Davana,Jatamansi, Betel leaf, Curry Leaf, Mogra,Nagarmotha, Feunel, Palmarosa, Patch-

ouli, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver.

Pitta

Essential oils classified as coolantso heatdispellingo drying nutritive and calm-ingo sensual, nurturing and relaxing are

conducive to Pittu (biie oriented) people

or Pitta disorders.

i.e.: Mogra, Davana, Rhukhus, Fennel,Palmarosa, Patchouli, Champa, Neem,Gul-heena, Jatamansi, Kewda, Rose, Co-

riander Seed/Leaf, Sandalwood, Lotus.

Kapha

Essential oils having pungent, astringentand bitter odours, which are warming,drying, energising and stimulating, are

beneficial to Kapha (phiegm oriented)

individuals or Kapha disorders.

i.e.: Clove, Cardamom, Tulasi, Fennel,Ajowan, Betel ieaf, Davana, Patchouli,Curry Leaf, Lime, Black pepper, Corian-der seed/ieaf, Champa, Cumin seed, Na-garmotha, Gul heena, Neem, Tur-meric/Wild, Cinnamon, Cubeb, Frankin-cense, Ginger, Palmarosa, Rose, Mogra,Sandalwood, Saffron, Kewda, Vetiver.

Carrier oils

Waming base / carrier oils for Vata and

Kapha are: Sesame and Ashwagandha(infused in Sesame)

Cooling base / carrier oils are: Coconut,Brahmi (infused in Sesame) and Lotus(infused in Sesame)

Note: These oils can also be safely used

in conjunction with common Aromather-apy essential oils and will not lead to anyadverse effects ifused on personalitytypes other than specified above.

Page I0

"Alrtr-x:\'e di c Aro matherapy"Farida lrani, cont.

Proceedings 2004

The Essential Oils

Essential oils are 70-100 times moreconcentrated than the plant itself. Theyshould be 100% pure andnatural. Thisis why it is important to buy qualityassured oils from reputable companiesand therapists, and not simply by theprice.

Almost all essential oils have anti viral,anti fungal, anti bacterial qualities, to agreater or lesser degree, depending ontheir chemical constituents. We callthem pro biotic or eubiotic, whichmeans they assist in cell rejuvenation,as they do not destroy the natural floraof the body. By applying these oils onthe body we are enhancing our immunesystem. Because they are volatile bynature they must be stored away fromheat and light in order not to destroytheir molecules. Therefore dark glass

boftles are recommended.

The oiis are the prana, or the chi, or thelife force of the plant. We are synergis-ing the prana, or life force, ofthese oilswith our own prana thereby bringing an

expansion and clarity on a mental and aspiritual level. Oils of the Mogra, Gul-heena, Rose, Kewda, Saffron, Tulasi,Rhukhus and Jatamansi are very spiri-tual oils and help greatly to uplift thespirit and get rid ofanger, stress and

fear. The Harmonics of these oils syner-gise with the energy vortexes calledChakras thereby bringing about har-mony in the body and creating mental,emotional and spiritual equilibrium.

As with conventional aromatherapy,Ayurveda Essential Oils can be used inbaths, spas, as a compress, in vaporis-ers, for inhalation and best ofall formassage. For massage, make a blend byadding essential oils to base lcar'ieroiis. A 2.5oh dilution made by adding 5drops ofany three essential oils to ap-proximately l0 ml of base oils is how a

blend is generally made. (This is a safeguideline for the lay person interestedin making a blend.)

Daily Regime

As therapists and managers, the busylifestyles we lead today do not enableus to go through vigorous techniques,which are time consuming. lt is won-derfully beneficiai for us to go tohealth practitioners ourselves for treat-ment, but homework has to be done inbetween. Therefore, one must findtime to at least perform some of proce-dures on oneselfas a dinacharya(daily regime) besides exercising anda healthy diet. One can easily benefitfrom simple techliques such as selfmassage (self abhyang), head massage,

foot massage and Nasya (nasai oiltechnique).

Ayurveda, believing in the principlesof oneness of life, has laid great em-phasis on massaging the entire body.This is called Abhyang which means

"Abhya"- surrounding and "Angtt thebody.

Massage

Ayurveda recommends that properbody massage should best be per-formed with oils, as friction, pain andheat produced with dry massage are

harmful to the organism, disturbing thegases and in turn vitiate the otherdoshas in the body. This leads to im-balance on all levels including the en-

ergy fields. Gentle stroking or pressing

can be done without oils.

In the ancient Ayurveda texts, there is

a Shloka (saying):

"Shira Shravana PadeshutumVeesheshena Sheelayet"

"Take special care ofthe head, earsand soles of the feet."

Even if you do not get time to enjoy fullAbhyang (massage), just massaging thehead, ears and feet will take care oftheentire being. In Aromatherapy, we ad-

vise and urge our clients, and all thoseinterested in alternatives or complimen-lary therapy, to massage their bodies ona daily basis. Many have followed thisadvice and have given much positivefeedback. For practitioners, the proofis in the pudding. We see the resultstime and time again and we then knowthat it works!

The massage of the feet is called Pad-abhyang.'Pada' meaning'feet','abhyang' meaning massage. In Indiathe feet are highly revered and the feetof the Masters, gurus, sages and saints

are referred to as the lotus feet oftheMasters, or the Divine Mother.Ayurveda insists on starting any mas-sage with the feet as it not only invigo-rates and renews the entire body, butalso balances and calms the mind thusassuring a peaceful night's sleep or abalanced day's activity. In Ayurveda, itis specifically said that just massagingand taking care ofthe feet, head and

ears is beneficial to the entire body. Itis common practice in India to see theyoung massaging the feet of their eldersor wives massaging their husband'sfeet.

The massage of the head is called Shi-roabhyang-'Shira' meaning head and

'abhyangt meaning massage.

Head Massage

When you massage the head you are infact massaging the entire body, as thehead is the centre ofthe nervous sys-tem. Therefore the entire Nervous sys-tem can be calmed down. In fact, thebrain is the first organ to develop in theprocess offoetal development. Thebaby's soft spot or fontanelle, located at

the top of the cranium over the mid-

Proceedings 2004

' oA"n'Llr:\te

cl i c Arr: m ath * r;' py"Faricla lrani, csnt.

Page 1 I

brain can be seen puisating in a new-born. It is located eight finger widthsabove the third eye and is called the seat

of the Self, or the Brahmand. This is

also the Sarasrara Chakra.

In Yoga it is considered the tenth gate

of the body through which the babyreceives the energies from the outsideenvironment. This area, if nourishedwith proper oils, protects the brain fromdryness, which is constantly created inlater years through thinking tension andmaking decisions. Head massage ener-gises the cerebrospinal fluid andstrengthens the nervous system. Theoil is absorbed through hair roots, and

the hair roots in turn are connected tothe nerve fibres that lead directly to thebrain. It increases the oxygen levelsand glucose needed for the developmentof the brain and mental faculties. Mas-saging the head also helps in getting ridof fatigue, baiancing hormones and cir-culation.

Oil strengthens the hair and removesdryness which is responsible for brittlehair, premature balding and many scalpdisorders. Oil also acts as a conductorof the energy and aids in the flow of thePrana or life-force, fiom the environ-ment. There are vital Marma pointslocated in the head itself, which ad-

dress the entire being.

A Marma is an energy centre or a vitalenergy point, which is a junction ormeeting place of the five organic princi-ples: ligaments, vessels, muscles, bonesand joints. There are i07 Marma pointsin the entire body out of which 37 are

located in the head and neck and quite a

few in the feet.

Oils for head massage

Black Seed Sesame Oil is very goodand the best for massage as it contains

linoleic acid, one of the24 enzymes thatare very important for the brain. TheBlack Seed Sesame has more therapeuticvalue than the white.

Madhavi taila oil, the Ayurveda herbaloil decoction, is very good for massag-ing the head. It is a cooiing oil and isideal for high Pitta disorders, to apply on

the feet and the head. It is essentialiy an

excellent hair tonic, which induces sleepafter a head massage and helps in revi-talising the hair and hair growth, andstimulates brain cells. It also aids inprevention of falling hair. The Bhringa-raja is a very powerful Aywveda herband there is an infusion of Bringaraj inSesame, which can be used like theBrahmi, in a blend, as a base oil.

There are also some hair care, hair loss

and falling hair aromatic recipes and

blends with essential oils . Sesame oiland Brahmi oil are great aids for mem-ory.

Coriander seed oil, if added to the base

oils, is excellent for people with a hothead due to its cooling properties. Ses-

ame oil is an excellent moisturiser to-gether with Tulasi (Holy Basil), Sandal-wood and Gul Heena. It is aiso excelientfor stimulating hair growth.

Shirodhara (pouring of oil on the head

and forehead)

Shirodhara is the administering of astream of warm oil onto the third eye

area of the forehead. Normally sesame

oil is used, but oils appropriate to thedoshic imbalance and blended with ap-propriate essential oils will be more ef-fective.

Large copper pots, hanging from a stand(which Subtle Energies (see contact atend of article.Ed.) have been devised tosuit the westem tables) are used tostream oil onto the forehead for halfan

hour to forly five minutes, so as toachieve the full effect of the treatment.Copper has its own properties, which get

transmitted into the oil and therefore, itis essential to have a copper pot.

For Vata disorders, the oil or Gheeshould be warm. For Pitta disorders, the

Ghee or oil should be between warmand room temperature. Alternatively,buttermilk can be used in an earthen pot.

This is called Takaradhara.

Shirodhara is deeply stimulating to thenervous system, releasing neuro-hormones and creating feelings of re-laxation. It activates and balances thepineal and the pituitary glands. It isideal for insomnia, hair loss, grey hair,to reduce body temperature and for the

diseases ofthe eyes and ears. It in-creases memory and concentration and

induces sound and blissful sleep. Shi-rodhara is normally done after Abhyang(massage) and preferably in the earlymorning.

Following Shirodhara, a person feels a

deep sense of being in baiance mentally,physically, emotionally and spiritually.Calmness prevails after Shirodhara. Theskin has a beautiful glow, the eyes nor-mally are crystal clear, the third eyegenerally tingles and the person feels

deeply connected as worries and anxietyjust melt away. You get in touch withyour Higher Self and more often thannot the person gets to experience that he

or she is truiy that lnfinite Spirit! Thesaying by the Great Yogi Paramahansa

Yogananda which is:

" I am a spark from the Infinite, I am notflesh and bone, I am light" is so verytangible after these profound techriquesare experienced.

However to Iearn this art and to prac-tice it with the right intent, ensuring

Page 12

n'A3urvedic Aromatherapy"Faricla lrani, c*nt.

Proceedings 2004

that you as a practitioner are protectedand guided, you need to undertake a

course under the guidance of a quali-fied teacher.

There is a power that will light your wayto health, happiness, peace and success, ifyouwill but turn toward that light.

Affirmation By Paramahansa Yogananda

OM! PEACE! AMENI

Farida lrani of Subtle Energies is a HolisticHealth Practitioner, a qualified Alturvedapractitioner, a clinical Aromatherapist and aBowen Therapy Instructor. She runs Ay-urveda Aromatherapy courses throughoutAustralasiawherein she teaches the Philoso-phy and P rinc iples of Ayurveda, AyunedaAromatherapy and treatment techniques. Herbook, "The Magic ofAyurveda Aromather-apy", details the rare and unique oils and the

dffirent modalities in harmony with this an-ctent philosophy. Recipes are givenfor skinproblems, skin care, therapeutic problems,spiritual ffirmations, colour therapy, aura /chakras and much more.

Farida, with her husband Sheriar, supplycustomised signature blends for body and skincare to the Spa industry. Farida also organ-ises Ayurveda seminars with well-known Ay-uryedic Physicians such as the eminent Prof.Dr P H Kulkarnifrom the Institute of Ay-urtteda, Pune, India. She has been doingvol-untary worl<s in Indiafor several years andnow also teaches the Bowen technique.Farida can be contacted on 02 9894 8979 ors ubtle @bigp o nd. ne t. au

Proceedings 2004

The llusiir ess *:f At"*s]: nth*ri*py-'

'\{icl":nel $ch*}es

Page 13

Page 14

The Busii:es$ sf Aron:atl:e:"apy"Michael $ch*les

Proceedings 2004

The Busrness of Aromathef&py - How to market yoruself ygul serviccs, your_tesching and your

;;dfiil wi*t Michael sihol"r, president nri n'ticusei $choles school of Aromatic studies

and the Laboratolf of Flowers.,one of the most suacrasdiul arantatlwraVy&uginesres lE otg iltat conrbtws sales with edacstion frLd setuice"

Michael Sc'rdes

O\TERVIEWBeiag in any businassha" it own rulss, guidetinos and responsibilities, Running rr aroruaherapy business c€n

t- .f,?if""elng ss you dlempt to find a ualsflso bermrecn suhat yor:t fove-to do *$ tbe realiti€g of having to pa]'

yorrrsdf. In ftis precerdution wewilt rsvicw all ftepossibilities wirhin{rogrowi4glfield of aroruafts"lpy,

includiug consulting, hsrlo @ n$susgq r""rrti"g; r'ates, nanrfrstruing +d distr'ibution You will flmd out how

ro cro# rhe rjefut b;il156-dr"tt"iU r*iUi" iou *ii-A your busincss profitable,_uking rnto cutidesdion au th'e

coste of doingbruinoes, ysur obEucts ro l,-"*i "riu

te ruffiers,Ed ar wiu aeolution to your daily challeqges- Ifyo., *u n pariti-u orlm*enpist then ttis clqss wilt errablc ygnr_to 1st sgntr and desugn a plao thst will ena'ble

;.;;; d;Fgbble-whatyouloveto do svery dar. $e clasi is dc*igned to or_€(€oh6 hrrdles sd elrsll.I'ges

l.tr ;;th+ fraseeo ftis is in ord,er t" "ig,rtj& rqur ti!s1d takeyou bac& to fte orieinnl ideE snd motivation

ur*igot iJrr invor"ed with esruarics ir th;fir;t;laca Profit and laes, th€ rsal oo€t$ of doi$g bruiness' fiEding

b"td;,;irr*og leg3 ;t;HHttg rnorc, are just af€sr ofdn+topice that s/ill be addreesd io this hands on

iffrractive progrllrr-

INTR(}DUCTTOI{We are opeming in a diffrrentbusiness ururld poetg/Il rvith nn unstsble €cono&lryt -flilctustions !n internuional

crx-re"c? *a infra* rdcr, &e fb$ar of emcrisn daily, high corurm debt md hish oil Pnces. ft-ers hB nerer

U* "

time in rccent decaAes where nodrirg is agurg tiug and it rppears tra everything B€erns rislT. Thc

d*ttfrd for arcmd5crapy productE and r*rricrs is incroasingbur msinty fuough bi.gbrurness' The rn4iority of;;*r6h*pists operate iioeU t*reiaesses w'ifr ons ortsro ffil time orpafitime Yployees, s-o$iq*F oFcra iISpJti-u ifou1j*i"* ard arft€e operdirg ftom home. Theea hrsineEses ue {se back bme of lhirs indtrstry and itIs h.n" ufisre we find tb6 modt Ueaicateg individuelg vdno hsve 6s maet training and experimce. Il is also hece

d; ;h*ga- need to ba mad.e ro Fal'e srse thst we do not gef caugbt up in orr-oum intcrnal Etilrgglc$, our o$'ll

dgidity uia *t *e wE may pcceibly aliefirte tho+e seakiag abtoad specinrrn sdusdiod-

IIARI(E TING YOfiRfiEI,FT6ir is *rc kry tg, srrcclgs in ary businets. Are you ruarkoting yurtelf q a prodr:*r? Thls i* a pemsmel brl3insss

thtrequirea iersonal ctcqtical. Arorndrsufy is all sbouthotl'qq md thst mek€s it v-eryper.socrat- Ths rrnrEp*rgait youi* trte msm toyctty you will rics[ve rf you rrc ururke*ing u pry4ryt it tloes not matts who is

fA.ine it * drE ptodgct alill bs *bte rEg{rdtess uibo fioffmrldedit It is my heHdftatif ymrmarkcl',5'uurself as

tUr *p*t tU* iiir tli= €u(e€rffrs tbatyou curtom€rE are prnchrsing. Custou,ds ru loyal nrd will_follow you

bocauic therv arE btrylrrg ftonn yoo evin if tfrry cs 1xrrrhnse fts Frodua't draper frorn 3orruous elss. In ordcrr to

-sf.rr yotrruAf you nid 'nryir"r"n o.posule aod i dEaire to pre*grt tro eubjogt ofia,rom#rcrapy ia my forurn

"t *y tine, f neir coastsrtt ruies af howgrsd srstomers bma custornere dtEitrg cveuingpr?Entdioos

r,t#; sirnpte ki.ndncss Eras *orreby ih* rrcemu- Ttorc custorucrs can rpod thous€n& of dollare over

sgversl yein. These gryer of customms firc lfio bsckbac qf ry bUineaa.

tvlicfrg€l Scholes School ofArsmuic Etrdies

Copyrigtr Michsl Scbciles t0mlEoo4

Proceedings 2004 Page 15

The Busi*ess af Aromatherapy"Michael Schaies, c*nt.

MARIGTING YOUR SERVICT

At somp rime or anothg you will have to markct yoru specitlty sertice weylq fri-s illvolves tcaching' sales'

muo,Jf;Bctrring, *il*,[. or cansulting. r"G *,rccwutirl it ii tecoffii€f,rdedtrat you choose yo'r gpocinl8

subjest and ttE* ma*etyorr other rkills n*t $ti* *e rpg"iartv. rt iE 81*'sys good to have a good nrurro in

aorrething rhat youhave'beconre an F (p'rt in and whsE you piactic" aauy ininis c:ryortisa' ldarksting is n'here

youUvo,estmaurgat}l€tnl*skilltaking*""y"pp"'u*'t'tomarlretyorrselfatg\,aryfurn.Itis.npoftdttohape bruiless cards as wdl as brncfouree orari*fe ptus rrpcoming promoticns md classes. Involving yourself in

networking groups in clso rcoornmended

IR..IIININGIt is important to bs flcrriblq in oru ry,pmach to training ad not get caugbt up in, antiquated traiurng iltEthds'

rrauft* is selling information ma nrnaeasful Fsitrdtls o*rue fmt otr"rsoructhing drs is noi efis'' b find

dscwh.rs, The intemcf is Fro+iding ne *iO an oo*titetroirg rrsourt cf inforrr*niou md gilm4v inlags 8nd

uch of njhd is vyrittgl ia not exectly aocffid€. Tho average 6""tonor is rnore cducsted from the i$tErEet md ir

not intcrcsted rn uasi;drt im1g t"*t'ar*r*" wt"t ie row-drsunded &rc tpccistty ctrassos n&ere sre ce absrE

mc,s v{st enpetirnce, ;;*i,& oac subjrt ovsr e wE€ksd whso tre stldcd oon lcarrr prsctic€l hands on

applicetions. This #;Jtrd"hyu*rts a'o* &e aemtnrstrmion of spccialty mnssegc tecbniques to tbeuaking

of eorps, healing *"r"* *A caOo. ft" ""*A

for "t t"gi*t is chmglng, aE ie thc Ertlourrt of iEforrrtdicr trat

il-"" ro r*J* i" mil expaaai"g =-"biu.L The.re is enough irrformation cn the P$ycholosy of scant rlone to

t"r|-,; occupred for fre aeo.t ilddc. hro ha"o beoomo nore ssientifc and orr need for acsurgcy is also vryiioirli** eo:"uurst" rh9 srdqrts ne+ds cs bo dirFcntlt if wE are foltowing m old rrornstic modd ftat may

na hgmmA aia i11 tiruu of npa*iog. This is ust to say thet we shff{d compmrnise as ttrffie is aiso I rtrorp

Ii6ited md viablo mukst foi aflta"".e speffialty eAuo*im, If yorr practica wh0t you teach and cormit to your

""U; *"r" is * t"*;",tw yonr otns*e ourn:ot be fitled. the EtrrOeo[s dsnstd is there alad d:e rnorref is

,"rftrnf e it is for us to find ii riy omerr:lg *r*i""e qd opporonities in a flerible format that gusrnntres thst the

custonrer will kery coming back.

PROBUCT LINECrslomers alc looking ftr sn uourdterapy businesr Slt cm suEllf ttt tftTe51ls' Ite rnorc yon sulrply tbo

more:,o'r crsto6€f, frH sti"* oitl you ma not look elsenrhetre, rhis cu be cbailengin-g to set LEI if you arc e

$nail bgsiness os yo,, *,ot ""r"y -qt iterne . I recommeud ebusiness that offers popular csscotial. cartiff oils,

6,drosols, empty bottlc mi:(ed wi& imne educarion. tts challmgF wirtr a s.mfftl-bilsino$$ is thd tre costs {petr

Ht;;;;fi nreht L it i* rot posribte ro grt tha prie brEsk associsEd "ei&

bulk mdering If vou are

inrerestsd fur campe6rg fur fiis i"o tu chltfiu$$g alss as prefrt mrgins will Elready bs low. If you umrk

fou hme fild h;ve " ""t bassal business, mc'*infpaauc'ts to ordcr, you cqn reduce yor$ sxp€ns€E ard you

co becsrne more coqpetitivc- you cm ot"kr n g;et u"iile boing a snrntt_trorne baeed busiu€€s md me ne€ds tn

""o**r te Aesire to Ue bigga without thi:nkidg it tluosgh first, LsrgEr btrsitrss offa mese a larger

o"*eaa md hes profit oniicaas to be a ftEdiilm sizc bisinsss with mverral-eurployees to rnake nocreS' in

,*-**ry,v and jrvrr rtxr drc rirkr aru hig! srd thero snr do grt*rarnoge. Aek youraelf what lrfie of life you

wflrt r,,.r droose *cwding to yourrwlrosl ft is hetpfr:t if you aan distinguish befirrs* abobbg'srdavocstim.

MicbaslSctrolcs School of Armtic Studies

C opyright Michncl Scholce ]{V0 f /2004

Page 16 proceedings 2oo4

The Business sf Ai:omatherapv'nMicilael $ch*les' c$nt"

Rulcs of burirrccr:f;rhntyoufocus on beoomes reclity (consciousncse becoms form) whder positive or negative

Monoy will corqo to whenyou do wfr;u you love

Wddl the mmery orit wiII disaPPesr

$et goais aad commit to time lines

Money hss its own ruIes. Follow &re nrles.

Ee tsolistioBe sware o,f the obstl€lcthnt you put in funt of you rn order nat to be successfttl

Gutdclin* of burlnerrFocus you artdionltink ffrst, fist l^rrer {uot viea versa}

Bs cgrFfrd with you Ego as it carr getyou into Uouble anrd cre# a gitustion rrfier€ you cEn be in denial

Be awre of you iesues rrgar,ltug pride

R:*pmrlbllfi$t of burltc*rTo *rowupforyor.rsalfTo show upforyor.r anPloyecs

To be in tndfu

To ask ftr help wtren youncodl itTo lauwyour limitsTo ncrls second grrss yor.uelfTo love yoursclf cven rvhea you do nst tike the deciproos that you meLe eometifi.€s

To take firll recponsibiliry for uihahappe,ns in yoru businEss

To takc it onp Etop at atims

Ftndlng bqlqrrce

Bgtrraean ft-e phy$ic,al, c'Irotimd md *piritral part of you as well ae bEtWesr your home, cseer anrJ reil*ionship

lvlic&asl $cholcc Sc,hool of Arondic Strdiss

cogyrigtt lvtidrEl Soholcs l0l0ll2m4


The Business $f Arcmatherapy"Michael $chclles" c$$t"

Hw to rrn pnofitrblc bu.*lnegg uslng r mlnlmum of rerourctc

1. Find a tocatisr that fits youl budger You wili be snaeed rd what you can do with a smqlt spnae

2. Lcam how to usg:tolr compruter ard the followiug applications

a, word ;rrocEssor

b. doabass rttsntgenx€r$

c. accounting Prsgfand. accountins Prografita intemst ryPlioatione (TrFb dsign)3. Createa databass

4- Brry wh&t yqr need evefl firoiUh it msy COst youmorE in thc short tcrrt

5. Limit nfid you sall ifl the beginning

6. Printyour oqm labals in house on your deetiet priniletr

7. Ptintyour brcchuls, brlginees cerld md stf,tioosfy professionelly

8. Btick to yout hrdEpt

9. Go beyond old school thfit telle youfrat yonr have to be in debt fior five ycars before you will meliE a profrt

10, Work mfre€ Publiciry sndER

I f . Ofrrslaasoc 8s educ.ationfirels sal€s

TIre dong md dortlr of rr rrnmalhet:lpy buriuca*

1. Talk aboul ottrerin apositive light.

Z. Do nst €rigfige in goesiP

3. Do tr<rr qerr!' sbott whst othare are doirg i.e. ymr cmpetitiur4. Dso't lisl€tt to odheu::*. Thwt yor.n imuitim5. Do go to €ducsErrrnl sss11g, tra.de sh+ws and ccnr$rencas

6. Do tnrstyuu intuitioar regsdingt€eiag m fiffi.ciat partreru ud cmployes (rcalise trd nobodf is going tosavo ysu).

7. Do be realistis t{cpe is nrrt going to bo emoqgh.

8. Doharre o&er iateres$ besidEs fisfi$htrfrtry. Gctllifr.9. Do be tesourCeful md invest iE resEg.ch (oils, saloa, vmdors, prodgcts)

1O. Idsrdfy yoursdf for whd you are not vftat you do

11. Dohevolnrsiou12. Love younnclf alwaY+

Mictu"el Scboles Sctool of Arornatic Strdiet

C opyright Mich*l 5t&oles tOlO I 12004


The Business of Aroxr:atherapy"Michael $ch*les, cont.

Hvdrorola: oftsr have to brry in lqgB siacs to get the boar price and thry arc oftcn tlcstable. Evon though

;ffiF;;;-h;6r this calis ibr the purchese of hrgo", more comrnercid rcfrigcralors

carribr oila; often hsTe to brry iu tuge sizes to get d:s best price and Elauy c8n go rancid bdore you get to sell

ot l,1g€ sith'in your ortu?r blsnds.

Botfle tuppltcr: car be iabor inteosiv€ Es you msy need tc brry 1,oo0's of.one.prrticular trottle to get tre best

il;;. ; ;fdjf*u it *" ir rn str*irrc'rnaftiline il;e rigfut cap fcr thc risht bots.o (Erffrer plastic or glass)' Please

iot* tf bdf1p suppliu and oap msnufadlr*s Ase ofteu diftrent:

Dlfttrers: catrtst ilHsive, ofren bulky, tt6dd lots of thaLf Epacei often higft rshrns md slow $tovers'

Cnndlec: h*n?', Pfiins to dstnflge in shippiag; Cfr be slow movers' not alWryg mFEt your Orlv:n Stmdards '

3. EducationIncluding rflffiing a school, livo evenrts 0ocat and g[ob*l)" specialtSr if,'cst$ (tlrEet arrdieflc€sI guE€t speaking

homc stu{y

fu: increas€s cf,(posure, incresses eocperisrce and ffeetes u improssioa ftat you know q&et you are talking

aU"ttt

Cgq: it is diffiraJt to uake a tiving ae ar oducstor snd educdion c'd. be tinre oonsundDg s/h€re it cen rake many

ho,rm ofpreporation (not normdJy compensatod for).

4. SuPIr silttt cducetiouVideog, magazines, bocke, CD's

E!g: incrcsss tro swEr6ese of your cliertetethaf in turn nill snpport salae of €s.eEotial oils nd supportive

ffi+tr"ta. Al1 Gdutrstionet -d€risls inffeas€ aryaroness and coryand your marketing base-

e@; youheve to keep inrrentory and you nuy Est be ahlc b fi.nd a wide enough sslestion of rnaterials trat you

fuIly stpport

5. Els€atial oil ePPllcadim

MaqsgEE! Ekfut' ft€t' scalp mrilbtlo ae4gy trcalmoutsprq; prwrotes 6c ir,Egfatim of h^ulds ori lraatoilErts wift fie ueE cf sssffitial oilE badFd prodtlcts cord

G"irtago the we of fre sama prodr:cs ueed in the trtetmetrt at horrre. It it hse n:here tte cliat lescs tiroughprEcmsl ocpcierrco'

fg: cqpital irrte$iye(e tinrs commitncnt {educdim md CEU'e} md it ig '{ificult to do qlthingelie if you rre apractitimer (vou havEto bo reslistiq)'

& Product dstdoPcn{ - 8EH

Tbis in6l$des produe for ba{h, body, skib, heir md feq.

Eg: aan cr6fr rlHc pacsibitiric in trflrjt sf nrfirtetirub *[lin- g to,specific oqry sudr as 3pa'8, who m.ry not

G]*t"nem in sss611iial oils cn frcir oqra bflrt lilta trreliee of pnoAd:ts th&t ssll lhsnsctvcs. Thcsc typcs of

Frcduds e.c porftct for catrlog eateg urd cen aarily be truiv*e lebel€d

Michrcl $drolcs School of Arouatio $hrdice

C oryrigbt Michnsl Sclrcdes rO/0 112004

Proceedings 2004

The llusiness r>f Ars:neatherapy"h4ichael Sch*les, cgnt"

Page 19

ccn: ca* bc labor inlensive as well as capital intcnsivo a.s you need to bul bulk prodrrcts a[d mitiplc labels'

you aleo uoed spaoe-to U" ableto store ait tha buik items inoluding multiple bottte sizes'

?. Product derrctcpme'nt - pri"et3 frhdtng

Takingyow existing trne and putting B(mlFone elssb Leb6l on it or fiJstomizing aproduct for someo'rre else'

Ptg; can meen lsgarsize'6, possibilitiee of larger runs and tnore Exposure'

Clg: capital intelrsive (equiprnerrt and raw materials), nesd loh of space and trere is ofterr tre diffioulty of

colltulling eostE'

& Consrlttti6n fiorvloel

Eitber dinicsl, orstonizingpraducts for aspecr{c i:Idivrdsals or combining E€s€illtiat oik and products wiffr a

rwiew of soneme';uft-Ff htenns "ri*h"ing physicel, ornotional or spiritual wdl'being'

pro: these s€trric** often laad to inmases in ralg of essotiat oils snd reiat€d products- clisrts oftcn pr:rclrase

n bet yoo tecomrnsrd wheo hiriw you smvicee indris mflmer,

gg4: you need to be higftly skilt€d can bs time oonsrrnring, l6bsr intensive std subject to liability issr'ti6'

9.IIqe Ps{tesWbEr€ youprimarily wnrk from homs orthEtnrnk ofyoru car'

Fro: costs arekept lo*'n you can pr:rc,hasE rrt* youneed, ropest orders arc crftes god'

Sg; ncad to tike peoplc ud havq e poritive eftiturle, ).ou cer essily be labeled as nonprofessic'nql as you may

tactspty=icel locdion hrd work,

10- ltull Order vr. $torc FroatIilhe.re you owrr or reut aftcititYPtu;

Meil-gdes; laq|Er msts, c&sEedn biggErthanyou ats.estusltlt 8Ie' cEn selL in multiple rnar*ets with multiple

pm-tt.t"tt, hcaldr professimrl, wholesel€], di stdbusor)

Stor+ ftont more cg(posuq more rctdl sales, pomibiliti* of franchisirrg, car: have a combinsion of rglail,

strr'ic€ and ourtomiziog grodEcta

Con:

Mgil_otdffi,Iow profile, offenhevE to pfovB youreoJf befole !€ilg recogei"E4_oesd to bavo high inventory of

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Copyright Micfisnl Scft otes l0i01l2004

Page20 Proceedings 2004

The llusine$s sf Aromatherapy"Michael Scholes' csnt.

11. Intcrnei Buginels

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The Business of Arctnatherapy"I\tlichael Scholes, c:$trrt.

HOW I IHAAI{ET TIYSELF AtrID ITIE LABORATORY OF I|LOWDRS

+ 15,OOO stude,nts

+ 15 years in business

+ L7 yeus tsarhingin 5 csntinents

+ btendiag is nY rPecialtY

+ trained by anredicsl doctor

i over- S5,0O0,0O0 in salEl

e enrtasive prodrrt line (over 300 eesential oils srd arom.gherapy products)'

PR'ODUCTE OF TTIE I,ADOAAT(}NY OF IVTIC1EATL SCEOLES SCUO{}L

FLOWEAS 1. I{ome rndy couse*

I Essertisl oils 2. Srrnple Sets

2. Curier oilr 3. Fractitimerldts3, Ft./rsl wators 4. Bools4. Environrnentsl fragrsnoing

5" Bonle Supplies MTCIIAEL SCHOLES

5. Produdsfotb$,H]',skinmdhair 1. TeasSing

1. Chi masragc aih 2. Consultirg8. ResbralivcThrraryTreffi,erts 3. HealingTleatnects

4. Innritive Aromatic fuadingr

For furtber idormatioa:

Mich^ssl$choles

The LrbsratorY of Flotttss

4218 Glmco€ Ave

Studio 4

IlfarirrD€t Rey'

cA..*02923rc-A27-7737

310-E274058 F-AJ(

mhschol€[email protected]

Misbn€l $c.trolee $c&ool cf Ammatic $tudies

copyriebt Mic.h8al scholc* I ololl2oo4


The Bilsine$s c:f Aron:at1:erapy',h,{ichael Scholes - Feer Revieu', c$nt.

"The Business of Aromatherapy" wasthe topic presented by Michael Schoies atthe Fall Continuing Education Duy,which was held at the Coast Twassen Inn,Delta. Michael is a full time teacher ofaromatherapy through his businesses.

The Michaeis Scholes School of Aro-matic Studies, as well as a manufacture,distributor, and practitioner through TheLaboratory of Flowers, based in MarinaDel Ray, California..

The Day was one of informality as seat-

ing was arranged in a circular fashion,enabling us all to feel "equal" and less

formal, as the circle having no beginningand no end. Michael was an entertainingand amusing speaker, at times deeplyprobing, and very passionate about hiswork.

Our initial introduction to marketingstrategy was the handout of Michael'sbusiness card - a post card size glossyphotograph of himself, with businesscontact information printed on the back.The message here was " Don't be shy.Think out of the box. Grab your audi-ences attention!" Since Aromatherapy issuch a deepiy personal business, you areyour marketing. The first impression youmake on a potential customer, and theongoing impression you keep making ona returning client, is your marketing. Thatimpression must always include a highlevel of commitment to client care, hon-esty, integrity, and promoting yourself as

an expert in your chosen field of endeav-our. Your clients will remain loyal to youwhen you truly invest your time andthoughtfulness at each and every appoint-ment. In order to market yourseif, youneed maximum exposure and a desire topresent the subject of aromatherapy inany forum, at any time.

Michael made a comment regarding thedifficulties of introducing a greater num-ber of the population to aromatherapybecause "aromatherapy was never popu-lar". Many in the audience may have dis-agreed with his comment. As members ofthe BCAPA , we are dedicated to promot-ing aromatherapy's popularity and do see

small victories from time to time. It is

still, at this time, an uphill climb in estab-lishing oneself in the aromatherapy busi-ness. But such is the world of businessgenerally. Remember that as we are seek-

ing clients who are commifted to theirhealth, unforfunately, there are manymore individuals who are committed totheir illnesses. Be a sales representativeto promote a consciousness for improvedhealth for the individual.

Take inventory of your strengths and

assets, as well as your weaknesses, and

decide where your heart lies in the prac-tice of aromatherapy. Choose an area ofspeciality service (teaching, sales, manu-facturing, hand-on-treatment, or consult-ing) and market your other skills fromthis speciality.

One marketing tactic to promote credibil-ity is through teaching and education.The most effective number of students toeducate at any one time is about 10-12individuals. With larger numbers you willloose the quality of the experience. Asmany teachers will tell you, teachingdoes not bring about a windfall of moneyunless you create a demand for some-thing else through your teaching.

Product sales may eam you slightly moremoney than just teaching. Customersprefer a business than can supply all, orat least, most of their needs. Michaelrecommends establishing a situationwherein you provide such basic productsas popular essential oils, carrier oils,hydrosols, empty bottles, and some edu-cation for your clients. Teaching and

sales are very closely related. By simplyproviding information, you can create a

demand. Product sales will of coursemean a higher overhead, the cost ofpack-aging, etc., but is a value-added servicethat can bring in exffa earnings. By con-sistently providing quality carelproductswith integrity, clients will keep returning.Above all else, maintain your htent,whether you are doing body work, teach-ing, or selling products. So go ahead.Create a mood. Create a desire. Create a

need.

The biggest topic of the day covered ourobstacles to our successes. Being in busi-ness means consistently reinventing your-selt Iearning from your past mistakes,and ridding your subconscious of oldmessages from the past that are stagnat-ing to your progress through life. The talktook on a psychotherapeutic edge as Mi-chael pointed out that our wounded "innerchild" may still be actively sabotagingour good intentions. Old tapes from par-ents and authority figures may still be

telling us we "are not measuring up","where did you get that stupid idea", and

"why can't you do better", to name just a

few familiar thoughts circulating throughour heads. Our ego may often be tellingus "you should be doing bettsr". Look atyour motives for being in business. Doyou truly love what you do and believe inthe healing of aromatherapy and all thatit embodies? What you put out in theworld, you will attract. For example: Ifyou are a cheapskate, you will attractcheapskates. If you value yourself, youwill attract others who value themselves.So start to value yourself and make sureyou have balance in all aspects of yourpersonal life. Maintaining balance in the

home, in your relationships, and in yourcareer are all equally important. If one

area suffers, the others will too.

Remember what you are worth and

charge accordingiy. Take an inventory ofyourself and what you have to offer. Doyou have counselling skills, or expertisein one specif,rc area? Your life experi-ences will come in handy with this work.Michael stresses that we should notcheapen ourselves by charging to little.Value your expertise, your time, and yourknowledge, and others will vaiue it as

well. If you are in a position of hiringemployees and managers, look for indi-viduals who possess abilities that youlack. If you are disorganized, hire some-one highly organized. Ifyou are not crea-tive, look for that creative employee. Be-ing in business means a commitment toevery facet of that business, and we allhave strengths and weaknesses. Don'tforget to ask others for help in areas

where you feel inadequate and need help


The Business r:f ;\rnm:ather*py"l\,fi*hael $$chqiles - Feer Rer.'iert', ofint.

or guidance.

If you have decided you are going to be

a long-term player in the business ofaromatherapy , pretend you are a mutualfund - don't react to the daily up and

downs of the business. Don't pull out as

soon as things aren't going the way youthink they should. Go beyond your com-fort zone - try public speaking, educatingsmall groups, tradeshows, small businessshows, and promote yourself with a pro-fessional and confident (not arrogant)attitude at all times. Contact your localChamber of Commerce, Single Parentgroups, Women's and Men's Groups,Church Groups, etc. See what you can

do to help them. Use professionallyprinted business cards, brochures, per-

haps a website, and use avaiiable technol-ogy whenever possible. Learn to worksmarter, not harder.

Decide whether this is a vocation or a

hobby. Decide what lifestyle you wantand choose according to your response.

Ask for help. To get the life you want,give something greater than yourself.Take a leap of faith. The progression ofheaiing yourself and others is embodiedin what you bring to the worid. Be realis-tic - hope will not get you through. Bepatient. Money will come when you do

what you love. Be aware of the obstaclesyou put in flont ofyourself in order to notbe successful. Take full responsibility forwhat you do in a business. The bottomline to suacess is commitment, integrity,

and passion. Take it one step at a time.So go forward with confidence and pas-

sion. Good luck to each and everyone ofyou on your path to success, as you de-

fine success.

Brigitte L'HeureuxAmphoria AromatherapyVictoria BC

BCAPA Members 2004 - Michael Scholes Event: (Left to right) - Standing- Gina Chevalier,Erynn Tellier, Julie Blacker. Seated Barb Greenwood, Carmen Zerr.


Ctrapter Meetings: Cl*r,'* & Turmeric Essentiai flils

Essential Oil of CloveFamily: Myrtaceae

Base Note

Synonyms: Eugenia aromatica, E.

caryophyllata, E. caryophyllus

General Description: A slenderevergreen tree with a smooth grey trunk,up to 12 meters high. It has large brightgreen leaves standing in pairs on shottstalks. At the stan ofthe rainy season

long buds appear with a rosy-pink corollaat the tip; as the corolla fades the calyxslowly turns deep red. These are beatenfrom the tree and, when dried provide thecloves of commerce.

Distribution: Believed to be native tolndonesia; but now cultivated worldwide,especially in the Philippines, the MoluccaIslands and Madagascar. The main oil -producing countries are Madagascar andIndonesia.

Other species: The clove tree has been

cultivated in plantations for over 2000years. The original wild trees found in theMoluccas produce an essential oil thatcontains no eugenol at all.

Actions: Athelmintic, antibiotic,antiemetic, antihistaminic, antirheumatic,antineuralgic, anti-oxidant, antiseptic,antiviral, aphrodisiac, carminative,counter-irritant, expectorant, larvicidal,spasmolytic, stimulant, stomachic,vermifuge.

Extraction: Essential oil by waterdistillation from the 1) buds and 2) leaves

and by steam distillation flom the 3)stalks or steams. A concrete, absoiute andoleoresin are also produced from the budsin small quantities.

Characteristics:

l. Ciove bud is a pale yellow liquid witha sweet-spicy odor and a fresh-fruitytop note. The bud oil is favored inperfumery work.

2. Clove leaf is a dark brown oil with a

crude, burnt woody odor.

3. Clove steam oil is a pale yellow liquidwith a strong spicy-woody odor.

Principal Constituents:

1. Bud: is 60-90% eugenol, eugenolacetate, caryophyllene and other minorconstituents.

2. Leaf:82-88o/o eugenoi with little or noeugenol acetate, and other minorconstituents.

3. Steam: 90-95% eugenol, with otherminor constituents.

Safety Data: All clove oils can cause skinand mucous membrane irritation; clove budand steam oil may cause dermatitis in some

individuals. Clove bud is the least toxic ofthe three oils due to the lower eugenolpercentage. Use in moderation only in 1%

or less dilution. Avoid during Pregnancy.

Aromatherapy Home Use: Use onlyclove bud oil not the steam or leaf.

Skin care: Acne, athlete's foot, bruises,burns, cuts, insect repellent, toothache,ulcers, wounds.

Circulation, muscles, and joints:Arthritis, rheumatism, sprains.

Respiratory System: Asthma, bronchitis.

Digestive system: Colic, dyspepsia,nausea.

Immune System: Colds, flu, minorinfections.

It has a tonic effect on the kidneys,stomach, and spleen. Strong antiviral actionagainst the herpes simplex iirus X*

It.*


Chapter Meetings: C]*ve & Tr,lrmeric Hssential *ils, cont.

Essential Oil of Turmeric:Family: Zrngiberaceae

Synonyms: C. domestica, Amomoumcurcuma, curcumam Indian saffron,Indian yellow root, curmuma (oil).

General Description: A perennialtropical herb up to one meter high,with a thick rhizome root, deep orangeinside, lanceolate root leaves, taperingateach end, and dull yellow flowers.

Distribution: Native to southern Asia:extensively cultivated in India, China,Indonesia, Jamaica, and Haiti. The oilis mainly distilled in lndia, China, andJapan. Some roots are imported toEurope and the USA for distillation.

Other species: Closely related to thecommon ginger (zingiber fficinale).Not to be confused with the Indianturmeric or American yellow root( hy drast i s can ada ens is).

Actions: Analgesic, anti-arthritic,anti-infl ammatory, anti-oxidant,bactericidal, cholagogue, digestive,diuretic, hypotensive, insecticidal,laxative, rubefacient, stimulant.

Extraction: Essential Oil by steam

distillation from the "cured" rhizome-boiled, cleaned and sun-dried. ( Anoleoresin, absolute, and concrete are

also produced by solvent extraction.)

Characteristics: A yellowy-orangeliquid with a faint blue fluorescenceand a fresh spicy-woody odor.

Principal Constituents: Mainlytumerone, (60%), with ar-tumerone,atlantones, zingiberne, cineol, borneol,

sabinene, and phellandrene, amongothers.

Safety Data: The ketone 'tumerone'is moderately toxic and irritant in highconcentration. Possible sensitization.'The essential oil of turmeric must be

used in moderation and with care for a

fairly iimited period".

Aromatherapy Home Use:

Circulation, Muscles and Joints:Arth-ritis, muscular aches and pains,

rheumatism.

Digestive system: Anorexia, sluggishdigestion, liver congestion.

Adaptogens:

Substances that elicit in anorganism a state of non-

specifically raisedresistance; allowing it tocounteract stress signals

and to adapt to exceptionalstrain.

Page 26

Chapter Meeti*gs: Sciatica

Proceedings 2004

What is Sciatica?

It can be as mild as a tingiing down theback of the thigh, or in the calf and foot.But it can also be an agonizing pain thatcan make it hard to walk, move, sit, stand

or even iie downl The pain may feel like'pins & needles' or it can have a dullaching quality. Usually Sciatica occurson only one side, but may occur on bothat the same time.

Sciatica is an irritation or inflammationof the Sciatic Nerve. If numbness occursor muscle coordination is affected, thesituation requires medical attention.Sciatica can be the result of musclestrain or spasm, or of a slipped disk,butit may also cause the back to feel stiff;lose its inward curve, and cause the

muscles beside the spine to go intospasm. lt most commonly occurs due toimproper lifting, especially if the backand abdominal muscles are weak. Inolder folks, Sciatica is more iikely theresult of collapsing vertebrae, whichcontinually irritate the nerve. Thecollapse is often due to weak musclesupport. Arthritis also increases the riskof Sciatica, as will physical overexertion,and a chill. A susceptibility to neuritis(inflammation of a nerve) is often relatedto internal issues such asviral infections,toxin build up, and B-Vitamindefciencies.

Sciatica often begins suddenly, soonafter an awkward, twisting movement orheary lifting. Often coughing, bending,straining, and sneezing aggravate thesituation. With older people a slightlydifferent situation is more common:onset is slower and pain more constantand nagging. Walking downhill causes

more difhculty, whereas sitting and

resting can bring relief.

The sciatic nerve is made up of severalnerve roots that leave the spinal columnat the lower back/sacral area, mn behindthe hip joint, through the buttock, down

the back of the thigh and knee and thensplit into the tibial and peroneal nerves inthe lower leg (reaching down to the foot).The nerve at the buttock level is about as

thick as your thumb, which makes it veryeasy to compress. The sciatic nerve runsthrough the piriformis and other muscles,and when the piriformis is tight we alsoget irritation and compression. A simplething like keeping your wallet in yourback pocket, sifting unevenly, or liftingincorrectly can cause serious initation!

How to Relieve Sciatica....

Aromatherapy:

Try a hot compress with a couple of dropsof Essential Oils to soothe the muscles and

starts helping them loosen up. (See the listof EO's following)

OR

Try a hot Epsom Salt or Dead Sea Saltbath with Essential Oils. (Up to 2 Cups ofsalts with up to 10 drops of Essential Oils,dissolved in a bucket of hot water and

added to your full tub).

Then gently massage the area with oilmade of l0-20 drops of Essential Oils in20mL Carrier Oil. You may want to tryadding about 5ml of Exfra Virgin OliveOil (to relieve swelling / inflammation) orSt. John's Wort (to relieve pain) to 10-

15mL Sesame Seed Oil. I find that pureSesame Seed Oil works wonders for pain

- I use it on all my construction * workingclients! (And it's not as stinky as

everyone thinks it is!) When I use carrieroils, I always create a synergistic blend ofoils as well as of essential oils.

As for what Essential Oils might be a good

bet; try a synergistic blend ofany oftheseoils: Coriander, Peppermint, Ravensara orYarrow; German Chamomile, Rosemaryor Marjoram; and Sandalwood orHelichrysum.

Massage: Start with gentle massage toIoosen the lower back, buttocks, and thighmuscles. Then zero in on the piriformis:start with the edge along the sacrum, and

make your way to the trigger points in themuscle.

Supplements & Herbs:

Vitamin B Complex - 50mg, 3/day.

Vitamin B12 - sublingual tablet,100mcg/day.

Calcium - lO0Omgiday

Magnesium - 500mg/day

Evening Primrose Oil -2 X 500mg, 3

times per day.

Rub St. John's Wort oil diluted in OliveOil onto the affected area, especiallybefore bed.

A hot Stinging-Nettle bath is good foracute sciatica:Soak 4C of stinging nettle leaves for 1 2hrs in cold water.Warm the liquid up; strain & add to bathwater.Keep the client's chest out of the water.Soak for 20mins, don't dry off, insteadput a terry-cloth robe on and sweat in bed

for I hr.

Chamomile tea, or poultice.

Horsetail helps build connective tissue.Take as atea, or 10-20 drops in I cupiiquid. (aiso available in tablet/capsuleform)

With tension due to emotional stress takeBorage/Evening Primrose, St. Johl'sWort, Lemon Balm or Valerian tea 3timesiday for their calming properties.

Hot moist packs: Chamomile, Horsetail,Hayflower, White/Black Mustard Seed, orFlax Seed. Put crushed seeds into a smallcotton sack and dip for 10 minutes intohot water before applying.

Garlic Milk helps reduce inflammation.Crush 2 cloves of raw garlic and mix with% cup milk. Drinkrz cup daily.


Chapter h{eeti*gs: Sciatica, cCIrlt.

Other herbs to try: Aspillia, Cinchona,Elder, Feverfew, Henbane, PassionFlower, Peppermint, Thyme,Wintergreen, Yellow Jessamine.

Self-Care:

PREVENTION:

Brace yourself ifyou feel and unusuallyforceful cough or sneeze coming on.

Practice safe lifting techriques.

Ask for help when dealing with heavyloads.

Avoid sitting or standing in one positionfor prolonged periods.

Exercise regularly.

Don't cary your wallet in your pockets,if you must, remove all unnecessaryitems.

Develop and maintain good posture.

Sleep on your back with a pillow underyour knees, or on your side with thepillow between your knees.

Maintain a healthy weight.

Keep your abdominal muscles in goodshape.

Reduce your stress level.

Wear comfortable, supportive, wellfitting shoes.

Have your bras professionally fitted.

Use furniture and other products thatencourage good back support.

TO EASE THE PAIN:

Bed Rest. Use a firm mattress, lie onyour unaffected side with yourunaffected leg slightly bent and youreffected leg straight and supported by apillow(s).

Gentle stretching exercises. Try lying onyour back and raise your affected leg,gently. Rub with a flat hand from kneeto buttock, along the middle of the backof your thigh (this is very calmingl).

Apply heat.

Apply a cold pack (no more than 15

minutes at a time).

Chiropractics/Rolfi ng: Co-treatmentwith your client's Chiropractor or Rolferwill also help relieve the pain. (To learnmore about Rolfing check out theTouchworks Wellness Centre Website at

www.touch-works.com)

Surgery: Surgery is an option in somecases when the disk is chronicallyswollen.

What Else?

Hot, moist clay poultices help withstiffness and bring reliefffom pain.

Gentle stretching and strengtheningexercises, after an attack, helps relievepain.

INTERESTING FACT:

DID YOU KNOW THAT THENERVOUS SYSTEM IS THE FIRSTSYSTEM TO BEGIN DEVELOPMENTWITHI]V THE WOMB AFTERCONCEPTION?

SOURCES:

WWW.SUITE ] O l.COM - MASSAGETHEMPY

WWW. HERB 2 OOO. COM * SCIATICA


Chaptcr h{eetings: }deetn Tree & Fclratrra

Neem oil (Nimba inSanskrit)The peopie oflndia have long reveredthe neem tree as the "VillagePharmacy". Every part of this sacredtree is used in some form on a dailybasis. For centuries millions of havecleaned their teeth with neem twigs,sued neem leafjuice for skin disorders,taken neem tea as a tonic and placedneem leaves in their beds, book, grainbins, cupboards and closets to keep awaybugs. It's also used to relieve manydifferent pains, fevers, infections, andother complaints. Neem oil is anexcellent moisturizing oil that containscompounds with historical and scientihcvalidity as medicinals. Use of the oil forcosmetics and medicines has beenlimited by is strong taste ands smell butit is used a lot in soaps. The informationbeing generated on it in the modemformat of science continues to confirmall the ancient claims.

in Swahili the Neem tree is called"Mwarobaini" which means forly trees,because supposedly it makes medicinesto treat 40 different diseases.(www.afficasgarden.com) It is also wellknown medicinally in Ayurvedicmedicine. On www.neemfoundation.orgit talks about how "Neem might in futurebe used much more widely." The oil,derived from crushing the seeds, isantidermatonic, a powerful anthelminticand is bitter in taste. It has a widespectrum ofaction and is highlymedicinal in nature.

Gandhi helped keep the hadition ofNeem alive. "The prayer meetings at theSabarmati Ashram were conductedunder a Neem tree by the MahatmaGandhi and a Neem leaf chutney was a

part of his everyday diet."

Botanical name: Azadirachta indicq

Family name: Meliaccae

Odour: garlic/sulfur

Taste: very bitter

Extraction methods: cold pressed, solvent,heat

Cold pressed is the best quality and the mostexpensive. You should be careful to makesure of the quality as some sources are not as

strict about storage ofthe oil as others.

Description:

The neem tree is a hopical evergreen relateto mahogany. Native to east India andBurma, it grows in much of Southeast Asiaand West Africa. A few trees have recentlybeen planted in the Caribbean and severalCentral American countries. Where the

temperatures don't drop much belowfreezing, it may reach up to 50 ft tall. It willgrow where there is as little as 18 in. per yearofrainfall and thrives in areas thatexperience extreme heat, up to 120 degreesF.

The neem seed kernel is very rich in fattyacids, often up to 50 o/o of the kernels weight.Neem seed oil contains vitamin E and otheressential amino acids. The oil has beenfound to contain the following fatry acidsthese percentages vary depending on timeand place of collection.

Oleic acid * 52.8yo, Stearic acid - 21.4 Yo

Palmitic ac,id * 12.6 0%, Linoleic acid - 2.1 o/o

Various lower faffy acids - 2.3 Yo

The percentages vary fiom sample to sampledepending on place and time of collection ofthe seeds. (Bhandari, 1959)

Constituents:

Triterpenes, limonoids, azadirachitin,meliantriol, nimbin, nimbidin, gedunin.

Properties:

Antibacterial, anti dermeratonic, antifungal, anti h)?erglycaemic. antiinflammatory, anti fertility, anti leprotic,anti microbial, anti parasitic. anti pyretic.anti septic, anti viral, anthelmintic, insectrepellent, stomatic, vermafuge.

Uses

Skin: skin diseases, septic sores,infected burns, boiis, eczema, scrofula,fungal infections (ringworm, candida,athlete's foot), leucoderma, warts, head

lice, nail fungus.

Cardiovascular: hypertension, bloodpurifier, detoxifier.

Respiratory: bronchitis, laryngitis,pharyngitis, tuberculosis, pleurisy,cough, geotrichum (fungal infection).

Digestive: diarrhea, dysentery,hyperacidity, constipation, nausea,

trichosporon (intestinal fungus), dental(prevents tooth decay, treats bleedingand sore gums, mouth ulcers)

Genito-urinary: inflammatory diseases,candida, intrauterine controls differenttlpes of metritis (inflammation)contraceptive.

Contraindications: very high levelsmay be toxic.


Chapter Meetings: Neetx'Iree & Foraha, cont.

General

Diabetes - to regulate sugar levels,in fl ammatory diseases, fever-reducing,viral diseases (chicken pox, herpes virus,small pox) treatment of aids and cancer.

Cotton soaked with 5 -10 drops of neemoil and held in the vagina 15 min. beforeintercourse works as a spermicidalcontraceptive without using hormones.

For psoriasis - I tbls neem oil in 4 ouncesof carrier oil like almond or grapeseedwith a blend of three of the followingessential oils: top notes, Ber Caj Nia;middle notes, Cha Ger Lav; base notes,Ben C/W Imm applied twice daily.

Obtaining Quality Neem Oil:

To bring the many therapeutic effects ofneem oil to all the people that couldbenefit from them requires a majorchange in neem oil's quality. From thepicking of the fruit to filling the oil intodrums, careful attention to quality is theonly way to get the best oil possible. It isnow known that if the neem seed is notdried and stored properly and the oil is notexpressed in a hygienic way the oil willbe very dark, have a foul odor and maycontain dangerous contaminants.

Methods for obtaining neem oil:

The first thing to consider is the collectionof the seeds. Neem is not considered a

plantation tree in lndia so the seeds mustbe gathered ftom wiid trees growing onthe fringes of farms, along hillsides andflom roadsides and shade trees aroundhomes in the rural villages. Collection ofthe seeds is a seasonal affair that has

historically been organized bycooperatives that press the oil from theseeds for soap manufacture.

As the ripe fluit falls to the ground, it isgathered from around the trees. Some of

the fruit will have been eaten by birds andthe seeds excreted. Other fruit may havebeen on the ground for weeks, coveredwith mold or simply rotten. The collectedfruit is then carried to a water supply towash away the fruit covering the seed.

After washing, the seeds are set out to dryin the sun. The dry seeds are bagged and

sold to village merchants who later sellthem to an oil processing facility.

There are three main processes forextracting the oil from the seed kernelswith some companies using combinations.The one used since antiquity is themechanical press method. Neem seed

kernels are place into a tub and either ascrew or some form of press is used tosqueeze the kemels under pressure untilthe oil is pressed out and collected.

The second method uses steam and highpressures to extract the oil. The kernels are

heated with steam to increase the oil flowthen squeezed under high pressure. Mostofthe oil is extracted flom the kernels butit is dark and smelly with many of theactive compounds destroyed by the hightemperatures.

The third and newest method is solventextraction. This method is used by mostseed oil processors since almost all of theoil is removed from the kernels. The neemseed kernels are finely ground and placedinto a container along with a petroleumsolvent, usually hexane (white gasoline).The neem oil is captured by the solventand is pulled out ofthe kernels. Thesolvent/neem oil mixfure is then put into avat where most of the solvent is recoveredleaving the neem oil and minute traces ofthe solvent behind. Sometimes seed cakeobtained after mechanical pressing is

further extracted using this method. Manyof neem oil's active compounds are notsoluble in hexane and are left behind in thesolvent extraction process.

Once the oil has been extracted, it isusually put into metal drums for storageand shipment. Since neem oil is usedprimarily for soap manufacture by smallmanufacturers, there has been no demandfor pure or clean neem oi1. Therefore,

inexpensive second-hand drums are used

to store the oil. With used drums, there is

the possibility of contaminating the neem

oii with dangerous chemicals that couldhave been previously stored in thedrums. Purchasing neem oil in the openmarketplace will usually provide thepurchaser with a very low quality oil thatis potentially contaminated.

The best method for obtaining qualityneem oil with a majorify of the activecompounds intact is cold pressed. In coldpressing the oil is lighter in color withmilder odor (Ramakrishna, et al, 1993).There is also the elimination of anypotential residual solvents in the oil thatcould pose health hazards to theconsumer. The downside is that highquality cold pressed neem oil is moreexpensive to produce than solventextracted oil and is much harder toobtain. Few processors are wiiling toforego the loss ofany ofthe oil thatcould have been extracted by soivent and

have quit using cold presses.

Improved method for obtaining neemoil:

Experiments with the collection, storageand extraction procedures have disclosedthat the main reason the oil was typicallybad was the very procedures traditionallyused. The seeds were often old andrancid before they were even coliected.Storing the seeds in the hot, humidIndian summer made them even worse.By the time they were processed, thekernels were black and smelly whichresulted in black, smelly oil.

A better method requires the collectionof seeds specifically for the manufactureofquality health and beauty aid products.Light green kernels from fresh seedsyield a light oil with only a slight odorand a tolerable bitter taste. To get thishigh-quality oil, neem fruit has to be

picked from the trees rather thangathered olf the ground.


Chapter Meetings: Ideem Tree & Fonaha, *cnt.

The fruit from the seeds and the cleanseeds quickly air dried. Dried seeds arethen de-husked and the kernels coldpressed. The kernels should only bepressed once to obtain "virgin" oil,guaranteeing only the oil is removedleaving the waxy and tar-like substances

behind. The light neem oil must then bestored in new drums for shipment to themanufacturing facility. This methodproduces high-quality neem oil suitable foruse in any health and beauty aid product.

It has many insect repellent qualities dueto its salinin content, yet it is completelynon-toxic to crops, animals or humans.Even internally, in small doses, it can helprid the body ofgut parasites.

I tbsp Neem oil to 4 tbsp carrier for skin.

Garden tonic. 1oz. Neem to 1 gal. water.

www.HerbsForever.com has an abundancehistorical information on Neem. Otherreference material usedwww. ferlowbrothers. com andwww.bytheplanet.com

It has gained popularity in the fight againstAIDS as it boosts the immune system. It isa blood puriffing agent and a detoxicant.

The oil solidifies at room temperature andshould be tested for sensitivity before use.

It is not to be used ifpregnant, lactating ortrying to get pregnant.

The twigs are also used and have beenused for years in Africa and India toprotect against and heal guminflammation. They are made into

toothbrushes and are found to be effectivein preventing periodontal disease.

The leaves are used as well, they haveantiseptic, antibacterial and insecticidalproperties, often used in teas thoughshould not be done on a regular

basis, combined with licorice, ginger and

mint for colds, cough, fever andhangovers.

Recipes

Head lice

112 oz neem oll

8 oz shampoo used 2 times a week.

Wafis

I drop ofneem on your wart

once a day for 2-3 weeks

Psoriasis,/Eczema

Athletes foot or fungal conditions

1T neem

4oz carrier oil

applied 2x a day

The cure of the part should

not be attempted without

treatment of the whole. No

attempt should be made to

cure the bodv without the

soal, and if the head and

the body are to be healtlty,

you must begin by curing

the mind. For this is the

greutest error of our day in

the treatment of the human

body that physiciuns firstseparate the soul from the

body

Plato


Chapler Meetings: Calendula & Carrot $esd"

CalendulaAka: marigold, gold-bloom, hollygold

Botanical namez Calendula fficinalisFamily name: asteraceae (compositae)

History: Commonly used as a food fla-voring, for example for meats, pickles,sauces, and drinks. Also popular in mas-culine perfumes and colognes. It is fre-quently used to relieve colic and flatu-lence, just like fennel and dill seed.

It is an annual herb up to 24 in. high withsoft oval green leaves and bright orangedaisy-like flowers.

An absolute by solvent extraction fromthe flowers.

Dark greenish-brown with sharp herba-ceous odor.

Note: Base

Fragrance: herbaceous, mildly fl oral

Colour: clear to golden yellow

Extraction: CO2 extraction, steam distil-lation

Constituents: calendulin, methone,isomenthone, caryophyllene and epoxideand ketone derivative, pendunculatina, a

and binone, a beta-ionone epoxide deriva-tive and dihydroactinidiolide (Graza1987); the essential oil has oxygenatedsesuiterenoid derivatives (Bruneton1995), pigments (carotenoids), bitter com-pounds, saponins, flavonoid gycolsides,mucilage, resin

Properties: antihemorrahagic, anti-infl ammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic,aphrodisiac, astringent, cholagogue, cica-trizant, diaphoretic, emm enagogue, febri-fuge, fungicidal, styptic tonic vulnerary

Aromatherapy uses:

Skin: cuts, greasy skin, rashes, wounds,local skin problems, inflammation, sores,

bums, abrasions, sunbums, swellings,rashes, skin irritations, bruises, helps toprevent the spread ofinfection and accel-

erate healing, acne, mouth inflammationand ulcers, chapped hands, rub wholepetal on bee or wasp sting to relieve painand swelling, diaper rash, cradle cap, sore

nipples, fungal infections, thrush, athletesfoot, eczema, may stain skin

Digestive: stomach cramps, recurrentvomiting, colitis, diarrhea, gastritis, en-

hances liver function, detoxifuing to liverand gall bladder, pelvic and bowei infec-tions including enteritis, dysentery,worrns, amoebae, viral hepatitis, measles,

chickenpox, colitis

Genito/Urinary: yeast infections

Muscular/Skeletal: sprains, pulled mus-cles, arthritic problems

Circ/Lymph: draining of swollen lymphglands, reduces lymphatic congestion, legulcers, varicose veins

Endocrine: menstrual difficulties, regu-lating menstruation, relieves cramps,reduces excessive bleeding and uterinecongestion, reduces breast congestion.during childbirth it promotes contractionsand delivery ofthe placenta, thyroid regu-lation

Contraindications: non toxic and nonirritant

Blends well with oat moss, hyacinth,floral and citrus oils.

Of Interest

Inhalation - Great insect repelient in thegarden.

Skin Care - Use for acne, and rejuvenat-ing skin.

Compress - Varicose veins, sprains andwounds, bring down fever.

Hair Care - Hair rinse to Iighten andbrighten hair.

Tea - Drink two to three cups daily.

Bath - For soothing sunburn and skinrashes

Massage - Rejuvenating to the skin

Compress - To heip in the healing of skinwounds: soak a compress in Calendula

tea, and apply to the wound for 30 min-utes twice daily.

Carrot Seed OilAka: Wild Canol, Queen Anne's Lace

Botanical name: Daucus carotq

Family: Apiaceae (umbelliferae)

History: There are references to the heal-ing properties of carrots in early Greekwritings. Dioscorides documented the

properties as early as the I't century A.D.

It is an annual or biennial herb, with a

small inedible tough whitish root. It has a

much-branched stem up to 5ft tall withumbels of white flowers.

Habitat: Europe

Extraction: Steam distilled from thedried and/or crushed seeds

Colour: Yellow or amber coloured withwarm, dry, woody-earthy, carrof odour

Note: Middle

Fragrance: woodsy, earthy, pungent,

oily, warm, dry

Constituents: phene, carotol, daucoi,limonene, bisabolene, elemene, geraniol,geranyl aaetate, caryophyllene, highlynutritious plant, containing Vitamins A,C, B1 and 82.

Chemical properties:

Alcohols-up to 85o/o with -50% caretol )

Monoterpene s-22-3 5oh with limonene,and pinene

Sesquiterpen es-l 6-307'o with bisabolene,daucene, and caryophyllene

Esters-3 - I 9 Yo with geranyl acetate

Ketones-up to 10 o/o

Oxides-yes, daucol


Chapter Meetings: Calendula & Carrot Seed, cont.

Properties: anthelmintic, anticoagulal,antioxidant, antiseptic, antiulcer, bacteri-cidal, carminative, calming, cytophylac-tic, depurative, digestive, diuretic, em-menagogue, hepatic, hypertensive, hypo-cholesterolemic, immune stimulant, livertissue regeneration, red blood cell pro-duction, liver tonic, vasodilatory, verma-fuge, and smooth muscle relaxant.

Contraindications: Use with care dur-ing pregnancy; some suggest avoid itsuse altogether during pregnancy. A fewauthors suggest not for use with hyper-tensive clients.

Oral Toxicity: None

Skin Initation: None

Sensitization: No

Photo-toxicity: No

Aromatherapy uses:

Skin: one ofthe best oils for skin care;revitaiizing and toning, improves elastic-ity of the skin, mature complexions,wrinkles, dermatitis, rashes, eczema,psoriasis, scars, weeping sores, acne andulcers, boils, pruritus, calluses, corns,cupreous (broken veins), vitiligo (lack ofskin pigment), use in a sunscreen for anatural glow as well as protection.

Muscular/Skeletal: arthritis, rheuma-tism, gout, and accumulation of toxins.

Circulation/Lymph: edema, anemia,some authors believe it lowers bloodpressure while others say it raises bloodpressure; boosts circulation and dilatesblood vessels so blood pressure changeseither way are possible in susceptibleindividuals.

Digestive: detoxifies body due to itsinfluence on liver health, jaundice, hepa-titis, anorexia, flatulence, diarrhea, colic,indigestion, stomach ulcers, anemia,colic, liver congestion.

Respiratory: asthma, bronchitis, colds,coughs, emphysema, flu, sinus conges-tion, strengthens mucous membranes of

the nose.

lmmune: stimulates immune system,boosts red blood cell production, flu.

Endocrine: tonic to reproductive hor-mone production, thyroid regulator, helpsthe pituitary gland to regulate the produc-tion of thyroxine and the release of ova,amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, glandularproblems, PMS.

Genito-urinary and endocrine: kidneyand bladder problems, cystitis, renal cal-culi, fluid retention.

Nervous System: cleansing effect on themind, stress, exhaustion, anxiety.

Blend well with citrus and evergreentype oils, Fra, Lav, R/W, Cyp, Ger

Of Interest

Carrot Seed Oil contains over 600 identi-fied carotenoids, plus tocopheryl, and vita-min E, making it an unparalleled source ofantioxidants. lt enhances the body's im-mune response to dangerous radiationfiom the sun's rays. Could be used in soyaoil, which has a natural SPF 7.

Canot Root Oil - an infused oil which canbe used at a proportion of 10-50% increams and other preparations; promoteshealthy skin; aids in treatment of dry,chapped, and scaling skin conditions; pataround the eye and mouth area when a

mask is applied to the face; high in vita-min A and beta-carotene; helps to regainelasticity; firms aging and wrinkled skin;nutritive; blood tonic; digestive tonic; im-mune stimulant; great in a sunscreenpreparation as it protects the skin while itgives the wearer a healthy glow.

Proceedings 2004

Claapter Meetir:gs: Addicti*n"s

Page 33

Surrey Chapter:

Addictions

A list ofpossible addictions and dependen-cies was shared:

Co-dependency, Adrenaline rush, Anger,Cigarettes, Food, Work, Booze, Drugs, Sex,

Gambling, Computer games, Salt, Sugar,Chocolate, Caffeine, Carbohydrates, Fats,

Shopping, Reading, Housework, Perfec-

tionism, Power trips

Addiction was described as follows: if one

is unable to stop once they've started, orexperiences anxiety ifthey are preventedfrom doing it, they may be dependent oraddicted. All addictions and dependenciesare an attempt to medicate anxiety. (source

for above: Lyn Ayre)

lf we can alleviate the anxiety through aro-matherapy, it will help the person to makethe changeover to a healthier lifestyle.

Both Carrot and Calendula oil are said toalleviate anxiety and be a tonic and detoxi-fier of the liver and gallbladder.

We want to counter depression, nervoustension, anxiety, insomlia, indecisiveness,clear the body of toxins, calm the mind,divert the attention, and boost the immunesystem.

The following oils will help: bergamot,chamomile, geranium, lavender, patchouli,rose, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang for mildto moderate depression; clary sage and jas-mine to raise the spirits; basil, marjoram,neroli, rose, and tangerine for nervous ten-sion; chamomile, clpress, lavender, and

thyme for initability; chamomile, marjo-ram, rose, and ylang-ylang for insomnia;ginger and jasmine to raise self-confidencelevels; benzoin for loneliness; basil andpatchouli for indecision, which is a typical

symptom when coming off the hard drugs;chamomile, lemon, and thyme to boost theimmune system.

There is much information in books and

on the web about how to help people withaddictions and dependencies using aro-matherapy.

Also mentioned was that both patchouliand anise can act as an appetite suppres-sant; and benzoin will stabilize the bloodsugar (very important when you're com-ing off alcohol).

Addiction blends should be at 1/z the dilu-tion rate so as not to tax and already over-loaded system.

This is the most superb write-up on addic-tions/dependencies that I have ever read.

It comes from the book "Your BodySpeaks Your Mind" by Debbie Shapiro,"Addiction covers issues as diverse as

alcohol, drugs, smoking, food, sex, sugar,coffee, and gambling. In general, addic-tion tends to arise from a longing forsomething more, a need to satisf,i an inneryearning or pain. Causes may includeexternal pressures such as financial diffi-culties, emotional traumas, or growing upin a stressful environment with emotionaland or physical abuse. There can be adeep need to hide or obliterate our prob-lems, but this is not necessarily a con-scious process. Alcohol makes us feel thatevery.thing is fine. Cigarettes enable us toswallow back our feelings. Drugs take us

into a different world where we don'thave to deal with the realities of this one,

as weli as giving us a false sense of gran-

deur. Food replaces the love we crave and

smoothes over the cracks in our lives. Allthese numb the pain inside, alter con-sciousness, or filI an inner emptiness. Thesubstance provides a sense ofsecurity andenjoyment that is far easier to deal withthan the pain. By not feeling anything, wecan maintain an iliusion of happiness.

However, addiction is not necessarily a

numb and happy state. Deeper inside isthe knowledge that we are destroyingourselves. The craving continues, nomatter how much we consume. Thisgives rise to guilt and shame, leads todepression, or is projected outwards as

anger. There is a deep, rarely acknowl-edged fear of where we are going to end

up; a self-dislike, even hate, which eats

away at our ability to recover. How can

we even begin to love ourselves whenwe see such desperation acting itself outeach day?

If we can recognize the craving, and itsunderlying causes, then we have achance to let go of the addiction. But inso doing we inevitably have to confrontthe problems that the addiction was hid-ing - to deal with the past abuse or fearoffailure - and to begin to heal these

issues. Healing addiction is about ourability to accept and make friends withwho we are. lt is about facing the realityof our feelings rather that running awayfrom them, and bringing that reality intoa place of love."

"The Fragrant Mind" by Valerie AnnWorwood, offers many suggestions forblends to combat the various effects ofaddictions and dependences.

Vancouver Group:

AddictionsAlcohol, drugs, caffeine or anythingcausing one to be dependent - some-thing that takes a precedence in ones

life.

First treat the cause/symptoms - couldbe based on person's stress, anxietyabout something. Also find out whattype of addiction is the problem.

Treat emotional/mental conditions (i.e.

the cause). A person can be suffering

Page 34

Cirapter Meetings: Addiction"s, c:$nt.

Proceedings 2004

from tremors, headaches, poor concentra-tion, irritability, restlessness, insomnia,lethargy, nausea and more. Use the essen-tial oils which are most helpful to person'sneeds at the time. Also, detoxifying oilsare beneficial such as helichrysum andjuniper. Anti-depressants such as vetiverand bergamot, and clary sage for depres-sion as a nervine. Citrus for upiifting andgrapefruit for lymphatics.

Hydrosoi - Greenland Moss/Labrador Teais a liver regenerator, cleanser and detoxi-fier. When combined with yarrow hydro-sol it eases withdrawal symptoms of to-bacco, alcohol and other addictive sub-stances.

Unnamed Group Tidbits:

Other info that Christine felt applicablewere hydrosol use as follows:

Addictions, from Suzanne Catty's Hydro-sois the next AT, from page 105

Greenland Moss is a liver regenerativeand cleanser. It detoxifies the organ andseems to improve the liver function gener-ally. It seems to calm the effects of over-indulgence.

It combines well with yarrow to ease thewithdrawal from addictive substances likealcohol or tobacco.

Clary Sage is a euphoric and antidepres-sant. Some find it an aphrodisiac. In anycase it is an gives an emotional supportand a feeling of well being. It makes agood beverage for those rrying to give upalcohol and can calm some symptoms orwithdrawal.

Vernon Group:

Addictions

Addiction is said to exist when the bodybecomes so accustomed to the presence ofa foreign substance that it can no longerfunction properly if the substance is with-drawn. The dependence can be physio-

logical, psychological, or a combinationof the two. The three most commonlyused drugs are -alcohol, tobacco and caf-feine - are all legal and easily available.

The reasons for addiction, according tomost research, lie in the brain. Chemicaiscalled neurotransmitters carry the signalsbetween neurons. One of these neuro-transmitters, dopamine, piays a pivotalrole in transmitting feelings of satisfac-tion, arousal and reward, so that everytime we experience these feelings wehave the desire to replicate them by doingwhatever it was that caused them before.This may account for the repetition inher-ent in addictive behavior.

Alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, cocaine andamphetamines are a few of the substancesthat increase dopamine levels in the brain,and the more they are used, the moredeepiy these substances are associatedwith pleasure and reward, and the moreprofound the dependency. It is alsothought that people who become addictedto a substance take less pleasure in thethings they used to enjoy. Brain scans

have shown that addicted people showless response to other pleasurable pur-suits. The pleasure elicited by whateversubstance the individual is addicted to isso strong that it is difficult to eradicate,and even after years of abstinence, thereare triggers that may cause the person torelapse. Research has shown that longterm substance abuse results in significantchanges in brain function that persistslong after an individual stops using it.

Alcoholism affects approximately fourtimes as many men as women, but theincidence of alcoholism among women ison the rise, as is the use of alcohol bychildren and adolescents. Women arephysiologically more sensitive to alcoholthan men are, because of their bodies'lower water content and higher fat con-tent, alcohol becomes more concentratedin the bloodstream and is aiso retained in

their bodies longer. Men produce morealcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme in thestomach that breaks down alcohol beforeit reaches the bloodstream. This enzymeis missing in the metabolism of First Na-tions people, which is a leading factor tosevere alcoholism in the native popula-tions. Women and First Nations of bothgenders are more affected by smalleramounts of alcohol then most men andmore at risk for the ill effects of aicoholabuse like liver disease and psychiatricdisorders.

Symptoms of addiction can include:

A decreased desire to work and/or social-ize

Extreme drowsiness

Inattentiveness

Frequent mood swings

Restlessness

Personality changes

Loss of appetite

Want to be alone

Lose their tempers easily

Symptoms of withdrawal may include:

Headache

Insomnia

Sensitivity to light and noise

Diarrhea

Hot and cod flashes

Sweating

Deep depression

Irritability

Irrational thinking and disorientation

During withdrawal from any substance

there are several things to consider.

Diet and the use of vitamins, minerals andherbal supplements to reinforce the body

Proceedings 2004

Chapter l\feetings: Addicti*ns, csnt.

Page 35

and promote healing.

Cleansing toxins from the bloodstreamand liver

Calming the nerves

Depression

Sleeping problems

Aromatherapy can be used to help withCleansing the toxins from the liver andbloodstream using - G/F LEM SAG,CHA CYP GER JUN PEP R/M. IMML/B MYR ROS

Calming nerves:

Nervous exhaustion - BAS BER EUCG/F LEM ORA, GER LAV PEP PINR/M, GIN most spice oils

Stress - BAS BER C/S LEM MAN ORAPET THY YAR, CHA GER HYS JLINLAV /MAR MEL PEP PIN R/M R/W,BEN C/W FRA IMM JAS L/B JYRNER PAT/ROS S/W VET Y/Y

Nerves - BAS BER CAR CiS COR G/FL/G MAN ORA P/R T/T VER, CAMFIR GER LAV LAN MAR MEL SPR,

BEN CW CLO FRA iMM JAS L/B N/MNERPAT TAR VET Y/Y

Anxiety - BER C/S, CHA LAV, C/WFRA NER ROS VAL VET Y/Y

Depression - BAS BER C/S G/F NIAORA PET T/T THY, CHA CAM CYPGER LAV HYS JUN MAR MEL PINR/M R/W, CIN FRA IMM JAS NERPAT ROS SW VET Y/Y

Insomnia - BAS ORA MAN PET THYYAR, CAM CHA JLIN LAV MARMEL, L/B NER ROS S/W Y/Y

Cravings - CTS C/S FEN FRA LAVLEM MEL PAT ROS VAL VET YARY/Y


Chapter Meetings: Fsnnel, Corm l;lorver, I{elichr;tsrin:, B}a*k$pruce F{yd"rosols

Helichrysum Hydrosol

Botanical Name: Helichrysum itali-cum, H el i chrys um augus t ifolium

Commoniy called Everlasting, Immor-telle

Family: asteracae

Physical Description of PIant:Strongly scented herb up to 2 feet inheight with bright, daisy-like flowers.

Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean

Contraindications: None

Chemical Properties: Ph 3.5 - 3.8

Therapeutic Propertiesl Anti-hematoma, Anti-inflammatory, Analge-

sic, Cicatrix

Helichrysum italicum essential oil is themost powerfully anti-infl ammatory es-

sential oil, and an essential componentin Rosacea and bruise blends.

The gentier helichrysum hydrosol is theperfect toner for Rosacea, couperose(thread veins) and inflamed or irritatedskin.

It is a wonderful cool compress forbruises, as well. Having seen how won-derful helichrysum's essential oil is inhealing scars, I'd suggest tryinghelichrysum hydrosol (perhaps blendedwith carrot seed hydrosol?) for treatingacne scars.

We've used it diluted (and sometimesmixed with Tea Tree hydrosol) as amouthwash after oral surgery or toothextraction. Suzanne Caffy recommendsit as a mouthwash for gingivitis and/orreceding gums.

Ifyou often use helichrysum essentialoil, then helichrysum hydrosol is a musthave.

It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and amild analgesic. lt is good for sensitive,mature and congested skins, wonderfulfor scar tissue aftercare with surgery, oldaches or even used as a sports rub afterphysical activity.

Interestingly one book we were mullingthrough suggested that it was detoxify-ing and has been beneficial for the with-drawal of cigarettes, we wondered thenif it would also be useful for eating dis-orders as well, especially if you werelooking at them as an addiction.

I've heard back from people usinghelichrysum hydrosol and RomanChamomile hydrosol together to soothsunburns, radiation bums, rashes, skinirritations of all types. One client ravesabout the combination in keeping ec-zema manageable.

Our best seliing clients rave about theuse ofhelichrysum hydrosol in treatingrosasea, and in helping ease eczema.

Perfect toner for Rosacea, couperose(thread veins) and inflamed or irritatedskin.

Try helichrysum hydrosol (perhapsblended with carrot seed hydrosol?) forfreating acne scars. Use helichrysumhydrosol and roman chamomile hydro-sol together to sooth sunburns, radiationburns, rashes and skin irritations ofalltypes. One client raves about the com-bination in keeping eczema manage-able.

This hybrid works well in the followingconditions:

1. Incision and needle wounds *Speeds up healing and reduces swellingand bruising.

2. After workout/sports rub - Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic.

3. Scar Tissue (Cicatrix) - May pro-mote healing.

4. Tattoos and Body Piercings -Cleans and heals.

Skin: Excellent for sensitive, mature orcongested skin. It has been used by menfor before and after shaving care to pre-vent ingrown hairs.

Muscular/Skeletal: Good as a sportsrub because of its anti-inflammatory

qualities.

Circ/Lymph: Perfect toner for cou-perose (thread veins). It is a wonderfulcool compress for bruises.

Immune: Internally, can be helpful tothe liver, especially after a long iliness.

Digestion: Use as a mouthwash afterdental work, for gingivitis or recedinggums.

The above information was taken fromthe following websites.

http://www. 5Taromas.com/http ://www.natures gift . com/aromatherapyaccessories.htm

Blue Spruce Hydrosol

Botanical Name; Picea Mariana

Family: pinaceae

Physical Description of Plant: Ever-green tree

Habitat: Grows in Canada, primarily

Quebec

Contra-Indications: none

Chemical Properties: pH 4.2 - 4.4

Areas of Use:

Endocrine: Number one choice for theadrenal glands, and may be supportiveof thymus activity, however, there is no

concrete evidence to support this at thistime. It is thought that the thymus mayfunction better because the adrenals are

being supported.

Muscular/Skeletal: Tendonitis, sprainsand whiplash. The application of BlueSpruce helps reduce inflammation and

soreness. Can he helpfui in compressform for aches, pains and inflammation.

Skin: Tones up the bust-line when used

in a mist form.

Indications:

1. Adrenal glands - The # 1 choice.

Can be used for an aromatic pick-me-upbreak.


Chapter Meetings: Fennel, C*rn Fl*w*r, Flelichq'-,'sum, BlackSpruce Hyclrosols, csnt"

2. Thymus gland - There is specula-tion that this hydrosol may be suppor-tive the thymus but there is no concreteevidence to support this at this time.The thymus may function better because

the adrenals are being supported.

Tendonitis, Sprains, and Whiplash - Theapplication of Blue Spruce helps reduceinflammation and soreness.

Further Comments:

It has a stable shelflife and has thearoma that feels like we are coffrectedwith the outdoors. It is both stimulatingand balancing

It is good combined with peppermint orcedarwood.

The above information was taken fromthe following websites:

http ://www j eannerose.net/arlicles/digestive_disorders.htmlhttp : //www. artemisherbs. co.uk/info/fennel seed_aromatic water.html

http : //www. natures gift . com/aromatherap

vaccessories.htm

Cornflower Hydrosol

Botanical Name: Centaurea Cyanus

The cornflower is also referred to as theBachelor Button.

Properties: Aromatic esters with sooth-ing, asffingent,smoothing benefits.

Areas of Use:

Nervous: Eyes - Excellent for conjunc-tivitis, puffiness, pain related to eye ar-eas, and sties. An eye wash can be pre-pared as a tea and applied on a wash-cloth as a compress.

Skin: Can be used for scrapes, cuts, andbruises because ofits likely antisepticproperties.

The flowers and leaves can be used as a

steam facial: Boil the leaves and flow-ers. Cover the head with a towel and sitover container. After 15 minutes, rinsethe face with cool water.

Can be used to dilute shampoos andconditioners, gives hair shine and high-lights.

Endocrine: Hot flashes - Add a touchof peppermint to enhance the effect.

Genito/Urinary: Use as a douche forurinary tract infections, take internallyto ilcrease dieresis.

Digestion: Take Internally to increasedieresis.

General system tonic.

lnternally and topically can be used toreduce fever, particularly in infants.

This hydrosol apparently is interchange-able with sandalwood. It supports theliver and has a very gentle aroma, excel-lent coolant on the skin and topically foritchy and sore eyes. Good for both ma-ture and dry skin as it tones the tissues.It can reduce fever and is good for hotflashes, as it is thought to contain phyto-hormones.

Herbally, it is a fantastically relaxingand calming tea, so I am sure the dilutedhydrosol would be the same.

Contraindications: Please avoid usingduring the 1't trimester of pregnancy (the

first three months of pregnancy).

Of Interest:

Cornflower hydrosol will last about oneyear from date ofprocessing.

A general ruie to tell whether a hydrosolis fresh or not - put a drop betweenthumb and first finger - if it stays in adrop it is OK, if it runs then it is notfresh.

The following information was obtainedfrom the listed websites:

ablaze. com/HerbCornfl ower.htmhttp://www.naturesgift.com/hlidrosol order.htm

Fennel Seed Hydrosol

Botanical Name: Foeniculum Vul gare

Family: apaiceae

Physical Description of PIant: Bien-nial or perennial herb up to 6 feet. Verypretty with feathery leaves.

Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean,but cultivated worldwide.

Properties: Tonic, stomachic, depura-tive.

Areas of Use:

Skin: Used in creams for aging skinand vaginal dryness. A toner for dryskin.

Circ/Lymph: Circulatory stimulant.

Digestive: Constipation, anorexia, colicand dyspepsia.

Genito/Urinary: Cystitis

Endocrine: Useful for breastfeeding as

it improves lactation.

Can act as a powerful decongestant and

expectorant., tonic, Stomachic, depura-tive.

Apparently this one is a good fat burner,high in ketones it is a powerful diges-tive. It also reduces spasms and purifiesthe digestive system. It is an expecto-rant and decongestant.

Avoid long time use, avoid during sec-

ond trimester of pregnancy andon infants, dilute for children.

Contraindications:

Avoid long term use.

For children under six years ofage, do

not give more than one drop at a timeand dilute it in water.

Not to be used during the first two tri-mesters ofpregnancy.

Page 38

Chapter Meetings: Hating Bis*rders

Proceedings 2004

Eating Disorders

First thought we discussed extreme eat-

ing disorders, those being anorexia and

bulimia. We also discussed overeatingand excessive dieting, wondering if thetwo later could be classed as addictionsor disorders.

Overall, consensus seemed to be that anyofthe above could be a cause oflow selfesteem, stress related and possibly a con-trol mechanism, meaning that perhapsthat weight or food ingestion is the onething that the person feels theyhave control over.

In any event the body functions will beout ofwhack and the hope is that as aro-matherapists we would be able to treatthe base, and help balance the body a bitbetter.

One of our members was concemedabout the Atkins diet and where the re-fined carbohydrates are eliminated ffomthe diet, wondering if those of us withslow metabolisms will still continue tobum the fat even when off the diet.

Anorexia Nervosa: Needs aperitif tostimulate appetite.

Bulimia: Needs stimulant, stomachic,seedies.

B.E.D.: Shame accompanies abuse,

compulsive guilt and being ashamed.

Anorexia Athletica: Compulsive, exer-cises fanatically, loss of enjoyment (selfworth).

Night Eating Syndrome: Biological,emotional.

Nocturnal Eating Disorder: Medica-tion driven, done whiie in R.E.M fypestate.

Pica: Craving for non food items. i.e.:chalk, dirt and tin. Shows a mineral and

nutritional deficiency is involved.

Dieting: Body dissatisfaction, unrealisticideals, trapped into 1 size fits all mode.

Craves: Salt, spices, tea, cigarettes, nailbiting

All Attendees Agree that the first step intreatment should be the "Emotional At-tachment to Food", and physiologicalissues that surround that.

To address the Emotional side of eat-ing disorders:

E.O.'s: frankincense, sage, sweetgrass,palmarosa and rose

Hydrosols: helichrysum, rock rose, comflower, bachelor button

To address the Physical side of eatingdisorders:

E.O's : petitgrain/clemintine, palmarosa,

Hydrosols: black spruce

lmmune boost: #1 adrenal aid

Herbals Dual E.O's: fennel, lime, carda-mom

Further Thoughts on Approach:

Liver and endocrine cleanse and re-balance

Look for candida, emotional supports

Use appritieifs to stimulate desire forfoods as follows:

Petitgrair/Clemintine, orange, lemon (&leaves)

Use AntiAperitifs to diminish appetiteas follows:

Patchouli, sage, J/8, bergamot, bay, B/P,cardamom, fennel, G/F, lime, orange.

To address vomiting due to dehydration:

Cinnamon bark: applications - compressto colon, stomach, hydrotherapy.

Spray Ingestion: oral, topical, bath, mas-sage lotion

Rehydrate with Liquids and tepid soups

Eating Disorders:

Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa,Binge Eating and other related disorders

Description of Condition:

Eating disorders include extreme emo-tions, attitudes, and behaviors surround-ing weight and food issues. These disor-ders are very serious emotional as wellas physical problems that can have life-threatening consequences. They appearto be 20th century diseases, possiblystemming from too much stress in ourlives, or possibly relating to poor nutri-tion at an early age. The causes arevague, but there always seems to be an

emotional component to them.

Binge eating was only recently recog-nized as a disorder in 1992, and is simi-lar to Bulimia. The difference is an ab-

sence ofpurging so the patient becomesobese. It is believed that this disorder ismore prevalent than either Anorexia orBulimia.

Orthorexia Nervosa is not a recognizedmedical term but refers to compulsivebehavior based on eating only healthyfoods!

While most eating disorders have emo-tional backgrounds, there is one calledPrader Willi Syndrome which is a ge-

netic disorder causing excessive eatingfrom early childhood.

Please refer to the following websiteswhich have excellent resources outliningthe many aspects of Eating Disorders.These articles aro very extensively re-searched and provide a great deal ofin-formation including: definitions, signsand symptoms, physical/medical compii-cations, how aromatherapy can be util-ized in treatment, and recommendedessential oils and recipes. The SurreyChapter asked permission to use excerptsfiom the first website but there was noresponse.

http : //www. hypnotherapyforchan ge. com/aromatherapy/eataroma.htm

http:i/www.mirror-mirror. org/compulsive.htm


Chapter Meetings: H,ating Dis*rclers, c$nt"

Treatment Plan:

Eating disorders are all hugely related toemotional concerns, so essential oils forstress, self-esteem, depleted immunesystem and depression would be helpful.In conjunction with essential oil treat-ment, some kind of talk or counselingtherapy would be a useful tool if the per-son was willing.

Reflexology was also suggested as treat-ment involves only the feet and thereforewould be less invasive for people whoalready have major issues about howtheir body looks and feels. Essential oilscould also be used on reflex points.

Reiki would be useful for centering andrebalancing the body from an energeticpoint of view.

All attendees agreed that the first step intreatment should be the "Emotional At-tachment to Food" and the Psychologicalissues that surround that.

A program of massage would be useful,as well as choosing essential oils to use

in a diffuser or inhaler blend to curb thedesire of the person to use their bodies ina destructive manner.

Further Thoughts on Approach: suggesta liver and endocrine cleanse and re-balance, suggest a check for candida, and

provide or suggest emotional support.

Specific suggestions for specific condi-tions:

Anorexia Nervosa: Needs an aperitif tostimulate appetite. Petitgrain,clementine, orange, lemon & leaves.

Bulimia: Needs a stimulant and stom-achic. Try Seedies.

B.E.D.: Use essential oils to address

abuse, compulsiveness, guilt, and a feel-ing of shame.

Anorexia Athletica: Use essential oilsto address compulsiveness, fanatic exer-cise, loss of enjoyment, and to increaseself worth.

Night Eating Syndrome: Biological,emotional. Use essential oils to address

the emotional side of the disorder. Useanti-aperitifs to diminish appetite as fol-lows: patchouli, sage, juniper berry,bergamot, bay, black pepper, cardamom,fennel, grapefruit, lime, and orange.

Nocturnal Eating Disorder: Medica-tion driven, done while in a R.E.M. -type state. Use anti-aperitifs to diminishappetite (as above).

Pica: Craving for non food Items: i.e.:chalk, dirt and tin. Shows a mineral andnutritional deficiency is involved. Sug-gest seeing a nutritional consultant.

Dieting: Body dissatisfaction, unrealis-tic ideals, trapped into "1-size-fits-all"mode. Craves: Salt, spices, tea, and

cigarettes, nail-biting. Use essential Oilsthat will address self-esteem and image.

Dehydration: Re-hydrate with liquidsand tepid soups.

SUCGESTED TOOLS:

Beneficial Essential Oils:

Citrus bergamia (bergamot)

Jasminum grandifl orum (Jasmine)

Citrus sinensis (Orange)

Citrus aurantium (Neroli)

Citrus paradisi (grapefruit)

Santalum album (Sandalwood)

To Address the Emotional Side of Eat-ing Disorders:

Essential Oils:

Frankincense

Sage

SweetGrass

PalmaRosa

Rosa damascena (Rose)

Hydrosols;

Helichrysum

Rock Rose

Cornfl ower (bachelor buttons)

To Address the Physical Side of EatingDisorders

Essential Oils:

Petitgrain/Clementine

Palma Rosa

Hydrosols:

Black Spruce

Duals:

Fennel

Lime

Cardamom

To Address Vomiting due to Dehydra-tion:

Cinnamon Bark: Compress to colon,stomach, hydrotherapy. Spray Ingestion:Oral, Topical, Bath, Massage Lotion.


ilhapten Meetixgs: Xati*g llis*rders, csnt.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

National Eating Disorders Association.

Websites:

www.mirror-mirror.orq

www.eduak.com

www.hypnotherapyforchan ge. c omi aromatherapJ&at4lqma

www.miror-mirror. org/comoulsive

When most people hear of someone withan eating disorder they almost automati-cally assume the person has a problemwith food. Eating disorders are not a

sign that a person has a problem withfood, rather eating disorders are actuallyonly the symptoms of underlying prob-lems in that person's life. With propertreatment, people can fully recover.

This section will provide you with defi-nitions, signs and symptoms and physi-callmedical complications for anorexianervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eatingdisorder and compulsive eating. Thissection will also provide you with infor-mation in regards to the dangers associ-ated with certain products used in an

attempt to lose weight and who's at risk.

Definition

Anorexia is characterized by a signifi-cant weight loss resulting from excessivedieting. Most women and an increasingnumber of men are motivated by thestrong desire to be thin and a fear ofbe-coming obese. Anorexics consider them-selves to be fat, no matter what theiractual weight is. Often anorexics do notrecognize they are underweight and maystill "feel fat" at 80 lbs. Anorexics closeto death will show you on their bodieswhere they feel they need to lose weight.ln their attempts to become even thinner,the anorexic will avoid food and takingin calories at all costs, which can resultin death. An estimated 10 to 20% willeventually die from complications re-lated to it,

Anorexics usually strive for perfection.They set very high standards for them-selves and feel they always have toprove their competence. They usualiyalways put the needs ofothers ahead oftheir own needs. A person with anorexiamay also feel the oniy control they havein their lives is in the area of food andweight. If they can't control what is hap-pening around them, they can controltheir weight. Each morning the numberon the scale will determine whether ornot they have succeeded or failed in theirgoal for thinness. They feel powerful and

in control when they can make them-selves lose weight. Sometimes focusingon calories and iosing weight is theirway of blocking out feelings and emo-tions. For them, it's easier to diet then itis to deal with their problems directly.Anorexics usually have low self-esteemand sometimes feel they don't deserve toeat. The anorexics usually deny that any-thing is wrong. Hunger is strongly de-

nied. They usually resist any aftempts tohelp them because the idea oftherapy is

seen only as a way to force them to eat.

Once they admit they have a problemand are willing to seek help, they can be

treated effectively through a combinationof psychoiogical, nutritional and medicalcare.

Signs and Symptoms

r Noticeable weight loss

o Becoming withdrawn

o Excessive exercise

o Fatigue

. Always being cold

o Muscle weakness

o Obsession with food, calories, reci-pes

o Excuses for not eating meals (i.e. ate

earlier, not feeling well)

o Unusual eating habits (i.e. cuttingfood into tiny pieces, picking at food)

o Noticeable discomfort around food

o Complaining of being "too fat",even when thin

o Cooking for others, but not eating

themselves

o Restricting food choices to only dietfoods

o Guilt or shame about eating

o Depression, irritability, moodswings

o Evidence of vomiting, laxativeabuse, diet pills or diuretics to controlweight

o Irregularmenstruation

o Amenorrhea(lossofmenstruation)

o Wearing baggy clothes to hideweight loss

. Frequently checking weight on scale

o Fainting spells and dizziness

o Difficul8 eating in public

. Very secretive about eating patterns

o Pale complexion (almost a pasfy

look)

o Headaches

o Perfectionisticattitude

o Feelings of self worth determined bywhat is or is not eaten

o No known physical illness thatwould explain weight loss

Physical/Medical Complications

o Fatigue and lack ofenergy

. Amenorrhea(lossofmenstruation)

o Skin problems

o Dizziness and headaches


Chapter Meetings: trating llis*rders, cont"

a

a

a

o

a

a

Dehydration

Shortness ofbreath

lrregular heartbeats

Cold hands and feet

Bloating

Constipation

Hair loss

Stomach pains

Decreased metabolic rate

Edema (water retention)

Lanugo(hne downy hair)

Loss of bone mass

Kidney and iiver damage

Electroly"te imbalances

a

a

o

a

a

a

o Osteoporosis

r Insomnia

o Anemia's

o lnfertility

o Depression

o Cathartic colon(caused fiom laxa-tive abuse)

. Low potassium (most commoncause ofnocturnal cardiac arrest)

Cardiac arrest and death

Delinition

Bulimia is characterized by a cycle ofbinge eating followed by purging to tryand rid the body ofunwanted calories. Abinge is different for all individuals. Forone person a binge may range fiom 1000

to 10000 calories, for another, one

cookie may be considered a binge. Purg-ing methods usually involve vomitingand laxative abuse. Other forms of purg-

ing can involve excessive exercise, fast-ing, use of diuretics, diet pills and ene-

mas.

Bulimics are usually peopie that do notfeel secure about their own self worth.They usually strive for the approval ofothers. They tend to do whatever theycan to please others, while hiding theirown feelings. Food becomes their onlysource of comfort. Bulimia also serves as

a function for blocking or letting outfeelings. Unlike anorexics, bulimics dorealize they have a problem and are more

likely to seek help.

Signs and Symptoms

o Binge eating

o Secretive eating (food missing)

r Bathroom visits after eating

o Vomiting

o Laxative, diet pill or diuretic abuse

o Weight fluctuations (usually withl0-15 lb range)

r Swollen glands

o Broken blood vessels

o Harsh exercise regimes

o Fasting

o Mood swings

o Depression

o Severeself-criticism

r Self-worth determined by weight

o Fear ofnot being able to stop eating

voluntarily

o Self-deprecatingthoughtsfollowingeating

o Fatigue

r Muscle weakness

o Tooth decay

o Irregular heartbeats

o Avoidanceofrestaurants,plannedmeals or social events

o Complains of sore throat

o Need for approval from others

r Substance abuse

o Ipecac abuse


o Fatigue and lack ofenergy

o Amenorrhea(lossofmenstruation)and irregular menstruation

o Dizziness

o Headaches

o Dehydration

o Constipation and diarrhea

Shortness ofbreath

Irregular heartbeats

Depression

Tears ofesophagus

o Hair loss

o Stomach pain and bloating

o Erosion of teeth enamel

o Chronic sore throat

o Kidney and liver damage

o Parotid gland enlargement

r Electrolyteimbalances

o Cathartic colon (caused from laxa-

tive abuse)

o Edema (swelling of hands and feet)

o Low blood pressure

o Chest pains

a

o

o

a


Chapter Meetings: Eating llis*rders, coxlt.

o Development of peptic ulcers and

pancreatitis (inflammation of the pan-

creas)

o Gastric dilation and rupture

o Abrasions on back ofhands and

knuckles

o Anemia's

Cardiac arrest and death

Definition

Binge eating disorder is characterizedby consuming large quantities of food ina very short period of time until the indi-vidual is uncomfortably full. Binge eat-

ing disorder is much like bulimia exceptthe individuals do not use any form ofpurging (i.e. vomiting, laxatives, fasting,etc.) following a binge. lndividuals usu-aliy feel out of control during a bingeepisode, followed by feelings of guiltand shame. Many individuals who suf-fer with binge eating disorder use foodas a way to cope with or block out feel-ings and emotions they do not want tofeel. Individuals can also use food as a

way to numb themselves, to cope withdaily life stressors, to provide comfort tothemselves or filI a void they feelwithin. Like all eating disorders, bingeeating is a serious problem but can be

overcome through proper treatment.

Signs and Symptoms

. weight gain

r feeling out ofcontrol over eat-

ing

. low self-esteem

r depression

. anxiety

. experiences fluctuations inweight

r loss ofsexual desire

. hiding food

. feelings of guilt and shame

. disgusted with self

r going on many different diets

r belief that life will be better ifthey lose weight

o secretive eating patterns

. avoidance ofsocial situationswhere food will be present

r suicidal thoughts


r obesify

. menstrualirregularities

r diabetes

. high blood pressure

. high cholesterol

o osteoarthritis

. decreased mobility

r shortness of breath

r heart disease

r liver and kidney problems

. cardiac arrest andior death

Definition

Compulsive overeating is characterizedby uncontrollable eating and consequentweight gain. Compulsive overeaters use

food as a way to cope with stress, emo-tional conflicts and daily problems. Thefood can block out feelings and emo-tions. Compulsive overeaters usually feelout of control and are aware their eatingpatterns are abnormal. Like bulimics,compulsive overeaters do recognize theyhave a problem.

Compulsive overeating usually starts inearly childhood when eating patterns are

formed. Most people who become com-pulsive eaters are people who neverlearned the proper way to deal withstressful situations and used food insteadas a way ofcoping. Fat can also serve as

a protective function for them, especially

in people that have been victims of sex-

ual abuse. They sometimes feel that be-ing overweight will keep others at a dis-tance and make them less aftractive.Unlike anorexia and bulimia, there is ahigh proportion of male overeaters.

The more weight that is gained, theharder they try to diet and dieting is usu-ally what leads to the next binge, whichcan be followed by feelings of power-lessness, guilt, shame and failure. Diet-ing and bingeing can go on forever if the

emotional reasons for the bingeing is notdealt with.

In today's society, compulsive overeatingis not yet taken seriously enough. Insteadofbeing treated for the serious problemthey have, they are instead directed todiet centers and health spas. Like ano-rexia and bulimia, compuisive overeat-ing is a serious problem and can result indeath. With the proper treatment, whichshould include therapy, medical and nu-tritional counseling, it can be overcome.

Signs and Symptoms

o Binge eating

o Fear of not being able to stop eating

voluntarily

o Depression

r Self-deprecatingthoughtsfoilowingbinges

o Withdrawing from activities because

of embarrassment about weight

o Going on many different diets

. Eatirg little in public, while main-taining a high weight

o Believing they will be a better per-

son when thin

o Feelings about self based on weight

o Social and professional failures at-

tributed to weight

o Feeling tormented by eating habits


Chapter Meetings: trating llis*rclers, csxlt.

o Weight is focus of life


o Weight gain

. Hypertension or fatigue

o Heart ailments

o Mobility problems

o Diabetes

o Arthritis

o Sciatica

o Varicose veins

o Hiatal hernia

o Embolism

o Sleep depravation

o Toxemia during pregnancy

o High biood pressure

r Shortness ofbreath

o High Cholesterol levels

o Cardiac arrest and death

Dangerous Methods:

lpecac SyrupMany people with eating disorders abuse

a syrup called Ipecac to help inducevomiting. Ipecac should only be used incases of accidental poisoning. Repeateduse can cause the heart muscle toweaken. It can cause irregular heartbeats,chest pains, breathing problems, rapidheart rate and cardiac arrest. Ipecac is

very dangerous and it has been the cause

of death in many people suffering withan eating disorder. Ifyou are using this, Iwould urge you to speak to your doctorimmediately.

LaxativesStimulant laxatives such as Ex-Lax andCorectol are the most common laxativesused by someone with an eating disor-

der. Laxatives have little or no effect onreducing weight because by the timethey work, the calories have alreadybeen absorbed. The person usualiy feelslike they have lost weight because of theamount of fluid that is lost. That feelingis only temporary because the body willstaft to retain water within a 48 to 72

hour period. This usually leaves the per-son feeling bloated and fearing they aregaining weight. This is usually whatleads to repeated use ofthese products.Laxative abuse can cause bloody diar-rhea, electrollte imbalances and dehy-dration. Many people find that after pro-longed use they cannot move their bow-els without them. The person may alsoexperience constipation, severe abdomi-nal pain, nausea and vomiting. Laxativeabuse is very dangerous, can lead to per-manent damage to the bowels, severe

medical complications and even death.

Laxatives are not always used for thesoie purpose of trying to rid the body ofcalories that have been consumed. Just

like vomiting is used as a way for some-one to release built up feelings and emo-tions, laxatives can also be used for thesame reason. A person may also abuse

laxatives as a way to harm themselves.The physical pain resulting from laxativeabuse may be a reason that a person con-tinues to use them. They may believethey deserve the pain or they may findthat dealing with physical pain is easierthen dealing with emotional pain.

Diuretics (water pills)Diuretics are much like laxatives in thesense that they give the person a feelingof weight loss. When taken, a personwill only lose vital fluids and electro-lytes. Within a day or two the body willreact and start to retain water, which isusually what causes a person to use themrepeatedly. Abuse of diuretics usuallyleads to dehydration which can causekidney damage. Electrol1'te imbalancescan occur from repeated use which isvery serious. Yow body's electrolytesneed to be in baiance in order for yourorgans, such as the heart, kidney and

liver, to function properly. Once the

electrolytes go out ofbalance, the personis at a very high risk for heart failwe and

sudden death. Diuretics do not cause

weight loss, but repeated use can cause

serious medical complications.

Diet PillsThe sale of diet pills continue to be on

the rise in North America. Many peopleare lead to believe that they are a safe

and effective way to lose weight. Mostdiet pills on the market are not safe, can

cause serious side effects and have re-sulted in death. Popular diet pills such as

Acutrim and Dexatrim contain a combi-nation of phenylpropanolamine and caf-feine. Phenylpropanolamine is a stimu-lant and effects the central nervous sys-

tem. It can produce symptoms such as

increased heart rate, dizziness, highblood pressure, nausea, anxiety, irritabil-ity, insomnia, dry mouth and diarrhea.Fenfluramine (Fen-Phen) is also found inmany diet pills and it is quite popular.Like all diet pills, it stimulates the cen-tral nervous system and can be addictive.Its side effects can include diarrhea, highblood pressure, dry mouth, rash, palpita-tions and chest pains. Most doctors thatprescribe Fen-Phen ignore the manufac-turers warnings about who should use

these pills and how long they should be

taken. People using them are usually notinformed of the warnings either. Themanufacturer of Fen-Phen states that itshould only be used in treating obesityand when the persons weight is at a pointwhere it is a serious threat to their health.Many doctors claim that Fen-Phen is

safe and can be taken for life. The manu-facturer says these pills should not betaken for more than 3 months. Takingthem for any longer can put you at riskfor developing Primary Pulmonary Hy-pertension, a rare but generally fatal lungdisease. The life expectancy for someonethat develops Primary Pulmonary Hyper-tension is less than 3 years. Ephedrine isfound in many diet pills and food supple-ments and is probably the most danger-ous. It has been linked to many deaths

from heart attacks, seizures and strokes.

Its side effects can include irregular and

rapid heart rates, nausea, diarrhea, dizzi-


Chapter Meetings: Eating llisorders, csxlt.

ness, chest pains, breathing problems,headaches, anxiety and cardiac arrest.

Diet pills are not an effective or healthyway to lose weight. They are very dan-gerous and can lead to serious medicalproblems and death.

Society:

It is not surprising that eating disordersare on the increase because ofthe valuesociety places on being thin. In NorthAmerica, women are given the messageat a very young age that in order to behappy and successfui, they must be thin.Every time you walk into a store you aresurrounded by the images of emaciatedmodels that appear on the front cover ofall fashion magazines. Thousands ofteenage girls are starving themselves thisvery minute trying to attain what thefashion industry considers to be the"ideal" figure. The average modelweighs 23ohless than the averagewoman. Maintaining a weight that is1 5% below your expected body weightfits the criteria for anorexia, so mostmodels, according to medical standards,fit into the category of being anorexic.Teenagers need to realize that society'sideal body image is not achievable. Thephotos we see in magazines are not realeither. Many people don't realize thatthose photos have gone through manytouch ups and have been air-brushed tomake the models look perfect. Teenagersstriving to attair society's unattainableideal image will just end up increasingtheir feelings of inadequacy.

Teenagers are under a lot ofpressure tobe thin. They are lead to believe that theonly way they can be accepted and fit in,is ifthey are thin. They resort to starv-ing, vomiting and eating only diet foodsto try and be thin. Television is a biginfluence on them. They watch showslike Beverly Hills 90210 and MelrosePlace and feel they need to look as thinas the actresses on these shows. Manyacffesses we see on TV have enduredhours ofexercise and have deprivedthemselves of the proper nutrition inorder to maintain a thin figure. Some

even resort to plastic surgery, liposuctionand breast implants. You just have towatch an episode of Baywatch to knowthat statement is true. Society is brain-washing young people into believing thatbeing thin is important and necessary.

Diet commercials are constantly appear-ing on our television screens telling usthat once we lose the weight, we will behappy. While your standing in the checkout line at the grocery store you are sur-rounded by magazines claiming to havethe newest and best diet. Each monthanother new diet appears claiming to bethe diet to end all diets. Whatever hap-pened to last month's diets that claimedthe same thing? Dieting has become anobsession in Norlh America. We spendbillions of dollars each year fiying tolook the way society tells us we need tolook. If diets really worked, then why arethere so many of them? The reason anew diet pops up each month, is becauselast's month's diets did not work. Youknow, the ones that ciaimed to reallywork. The truth of the matter is that DI-ETS DON'T WORK. As soon as youstart to diet, you automatically set your-self up for failure. Many of the diets onthe market right now are also unhealthy.They deprive you ofthe proper nutritionyour body needs to survive and these

diets can lead to health probiems.

The diet and fashion industries are nottotally to blame for society's obsessionwith thinness. We are the ones keepingthem in business. We buy into the ideathat we can attain the "ideal" body im-age. We allow ourselves to believe thelies being thrown at us constantly. Webuy their magazines, diet books andproducts, hoping that this time they willwork. We are throwing away our hardeamed money trying to live up to thestandards that society has set for us. Beprepared to spend lots ofmoney on yourquest for the perfect diet and be preparedto never find it, because there isn't one.

It's unfortunate, but in today's society,people have forgotten that it's what'sinside a person that counts, not what's onthe outside. We need to start loving and

accepting each other for who we are, notwhat we look like. Next time you decidethat you are going to start another dietbecause you feel you are too fat, stop,sign up for a self-esteem class instead.That would be money well spent. If welearn to love and accept ourselves, wewili aiso begin to love ow bodies, nomatter what size we are.

We also need to teach our children to beproud of who they are. We need to re-mind them that people come in allshapes and sizes, and we need to teachthem to accept everyone for who theyare. Parents need to also teach their chil-dren the value ofhealthy eating and notsend the message that being thin is im-portant. Many children, under the age of10, are becoming obsessed with dietingand their bodies. They are afraid of be-coming fat. They don't just learn thisfiom the media, they also iearn this fromtheir parents. If their mothers are con-stantly dieting and expressing their de-sire to be thin, these young children willstart to believe they aiso need to be thin.We need to encourage and support ourchildren, especially teenagers. They needto feel good about themselves and theiraccomplishments, they need your ap-proval and they need to know that youare proud of them. If a child is raised tolove and accept who they are and whatthey look like, they will be less likely tostrive to fit into society's unattainablestandards.

Once again, I would like to stress thefact that diets don't work. Eating threehealthy meals a day, a few snacks anddoing moderate exercise, will allow yourbody to go to it's natural set point. It'simportant to remember that no food willmake you fat, as long as it's eaten inmoderation. Stop buying those fashionmagazines and diet products, and stopbelieving all the lies being told to you bythe fashion and diet industries. Instead,focus on learning to love and acceptyourself. No number on a scale and fit-ting into a smaller dress size will notmake you happy. Happiness can onlycome from within.


Chapter Meetings: Ili-polar Llisorder

Abbotsford Chapter Group:

Bi Polar and Associated Disorders

DESCRIPTION OF CONDITION:

The following is a list of the disordersthat are thought to be pathologicallylinked: affective disorders (bipolar, Uni-polar, schizoaffective); attention deficitdisorder (ADD & ADHD) (Strong Link);body dysmorphic disorder (altered per-ception ofbody shape and appearance);bulimia, and other eating disorders; cata-plexy; chronic fatigue syndrome;fibromyalgia; intermittent explosive dis-order; irritable bowel syndrome; klepto-mania; migraines/severe headaches; nar-colepsy; obsessive-compulsive disorder(Strong Link); panic disorder (StrongLink); pathological gambling; pyroma-nia; tourette disorder.

BIPOLAR I

Individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Ihave experienced at least one manic epi-sode and almost always have experi-enced depression. They may have ex-perienced psychotic symptoms(delusions, hallucinations) during eithera manic or depressive episode.

BIPOLAR II

At there most severe, individuals diag-nosed with Bipolar 11 experience mod-erate mania (hypomania), however theyhave not experienced psychotic symp-toms (delusions and hallucinations) dur-ing either a manic or depressive episode.

RAPID CYCLING

Drs. Ronald Fieve and David Dunnerfirst coined the term "rapid cycling" torefer to individuals who experience fouror more episodes, in any combination ofmanic, hypo manic mixed or depressiveepisodes in a one year span. Approxi-mately five to 15 percent of individualswith bipolar disorder will experiencerapid cycling. It is thought that someantidepressants can contribute to rapid

cycling while others such as Wellbuhindon't. This form of bipolar disorder gen-

erally responds better to anticonvulsantdrug therapy, as opposed to lithium ther-apy. Electro convulsive therapy may be

another treatment option for individualswith this form of the disorder.

CYCLOTHYMIA

Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolardisorder. Cycles ofdepression and hypo-mania are shorter, irregular, and less

intense. Episodes typically last for daysrather than weeks. Mood states can

change rapidly so that an individual canexperience a distinct change in moodftom day to day. About 5o percent ofthese patients respond to lithium therapy.

UNIPOLAR DISORDER OR MAJORDEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Unipolar Affective Disorder is an abnor-mal fluctuation in moods, varying lows(depression) with periods of stability.Unlike bipolar disorder, individuals withunipolar disorder do not experience the

high end of the continuum (mania). A1-

though unipolar disorder usually occursin adulthood, adolescents and seniors canalso be affected, however, it is more dif-ficult to recognize and diagnose in these

groups.

The symptoms for unipolar disorder are

the same as for bipolar disorder depres-

sion. There are several subtypes ofthisdisorder. However, there are a few sub

types of this disorder: melancholia; psy-chotic depression and Dysthymic disor-der.

DUAL DIAGNOSIS

"Dual diagnosis" is defined as having a

severe mental illness associated withdependence on alcohol, or other sub-stances. There are two subgroups ofpa-tients: major substance abuse disordercoupled with another major psychiatricdisorder; and abuse ofalcohol, and/orother drugs in ways that affect the courseof treatment of the mental disorder.

Surveys have shown that one third ofDual diagnosis psychiatric patients willabuse, or depend on alcohol and that one

third of individuals suffering from alco-

hol abuse will be additionally diagnosedwith a psychiatric disorder. Fifty percent

of individuals who abuse drugs otherthan alcohol will be dually diagnosed.

For individuals who experience mania,the lifetime risk for developing alcohol-ism is six times greater than compared tothe general population while major de-

pression carries a risk oftwice the aver-age. Individuals who are dually diag-nosed may have slower rate of recoverythan individuals without major substance

abuse. Currently, there are few compre-hensive, integrated, recovery programs

for these individuals, although researchis continuing. A moderate iifestyle willhelp control the iliness.

WHO SUFFERS?

Anxiety disorders are more common in

women than men. However, OCD seems

to be equally common in both. Often the

first symptoms are experienced duringadolescence or early adulthood. The ex-

ceptions to this are phobias that gener-

ally begin in chiidhood and disappear as

the child ages.

Case Study - Acute Depression

by Michel Vanhove.: is an aromathera-pist and teacher in Belgium. He has a

shop, gives lectures and classes and has a

mail-order businesssupplying essential

oils

A young women came to me begging togive her something urgent for her friendwho had acute depression....they had toget married the next day, Friday.

He is 32 years old, musician. They have

been living together for 3 years, havingsometimes a difficult relationship, also

due to the fact that he had depressionsevery 3 months and was unreachable,emotionally speaking. She's pregnantand they agreed to marry. Some daysbefore, he was caught by a sudden panic

attack.


Cirapter Meetings: Bi-p*lar [-]iscrder, csnt.

I gave her origanum majoranaandocimum basilicum, tropical methylchavicol type.

A special synergy consisting of somepine and fir trees I love a lot:

abies alba Miller

abies balsamea

picea mariana

pinus sylvestris

ps eu dot suga can adens i s

pinus austriaca

pinus pinaster

w ith cupr es s us s emp erv irens Provence(very green note, made only with thefresh leaves)

and melaleuca minor (cajeput)

The same evening she gave him a tea ofSt John's Wort, a complex of valerian(with humulus lupus, passiflora incar-nata etc...) with 1 drop of both essentialoils.

Later he took a relaxing bath with somelavender added. Then she gave him abody massage with a relax blend I made(roman chamomile, neroli, lavender,green mandarin), blended with jojoba oilas a carrier. I advised her not to massagethe belly nor the feet. She also gave aface massage. It worked: he felt asleepimmediateiy and both siept well thatnight.

Friday morning she gave again 50 dropsof the valerian complex with I drop ofboth essential oils.

Just before the guests came and the wed-ding began, he took some again.

The wedding was ok and he followed myadvice of sniffing on my pine synergyevery time he felt uncertain. People werewondering about it and he replied heneeded it for his respiration problems...He felt quite comforted by the synergy.

SUGGESTED TOOLS:(Essential Oils, Carriers, Herbs, Supple-ments, Energy Work, etc.)

Note Latin binomials as well as commonnames for all herbs, EO's, and carriersmentioned.

BIBLIOGRAPHY: (see how to below ifneeded) www. obad.ca./biplolar.htm

Vancouver Chapter Meeting

Condition: Bi-polar Disorder

Alternative names: Depression in bipo-lar disorder; Manic-depressive disorder -depressed phase.

Bi-polar disorder is a chronic diseaseaffecting over 2 million Americans atsome point in their lives. The AmericanPsychiatric Association's "Diagnosticand Statistical Manual of Mental Disor-ders" describes two t)?es of bipolar dis-order, type I and flpe II.

Type I (fonnerly known as manic de-pressive disorder), there has been at leastone full manic episode. However, peo-ple with this type may also experienceepisodes of major depression.

Type II periods of "hypomania" involvemore attenuate (less severe) manicsymptoms that alternate with at ieast onemajor depressive episode.

The disorder appears between the ages of1 5 and 25, and it affects men and womenequally. The exact cause is unknown,but it is a disturbance of areas of thebrain which regulate mood. There is asffong genetic component. The inci-dence is higher in relatives of peoplewith bipolar disorder.

Lithium is commonly used, which istoxic to the thyroid and kidneys. Val-proic acid is an alternative to Lithium,however it is hepatic toxic.

Symptoms:

Manic phase - Increase in goal-directedactivities (either socially or at work)

Increased energy

Distractibility

Flight ofideas or subjective experiencethat thoughts are racing

lnfl ated self-esteem or grandiosify

Increased involvement in activities thatmay be pleasurabie, but may have direconsequences (ie: spending sprees)

Decreased need for sleep (person feeisrested after 3 hours ofsleep)

May be more talkative than usual or mayfeel pressured to speak

Easily agitated or irritated

Lack of self-control

ln hypomanic episodes, symptoms aresimilar, but fewer and/or less intense.Delusions (false beliefs based on incor-rect information about external reality) ifpresent, may be congruent with mood(such as delusions ofgrandeur, or asense of special powers and abilities).

In the depressive phase, may experience:

Persistent sadness and depressed mood

Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness,pessimism and "emptiness"

Loss of interest or pleasure in activitiesthat were once enjoyed, including sex

Sleep disturbances

Phychomotor retardation or agitation

Withdrawal

Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

Fatigue

Overwhelming sluggishness

Diffi culty concentrating, remembering,or making decisions

Loss of appetite and/or weight loss, orovereating and weight gain

Thoughts of death or suicide

Treatment Plan:

Depends much on the individual and thesymptoms present. Essential oils thatbalance and upiift are best suited.


Chapt*r Meetings: Bi-pclar Dis*rc1,*r, cs$t.

Bibliography: University of Marylandhttp ://www. umm.edu/ency I articlel 000926.htm

Surrey Group:

Bipolar Disorder

(Manic-depressive Illness)

Definition

Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that

causes extreme swings in mood, energy,

and ability to function. The mood

changes ofbipolar disorder are different

from normal ups and downs. They can

hurt relationships and cause poorjob or

school performance. The two exffemes

of the illness are mania (when energy

peaks and mood may be overly euphoric

or irritable) and depression (when leth-

argy takes over and mood may be very

blue).

Causes

The cause ofbipolar disorder is not

known. Bipolar disorder tends to run in

families. Specific genes may play a role,

but it is not caused by one single gene.

Many different genes probably act to-

gether. Life factors may also play a role.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases

your chance ofgetting a disease or con-

dition. Risk factors for bipolar disorder

include:

Family members with bipolar disorder

Acute or chronic stress

Symptoms

Dramatic mood swings ranging from

elated excitability to hopeless despon-

dency

Periods of normal mood in between ups

and downs

Extreme changes in energy and behavior

Periods of highs are called mania. Signs

and symptoms of mania include:

Persistent and inexplicable elevation in

mood

Increased energy and effort toward goal-

directed activities

Restlessness and agitation

Racing thoughts, jumping from one idea

to another

Rapid speech or pressure to keep talking

Trouble concentrating

Decreased need for sleep

Overconfi dence or infl ated self-esteem

Poor judgment, often involving spending

sprees and sexual indiscretions

Periods of lows are called depression.

Signs and symptoms of depression in-

clude:

Prolonged sad, hopeless, or empty mood

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or help-

lessness

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

once enioyed, including sex

Decreased energy or fatigue

Trouble concentrating, remembering,

making decisions

Restlessness or diminished movements,

agitation

Sleeping too much or too little

Unintended weight loss or gain

Thoughts of death or suicide with or

without suicide attempts

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symp-

toms and medical history, and will usu-

ally perform a physical exam. In some

cases laboratory tests are ordered to rule

out other causes for mood and behavior.

Diagnosis of bipolar disorder is based

on:

Symptoms over time

Absence of other disorders

Family history of bipolar disorder

Mania is diagnosed if an abnormally

elevated mood, lasting at least one week,

occurs with three or more of the other

symptoms. If the mood is initable, four

additional symptoms must be present.

Depression is diagnosed ifa depressed

mood or loss of interest or pleaswe oc-

curs every day (or nearly every day) over

at least two weeks, and is accompanied

by five or more of the symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment of bipolar disorder inciudes

medications and/or psychotherapy.

Page 48

Chapter Meetings: Bi-p*lar Dis*rclex", c*nt.

Proceedings 2004

Medications

Lithium - mood stabilizer, often used as

initial treatment (helps prevent manic

and depressive episodes from returning).

Vaiproate (Depakote) and Car-

bamazepine (Tegretol) - anti-seizure

medications, also used as mood stabiliz-

ers instead of or in combination with

lithium.

Benzodiazepines - clonazepam

(Klonopin) or lorazepam (Ativan) can be

used to treat agitation or insomnia.

Zolpidem (Ambien) - used to treat in-

somnia.

Antidepressants - serotonin reuptake

inhibitors or bupropion (Wellbutrin) can

be used to treat depression.

Anti-psychotics - used if patient exhibits

psychotic behavior at extremes of mood.

Psychotherapy

Cognitive-behavi oral therapy

Counseling

Family therapy

Interpersonal therapy

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing

bipolar disorder.

Bipolor disorder is marked by periods ofhighs and lows. These mood swings can

be mild or severe, and can carry sufferersfiom despair to euphoria and back again.According to the Depression and BipolarSupport Alliance, these are some symp-toms of the two phases:

Mania:

-- lncreased physical and mental activifyand energy

-- Heightened mood, exaggerated opti-mism and overconfidence

-- Excessive initability, aggressive be-havior

-- Decreased need for sleep, but withoutfatigue

-- Grandiose delusions, inflated self-importance

-- Racing speech or thoughts

-- Impulsiveness, poor judgment, distrac-tibility

-- Reckless behavior

-- Delusions and hallucinations

Depression:

-- Prolonged sadness or unexplainedcrying spells

-- Significant changes in appetite and

sleep patterns

-- Initability, anger, worry, agitation,anxiety

-- Pessimism, indifference

-- Loss ofenergy, persistent lethargy

-- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness

-- Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness

-- Inability to take pleasure in formerinterests, social withdrawal

-- Unexplained aches and pains

-- Recurring thoughts ofdeath or suicide

To find a bipolar support group, contactthe Alliance at 800 -826-3 632.

Mood Swings

The oils below have properties that willhelp treat these symptoms.

Bergamot

Clary Sage

Dragon Time

Fennel

Geraniun.t

Grounding

Jasmine

Juniper

Lavender

Lemon

Peppermint

Rose

Rosemary

Sage

Sandalwood

Spruce

Yiang Ylang

Therapies, Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy affects our moods, alert-ness and concentration

Aromatherapy is more than just a means

to help induce relaxation. According toresearchers at the University of MiamiSchool of Medicine, USA, aromatherapycan have a significant affect on our brain(EEG) activity, our sense of alertness,and our moods.

Forry adults were given just three min-utes of aromatherapy using two aromas,

lavender (considered a relaxing odor) orrosemary (considered a stimulatingodor). The participants were given sim-ple math computations before and afterthe therapy.

The people in the lavender group showedincreased beta power, suggesting in-creased drowsiness, they had less de-pressed moods, reported feeling morerelaxed and performed the math compu-tations faster and more accurately fol-lowing aromatherapy.

The rosemary group, on the other hand,

Proceedings 2004

Chapt*r Meetings: Bi-pclar llismrder, csnt.

Page 49

showed decreased frontal alpha and betapower, suggesting increased alertness.They also had lower state anxiety scores,

reported feeling more relaxed and alert,and they were faster (although not moreaccurate) at compieting the math compu-tations after the aromatherapy session.

The implications of these findings are farreaching - suggesting that aromatherapycan be beneficial notjust in clinics andhospitals, but also in schools, colleges,and the workplace.

Source : Aromatherapy positively affectsmood, EEG patterns of alertness andmath computations.Diego MA;Jones NA; Fieid T; et alInt J Neurosci,96:217-24,1998 Dec

O The Internet Health Library 2000

Bipolar Mood Disorder

Bipolar Mood Disorder more commonlycalled Manic Depressive Disorder is atype ofclassic depression. It usually itbegins as depression and them developsinto alternating period ofdepression and

mania. In severe cases a person may go

from feeling invincible and elated tooverwhelmed with misery and despair,even suicidal.

The course ofthis disorder is highlyvariable. Both the highs (mania) and thelows (depression) can vary in severityand the length ofthe cycles; they can lastfrom a few days to months and in somecased even years. Low self-esteem andfeelings of hopelessness characterize thedepressive phase. A person with depres-sion may lack the motivation to do any-thing, even getting out ofbed and per-sonal hygiene. Some people stay in bedand sleep for weeks, withdraw from so-cial activities, avoid other people evenloved ones, and become unable to func-tion. Others may seem to be living nor-mal lives - going to work, interactingwith others - but inwardly feel a deaden-ing sadness and are unable to experiencegenuine pleasure.

The periods of mania can start suddenlyand without warning. Some people ex-perience what is called hypomania, ex-citement that does not necessariiy appearto be a sign of mental illness - just great

enthusiasm and energy. Others experi-ence full- blown manic psychosis, inwhich they have seemingly boundlessenergy and are ceaselessly active and

easily distracted. They may not sleep fortwenty four hours or more. Mental ac-tivity is accelerated and delusions ofgrandeur, persecution, or invincibiliryare not uncommon. Most people in thiscondition seem to be utterly elated for no

apparent reason, but some become un-reasonably irritable and hostile, and evenhave hallucinations. Despite all of this a

person experiencing full- blown maniabelieves that he of she is functioning at

peak efficiency.

The cause of this disorder is not wellunderstood. It may be triggered by ex-

treme stress and heredity may be a factorin some cases. Some believe that earlychildhood trauma may play an importantrole. Others believe that the manic phase

is used (unconsciousiy) as a kind ofpsy-chological compensation for the depres-sion. Biological factors are also possi-ble. There is evidence the concentra-tions of intracelluiar sodium increaseduring the mood swigs, then retum tonormal after recovery. It is also knownthat when someone is depressed thebrain chemical called monoamines are

depleted.

Symptoms:

Changes in sleep patterns

Withdrawal from society

Extreme pessimism

A sudden loss ofinterest in andfailure to finish projects thatwere started with enthusiasm

Chronic initability

Sudden attacks ofrage whencrossed

Loss of inhibition

Changes in sexual behavior,from loss ofsex drive to sexual

EXCESS

Some symptoms of childhood psycho-

logical disorders such as attention deficitdisorder (ADD), attention deficit hyper-activity disorder (ADHD), conduct dis-order, and schizophrenia can be similarto those of mania, so a thorough exami-nation is needed to avoid misdiagnosis.It is not uncommon for children diag-nosed with psychotic depression to be

diagnosed with bipolar disorder as adults

It is very important to get a proper diag-nosis from a qualified Practioner. Cer-tain systemic disorders can cause depres-sion, including Alzheimer's disease,

diabetes mellitus, encephalitis, hyper-and hypothyroidism, multiple sclerosis,and Parkinson's. Any diagnosis shouldbe make only after underlying illnesses

are ruied out.

Manic-depressive disorder may be ag-

gravated by a overgrowth of yeast in theintestinal tract and by nutritional defi-ciencies. Food aliergies, such as an al-lergy to wheat products, and the con-sumption of large amounts of caffeineand / or rehnes sugar, an make symp-toms worse.

Treatment Plan

A good balanced diet is diet is recom-mended. Foods high in omega-3 fattyacids may help stabilize mood swingsand effect similar to those of the medica-tion lithium. Also avoid sugar or sugarbyproducts, alcohol, dairy products, caf-feine, carbonated beverages, and allfoods with colourings, flavorings, pre-

servatives, and other additives. Takehigh doses of B-complex vitamins.

Reduce stress as much as possible.Establish good sleep habits and a daiiyroutine. Psychotherapy and self-helpgroups care helpful.


Chapter lVleetings: Bi-p*lar llis*rCer, c$ilt.

Aromatherapy Oils Custom blends fromthe following oils, taking in to considera-tion the contraindications includingmedications, can be very helpful in stabi-lizing the mood swings.

Anxiety

Ber Cha

C/S C1p

Yar Lav

Mar

Mel

R/W

Depression

Bas Cha

Ber Cam

C/S Cyp

G/F Ger

LIG Lav

LIC Hys

Nia Jun

Ora Mar

Panic attacks

Lav Ner

Mar Val

Mel

Insomnia

Bas Cam CIW

Ber Cha Fra

C/S Cyp LIB

Ora Jun Ner

Man Lav Ros

Pet Mar S/W

Thy Mel Val

Yar R/W Vet

Y/Y

c/wFra

Ner

Ros

Val

Vet

Y/Y

c/w

Cin

Fra

Imm

Jas

Ner

N/M

Ner

Pet

TIT

Thv

Mel Pat

Pin Ros

RA4 S/W

R/W Vet

YIY


Chapter Nleetings: GreenlanC M*ss & Canadian Wild Ginger

Greenland Moss

Common name: Greenland Moss, Alsoknown as Labrador Tea

Botanical name: ledum groenlandicum

Family: Ericaceae

Physical Description of Plant: Low,broadleaf evergreen, rhizomatous shrub,1'-4'tall

Habitat: Open or closed forest habitats,primarily with black or white spruce.Also found in bogs, muskegs, or opentundra.

Extraction Method: Steam distilled

Contra-Indications:

None (according to Kurt Schnaubelt)

Chemical Properties: Terpene hydro-carbons, sesquiterpene-ketones, ger-mactone

Therapeutic Properties: Puri$ing,detoxifies the liver

Areas of Use:

Nervous: insomnia, calming and reas-suring

Circilymph: detoxifies

Immune: cleansing and stimulating(when diffused)

Endocrine: liver(internally)

Genito/Urinary: kidneys (intemally)

Of Interest:

In fclk medicine, the tea was used exter-nally for all kinds of skin problems.Internally, it helped to stimulate thenerves and stomach. Used in NativeAmerican Indian medicine.

This plant grows rapidly after forestfires.

Greenland Moss (Ledum groenlandicum)Essential Oil

A potentially interesting oil also fromwildcrafted forested areas. The part used

is the flowering tips and new growth. Forthis shrubby plant, I have also receivedpermission and am doing an informalsustainability study with Provincial De-paftment of Sustainable Resornce Devel-opment (the Provincial Land and ForestManagement Agency). It is commonlymost prolific in bumed areas of forests,being part ofthe forest regeneration se-

quence.

It is very strong diuretic oil that I can

personally attest to. (I lost about 5 lbs. offluid in 24 hours foilowing the distiliingof lab tea the first time. I now use muchmore safety equipment to prevent over-exposure.) It is mildly euphoric, a stronganti-fungal, and a liver, kidney and lym-phatic tonic. The chemistry on the oil weare producing in Alberta is quite differ-ent than other Lab teas available.

Ledum Hydrosol

L e dum gr o e nl andi cum, Organic, Canada

Another new herbal water from Canada,Ledum groenlandicum, often called Lab-rador Tea or Greenland Moss.

Ledum Hydrosol is said to be a powerfuldetoxifier, and a support to both the liverand the immune system. Also said tostimulate lymphatic circulation. Mayhave anti -infl ammatory effects. Recom-mended for use during recuperation frommajor illness.

Like the rare essential oil that is its co-distillate, ledum water is a powerfulhealers tool. We have only a limitedamount.

(One client writes of using a spritz ofledumhydrosol on feet and ankles tohelp ease Restless Leg Syndrome.)

The plant has an ancient history amongNative Americans as a'cure-all'. Theessential oil distilled from the leavesseems to have immune system stimuiat-

ing effects when diffused. KurlSchnaubelt recommends the essential oil(taken intemally) for liver and kidneydetoxification. Schnaubelt often recom-mends it not for treatment of severe ill-ness, but during the recuperation process

for general support of the immune sys-tem, He also states that it is usefulagainst insomnia.

Emotionally, ledum is calming and reas-

suring. Some sources recommend it inhelping release trapped emotions.Please note that this is by no means a'beginner's oil', but we have had re-quests to source it from some experi-enced aromatherapists and health care

professionals. Nature's Gift does notrecommend the internal use of any es-

sential oil unless you are under the guid-ance and direction ofa trained healthcare professional. We were only able toobtain a small amount of this rare oil, allthat the distiller had left until next har-vest.

Gary Young asserts that, in his clinicalresearch, he has seen that ledum finc-tions like an enzyme, digesting toxicwaste in the liver. He believes that it'salso digesting fat molecules in the liver.

It's for these reasons that Gary has in-cluded ledum in his therapeutic-gradeessential oil blend called JuvaCleanse, an

essential part ofthe liver cleanse pro-gram

The liver and fat storageGary points out that the iiver stores morefat celis than all ofthe other organs ofthe body combined. And, when youunderstand that toxic chemicals solidifuin fat cells -- they hibernate in fat cells --it becomes clear that the more fat cellsyou have in your liver, the more toxinsand poisons you're holding in your liver,as well.

Gary notes evidence that ledum is digest-ing those chemicals and fat cells.

Fat cells and toxins in the liver.Let's look at the process.


Chapter Meetings: Greenland Moss & Canadian Wild Ginger,cont"

The liver manufactures enzymes, and thegallbladder produces bile for digestion.The bile goes to the liver; the enzymesgo to the pancreas for insulin balanceand support. But when the fat celis inthe liver are holding toxins, they are off-gassing into the liver -- avery toxic gas.

Now, most red blood cells are manufac-tured in the liver. But when the iiver isbeing poisoned with this toxic off-gassing, those newly developed redblood cells are being saturated with thosetoxins. This negatively impacts everycell in the body. Added to this, when thebile comes in from the liver, it co-mingles with the toxins that are present,creating a very toxic combustion, result-ing in bloating.

That skinny fat guy:Now, we have all seen people with theirabdomens hanging out. Some of thesepeople arejust plain fat; but there arethose that have extended abdomens whoare not necessarily fat. I've had guyswith big bellies come up to me and say,

"Punch that! See, I'm not fat." And theyare right; they are rock hard.

The point is: An extended abdomen isan extended liver; and then secondly, itis an extended colon. And yes, fat can

be part of that, too. But the liver is

where it starts, and the liver is where ithas got to be cleansed.

Ledum can play a big role in this.

http : //albertanewcropsnetwork. org/activities/essential_oils/essential oils_descriptions.isp


Chapter Meetings: Sreenland Moss & ilanaelian Wild Ginger,c{}}lt.

Canadian Wild Ginger

Common name: Canadian Wild Gin-ger, also known as Canadian snakeroot,Indian Ginger, Ginger root, False colts-foot.

Synonyms: C. domestica, Amomoumcurcuma, curcumam lndian saffron, In-dian yellow root, curmuma (oil).

Botanical namei asarum canadense

Family: Aristolochiaceae (Birthwort),Zingiberaceae

Physical Description of Plant: Herba-ceous plant, perennial, reaching 12

inches in height, with a thick rhizomeroot, deep orange inside, lanceolate rootleaves, tapering at each end, and dullyellow flowers.

Habitat: Rich woods, from New Bruns-wick south to South Carolina and west toMissouri. Most common wild ginger inNew England, Great Lakes region andEastern Canada.

Native North American perennial foundgrowing in moist rich soils in shadywoodlands in Eastern N. America fromNew Brunswick to Kansas, south to N.Carolina and Tennessee. Prefers a richmoist neutral to acid soil in woodland ora shady position. Cultivation: Wild Gin-ger can be easily cultivated through seed

or transplanted seedlings. The large heafior kidney shaped leaves are hairy, darkgreen and deeply indented at the stemthey grow in opposite pairs to a height ofabout 8 to 10 inches. The small maroonto brown, deep bowl shaped flowersgrow at the base, between the leaf stems,

it is single short stemmed and hairy out-side and seems to split open into threeoutwardly folded petals, flowers bioomfrom March to May. The root is a longrhizome (underground stem), it is lightgreen and tender or crispy, when crushedit has a strong antiseptic smell. Gatherroots only (flowers and stems are notedible, said to be poisonous) in spring tolate fall. Dry for later herb use.

When the rhizome is dried it containsaristolochic acid which has been cited as

a cause of kidney failure in some indi-viduais. It is not known (at ieast by thisgroup) whether this acid is present in the

essential oil.

Distribution: Native to southern Asia:extensively cultivated in India, China,Indonesia, Jamaica, and Haiti. The oil ismainly distilled in India, China, and Ja-

pan. Some roots are imported to Europeand the USA for distillation.

Other species: Closely related to thecommon ginger (zingiber fficinale). Notto be confused with the lndian tumeric orAmerican yellow root (lrydrastiscanadaensis).

Actions: Analgesic, anti-arthritic, anti-infl ammitory, anti-oxidant, bactericidal,cholagogue, digestive, diuretic, hypoten-sive, insecticidal, laxative, rubefacient,stimulant.

Extraction: Essential Oil by steam dis-tillation from the "cured" rhizome-boiled, cleaned and sun-dried. ( An oleo-resin, absolute, and concrete are alsoproduced by solvent extraction.)

Characteristics: A yellowy-orangeliquid with a faint blue fluorescence and

a fiesh spicy-woody odor.

Principal Constituents : a-Pinene 2%o,

Esters 27 .5oh, Free Alcohols 13.3Yo,

Total Alcohols 34.9o/o, Phenol Ethers36.9o , High boiling constituents, includ-ing Azulene about20oh,35 - 45 %methyl eugenol and is used in flavouringfor warm and spicy notes.

Mainly tumerone, (60%), withar-tumerone, atlantones, zingiberne,cineol, borneol, sabinene, and phellan-drene, among others.

Safety Data: The ketone 'tumerone' is

moderately toxic and irritant in high con-centration. Possible sensitization prob-lems. 'The essential oil of tumeric mustbe used in moderation and with care fora fairly iimited period).

Should not be used in therapy.Methyi eugenol is genotoxic. Same

category as safrole and estragole and is

carcinogenic in rodents

Aromatherapy Home Use:

Circulation, Muscles and Joints: Afthri-tis, muscular aches and pains, rheuma-

tism.

Digestive system: Anorexia, siuggishdigestion. I iver congestion.

Properties: Wild Ginger roots and driedherb are medicinal and edible, used as a

ginger substitute it has a spicy, hot,crispy, taste and can be eaten fresh insmall quantities in salads, used as a rel-ish, a condiment, or made into a sauce

for meat, especially good on chicken, orused to make ginger candy. Widely used

as an alternative medicine Wild Gingercontains the valuable constituent aris-tolochic acid, scientific study shows it tohave anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-fumor activity, cures warts in some cases

and is a broad-spectrum antibacterial and

anti fungal. This constituent is also oralcontraceptive, spermicide and immuno-stimulant. Other constituents in the rootare Alpha-Terpineol, B eta-Sitosterol,Geraniol, Methyl-Eugenol, and Limo-nene making it useful as a motor-depressant, sedative, expectorant and inthe treatment of chronic chest com-plaints, colds and flu, dropsy, painfulspasms of the bowels, stomach, andtreating colic in children. Works great as

a gargle or chewed for sore throat and

laryngitis, sore gums, and bad breath.Made into a paste, fresh or dry, for topi-cal infections, it is highly antiseptic.Dried root is burned as incense and issaid to repel insects. The root and rhi-zome were slowly boiled in a smallquantity of water for a long time and theresulting liquid taken as a contraceptiveby the women of many American Indiantribes. A spray made from the decoctionis a good deodorant and is handy in thefirst aid kit as an antiseptic. It is alsoused as an insecticide. A very strongdecoction is used as a herbicide.


Chapter Meetings: Greenland Moss & Caxradian Wild Ginger,cont.

Folklore: One group of early Americansettlers (witch hunters) called Wild Gin-ger (wartchase) and believed witchesused it to rid themselves of warts so theywould not be recognized.

TRY THESE RECIPES

Medicinal tea: To I pint of boiling wateradd 2 tsp. powdered or crushed root,steep for 20 min. sweeten to taste, drinkinYz cup doses throughout the day, forstomach problems or colds and flu. Adda few drops to milk for colic in children.

Antiseptic salve: Use fresh or dried herbcrushed, add to lotion or salve base, ap-

ply under bandage.

Uses: Digestive aid, flatulence, colic,intestinal gas; lung congestion; expecto-rant: bronchial spasms; opens sinuses:

relieves pain.


Chapter Meetings: llial:etes-Tlypes 1 & z

Diabetes Types I &2

Description of Condition:

The pancreas produces insulin, whichenables the body to use glucose. Giucoseis what the body uses for energy. lfthereis no insulin, or not enough insulin isproduced, the body cannot regulate itssugar levels. This disorder is called dia-betes mellitus, which causes abnormallow energy and abnormally high bloodglucose (sugar).

There are two types of Diabetes - Type Iand Type II. Type I generally means thepancreas is non-functioning and insulinsupplementation is required. Type Il is

generally manageable with diet and sup-plements.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pan-

creas no longer produces insulin. Thebody needs insulin to use sugar for en-

ergy. Approximately l0 per cent of peo-

ple with diabetes have type I diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pan-

creas does not produce enough insuiin orwhen the body does not effectively use

the insulin that is produced. 90 per centof people with diabetes have type 2 dia-betes.

Type2 diabetes is a syndrome character-ized by high blood sugar resulting froman impaired response to insulin. Type 2diabetes is usually diagnosed in patientsover the age ofthirty, but it also occursin children and teens. lt is commonlyassociated with being overweight, espe-

cially around the abdomen area. Manytimes, it is diagnosed after a period ofsignificant wei ght gain.

Gestational diabetes is a temporarycondition that occurs during pregnancy.

It affects approximately 3.5 per cent ofall pregnancies and involves an in-creased risk ofdeveloping diabetes forboth mother and child.

Glucose-lowering drugs usually succeed

in lowering blood sugar levels, but mayincrease the death rate from heart at-tacks. These drugs also are associatedwith weight gain, elevated cholesteroland triglyceride levels, nausea, diarrhea,constipation, stomach pain, drowsiness,and headache. Learn how you can im-prove diabetic condition with naturalremedies: fulvic acids, Bl2 vitamin, bit-ter melon, and gamma iinolenic acid(GLA) found in borage oil, and herbal

remedies.

JUVENILE DIABETES AND VACCI.NATION: NEW EVIDENCE FORACONNECTION - Vaccines have beenproven to cause insulin dependent diabe-tes and many are seeking compensationfrom the US government for this vaccineinduced injury.

Symptoms of DiabetesType 2 diabetes is frequently diagnosedin asymptomatic patients dwing a rou-tine medical examination. Symptoms ofdiabetes include:

r Frequent urination

o Thirst

. Weight loss

r Blurred vision

r Fatigue

r Nausea

. Fungal and bacterial infection

r Dizziness

r Confusion

r Palpitations

o Numbness or tingling in the lips

r Sweating

r Hunger

r Itching due to vaginal yeast infec-tion

Late complications of diabetes include:heart disease, infections, skin ulcers,kidney disease, numbness and tingiing inthe hands and feet, impotence, constipa-

tion, pain and poor circulation in the

legs, vision loss.

DiagnosisType 2 diabetes is diagnosed when thecriteria for fasting high biood sugar are

met. Blood sugar level is greater than or

equal to 140 mgidl (7.77 mmolil) afteran overnight fast on two occasions, orthe American Diabetes Association crite-ria offasting blood sugar greater than126 mglL (6.99 mmol/L) can consideredto be diagnostic.

A test calied the oral glucose tolerancetest is often conducted iffasting bloodsugar is between 115 and 140 mg/dl(6.38 and 7.7'7 mmoUL) and ir those

with a clinical condition that might be

related to uldiagnosed type 2 diabetes.

For monitoring diabetes, glycosylatedhemoglobin (HbAlc) is tested to esti-

mate blood sugar control over the priorthree months.

Is diabetes serious?If left untreated or improperly managed,

diabetes can result in a variety of com-plications, including:

r Heart disease

. Kidney disease

I Eye disease

o Problems with erection (impotence)

r Nerve damage

r Trembing

. Double vision


Chaptei" l\{eetings: I}iabetes-Tt1le$ 1 & 2, cont.

e Coma

Death

The first step in avoiding the onset ofthese complications is recognizing therisk factors, as well as signs and symp-toms that may indicate you have diabe-tes. Careful management of diabetes, forthose living with it, can delay or evenprevent complications.

What are the risks?

Risk factors for developing diabetes in-clude the following:

Being:

. Age 40 or older

. A rnember of a high-risk ethnicgroup (Aboriginal, Hispanic, Asian,South Asian or African descent)

r Overweight (especially if you carrymost of your weight around yourmiddle)

Having:

r A parent, brother or sister with dia-betes

r Health complications that are asso-

ciated with diabetes (see list on pre-vious page under'Is diabetes seri-ous?')

o Given birth to a baby that weighedmore than akgQ lb) at birth

. Had gestational diabetes (diabetes

during pregnancy)

. Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) orimpaired fasting glucose (IFG)

. High blood pressure

. High cholesterol or other fats in the

blood

Having been diagnosed with any of thefollowing conditions:

o Polycystic ovary syndrome

rAcanthosis n igricans (darkenedpatches ofskin)

. Schizophrenia

What are the symptoms?

Signs and symptoms of diabetes includethe following:

o Unusual thirst

r Frequent urination

r Weight change (gain or loss)

r Extreme fatigue or lack of energy

r Blurred vision

r Frequent or recurring infections

r Cuts and bruises that are slow toheal

. Tingling or numbness in the handsor feet

r Trouble getting or maintaining anerectron

It is important to recognize, however,that many people who have type 2 diabe-tes may display no symptoms.

How do you know ifyou have diabe-tes?

Early diagnosis of diabetes is extremelyimportant. The earlier diabetes is diag-nosed, the sooner steps can be taken tomanage it and prevent or delay compli-cations. The Canadian Diabetes Associa-tion 2003 Ciinical Practice Guidelinesfor the Prevention and Management ofDiabetes in Canada recommend routinescreening every three years for everyoneage 40 or older and screening every year

for individuals with other risk factors.

Can you prevent diabetes?Scientists believe that lifestyle and type2 diabetes are closely linked.This means

that lifestyle is one area individuals can

focus on to help prevent or delay theonset of the condition. A healthy mealplan, weight control, physical activityand stress reduction are important pre-

vention steps.

How is diabetes treated?Today, more than ever before, people

with diabetes can expect to live active,independent and vital lives if they makea lifelong commitment to careful diabe-

tes management.

Diabetes is managed in the followingways:

Education: Diabetes education is an

important first step. All people with dia-betes need to learn about their conditionin order to make healthy lifestyle choices

and manage their diabetes.

Physical Activlly.' Regular physical ac-

tivity helps your body lower blood glu-cose levels, promotes weight loss, re-

duces stress and enhances overall fitness.

Natrition: What, when and how muchyou eat all play an important role inregulating how well your body manages

blood glucose levels.

Proceedings 2004 Pape 5'7

Chapter Meetings: Diabetes-Types L & 2, cont"

Weight Managemenl.' Maintaining a

healthy weight is especially important inthe management of type 2 diabetes.

Medication: Type I diabetes is alwaystreated with insulin. Type 2 diabetes is

managed through physical activity and

meal planning and may require medica-tions andlor insulin to assist your body inmaking or using insulin more effectively.

Lifestyle Management: Learning toreduce stress levels in day-to-day life can

help people with diabetes better manage

their disease.

Blood Pressure: High blood pressure

can lead to eye disease, heart disease,

stroke and kidney disease, so peoplewith diabetes should try to maintain a

blood pressure at or below 130/80.To dothis, you may need to change your eatingand physical activity habits and/or take

medication.

Canadian Diabetes Association

Since 1953, the Canadian Diabetes Asso-ciation has been raising awareness, pro-viding services and supporting Canadi-ans affected by diabetes.

We are working toward a future inwhich:

r All oeoole affected bv diabetes at-tain an optifial quality of'life.

. All oeoole in Canada realize thatdiatjetei is a major health issue.

r Ultimately, diabetes is eliminated.

Today, the Canadian Diabetes Associa-tion promotes the health of Canadiansthrough diabetes research, education,service and advocacy.

Research: The exact cause ofdiabetesis not yet known, although scientihcadvances show more and more promise

every day. The Canadian Diabetes Asso-ciation is a leader in funding many di-verse and innovative research projects

across the country. The findings fiomsome of these initiatives have had a sig-

nificant impact on improving the qualityof life of those living with diabetes and

moving us toward the ultimate goal - the

elimination of diabetes.

Education: Diabetes requires a great

deal of self-management and discipline.People with diabetes need to activelyregulate their eating habits, medication,physical activity and stress levels.Through activities, programs and otherinitiatives such as eventso educationalmaterials, public service announcements,amagazine and more, the Canadian Dia-betes Association helps Canadians withdiabetes obtain the information theyneed. The Canadian Diabetes Associa-tion also provides information and pro-fessional development to physicians and

healthcare professionals through profes-sional publications, clinical practiceguidelines, an annual conference, and

more.

Service: People with diabetes, espe-

cially when they are first diagnosed, of-ten need assistance and support to make

the necessary adjustments to their lives.The Canadian Diabetes Association pro-vides people affected by diabetes - those

living with the condition, their family,friends, caregivers, colleagues, employ-ers and others - with support and referralthrough our website, resource centers,

camps, peer-support groups and more.

Advocacy: People with diabetes oftenencounter barriers because others makeincorrect or misinformed assumptionsabout the disease. The Canadian Diabe-tes Association's advocacy efforts,working cooperatively with governments

and the private sector, seek to removethose barriers by providing current and

accurate information, support, referralsto other resources and assistance in ne-gotiating the often confusing maze ofdifferent systems and services.

TREATMENT PLAN:

The following essential oils may helpsomeone diagnosed with diabetes:(http : //www. aromatherapy-e. com/symptoms/diabetes.html)

CORIANDER (C o fiandr um S ativum)This oil, as shown in research from CairoUniversity, lowers glucose levels bynormalizing insulin levels and sup-porting pancreas function. It also has

anti-infl ammatory and sedative proper-ties.

DILL (Anethunt Grsveolens) This oilhas been proven, through research atCairo University, to help lower glucose

levels by normalizing insulin levels and

supporting pancreas function. In Euro-pean hospitals it is also used for bron-chial catarrh and liver deficiencies.

GERANIUM (PelargoniumGraveolens) This oil has been used forcenturies for skin care. Its strength lies

in the ability to regenerate tissue and

nerves, and assist in balancing hormonalproblems. It is excellent for the skin ofexpectant mothers and its aromatic influ-ence helps release negative memories.In Europe it is also used as an antispas-modic, relaxant, anti-infl ammatory, liverand pancreas stimulant and is anti-infectious, antibacterial and' antifungal.It may also help with nervous colitis,plaque, ulcerations, fungus, hemor-rhoids, and anxiety.

ROSEMARY (Ro smarin us Offi c in alis)This oil may be beneficial for skin con-ditions and dandruff, and may help fightcandida and support the immune sys-tem. It is anticatarrhal, anti-infectious,antispasmodic, balances the endocrinesystem, is an expectorant and helpsoYercome mental fatigue.


Chapter Meetings: Siabetes-T3pes L & z, cont"

Diabetes and the benefits of Aro-matherapy and essential oils (htfp://www.essenti aloil s. co. zaldiabetes.htm)

Millions of people suffer from thedebilitation ofdiabetes, and have toplan their lives around this healthcondition. Aromatherapy massage

can be of great benefit to assist withimproving circulation, which is

often a major problem to diabetics.

Although aromatherapy can be of assis-

tance, any person with diabetes would bewell advised not to use angelica oil forthis purpose. Oils that are beneficial tohelp with improving circulation wouldinclude eucal)zptus, geranium and iuni-pq.

Natural Treatments for DiabetesMost people with this type of diabetesare treated with die1, exercise and oralprescription drugs. Some people requirethe use of insulin to control blood sugar.

Several alternative methods may helpwhen used under medical supervision incoqjunction with standard treatments.Once herbs and other measures for con-trolling blood sugar work, medicationneeds to be adjusted by your doctor.

DietA balanced diet is recommended. Foodsthat emphasize vegetables, legumes,whole grains, and fiber can influence therelease of sugar into the bloodstream.Foods that should be avoided are refinedsugar, processed food, junk food, pas-tries, and cookies. When checking labels,watch out for hidden forms of sugar,

such as dextrose, glucose, sucrose, comsweeteners, fructose, dextrin, high-fi:uctose com syrup, lactose, modihedcornstarch, maltose, malt, fruit juice con-centrates, mannitol, sorghum, xylitol,and sorbitol. Protein snacks should beeaten in between meals. Alcohol, to-bacco, and caffeine should be avoided.

A well balanced diet as well as supple-mentation with Vitamins C, E, 83, Nia-

cinamide, B6, Chromium, Vanadium,

Quercetoin, CoQ I 0, Taurine, R-alphalipoeic acid. Other herbs like garlic, bur-dock, Siberian ginseng, gymnema, biffermelon, galendula and aloe vera are alsohelpful.

All foods cause a varying insulin re-sponse in our bodies. Foods that have a

higher rating on the "glycemic index", ascale developed by nutrition researchersat the University of Toronto, cause a

higher insulin spike than those with alower rating.

Higher glycemic index foods are whitebread, bagels, English muffins, packagedflaked cereal, instant hot cereals, frozendesserts, dried ffuit, whole milk, hotdogs, and luncheon meat.

Lower glycemic index foods are mostfresh vegetables, leaff greens, 100%o

whole grain bread, sweet potato, skimmilk, buttermilk, chicken, lean cuts ofbeef, pork, and veal, white-fleshed fish,and many nuts. There are many factorsthat can influence glycemic index, suchas cooking and preparation method.

Herbs, Nutritional Supplements andVitaminsOnce the client shows improvements viathe use of herbs and other measures forcontrolling blood sugar, medicationneeds to be adjusted by the client's doc-tor.

Chromium - an essential trace mineral.It plays a major role in sugar metabo-lism. There is a growing body of evi-dence that shows that chromium mayhelp bring blood sugar levels under con-trol in type 2 diabetes. A typical dose ofchromium for diabetes is 200 to 400 mcgper day.

Fenugreek - a spice commonly used inIndia and the Middle East in cooking.Numerous studies suggest that fenugreekcan reduce blood sugar and cholesterollevels in peopie with diabetes. Fenugreekseeds can have a bitter taste, so people

sometimes prefer to take it in capsuleform. A tlpical dose range is 5 to 30 gthree times per day with meals. Knownside effects of high doses include milddigestive distress. Fenugreek should notbe used by pregnant or nursing women.

Korean ginseng - a remedy for a widevariety ofdisease or ills. It is report thatamong other aliments ginseng is goodfor diabetes.

Gymnema - an Ayurvedic herb that isbelieved to have a marked effect onblood sugar control. Doctors often pre-scribe gymnema for mild cases of type 2diabetes, in conjunction with standardtreatments. A typical dose range is 400to 600 mg per day ofan extract standard-izedto contain 24%o gymnemic acids.

Vanadium - an essential trace mineralthat may mimic insulin to help regulateblood sugar. It is found in biack pepper,dill seed, and unsaturated vegetable oil,as well as in vitamin supplements

Zinc - necessary for the normal produc-tion of insulin. Food sources of zinc in-clude fresh oysters, ginger root, lamb,pecans, split peas, egg yolk, rye, beefliver, lima beans, almonds, walnuts, sar-

dines, chicken, and buckwheat.

Other herbs and supplements:The function of the digestive organs

should be optimized, particularly theiiver and pancreas. Dandelion and otherbitter herbs, tumeric, and bupleurum arejust a few of the herbs that can help withthis.

The function of the digestive organs

should be optimized, particularly theliver and pancreas. Dandelion and otherbitter herbs, turmeric, and bupleurum arejust a few of the herbs that can help withthis.

Another goal should be to tonifu the en-docrine system and promote hormonalbalance. Ginseng, licorice, oatstraw, and

hawthom are some of the herbs that can


Chapter Meetings: fliahetes-T3pes I & P, cCInt.

tonifu the endocrine system.

Other herbs that can affect blood sugarare bifter melon, neem, and goat's rue.

Treating Complication of Diabetes

Lipoic acid - In Germany, the antioxi-dant lipoic acid is used widely for theprevention and treatment of peripheralneuropathy in diabetes. This complica-tion usually develops after many years,and is a painful condition affecting thenerves. Lipoic acid occurs naturally inthe body, and it is often reduced in peo-ple with diabetes. It is involved in theenergy metabolism in the body. There issome evidence that iipoic acid may bemore effective if it is combined withGLA (gamma-linolenic acid). A fpicaldose for diabetes is 300 to 600 mg perday, divided into two or three doses.

GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) - Anexcellent source ofthe essential fattyacid is evening primrose oil. It is alsofound in black currant and borage oil.There is some research suggesting thatevening primrose oil can protect nerves,and help with symptoms such as painand numbness. A typical dosage is 4 to 6

g daily, taken with food. Evening prim-rose oil requires about six months tohave noticeable effect. One caution, it ispossible that GLA may worsen temporallobe epilepsy.

Omega-6 oils should be taken in balancewith omega-3 oils, found in flaxseed oil,pumpkin seeds, wainuts, and fish oil.Omega-3 fats can help protect bloodvessels and decrease insulin resistance.

Type 1

tion of the vital energy-producing glu-cose by the tissues.

Blood sugar levels can swing wildlybetween Hyperglycaemia and Hypogly-caemia.

Type 2In type 2 diabetes, the body produces itsown insulin, but the cells are unable torespond to it properly. This form of dia-betes is associated with obesity and insome cases pregnancy. lt usually aflectspeople aged 40 and over. It is often pos-sible for those with Type 2 to avoid tak-ing drugs and to regulate the conditionwith changes to their diet.

This approach in most cases is more ef-fective and more pleasant. But alwaysconsult with your health practitioner.

Diabetes can cause narrowing of thesmall blood vessels throughout the body.The higher the biood sugar levels, themore the small blood vessels narrow.Resulting in the vessels carying less

blood and circulation is impaired. Poorcirculation can lead to a number of com-plications connected to diabetes: eye,

foot and kidney problems.

For type 2 diabetics this is great news,but for hypoglycaemic's it is somethingto watch very carefully. Goldensealshould help but not cure diabetes. A tinc-fure extract can be taken approximately15 drops, two or three times daily.

Fenugreek contains six compounds thathelp regulate blood sugar levels. Modemresearch shows that fenugreek seeds notonly lower blood glucose but reduceinsulin levels, total cholesteroi andtriglycerides, while increasing HDL (thegood cholesterol).

Olive leaf acts as a hypotensive (lowersthe blood sugar levels) and dilates thewalls ofbiood vessels. Thereby increas-ing blood flow and circulation throughthe body and to vital organs. It has noside effects even when taken over a longperiod, so it is good for diabetics.

Cayenne pepper is a wonderful herb tostimulate circuiation. When your bloodis circulating more efficiently you don'tneed as much of the chemicals that yourbody produces. A little will go a longway.

A retired plant scientist and a formerSmithsonian botanist, James A. Dukeand Edward S.Ayensu believe that Ko-rean ginseng is a remedy for a wide vari-ety of disease or ills. In their two-volumereference work Medicinal Plants ofChina (1:123) they report that amongother aliments ginseng is good for diabe-tes.

a) Hyperglycaemia - when there is an Scientific studies have shown that onions

abnormally large amount of sugar in the reduce blood sugar levels for longer peri-

blood " ods than insulin, but more slowly. En-sure you have plenty in your diet. Onions

b)Hypoglycaemia- when,1"," h ul, ;:*i}::?j?in::il?:,ff5,:fr1',Xtt*"abnormally small amount of sugar in the contained in a highly .rblutil" oil. Likeblood' onions, garlic has a iignificant ability to

control blood sugar levels. Garlic has a

Type 1 usualiy first appears under the strong odour so take as a tincture orage of 35, particularly in adolescents and other supplement. Either way try to en-develops rapidly. sure your diet is rich in garlic.

Tlpe 1 is insulin dependent and diabeticsmust inject themselves with insulin daily There are number of foods and herbs that

to control blood sugar levels. Type I's can assist in controlling the biood sugar

pancreas is not producing insulin or pro- levels'

ducing insufficient insulin, the result ofwhich is the body is unable to process Goldenseal will bring elevated bloodglucose (sugar). This causes a high level sugar levels plunging down and step upof glucose in the blood, and low absorp- the production of insulin in the pancreas.


Chapter Meetings: lliahetes-Types 1 & ?, cont.

Essential Oils and their therapeuticvalue in diabeteshtto : //m:t. di ab et ov al ens. com/nwly :dqs d/alomq.asp

Improvement of Glucose Tolerance

Although there is no indication that es-

sential oils can cure diabetes (type 1 ortype2), essential oils can be used to re-duce the side effects of some complica-tions like skin ulcers and skin infectionsthat often take longer time to heal whencompared to non-diabetic patients.

However, the oral intake of the follow-ing herbs may improve glucose toler-ance:

. Asian ginseng (Panax quinque-folius.l"

o Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

r Aloe (Aloe vera)

Stress Reduction

Aromatherapy has been used effectivelyfor stress reduction since long, and aro-matics have been used in many culturesto enhance quality of life. Besides, stress

has been linked to chronic skin prob-lems. Recent studies indicate that stress

affects epidermal permeability barrierfunction and is a precipitator of inflam-matory dermatoses. This means that any-thing that can reduce stress is likely toalso have a beneficial effect on skin in-tegrity.

Essential oils reduce the stress of copingwith diabetes. Nurses have used inhaledessential oils to help reduce their pa-tients'stress. Some of the essential oilsthat are known to be effective for stress

are:

o Lavender

. Chamomile

o Saxdalwood

. Valerian root

r Juniper

o Rose

r Rosemary

o Jasmine

t CYPress

r Orange

o Vetiver

. Ylang-ylang

. Geranium

To use aromatherapy for stress, put 3-5drops ofan undiluted essential oil on ahandkerchiefor cotton ball and hold thehandkerchiefto nose and breath inslowly for 5 min. This treatment can berepeated every 4 h or more frequentlywhen necessary.

Treating Skin Problems

Diabetics are prone to wounds and skinulcerations. Some aromatic oiis have theproperly to heal wounds, while somehave anti-bacterial and anti fungal prop-erties. However, before using these oilsfor their problems, diabetics need to con-sult their physicians apart from takingadvice from a practitioner of aromather-apy.

In any case, the following oils can be

considered for treating skin problemsand ulceration:

r Tea tree

. Clove

. Cedar wood

The essential oil extracted from grapefruit is known to treat problems of obe-sity. Since many persons with type 2

diabetes have problems with excess

weight and body fat, they may try thisoil.

The Sense of TouchTouch has been described as the first and

most fundamental means of communica-tion. Research indicates that manychronically ill people long to be touchedand that touch can make pain more bear-able. Perhaps for these reasons, aro-matherapy appears to be particularlyeffective when diluted essential oils are

used with touch, either in the form ofmassage.

Several nursing studies have shown thataromatherapy using touch has been

shown in to reduce stress. A point to be

noted is that aromatic oils are to be di-luted to 1-5% before applying topically.

ConclusionAromatherapy holds as much potentialfor use with people who have diabetes as

for use with those who do not have dia-betes. Health care professionals can en-hance their patients' lives by either ob-taining training in clinical aromatherapyor referring patients to people who havesuch training. It can be beneficial eitherwhen used in conjunction with medicaltreatment (such as for wound healing) orwhen used to encourage general relaxa-tion.

Aromatherapy can help diabetics feelmore comfortable, whether through thehealing ofan infection, treating a sore

muscle, the lessening of neuropathicpain, or the reduction ofpsychologicalsffess, and can improve their overall

Lemon


Chapter lVleetings: Siabetes-Types 1 & 2, cont"

quality of life.

Suggested Tools:

Treating with essential oils can be help-fhl to balance and support the centralnervous system and help with the stress

response. Oils such as Valerian, Chamo-mile, Rose, Vetiver and Lavender mayinduce relaxation. Oils such as Corianderwith cinnamon, fennel, dill, cypress,rosemary and ylang-ylang used topicallymay support hypothalamus, pituitary and

adrenal function which also affects theproduction of insulin. A blend ofMonarda, Juniper and Eucalyptus can beused to control blood sugar.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:http ://paridss. usask.calspecialcrop/como

dity/trerb:spi celtour/beebalm. html

Walters, Clare: Aromatherapy, An Illus-

trated Guide, Element Books Ltd., Bos-

ton, MA 1998

Mate, Gabor, MD , "The Stress and Dia-

betes Link", Alive Magazine, Nov.2004

Block, Reg, "Diabetes - the disease ofaffluence" Health and Fitness, Nov.

2004

Essential Oil Desk Reference, Essential

Science Publishing, Nov. 1999

Description of Condition :

Diabetes Insipidus; Diabetes Mellitus;Non-lnsulin Dependent (NIDDM - IsletsofLangerhans in pancreas can produce asmall amount of insulin; can be autoim-mune origin * maturity onset - formerlycalled Type I), Insulin Dependent(IDDM - formerly called Type II - juve-nile onset/labile diabetes); sugar is an

initant to the blood vessels. This resultsin many of the complications seen indiabetes such as poor peripheral circula-tion (possibly leading to gangrene), kid-ney diseases, vision problems related to

retinitis and cataracts, etc. Symptoms ofdiabetes are polyphagia, polyuria and

polydipsia. High levels of sugar are pre-sent in the copious urine. Nervous sen-

sation, including hot/cold, is also af-fected.

Maturity onset (NIDDM) usually devel-ops after 40 with an insidious onset. It israreiy associated with ketosis. Plasminsulin levels are often normal or ele-vated, but there is an exaggerated, pro-longed insulin response to glucose. Al-most all people with this form of diabe-tes are obese, and their glucose toleranceis restored toward normal if they loseweight. The reduced number of insulinreceptors on their adipose (fat) tissuecells increases with weight reduction.This increase in insulin receptors withweight reduction is also seen in obese

non-diabetics. Diabetes occurs when thepancreatic reserve ofinsulin is exceeded.

There is a strong genetic/familial compo-nent in maturity onset NIDDM.

There is considerabie evidence that auto-immune reactions are involved in devel-opment ofjuveniie onset IDDM. Pa-

tients treated with immunosuppressivedrugs early in the course ofthe disease

show marked improvement. There isoften a history of preceding viral infec-tion (coxsackie viruses invade pancreaticlslet tissue). Viral infection may triggeran autoimmune response in geneticallysusceptible (chromosome 6) individuals,leading to destruction of pancreatic B-cells. The disease usually develops be-fore 40, is often complicated by ketosisand acidoisis, plasma insulin is low orundetectable, a family history is uncom-mon and there are often pathologicchanges in pancreatic B-cells.

Note that many Type II are also insulinresistant. This means exogenous insulinadministration has dimished or no effect.

Diabetes insipidus is related to insuffi-cient production of ADH (antidiuretichormone: vasopressin) produced in thehypothalamus and stored and releasedfrom the pituitary. Insipidus refers to the

tasteless urine versus the sweet (mellitus: like honey) taste ofthe urine ofthosewith diabetes mellitus. Diseases in hy-pothalamic (supraoptic or paraventricu-lar) nuclei, the hypothalamohypophysealtract or posterior pituitary may cause

diabetes insipidus: 30% hypothalamicneoplasia, 3 0% post-traum atic, 30o/o

idiopathic, 1070 vascular lesions, infec-tions or systemic diseases (eg. sarcoido-sis) which affect the hypothaiamus. Inanother form of diabetes insipidus, thekidneys are unable to respond to ADH.

Treatment Plan:

Diabetes mellitus - exercise. no sugar,

regular eating and insulin schedule *with IDDM. a combination of long and

short acting insulin may be required tocontrol; weight reduction/fat loss.

Cinnamon, fenugreek and gurmar(Gymnema sylvestre), among other herbsare mentioned for treatement in Bar-tram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medi-cine. Ev ening primrose oil (O enother abiennis).

Eucalyptus globulus, geranium, benzoin

Anything that is used to treat pancreatic

insufficiency.

Suggested Tools:

Essential Oils, Carriers, Herbs, Supple-ments, Energy Work, etc.

Magnets work on circulation and pain.

Compress and massage with various oils,i.e.: castor oil, to improve circuiation,reduce infection and prevent toe amputa-tions.

Drink aromatic waters which contain the

water soluble extract plus a smallamount of the essential oils.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

BARTRAM, THOMAS. Bar*am's En-cyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. London:Robinson Publishing Ltd. 1998.


Chapter Meetings: Iliabetes-Tlgles 1 & *, *ont.

LERMIOGLU, L. et. al. "Evaluation ofthe long-term effects of Oleum Origanion the toxicity induced by administrationofstreptozotocin in rats". Journal ofP har m acy and P harm aco I o g,,, 4 9(l 7):

I 1 57-1 161. 1997 . In Harris, Robert. The

Ar om at her apy D at ab as e. (Databasenumber 510). Lansing, UK: EssentialOilResource Consultants.

NEAL, J. MATTHEW. How the Endo-crine System l(orks. Malden, Massachu-sefts: Blackwell Publishers. 200 1.

http ://holisticonline.com/Remedies/Diabetes/diabetes home.htm

htlp :/iholisticonline.com/Remedies/Diabetes/diabete s*aromatherapy.htm

http :/iwww.umm.edu/diabetes-info/

DiabetesDiabetes Insipidus, Diabetes Mellitus,Non-Insulin Dependent

CNIIDDM - Islets of Langerhans in pan-creas can produce a small amount ofinsulin; can be autoimmune origin - ma-turify onset - formerly called Type I)

Insulin Dependent (IDDM - formerlycalled Type II - juvenile onset/labilediabetes).

Description of Condition:Ifthe body does not produce enough ofthe chemical insulin in response to sugarlevels in the blood, then the sugars accu-mulate in the blood and body tissuescausing defects in various parts ofthebody. Sugar is an irritant to the bloodvessels.

The condition affects both males andfemales of any age.

In type I diabetes (NIDDM), the personis insulin dependent because the pan-creas cannot make enough of the insulinneeded by the body.

In type II diabetes (IDDM) the bodymakes enough insulin but the body can-not use it effectively.

Gestational diabetes is a temporarycondition that occurs during pregnancy.it affects approximately 3.5 per cent ofall pregnancies and involves an in-creased risk ofdeveloping diabetes forboth mother and child.

Symptoms of Diabetes:

polyphagia, polyuria and polydipsia.High levels of sugar are present in thecopious urine.

Nervous sensation, including hoVcold, is

also affected.

Type 2 diabetes is frequently diagnosedin aymptomatic patients during a routinemedical examination. It is important torecognize, that many people who havetype 2 diabetes may display no symp-toms.

Symptoms of diabetes include:

. Frequent urination

o Unusual thirst

. Weight loss

r Blurred vision

r Fatigue

o Nausea

. Fungal and bacterial infection

o Itching due to vaginal yeast infec-tion

r Weight change (gain or loss)

o Extreme fatigue or lack of energy

. Frequent or recurring infections

o Cuts and bruises that are slow toheal

. Tingling or numbness in the handsor feet

. Trouble getting or maintaining an

erection

Other symptoms inciude dizziness, con-fusion, palpitations, numbness or tin'gling in the lips, sweating and /or hun-

ger. If not treated, the person becomes

very disoriented and may go on to ex-

perience trembling, double vision and

in extreme cases coma and death.

Complications seen in diabetes: poorperipheral circulation (possibly leadingto gangrene), numbness and tingling inthe hands and feet, pain and poor circula-tion in the leg, kidney diseases, visionproblems related to retinitis and cata-racts, vision loss, heart disease, infec-tions, skin ulcers, impotence, constipa-tion.

Detailed Description of Specific Typesof Diabetes:

Maturity onset (NIDDM) usually de-

velops after 40 with an insidious onset.

It is rarely associated with ketosis.Plasma insulin levels are often normal orelevated, but there is an exaggerated,prolonged insulin response to glucose.Almost all people with this form of dia-betes are obese, and their glucose toler-ance is restored toward normal if theylose weight. The reduced number ofinsulin receptors on their adipose (fat)tissue cells increases with weight reduc-tion. This increase in insulin receptorswith weight reduction is aiso seen inobese non-diabetics. Diabetes occurswhen the pancreatic reserve of insulin is

exceeded. There is a strong ge-netic/familial component in maturityonset NIDDM. Approximately 10 per-cent of people with diabetes have type 1

diabetes.

There is considerable evidence that auto-immune reactions are involved in devel-opment ofjuvenile onset IDDM (TypeII). Patients treated with immunosup-pressive drugs early in the course of thedisease show marked improvement.There is often a history of precedingviral infection (coxsackie viruses invadepancreatic islet tissue). Viral infectionmay trigger an autoimmune response ingenetically susceptible (chromosome 6)individuals, leading to destruction of


Chapter Meetings: Diabetes_-Types l- & z, cclnt.

pancreatic B-cells. The disease usuallydevelops before 40, is often complicatedby ketosis and acidoisis, piasma insulinis low or undetectable, a family history isuncommon and there are often patho-logic changes in pancreatic B-cells.

Note that many Type II are also insulinresistant. This means exogenous insulinadministration has dimished or has noeffect. 90 per cent of people with diabe-tes have rype 2 diabetes.

Diabetes insipidus is related to insuffi-cient production of ADH (antidiuretichormone: vasopressin) produced in thehypothalamus and stored and releasedfrom the pituitary. Insipidus refers to thetasteless urine versus the sweet (mellitus: like honey) taste of the urine of thosewith Diabetes mellitus. Diseases inhypothalamic (supraoptic or paraven-tricular) nuclei, the hypothalamohy-pophyseal tract or posterior pituitarymay cause Diabetes insipidus: 30%hypothalamic neoplasia, 30% post-traumatic, 30% idiopathic, 10o/o vascularlesions, infections or systemic diseases(eg. sarcoidosis) which affect the hypo-thalamus. In another form of Diabetesinsipidus, the kidneys are unable to re-spond to ADH.

The pancreas produces insulin, whichenables the body to use glucose. Ifthereis no insulin, or not enough insulin isproduced, the body cannot regulate itssugar levels. This disorder is called dia-betes mellitus, which causes abnormallow energy and abnormally high bloodglucose (sugar).

TREATMENT PLAN:

Can you prevent diabetes?Scientists believe that lifestyle and type2 diabetes are closely linked.This means

that lifestyle is one area individuals can

focus on to help prevent or delay the

onset of the condition. A healthy mealplan, weight control, physical activityand stress reduction are important pre-vention steps.

Diabetes may be caused by a diet high insimple carbohydrates, lots of refrned,processed foods and sugar. Some peopleare genetically predisposed, and somecases are triggered by stress or a viralinfection.

Management:Magnets work on circulation and pain.

Type II is generally manageable withdiet and supplements. Glucose-lowering drugs usually succeed in lower-ing blood sugar levels, but may increasethe death rate from heafi attacks. Thesedrugs also are associated with weightgain, elevated cholesterol and triglyc-eride levels, nausea, diarrhea, constipa-tion, stomach pain, drowsiness, and

headache.

You can improve diabetic condition withnatural remedies: fulvic acids, Bl2 vita-min, bitter melon, and gamma linolenicacid (GLA) found in borage oil, andherbal remedies.

Juvenile diabetes and vaccination: newevidence for a connection - Vaccineshave been proven to cause insulin de-pendent diabetes and many are seekingcompensation from the US governmentfor this vaccine induced itrju.y.

Several alternative methods may helpwhen used under medical supervisionin conjunction with standard treat-ments:

Education: Diabetes education is an

important first step. All people with dia-betes need to learn about their conditionin order to make healthy lifestyle choicesand manage their diabetes.

Physical Activiry.' Regular physical ac-tivity helps the body lower blood glucoselevels, promotes weight loss, reducesstress and enhances overall fitness.

Nutrition: What, when and how muchone eats all play an important roie inregulating how well the body managesblood glucose ievels.

Diabetes may be caused by a diet high in

simple carbohydrates, lots of refined,processed foods and sugar. Some peopleare genetically predisposed, and some

cases are triggered by stress or a viralinfection.

Weight Management: Maintaining a

healthy weight is especially important inthe management of type 2 diabetes.

Medication: Type I diabetes is alwaystreated with insulin. Type 2 diabetes is

managed through physical activity and

meal planning and may require medica-tions and/or insulin to assist the body inmaking or using insulin more effectively.

Lifestyle ManagemenL' Learning toreduce stress levels in day-to-day life can

help people with diabetes better manage

their disease.

Blood Pressure: I{igh blood pressure

can lead to eye disease, heart disease,

stroke and kidney disease, so peoplewith diabetes should ffy to maintain a

blood pressure at or below 130/80. Todo this, one may need to change one'seating and physical activity habits and/ortake medication.

SUGGESTED TOOLS:

A ROMA THERAPY & DIA B ETES :Any person with diabetes would be welladvised not to use angelica oil.

Aromatherapy massage can be of greatbenefit to assist with improving circula-tion, which is often a major problem todiabetics. Although there is no indica-tion that essential oils can cure diabetes(type 1 or type 2), essential oils can beused to reduce the side effects of some

complications like skin ulcers and skininfections that often take longer time toheal when compared to non-diabeticpatients.

- Castor oil to improve circulation, re-duce infection and prevent toe amputa-tions-

- Drink aromatic waters which containthe water soluble extract plus a smallamount of the essential oils.


Chapter l\{eetings: I}iabetes-T-}T)es L & z, c$nt.

- BLENDS:l) Coriander with cinnamon, fennel,dill, cypress, rosemary and ylang ylangused topically may support hypothala-mus, pituitary and adrenal functionwhich also effects the production of in-sulin.2) A blend of Monarda, Juniper and

Eucalyptus can be used to control bloodsugar.3) Eucalyptus globulus, geranium, ben-zoin.4) Anything that is used to treat pancre-atic insufficiency.

IN CONCLUSION:

Health care professionals can enhance

their patients' lives by either obtainingtraining in clinical aromatherapy or re-ferring patients to people who have suchtraining. It can be beneficial either whenused in conjunction with medical treat-ment (such as for wound healing) orwhen used to encourage general relaxa-tion.

Aromatherapy can help diabetics feelmore comfortable, whether through thehealing ofan infection, treating a sore

muscle, the lessening of neuropathicpain, or the reduction ofpsychologicalstress, and can improve their overallquality of life.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

WALTERS, CLARE: Aromatherapy,

An lllustrated Guide, Element Books

Ltd., Boston, MA 1998

MATE, GABOR, MD ,"The Stress qnd

Diabetes Link", Alive Magazine, Nov.

2004

BLOCK, PIEG,"Diabetes - tlte disease

of affluence" Health and Fitness, Nov.

2004

Essential Oil Desk Reference, Essential

Science Pubiishing, Nov. 1999

BARTRAM, THOMAS. Burtram's En-cy c I o p e d ia of H er b al Medic ine. London:Robinson Publishing Ltd. 1998.

LERMIOGLU, L. et. al. "Evaluation ofthe long-term effects of Oleum Origanion the loxiciQ ittduced by administra-tion ofstreptozotocin in rats". Journalof Pharmacy and Pharmacolog,t, 49(11):1157 -1 161. 1997 . In Harris, Plobert, TheAro math erapy D stu b as e. (Databasenumber 510). Lansing, UK: Essential OilResource Consultants.

NEAL, J. MATTHEW. How the Endo-crine System llorks. Malden, Massachu-setts: Blackwell Publishers . 2001.

www.holisticonline. com,/Remedies/Diabetes/diabetes home

www.holisticonline.com/Remedies/Diabetes/diabetes_aromath erapy

www.umm. edu/diabetes-info

www.paridss. usask. calspeci alcrop/comoditvAerb rueetqur/bggbqLn


Chapter Meetings: Monarda & Valerlan

Essential Oil of Monarda

Botanical name: Monardafistulosa, M.citriodora

Common name: Monarda, wild berga-mot, bee balm, Oswego tea, lemon bee

balm, horse mint, lemon mint

Family: Labiatiae

Fragrance: Citrus-minty scent, bal-samic note topped with lavender-rosescent. Sweet, citrus, w/ light herbaceous

/ floral note. Grassy, flavoring for EarlGrey Tea.

OLEUM MONARDAE, or Oil of horse-

mint, is of a yellowish, or more oftenyellowish-red or brownish-red color, and

has a sharp taste and an aromatic, pleas-

ant odor.

Blends well with: birch, lavender, lime,lemon, geranium, rosemary, juniper,eucalyptus.

Colour: Pale yellow

Physical Description: Square reed orpipe like stems 3 - 4 ft high, leaves are

opposite, dark green, oval, toothed mar-gins, 3 - 6 in. long flowers are brilliantscarlet to pale purple in colour, clustered

in whirls at the top of the stem in 2 ormore ties.

Whirls of tubular flowers appear in Julyand August. Colors range from red topink to purple to salmon or white. Fromthe mint family so spreads quickly un-derground by runners. Athacts bees and

hummingbirds.

Habitat: Native to North America,moist soils, thickets, woodlands and

stream banks.

Contraindications: Pregnancy, highblood pressure

Chemical Properties: thymol, cymene,

carvacrol, linalool, geraniol, neral,gamma-terpinene

Therapeutic Properties: Anti-infectious, anti-bacterial, anti-fu ngal,

antiviral, carminative, diaphoretic, diu-retic, emmenagogue, nerve tonic, rubefa-

cient, stimulant, and uterine tonic, ver-mafuge

Areas of Use:

Nervous: Stimulating to the nervous

system, calms when the nervous systemis hyperactive and yet exhausted, stress ,

tension, depression, neuralgic pain

Skin: acne, dandruff

Muscular/Skeletal: rheumatism

Circ/Lymph: increases blood pressure/

cardiac force

lmmune: anti infectious, fevers, influ-enza

Respiratory: colds, coughs, respiratoryinfections

Genito/Urinary: brings on menstrua-tion, menstrual cramps, urogenital infec-tions

Digestion: intestinal gas, colic, nausea,

vomiting

Of Interest: North American first na-

tions brewed it as a tea and for medicinalpurposes. It was brewed by the settlersas substitute for black tea after the Bos-ton tea party. Monarda was also used inmoney and success spells and rituals.

Bibliography:

Rogers. Robert Dale AHG Scents ofwonder, plant oils of the prairies Edmon-ton: Rogers 2001

Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopaedia ofHerbs Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale

Press 1987

www. globalherbalsupplies. com

Horsemint: is an indigenous perennialor biennial herb, with a fibrous root. The

stems are obtusely angled, hoary pubes-

cent, branched,and2 or 3 feethigh. The

leaves are oblong-lanceolate to oblong,remotely and obscurely serrate, nar-

rowed at base, punctate, and petioled.The flowers are yellow, with brown orpurple spots, in numerous. dense, axil-

lary whorls. The bracts are large, yellow,and red, lanceolate, obtuse at the base,

sessile, and longer than the whorls. The

corolla is nearly smooth, ringent, tubular,upper lips spotted with purple, lower iipreflexed, 3-lobed. Calyx elongated, cyl-indric, 15-nerved, sub equally 5-toothed,

and hairy in the throat; the teeth are short

and rigid, awnless. Stamens 2, elongated,

ascending, inserted in the throat ofthecorolla; anthers linear, cells divaricate at

base, and connate at apex

Bee Balm: is a perennial with square-

shaped stems, characteristic of herbs inthe mint family. The roots are fibrousand spread via rhizomes. The leaves are

lance-shaped, opposite, glabrous, fuzzy,and toothed. When bruised or damaged,

the leaves are highly flagrant. The brightred flowers range from one to three

inches terminal clusters each with doz-

ens of tiny blossoms. The flowers are

approximately one and a half inches

long, ending in two lips (the upper one

rigidly overhangs the other which has

three spreading lobes).

- square reed or pipe like stems 3 - 4 fthigh, leaves are opposite, dark green,

oval, toothed margins, 3 - 6 in. long.

Flowers are brilliant scarlet to pale pur-ple in colour, clustered in whiris at the

top of the stem in 2 or more tiers.

Native to North America, moist soils,

thickets, woodiands, stream banks, dryhillsides and rocky woods.

Native to the prairies. Grows in light soilthat is moist and well drained, and also

in dry poor soiis. Bloom best in morningsun.

Growth conditions: Bee Balm grows indry, sunny meadows and sloPed areas,

preferring a full sun or partially shaded

environment. Adaptable to a variety ofsoils, it prefers dry land habitats and is

drought tolerant. Bee balm reseeds read-

ily and transplants well. Bee Balm can

be found in bracken grasslands, cliffareas, northem lowland and upland for-


Chapter M*etings: M*narda & Valerien, cont.

ests, southern upland forests, pine bar-rens, prairies, savanna, and sedge mead-ows.

Distribution of species: Bee Balm isnative to the eastern United States fromNew York, west to Michigan, south tothe Appalachian Mountains. The com-plete range of Bee Balm is currently un-defined, as it is spreading westward fromthe Eastem and Midwest United States.Bee balm is often found in abundancewhere livestock grazes. Zones 4-8.

Extraction Method: Steam distillationof fresh and wilted plants.

The oil may be obtained by distillationof the recent herb with water. The piantyields its virtues to alcohol, or boilingwater by infusion.

Contraindications: Avoid during preg-nancy, with high blood pressure, skinsensitivity when subject to sunlight.

Appears safe at normal low physiologi-cal dose.

Chemical Properties:

M. fistulosa contains 95oh geraniol.

Geraniol 91.45 I germauene D |.72 Ilinalool 1.21 I linalool 1.04 I geranial.19/ nerol .60 /y-terinene .55 I neral .54

/ myrcene .46

thymol, cymene, carvacrol, linalool, ge-r aniol, ner al, gamrna-terpinene, unde-canal, bornylacetate, carotene, carvqc-rol, cymene, diperitone, neral, nonanol,pul e gone, et hy I qtu I ac ar b in.al, and hex-enolphenylacetate

OLEUM MONARDAE,oT OiI ofhorsemint. Alcohol readily dissolves it.Below 5o C. (39'F.), it deposits crystalsofa stearopten once called monardin,but which has subsequently been showntobethtmol (Cl0H13OH). H. J. M.Schroeter (Anter. Jour. Pharm., 1888)believes the oil to contain 50 per cent ofa hydrocarbon (C I 0H 1 6), 25 per cent ofthymol, which he pronounced to be dex-tro-glrate, while thymol from oil of

thyme is optically inactive, and oxygen-ated bodies of the compositionC10H180. He also found small quanti-ties of formic, acetic, and butyric acidsin the form of esters. More recentiy,Prof. Edward Kremers and W. R. Schu-mann (Proc. Amer. Pharm. Assoc., 7896,p. 238) distilled the flowering herb ofMonarda punctqta of their own collec-tion, and obtained an amber-colored oilof 0.9307 specific gravity, at 20" C. (68"F.), which yielded to a 10 per cent caus-

tic soda solution, 56 per cent of thymol.The residue distilled with water, yieldedan oil containing the hydrocarbon cy-mene (CllHl4), previously shown byBrennan (1895) to occur also in the oil ofMonardafistulosa. Another lot of theherb collected by the same authors be-fore flowering yielded upon distillation3.39 per cent of oil, while more recently,Kremers and W. E. Hendricks (Pharm.Archives, 1899, Vol. II,p.73), obtainedonly I per cent of oil from a floweringspecimen of the plant. In the latter case,60 per cent ofphenols were present,mostly thymol. Its isomer, carvecrol,may be occasionally present in smallquantity. The non-phenol part ofthe oilcontained 10 per cent ofan alcohol; fur-thermore, cymene) and a small quantityof dexfro-rotat ory I imonene.

Therapeutic Properties: Of the severalspecies of monardas that is grown one isrich in thymol (valuable for antisepticand medicinal properties-minty and ag-gressive) and most others are rich in ge-raniol {used in perfume and aromatics-pale yellow with a sweet bal-samicilavender/rose scent).

Geraniol - strong antiseptic, cancer pre-ventative, candidicide, embryotoxic,fungicide, insectifuge, sedative, Anti-Infectious.

o Anti-Bacterial

o Anti-Fungal

o Antiviral

r Carminative

. Diaphoretic

r Diuretic

r Emmenagogue

r Nerve Tonic

e Rubefacient

r Stimuiant

r Uterine Tonic

o Vermafuge

Areas of Use:

Nervous: stimulating to the nervoussystem, calms when the nervous systemis hyperactive and yet exhausted, stress,tension, depression, neuralgic pain, andi-depressant. debility, fatigue.

Skin: drying and healing to acne, infu-sions for inflamed eyes, dandruff.

Muscular/Skeleta l: rheumatism,anethenia (debility).

Circ/Lymph: increases blood pressure/cardiac force, Stimuli.

Immune: anti infectious, fevers, influ-enza.

Respiratory: M. fistulosa - see Fran-chomme, colds, coughs, respiratory in-fections, bronchitis, sore throat, tonsilli-tis, thruxh.Endocrine:

Genito/Urinary: reproductive andgenito-urinary infections, brings onmenstruation, menstrual cramps, uro-genital infections. cystitis. urinary tractinfections.

Digestion: painfulisluggish digestion;liver congestion (stimulates gall blad-der); intestinal parasites (dt. thymol con-tent), intestinal gas, colic, nausea, vomit-ing, anorexia, flatulence, may aid pepticulcers, regulates appetite.


Chapter Nleetings: M*nard.a & Valsriarl, co$t.

Of Interest:

M. fistulosa var. menthifolia occurs intwo chemotlpes:

r thymol-type(regular)

. geraniol-type(sweet)

North American First Nations brewed itas a tea and for medicinal purposes.

It was brewed by the settlers as substi-tute for black tea after the Boston tea

parry.

Monarda was aiso used in money and

success spells and rituals.

Tiny insect galls from monarda were

strung along silverberry for jewellery.

Traditional Uses: Antifectious, antibac-terial (large spectrum), antifungal, antivi-ral, tonic, (general neuro, uterine).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage:Horsemint is stimulant, carminative,sudorific, diuretic, and anti-emetic. Theinfusion or essence is used in flatulence,nausea, vomiting, and as a diuretic insuppression ofthe urine, and other uri-nary disorders. The warm infusion is a

stimulating diaphoretic, and has acquiredsome celebrity as an emmenagogue; itmay be drank fieely. The oil is extremelysharp and pungent, and applied to theskin, excites heat and redness, and iftooIong or too ciosely applied, will produce

a painful blister. It is used like pepper-

mint oil internally, and is employed Io-cally in embrocations to relieve pain.The full strength oil may be used uponneuralgic parts. The M. didyma and M.

fistulosa may be used as substitutes forthe above.

Further Comments:

Books with relevant information men-

tioned:

FRANCHOMME, PIERRE. L' aro-m ather ap i e Ex act em ent. Limoges,France: Roger Jollois Editeur. 2003.

LOUGHRAN, JONI KEIM ANDRUAH BULL. Aromatherapy AnointingOils : Spiritual Blessings, Ceremoniesand Affirmatlons. Berkeley, CA: FrogLtd.2001.

SHEPPARD-HANGER, SY LL A. ThC

Aromatherapy Practitioner ReferenceMqnual. Tampa, Florida: Atlantic Insti-tute of Aromatherapy. 1994.

TISSERAND, ROBERT AND TONYBALACS. Essential Oil Safety: A Guide

for Health Care Professlonals. NewYork: Churchill Livingstone. 1995.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

ROGERS. ROBERT DALE AHGScents of wonder, plant oils of the prai-ries Edmonton: Rogers 2001

Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopaedia ofHerbs Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale

Press 1987

www. globalherbalsupplies. com

Essential Oil of Valerian:

Botanical Name: valeriana fficinalisSynonyms: V.offi cinalis, V. ofhcinalisvar. augustifolium, V. officinalisvar.Latifolia, European valerian, com-mon valerian, Beligian valerian, fragrantvalerian, garden valerian.

Family: Valerianaceae

Note/Classification: Nose wrinkling,potent.

Odor: Earthy, slightly sweet

Blends Well With: Chamomile, patch-

ouli, oakmoss, pine, iavender, cedar-

wood, mandarin, petitgrain and rosemary

Colour of EO: Clear

Physical Description of Plant: A tal-lish plant with clusters of pink or, less

commonly, white flowers. A perennialgrows to 4-5 feet. Leaves strongly di-vided, pinnate with lance-shaped leaf-

lets; lower ones toothed. Tiny, pale pinkto whitish, tubular flowers, grow inthree-forked terminal heads in tight clus-

ters; each flower has a small, in rolledcaly< at the base; as the fruits form, caly-ces become feathery parachutes. BloomsJune to July. A perennial herb up to 1.5

metres high with a hollow, erect stem,

deeply dissected dark leaves and manypurplish-white flowers. It has a shortthick, grayish roots, largely showingabove ground, which have a strong odor.

Habitat: North America, Europe, India,China; Native to Europe and parts ofAsia; naturalized in North America. lt is

mainiy cultivated in Belgium for it's oil ,

also in France , Holland, England, Scan-

dinavia, Yugoslavia, Hungary, China,

and the USSR.

Extraction Method: Steam or Solventextracted - ofleafl roots. Essential oilby the steam distillation of the rhizomes.2. An absolute (and concrete) by solventextraction of the rhizomes.


Chapter Meetings: Monarcla &r Valerian", ctlnt.

Contraindications: Avoid during preg-nancy; non-toxic, non-irritant, possible-

sensitization. Use in moderation.

Chemical Properties: Ester: Mainlybornyl, acetate and isovalerate, withcaryophyllene, pinenes, valeranone,ionone, eugenyl, isovalerate, borneol,patchouli alcohol, and valerianol, amongothers.

Therapeutic Properties: Anodyne,antidandruff, diuretic, antispasmodic,bactericidal, carminative, depressant ofthe central nervous system, hypnotic,hypotensive, regulator, sedative, stom-achic, nervous conditions, headaches,

insomnia, muscle pain , tension, anxiety,nervousness, restlessness, agitation,panic attacks, muscle spasms, heart pal-pitations, cardiovascular spasm and neu-ralgia, nervous indigestion.

Areas of Use

Nervous: debility

Skin: couperose skin

Muscular/Skeletal: muscle spasms

Of Interest

Traditional Uses: hypochondria, nerv-ous headaches, ilritability, mild spas-modic affections, diarrhea, epilepsy,migraine headaches. croup, hysteria,convulsions, vertigo, nervous cough,delirium, neuralgia, muscle cramps, gaspains, stomach cramps, spasms, palpita-tions, gas, colic, depression, panic at-tacks, emotional stress, PMS, menstrualcramps, despondency, insomnia.

General Description: A perennial herbup to 1.5 metres high with a hollow,erect stem, deeply dissected dark leaves

and many purplish-white flowers. It has

a short thick, grayish roots, largelyshowing above ground, which have a

strong odor.

Distribution: Native to Europe andparts of Asia; naturalized in North Amer-ica. It is mainly cultivated in Belgium for

it's oil , also in France , Holland, Eng-land, Scandinavia, Yugoslavia, Hungary,China, and the USSR.

Actions: Anodyne (miid), anti-dandruff,diuretic, antispasmodic, bactericidal,carminative, depressant of the CNS, hyp-notic, hypotensive, regulator, sedative,stomachic.

Principal Constituents: Mainly bornyl,acetate and isovalerate, with caryo-phyllene, pinenes, vaieranone, ionone,eugenyl, isovalerate, borneol, patchoulialcohol, and valerianol, among others.

Safety Data: Non-toxic, non-irritant.possible sensitization, use in moderation.

Valerian is a central nervous systemrelaxer, and as such has been used as a

calming sleep aid for over 1,000 years.When taken in the proper dosage, Vale-rian can induce restful sleep withoutgrogginess the next morning, unlike pre-scription drugs that mimic it's properties,such as Valium. It is also much saferwhen used with alcohol, as it doesn'tmagnify the effects of alcohol as do it'sprescription counterparts. It is wideiyused in Europe, and is rapidly gainingpopularity in the United States as morepeople discover it's beneficial properties.

Vaierian root is the part of the plant thatis used for medicinal purposes. The rootcan be distilled into oils and ointments,or dried and used in teas or capsules.

Please see the links below for specificson how to make fresh or dried root intohomemade medications. Obviously, youcan also buy prepared Valerian online orat any health food store.

Valerian has a fairly wide range of uses

in the home medicine cabinet. It is an

effective stress reducer, and has benefitin cases ofnervous tension, depression,initability, hysteria, panic, anxiety, fear,stomach cramping, indigestion due tongrvousness, delusions, exhaustion, and,

ofcourse, nervous sleeplessness. It alsoappears to have real benefits in cases ofsciatica, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy,

shingles, and peripheral neuropathy,including numbness, tingling, muscleweakness, and pain in the extremities.Testing has also revealed that it eases

muscle cramping, rheumatic pain, mi-graines, uterine cramps, intestinal colic,and stress-related heart problems andhyperlension. It has shown some benefitin behavioral problems in both adultsand children, and is used to treat atten-tion deficit disorders, hyperactivity,anxiefy headaches, and bedwetting, and

it has shown some promise in heipingreduce thumb sucking and nail biting inchildren. It has a stabilizing effect on

blood pressure and can help regulatearrhythmias.

Lastly, Valerian is useful as a digestiveaid, is helpful in cases ofgas, diarrhea,and cramps, and alleviates the pain ofulcers. In the respiratory tract, it is be-lieved to be ofbenefit in reducing thediscomfort of asthma attacks.

Valerian is contraindicated in pregnantand breast feeding women, but otherwiseis a safe herb to use intermittently whenneeded for stress or sleep related prob-lems. It is not recommended that youuse it every day, however. Overdose is

unlikely, so experiment with dosages

that work best for you. The usual dose

with an oil is 1 teaspoon as needed, and

with a tea or capsule, 1-2 cups or tabletsas needed.

Valerian is a small pink-white flowerand can be steam distilled or solventexffacted. There are over 100 species ofvalerian that are native to North Amer-ica, Europe, India, and the Far East and

each has a slightly different scent. Vale-rian essential oil is used in smallamounts for its earthy, forest fragrancein soaps, colognes, tobacco, soft drinks,and liqueurs. Valerian oil scent has a

sedative effect but is not as popular as

some other sedative essential oils. Vale-rian contains a chemistry similar to cat-nip so naturally it attracts cats and rats.

Untitled - Canadian Alliance Of Aromatherapy

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