Master Diet

Overview

Sandalwood is one of the oldest aromatic materials, being acknowledged in ancient biblical and in Indian text as well as used in religious ceremonies throughout the ages. Botanically known as a small evergreen in the genus Santalum and family Santalaceae, this modest-sized tree (up to 10 meters) provides a great deal of commerce for India and to some extent Australia and is now being examined by the medical industry for its medicinal properties. There are several species of Santalum, but only a few are used commercially, most notably Santalum album (India) and Santalum spicatum (Australia). Other tress from such places as Polynesia and Fuji are in small numbers and in great decline. Oddly, other plants such as the Bead Tree or Candlewood are known as sandalwood but are not botanically parallel. Sometimes, non-related plants such as Red Sandalwood are used as fillers for the more expensive, genuine sandalwood.

Sandalwood from the Mysore region (known as “sandalwood city”) of southern India is generally considered to be of the highest quality sandalwood available, providing great commerce for this region of India. Of the traditional areas in Southeast Asia where sandalwood is found, India has been the front runner in creating plantations in which to continually harvest Sandalwood (The Australian Government has also set up reserves as well). Trade and harvest of Indian sandalwood is under strict regulation and the trees themselves are under government protection; only the government of India is permitted to own the trees. To produce commercially valuable sandalwood with high levels of fragrance oils, harvested Santalum trees are recommended to be at least 40 years of age, but 80 or above are preferred. However, trees at 30 years of age are still harvested but considered of inferior quality.

In order to retain valuable wood and oil found in the larger roots, trees are felled by uprooting, not cutting the truck. Unfortunately, many trees are illegally cut down and smuggled out of the country. In the last five years alone, the price of sandalwood oil has skyrocketed. This is mainly due to increased demand from the aromatherapy and cosmetic industry. The oil is revered by the perfume industry as being an excellent base and fixative for other high grade perfumes. The industry finds that sandalwood oil can blend well with other perfumes and when used as a base does not impart its own fragrance, thus making it a very popular ingredient for hundreds of perfume products.

Such value is found not only in its iconic-making wood, medicinal oil and fragrance but also in it religious and ceremonial value. In the Buddhist tradition, sandalwood incense is a popular offering to the Buddha and its scent is believed to have transformative qualities while in meditation. Chinese and Japanese religions also use sandalwood incense in their worship and various ceremonies. One of the oldest religions, Zoroastrianism (thought to be originally from Iran), burns the sandalwood in their sacred fire temples.

Sandalwood May Help with Antibiotic Resistance

In late December of 2009 a length article by the Associated Press entitled “Pressure Rises to Stop Antibiotics in Agriculture” reported on rapidly emerging bacteria that are resistant to current antibiotics from supposed misuse of antibiotics in the agriculture industry. It was all over the internet in a matter of days. The article provides quotes from professors, researchers as well as government agencies all expressing deep concern and even alarm at the rate of microbial resistance to standard treatment. The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) web page includes recent studies regarding antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSRA) (both of which cause great harm to humans and animals alike) linked to heavy uses in food agriculture. This scientifically sound web site also provided a press conference statement (way back in 2001) by Margaret Mellon, Ph.D., director of UCS Food and Environment Program stating that 70% of total antibiotic production is devoted to non-therapeutic uses in the cattle, swine and poultry industry. It seems plausible that over the last nine years since this press release, microbes have developed an armor of resistance to antibiotic treatments.

Concern for antibiotic-resistant microbes is worldwide. A need to find alternatives to conventional antibiotic treatment is rising. Essential oils have been gaining attention by research scientists for their antimicrobial properties. A collaborative study of researchers in Austria and Germany (Flavor and Fragrance Journal 2006 May/Jun; 21(3): 465-468) found that santalols of sandalwood (the main chemical components of sandalwood) in medium and/or high concentrations showed significant antimicrobial potential against the yeast Candida albicans, the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, and the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Other Promising Uses

The Australian and Indian Santalum species, found to be similar in chemical composition, are known by aromatherapists to have such therapeutic properties as anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic (reduces fever), antiseptic (as mentioned above), antispasmodic (relieves muscle spasms), astringent, carminative (relieves flatulence), demulcent (reduces irritation), diuretic (soft and soothing to skin), emollient, expectorant, as a sedative and general tonic. Their principle chemical constituents are alpha-santalol and beta-santalol. According to a study conducted by the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and South Dakota University (Anticancer Research 2007 Jul-Aug; 27(4B): 2185-8) application of the chemical compound alpha-santalol prevents UVB-induced skin tumor development in mice. Sandalwood is also thought to help alleviate the symptoms of depression as reported by the University of Maryland Medical Center (www.umm.edu).

Concluding Remarks

The value of sandalwood in some cultures goes back centuries – from burning the fragrant incense in temples to using the oil in sacred ceremonies. In the commerce of today, sandalwood is highly prized by the perfume industry as well as those in aromatherapy. Recent science studies indicate that sandalwood and its principle component alpha-santalol have antiseptic as well antitumor capabilities. With the growing concern of antibiotic-resistant bacteria of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Candida in both hospital and public environments, serious investigation into the possible uses to of alternative therapies is well underway. Consideration of essential oils, and in this case Santalum album and Santalum spicatum are prime candidates for meeting modern medical needs.

The Ananda Apothecary is a premier supplier of therapeutic and medical quality essential oils to practitioners around the world. More in-depth aromatherapy research iformation is available though their weblog.

Frankincense Used in the Past

In western Judeo-Christian culture, frankincense (otherwise known as olibanum in Arabic) is mainly associated with the Christmas Story of the Three Wise Men (Magi) who journeyed from the East (Arabia) to bring gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the Christ child. Yet, in other cultures around the world such as the Middle East, China and India, Frankincense has been used reverently for thousands of years for medicinal, religious and ceremonial purposes, as well as to beautify the body. It was thought that the smoke from burning the resin of frankincense had divine powers and would provide a direct connection to God. Exemplification of its significance is evident with its inclusion in the tomb of the ancient Egyptian King Tutankhamen (1341 BC- 1323 BC) as well as recorded in ancient Chinese medicine books dating back to 500 AD. The distinct Egyptian black eyeliner of seen in ancient Egyptian art was actually ground and charred frankincense resin known as kohl.

The origin of frankincense is traced back to the Arabian Peninsula. According to Herodotus (5th century BC Greek historian), “Arabia is the only country which produces frankincense, myrrh, cassia and cinnamon…” At one time, there was an active over-land frankincense trade route that started in the Dhofar region of Oman, went through Yemen and followed the Red Sea coast to reach Jerusalem and Egypt. The production and trade of frankincense may have lasted for up to 6,000 years, spurring the creation of villages and towns along the route. Caravans of camels transporting frankincense were often targets of raids, since frankincense commanded prices equal to that of gold. It is likely that frankincense grew in areas across the Red Sea, such as Ethiopia and Somalia, but the initiation of the frankincense trade route began with gum resin from Omani trees. Due to raiding, desertification and other religious zealotry, the trade route dried up after about 300AD.

Extracting the Resin

Frankincense is an oleo-gum-resin produced by several tree species of the Boswellia genus and the family Burseraceae, which is distinguished for its resin bearing ducts. There are about 15 members of this genus, native to the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, India and China. The method of extraction is simple and fairly unchanged since ancient times. An incision is made in the bark of the tree resulting in a milky gum-like substance exuding from the cut area. This oleo-gum-resin is then either scrapped off the tree with an iron tool or collected on palm mats when the resin drips to the ground. Resin is then dried and later sold in markets around the world.

The method of harvesting, or tapping, of Boswellia varies according to species and the customs of the region. For example, in Somalia tapping usually occurs in two separate periods, each lasting 3-4 months with successive 15-day intervals. The period between harvests depends upon the onset and extent of rains. In India, the collection is done once a year, commencing at the end of October. In Oman, there are ancient rituals pertaining to resin harvest as well as a sense of guardianship for the trees passed down to each generation.

Chemical Analysis

There are numerous species and varieties of Boswellia trees; major species being Boswellia serrata found in India, Boswellia carteri in East Africa and China, Boswellia frereana in Somalia, and Boswellia sacra in Arabia. Quality of frankincense resin is based upon colour, purity, aroma and age. In general, it is thought that the more opaque the resin the higher the quality with Omani frankincense regarded as the best in the world. The majority of ultra-superior Omani B. sacra is said to be purchased by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said the ruler of Oman.

The chemical analysis of frankincense is well researched. The oleo-gum-resin substance of frankincense contains 3-8% volatile oil, an ether (common laboratory solvent) soluble resin fraction of 60-70% and an ether-insoluble fraction of 23-30 per cent. The ether soluble resin contains sesquiterpenes, alcohols, esters and boswellic acids and the ether-insoluble contains polysaccharides and diterpenoids. The composition of the volatile oil differs according to climate, harvest conditions and geographical location, but in general, all oil contains numerous monoterpenes (C10 compounds in the form of hydrocarbons, alcohols and keytones) and sesquiterpenes (C15 compounds) as well as diterpenes.

Medicinal Applications

Uses of the oleo-gum resin, the essential oil as well as isolated compounds of frankincense has been studied, with more interest growing by the year. Frankincense oil exhibits antibacterial, antifungal and immunostimulant activity in vito. What is of current particular interest is the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of frankincense from Indian B serrata, with the active component being boswellic acids. Below are three traditional applications of frankincense for sickness and those that have received recent medical research attention.

Injury: Powder of the dried resin of Boswellia is a common ingredient of herbal plasters and pastes to treat wounds. A recent study from Hebrew University, Israel (J Cereb Blood Flow Metab. 2008 Jul;28(7):1341-52) indicated that Incensole acetate (IA), an isolated from frankincense resin, was shown to reduce neurological damage from head injuries.

Immune Stimulant: In many world cultures frankincense, whether as an essential oil, powder or burning of resin, is seen as an excellent plant product for treating most illnesses. A 2003 study conducted by Mansoura University, Egypt (Z.Naturforsch. 2003 58c, 230-238) supported such usage. Mansoura medical researchers found that Boswellia carterii essential oil demonstrated immunostimulant activity. Such a discovery adds yet another positive medicinal result of frankincense and further encourages its use for several immune disorders.

Arthritis: In Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medical system of India, frankincense (Boswellia serrata) has been used for centuries to treat arthritis. A brand new study from November of this year (Phytotherapy Research 2009 Nov 26) found that extracts of Boswellia frereana prevents collagen degradation and inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in an in vitro laboratory setting. These Cardiff University (UK) researchers recommend B. frereana be considered for treating inflammation associated with arthritis.

Concluding Thoughts

It is remarkable to see that modern science is now investigating the wealth of knowledge found in ancient medical texts on frankincense. Recent medical studies have indicated that the oleo-gum-resin of frankincense has remarkable medicinal applications. Experimental data confirms many of the traditional uses of frankincense, most notably in regards to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and bronchial asthma. The body of science literature investigating frankincense continues to expand, revealing the amazing medicinal properties that frankincense has to offer. This age-old plant product has been honored and celebrated by civilizations for centuries. Viewed as a gift fitting for royalty, we in this modern era are just beginning to understand the incredible value in this tree yielded resin. It is no doubt a gift that will keep on giving.

Essential oils such as Clove and Orange are available from Ananda Aromatherapy, along with a great many aromatherapy supplies for the home user and natural health professional.

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When buying natural herbal oils and different aromatherapy products it is vital to consider the quality. Not all essential oils are the same, extract quality is a matter of the cultivation conditions of the plants and the extraction systems utilized.

Essential chemicals are not all made with the same process, to differentiate between the two herb chemicals are classified as either “food grade” or the better quality products meant for aromatherapy functions “therapeutic quality”. It is important to educate yourself on the diverse organic chemicals used in aromatherapy to know what products may be best suited for your uses.

Essential oils can change in value from country to country. environmental destruction can decrease the availability of flowers and drive up the cost of their oils. The Indian sandalwood is thought to be an endangered flower and greatly valued for its aromatic properties so it is more valuable than other kinds of sandalwood discovered throughout the globe.

The extraction technique utilized to isolate the active compounds of herbs also goes a long way towards determining its value. There are physical extraction methods such as steam distillation and enfleurage as well as chemical extraction methods such as CO2 removal and supercritical extraction systems. Modern methods for producing natural herbal chemicals are able to make very pure and clean natural extracts.

Harvested oils can be food grade or therapeutic grade. A compounds content is included in its Food Chemical Codex or FCC. This is a listing of the compound ratios of different oils.

Though all compounds should be derived naturally from source flowers some manufacturers use synthetic additives. Food grade natural herbal oils should not be used for this reason, in spite of the name which makes them sound appropriate for aromatherapy.

For aromatherapy a medical uses therapeutic grade oils should always be used. This category of compounds denotes primarily natural oils with organic components. Determining the quality or purity of oils through inspection is hard without actually using the oils so to avoid buying poor quality supplies buy from reputable shops.

The author has authored a number of pieces on the potential of aromatherapy and different natural oils and oil diffuser

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Cancer Topics Frequently Make the Front Page

If one were to take survey of the largest concerns in modern America, at the top of the list would be the development of cancer. Headlines from magazines, newspapers and websites denote a rise in cancer among young and old alike. Concerns vary from how to escape this seemingly inevitable disease, and how can one pay for this disease if diagnosed, to what is the most effective method or supplement against developing cancer in the first place.

Another shift in headline news is alternative treatments to often expensive and sometimes invasive forms of health care. More and more individuals are seeking ways to gain freedom from dependence upon pharmaceuticals, intensive scans and often impersonal treatments to both body and soul.

Essential oils are a rather gentle yet a highly effective method of treating ailments and supporting overall good health. These plant extractions are low in cost compared to frequently overarching methods of modern medical treatment and can be used safely by all ages.

This paper specifically addresses the rising interest of essential oils in research, specifically on the effectiveness in preventing and treating cancer.

A Brief Look at Cancer Pathology

Cancer in general terms is growth of abnormal cells. The mechanism (found in the mitochondria of the cell) to stop the growth of the cell is interrupted or turned off. Once this process begins, these abnormal cells either invade or replace normal tissue. Such a process can occur within any parts of the body.

There are two main groupings of cancer cells: solid and non-solid. Cancers that form in solid tissues like the liver, bone or brain are solid, whereas cancers that do not form solid structures and proliferate in the blood and lymph systems, such as leukemia and lymphomas are of course non-solid in nature.

Causes of cancer formation within the body are variable. Most cancers are now attributed an unhealthy lifestyle, dietary choices – a diet rich in processed foods, genetics and hazardous chemical exposure either though air, water or direct contact.

According to a 2005 paper produced by the American Cancer Society (Cancer Facts and Figures, 2005), over one million new cancer cases were expected to be diagnosed in the United States alone. According to this publication, cancer is the second leading cause of death, taking the lives of 1 in 4 Americans.

Essential Oil Research

With the rising cost of orthodox medical care and the escalating interest of Americans to seek alternative treatments to bodily ailments, medical researchers are expanding their interests to other forms of potential treatment, specifically essential oils.

European practitioners have been using essential oils to treat various illnesses for years, even centuries. Yet, in the United States, it is now just stirring the interest of medical practitioners and researchers. In the paragraphs below a brief overview of current research on essential oils and cancer is provided.

Current Research on the Effectiveness of Essential Oils Against Cancer

Results of the ability of specific essential oils to kill cancer cells (cytotoxic) have been recently published in various science journals. The results have been overall positive and promising.

A study found in the BioMed Central Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, March 2009, titled: “Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia carteri induces tumor cell specific cytotoxicity” concludes with: “Frankincense oil appears to distinguish cancerous from normal bladder cells and suppress cancer cell viability. Microarray and bioinformatics analysis proposed multiple pathways that can be activated by frankincense oil to induce bladder cancer cell death. Frankincense oil might represent an alternative intravesical agent for bladder cancer treatment.

Published in the February 2009 Natural Product Communications, University of Alabama researchers found compounds within the leaf essential oils of Oreopanax nubigenus, and Schefflera rodrigueziana (plants found in Costa Rica) that showed notable in-vitro cytotoxicity. A recent study conducted by Canadian researchers found aromatherapy with essential oils, such as balsam poplar, when combined with Taxol (a chemotherapy drug) increases anti-tumor activity more than four times.

One of the interesting features of these studies is that each used different essential oils and found a similar result: essential oils killing cancer cells. That’s not to say all oils will do this, and it is likely within those that do, some will eventually be found significantly more effective than others. And, the value of simple inhalation of essential oils should not be overlooked as an important complementary medicine.

The author utilizes pure essential oils for aromatherapy. More information is available through The Ananda Apothecary at www.anandaapothecary.com.

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Using essential oils and other helpful compounds extracted from plants and flowers is known as aromatherapy. Oils and chemicals can be harvested from plants by one of several extraction methods, these methods can be used to get a wide variety of different compounds. Active organic compounds can either be used alone in with other compounds.

Chiropractors and in expanding numbers medical professionals then utilize the oil for any number of advantages including stress relief and disinfectant effects. Essential oils are able to be delivered several ways determined by the specific aromatherapy uses. Popular plants used for aromatherapy include lavender, rose, geranium, and bergamot.

Essential oils and other compounds are the key to successful aromatherapy. Oils are often the main ingredient in organic aromatherapy mixtures however some of the other compounds are also vital. Steam distillation is commonly utilized to separate compounds from plant matter although there are also chemical distillation processes. Distillates, infusions, and absolutes are some of the additional types of compounds that can be extracted from plants.

Watery solutions that are a result from the distillation process are know as infusions. Carrier oils are harvested from organic sources and are often helpful for reducing the potency of oils for topical application. Oils that are removed by the process of chemical extraction are sometimes called absolutes. Organic distillates are a byproduct of the essential oil extraction process. Phytoncides are extremely potent compounds, there is currently research exploring their effectiveness in fighting germs and bacteria.

Aromatherapy has many uses. It has for a long time been used by chiropractors as a means to promote relaxation. Recently there has been significant study about the health functions of aromatherapy.

Health experts, especially overseas, are having success with essential oils in clinical settings. France especially, where many medicinal aromatherapy breakthroughs have been pioneered, has made exceptional utilization of the treatment.

To date, there are many studies that have found that by finding the right organic mixtures aromatherapy can be very useful as an antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic agent. These findings are encouraging for many researchers because of the potential and availability of organic material throughout the world.

The writer has authored many of articles on the potential of aromatherapy and different essential oils and aromatherapy diffuser

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Vaporizers are heating devices that can be used to heat plant matter or other material to activate desired compounds or chemicals. They are different from standard heaters because they can be heated to very precise temperatures, at which only some compounds are vaporized.

Vaporizers are currently being used by many different people and are quickly gaining popularity around the world. They have many different uses from medical and therapeutic treatments to aromatherapy or culinary preparation.

Vaporizers are largely dependent on their heating mechanism to function. This means that quality vaporizers that are able to function and produce pure vapor have high quality heating systems. No matter what vaporizers are used for its heating element is a prime element.

A quality vaporizer will provide heat of precise temperature and hold a stable temperature throughout use. Precise and stable heating are required for proper vaporization, without them chemicals or compounds other then the desired ones may be activated.

If the temperature fluctuates enough and gets high enough there is also the potential for combustion. This happens when material is heated passed its vaporization point until its burning point. Combustion is what vaporizers are intended to avoid.

The control and display design of a vaporizer and heating element material will go a long way towards determining the level of vapor produced. Both must work properly for a vaporizer to work well, even one malfunctioning can ruin the entire machine.

Heating elements of high quality ceramic are often found in the better vaporizer models although metal can work as well. Ceramic heats up fast and evenly and is known for producing extremely clean and pure vapor.

Vaporizers can come equipped digital or analog control mechanisms. Digital designs are a cinch to operate, many have clear displays and easy to use controls.

No matter the vaporizer type, digital or analog, they are both capable of producing high quality and extremely clean vapor. Digital models are thought by some vaporists to be easier to use although everyone has there own personal preference.

Discover more about vaporizers at www.buyvaporizerreviews.com where you will also find reviews on different styles of vaporizers

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Originally known as zone or reflex therapy, Reflexology is a holistic healing method that assists the healing of the body through the use of therapeutic pressure and massage of the reflex points found on the feet and the hands. There is evidence that the art and science of Reflexology was used by the ancient Egyptians, Japanese, and Indian cultures as a tool to encourage and facilitate excellent health. Reflexology teaches that one’s vital energy circulates throughout the body, permeating every living cell and tissue. If the energy becomes blocked or congested the part of the body relating to the blockage is affected. Reflex points, particularly those in the feet, correspond to various organ systems and tissues. Upon stimulating and releasing the reflex points in a precise manner, life force circulation is restored and the body can heal itself naturally.

Considered an exceptionally effective method for activating the healing powers of the body, modern Reflexology is both a science and a healing art. As a science, Reflexology requires dedicated study, technical knowledge, practice, and skill. As a healing art, Reflexology is most effective when the therapist works with intention, dedication, and gentle loving care. Modern Reflexology now generally includes the use of essential oils during the session, as the reflex points are particularly receptive to this potent plant medicine. When skill and care are combined with sound healing practices, Reflexology can help to facilitate healing and encourage overall well-being.

Science teaches that one’s vital energy circulates between the various organs while saturating every living cell and tissue. It has long been known that good health depends on the dynamic balance and natural functioning of all the body systems. This ever-changing state of balance is called homeostasis. In order for the body to function optimally, all systems must act in synergistic harmony. If the energy becomes blocked or congested in one part of the body the whole organism is affected. Through the use of precisely applied techniques and oils, blockages can be released and health can unfold naturally.

There are many benefits of receiving regular Reflexology sessions including the reduction of stress by inducing deep relaxation. During the session, the body and nervous system are allowed to deeply rest and consequently functions in a more balanced state. As a result, the body moves toward homeostasis and healing can take effect. A fantastic study conducted on soldiers in Israel found that reflexology benefited these ’soldiers (who were) suffering from post traumatic stress disorder, providing temporary relief from symptoms including anger, depression, and muscle tension. The soldiers who received weekly reflexology treatments also experienced improved sleep patterns, levels of concentration, and an overall lift in mood.’ (Reflexology on the Front Lines of Health Care’, Massage Magazine, November/December 1998). Using a few drops of therapeutic grade Lavender essential oil is an excellent choice for decreasing stress and facilitating relaxation. In addition, Frankincense, Roman Chamomile, and Rose essential oil, are all lovely choices for encouraging relaxation. Choosing the best oil and application location is as easy as listening to your ‘inner guide’. Move slowly, while holding the greatest healing intention, allowing yourself to use the most effective oils on the reflex points which are naturally calling for them.

Reflexology is also a perfect practice to cleanse and purify the body of material and etheric toxins. Gravity pulls toxins downward; Inorganic waste material (such as uric acid and calcium crystals) can accumulate in bottom of the feet. An experienced reflexologist can break up these crystals with various reflexology techniques, along with detoxifying aromatherapy oils.

Another gentle tool that one can use on a regular basis is foot baths. Many reflexologists recommend these to their clients to assist in the on-going healing process; this can also be done toward the end of a reflexology session. The use of warm epsom salt foot baths can help to facilitate the release of old energy. Add a couple of ounces of epsom salts to warm water and then add a few drops of your favorite therapeutic grade essential oils. Soak the feet for 15 minutes and then gently dry with a towel and cover the feet with warm socks while resting for another 15 minutes. A lovely blend is 2 parts Lavender and 1 part Rosemary to help clear nervous exhaustion. Remember with essential oils that only a few drops are needed for the greatest healing effect. The essential oils can be blended the essential oils with a small amount of carrier before going in the water (jojoba oil, for example) for the most gentle action on the skin’s surface.

Reflexology stimulates and encourages blood flow to the feet thus helping to nourish all the extremities of the body. Studies have shown that Spruce essential oil is an excellent choice for those with poor circulation. Spruce is non-toxic and non-irritating.Ylang Ylang Sweet Marjoram, and Lavender essential oil have been found to reduce blood pressure. Further, Reflexology is an excellent way to revitalize energy. Low energy levels are often due to accumulations of toxins and energy blockages. Once those are released, uplifting essential oils can be used to restore natural vital energy balance. Bergamot oil is excellent for this, and is the foremost ‘natural anti-depressant’ essential oil. Rosemary is also very uplifting and energizing; other oils can be uplifting and calming at the same time; Black Spruce and Pine (Pinus kessia) are particularly suited for this.

Reflexology balances and integrates the body. As energy pathways are opened, strengthened, and brought into balance, the body returns to its natural rhythms. Energy flows. The body, mind, and spirit are brought back into balance. Rose essential oil is a wonderful oil for balancing and integrating the energy pathways of the body. Facilitate this healing by gently anointing your clients/friends feet with Rose and allowing them to bask in the high vibration healing of this beautiful flower. Ylang Ylang essential oil is also lovely for balancing one’s masculine and feminine energies. Note that with all the essential oils, just the smallest amount is necessary to impart their profound healing action; the strength of the aromas should be gentle and pleasant at all times.

The practice of reflexology nourishes both the practitioner and the client. When healing occurs, both experience a sense of well-being. This well-being can carry into other areas of the clients and practitioners life and the benefit extends out into the world. Reflexology is profoundly helpful tool in assisting oneself as a practitioner, and one’s client, in becoming vibrantly healthy.

The author is proponent of the varied and potent healing actions of aromatherapy essential oils. For more, see www.anandaapothecary.com/essential-oils.html.