Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Aromatherapy for Circulation and Vitality

Hi everyone, I want to share some aromatherapy tips with you when working on aiding circulation and overall well-being.

Aromatherapy is highly beneficial when it comes to improving or maintaining circulation, combating high or low blood pressure, calming heart palpitations and enhancing overall vitality.

Rosemary is a common essential oil when we think of the circulatory system. It is one of the essential oils highest in oxygen so think of CoQ10 in comparison. Rosemary stimulates circulation thus making it a good choice for those who have cold extremities, varicose or spider veins, lack of oxygen to the heart or brain (for things like memory, concentration, focus and forgetfulness). It would be great to add to an herbal program when someone is taking CoQ10, ginkgo, gotu kola or Nature’s Sunshine’s Brain Protex. I am always conservative so, I use caution when using rosemary with those with high blood pressure as it may stimulate circulation thus provoking a rapid heartbeat or induced sweating. I also do not use it with those with epilepsy or during pregnancy. Emotionally, rosemary can help move stagnant emotions. This is for someone who is or has experienced the same emotions or situation for a long time and can’t seem to get past something. Listen for those people saying the same things over and over like health concerns, feeling, challenges. It provides energy, enhances movement and may provoke creativity.

For those with high blood pressure, ylang ylang may be beneficial. It has been historically linked to helping lower blood pressure by reducing heat and inflammation. It can calm heart palpitations, anxiety and help balance the body’s overall function. Emotionally, ylang ylang is great to mend a broken heart, work through grief and any issue of the heart. It is also beneficial during a menstrual cycle or menopausal symptoms to help balance excess heat. For those with neither high nor low blood pressure and to maintain balance, combine ylang ylang with lavender.

Cinnamon is helpful to increase circulation and promote movement. It is beneficial for sore, tense and stiff muscles as it aids in reduces stagnation and promoting elimination. It is antispasmodic and a stimulant. Great during menstruation to promote flow and reduce cramping or during labor to promote uterine contractions. Cinnamon helps to combat sluggishness, sleepiness and fatigue. In high amounts, cinnamon has been found to offer blood-thinning properties so it is best to avoid use if on blood-thinners. Emotionally, cinnamon helps one to feel at home, safe, secure and is like giving yourself a big hug.

Red Mandarin essential oil is wonderful for those needing a boost of energy to increase vitality. It is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which are important to strengthen the walls of the capillaries to ensure proper circulation. Red mandarin feeds the adrenals, which in turn works with the thyroid, pancreas and reproductive system. If someone is experiencing problems with any of these areas, I work on feeding the adrenals to kick in some energy, which will stimulate movement. Emotionally, red mandarin helps with physical, mental and emotional exhaustion and fatigue. If you are making a blend for this reason, I like to use Nature’s Sunshine Nature’s Fresh Enzymes as my base as it is very activating, red mandarin and the homeopathic Fatigue/Exhaustion. I find this oil generally safe and it is one of three oils (the other two being lavender and chamomile) that I only use for women during pregnancy.

Nature’s Sunshine Varigone Cream is great to help reduce the appearance of varicose and spider veins. You can add in any of these essential oils to enhance its effect or use Nature’s Sunshine Cellutone discussed in the Weight Management tele-conference call last month. I’ve even applied this formula topically to rosacea areas after testing it on the skin first.


Scentful regards,
Jennifer

Jennifer Hochell, Holistic Aromatherapist
NAHA Regional Director
JennScents Aromatherapy
Clermont Herb Shoppe & Day Spa
702 West Montrose Street
Clermont, FL 34711
352.243.9627 (aroma bar)
352.243.3588 (herb shop)
www.jennscents.com
www.herbpantry.com

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