Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Research News

Linalool, A Common Essential Oil Constituent, Shown to Have Anti-Cancer Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Tue, 12 May 2009 23:19:00 +0000

Much research has been published on the anti-tumorial & anti-cancer effects of essential oils. The research seems to have focused on a few oils with long histories of medicinal use: Frankincense, Myrrh and Lemongrass are examples.

In a study just released in the Journal of Chemico-biological Interactions, researchers at the Amercian University of Beirut focused on a specific natural constituent of many common essential oils: Linalool. Linalool is the 'sweetness' of many oils; Lavender is perhaps the most popular linalool-containing oil, though it is found in many, many species of plants. One of the chemotypes of Thyme essential oil is called c.t. (for 'chemotype) linalool, meaning this particular variety of thyme has a high percentage of the linalool molecule.

In this study, linalool derived from steam distilled Coriander essential oil was found to decrease the viability of the HepG2 cell line, cells of liver cancer used throughout the world for cancer research. Coriander was chosen as the spice is considered to have important medicinal qualities. Linalool inhibited these liver cancer cells from replicating. A concentration of 0.4 micromole inhibited 50% of the cells from replicating, a concentration of 2 micromol inhibited 100% of the cells from replicating, therby destroying the cancer.

Now we don't claim to be University researchers here, but we did take a bit of chemistry in college. It appears this is an exceptionally small amount of linalool -- 1 mole of Linalool is 154 grams. This appears to be .000154 grams of linalool per liter of solution the cell line was bathed in.

Given that most Lavender species produce an essential oil containing between 30 and 40% linalool, this is astounding. 25 drops of Lavender essential oil delivers in somewhere around .3 grams of linalool. This is easily absorbed when topically applied. Some medical aromatherapists consider Lavender safe to ingest in small amounts as well.
This is the freely available abstract:

Study: Linalool decreases HepG2 viability by inhibiting mitochondrial complexes I and II, increasing reactive oxygen species and decreasing ATP and GSH levels.

Usta J, Kreydiyyeh S, Knio K, Barnabe P, Bou-Moughlabay Y, Dagher S.
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.

Coriander is used as an appetizer, a common food seasoning in Mediterranean dishes, and a remedy for many ailments. In this study we tested the biochemical effect of its essential oil components, in particular linalool, its main component. The oil extract was prepared by hydro-distillation of coriander seeds. The various components were identified by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectroscopy.

The effect of the various oil components on the viability of different cell lines (HepG2, Caco2, NIH3t3, MCF7 and Hek293) was examined using MTT assay. Linalool was the most potent and HepG2 cells the most sensitive. A 50% and 100% decrease in the viability of HepG2 was obtained at 0.4muM and 2muM linalool, respectively. Whereas none of the other components exerted a significant effect at concentrations lower than 50muM, myrcene and nerolidol, the structural analogues of linalool, were more potent at 100muM than the other components decreasing HepG2 viability to 26%.

The biochemical effect of linalool on mitochondria isolated from HepG2 showed a concentration-dependent inhibition in complexes I and II activities of the respiratory chain, and a time-dependent decrease in ATP level. In addition, a time-dependent decrease in glutathione (GSH) level and in the reduction of nitroblue tetrazolium was obtained, indicating increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Pretreatment with the antioxidants: N-acetyl cysteine (2mM), Trolox (100muM) and different flavonoids (50muM) was partially protective against the linalool-induced cell death; the most effective response was that of rutin and apigenin which restored 91% of HepG2 viability.

We hereby report a decrease in cell viability of HepG2 cells by linalool and identify the mitochondria as one possible target for its site of action, inhibiting complexes I and II and decreasing ATP. In addition linalool increased ROS generation and decreased GSH level.

We will be looking into this particular study further, and will report more information when available on The Ananda Apothecary website. In the meantime, we'll keep using essential oils like we had been, happy to graced by the possibility of another profound health effect!

Aromatherapy Research: Essential Oils Alter Brainwaves When Inhaled

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Mon, 11 May 2009 22:48:00 +0000

Digging through the research on the National Institutes of Health website, Pub Med (see www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) can really be fruitful for scientific data on the effects of essential oils. A great many studies have been published over the last ten years validating the use of essential oils in many realms of natural health, from immunity and infectious illness to wound healing and pain relief, to sleep, mood and cognitive effects. Here are a few studies noting measurable changes in brainwaves upon inhalation of aromas.

Now it's not surprising that essential oils elicit changes in brainwaves - really this happens with anything we perceive with our sense organs: touch, sight, hearing, taste OR smell. What's interesting is that the brainwaves are in-fact measurably different depending on the oil inhaled. Further, the brainwave response was also dependent on the time of day and type of action the subjects were performing when inhaling the oils. Some oils seemed appreciated during physical work, some during mental work, some before work and some after.

The first study describes changes in Alpha brainwaves. These waves are associated with a relaxed, steady, perhaps even 'contemplative' state (one website described most of America as 'alpha wave challenged'!) Lavender essential oil produced the most significant, fairly rapid increase in Alpha wave activity.

The second study describes differences between oils which may be considered relaxing, uplifting or mentally stimulating before and after both physical and mental work. Some oils tested produced very statistically significant results: In summary, try Orange before physical work and Cypress after. Try Basil before mental work and Juniper afterward.

Study: Effects of inhalation of essential oils on EEG activity and sensory evaluation.

Masago R, Matsuda T, Kikuchi Y, Miyazaki Y, Iwanaga K, Harada H, Katsuura T. Graduate School of Science and Technology, Chiba University. mryoko@ergo1.ti.chiba-u.ac.jp

The purpose of this study was to investigate EEG changes in subjects directly after inhalation of essential oils, and subsequently, to observe any effect on subjective evaluations. EEG and sensory evaluation were assessed in 13 healthy female subjects in four odor conditions. Four odor conditions (including lavender, chamomile, sandalwood and eugenol) were applied respectively for each subject in the experiment. The results were as follows. 1) Four basic factors were extracted from 22 adjective pairs by factor analysis of the sensory evaluation. The first factor was "comfortable feeling", the second "cheerful feeling", the third "natural feeling" and the fourth "feminine feeling". In the score of the first factor (comfortable feeling), the odors in order of high contribution are lavender, eugenol, chamomile and sandalwood. 2) Alpha 1 (8-10 Hz) of EEG at parietal and posterior temporal regions significantly decreased soon after the onset of inhalation of lavender oil (p < href="http://www.anandaapothecary.com/aromatherapy-essential-oils/chamomile-roman-essential-oil.html">chamomile. The change after inhalation of sandalwood was not significant. These results showed that alpha 1 activity significantly decreased under odor conditions in which subjects felt comfortable, and showed no significant change under odor conditions in which subjects felt uncomfortable. These results suggest a possible correlation between alpha 1 activity and subjective evaluation.

Study: Alteration of perceived fragrance of essential oils in relation to type of work: a simple screening test for efficacy of aroma.

Sugawara Y, Hino Y, Kawasaki M, Hara C, Tamura K, Sugimoto N, Yamanishi Y, Miyauchi M, Masujima T, Aoki T. Department of Health Science, Hiroshima Prefectural Women's University, Japan.

The perceptional change of fragrance of essential oils is described in relation to type of work, i.e. mental work, physical work and hearing environmental (natural) sounds. The essential oils examined in this study were ylang ylang, orange, geranium, cypress, bergamot, spearmint and juniper. In evaluating change in perception of a given aroma, a sensory test was employed in which the perception of fragrance was assessed by 13 contrasting pairs of adjectives. Scores were recorded after inhaling a fragrance before and after each type of work, and the statistical significance of the change of score for 13 impression descriptors was examined by Student's t-test for each type of work. It was confirmed that inhalation of essential oil caused a different subjective perception of fragrance depending on the type of work. For example, inhalation of cypress after physical work produced a much more favorable impression than before work, in contrast to orange, which produced an unfavorable impression after physical work when compared with that before work. For mental work, inhalation of juniper seemed to create a favorable impression after work, whereas geranium and orange both produced an unfavorable impression then. From these studies, together with those conducted previously with lavender, rosemary, linalool, peppermint, marjoram, cardamom, sandalwood, basil and lime, we thus concluded that the sensory test described here might serve not only as a screening test for efficacy of aroma but also as a categorized table for aroma samples which can act as a reference to each other.

Essential Oil's Anti-Viral Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Tue, 05 May 2009 23:52:00 +0000

Interest is growing regarding the immune-supportive effects of essential oils, and particularly their antiviral actions. The world's leading aroma-medicine practitioners consider protection from infectious diseases one of aromatherapy's most effective applications.

Many essential oils have demonstrated anti-viral effects, through multiple pathways: By preventing virus replication, through improving the efficiency of our white blood cells, and by changing electrical potential of our cell walls. Many folks have turned to Oregano essential oil as a disinfectant. While this is a potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial, there may be better choices that are both more gentle and more precise.

Monoterpine alcohols are noted to be the most beneficial and safest of all essential oil components, with strong antiviral effects. Thyme c.t. linalool is our favorite with this naturally constituent for immune support. Hyssop is an important oil due the great diversity in its molecular makeup. Battaglia notes in The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy that Hyssop decumbens is "reputed to have potent antiviral effects" with particular affinity for the respiratory system and diffuser use.

Other highly-regarded oils used for influenza and other viruses that may compromise the respiratory system are Ravensara, Eucalyptus Radiata and Rosemary c.t. Verbenone. These oils can be diffused for gentle exposure to their immune-supportive effects; they can also be applied regularly to lymph nodes. Niaouli is considered a potent immune system stimulant when used in this way.

After a warm shower when the pores are open is an excellent time to do this. Be especially careful for sensitive skin areas ~ diluting your essential oils in a carrier will help them absorb and make the essential oils even easier on your skin.

Lavender: Nature's Anxiolytic

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:19:00 +0000

The lavender plant, endemic to the Mediterranean, has long been cherished for its scent, therapeutic qualities and cooking uses. Essential oil of lavender is referred to as the "mother" of aromatherapy oils by essential oils teacher Salvatore Battaglia. Lavender's flowery, yet gentle, scent is subtle and supportive. Unlike rose or jasmine flower essential oils, lavender's aroma is not overbearing but instead buoys the spirit and assists in the rebalancing of physical and mental bearings. These reasons make lavender an excellent plant for overcoming symptoms of stress.

The term lavender is derived from its Latin root levare, which means "to wash," because of its time-honored use as a bathing herb. French cooking has long incorporated lavender flowers in its bountiful cuisine, primarily in the medley herbes de Provence. The flowers also provide a unique pollen source for local bees, resulting in widely-sought lavender honey. This simple evergreen has also developed a name for itself globally as an indispensable medicinal aid in a variety of therapies. True lavender, and its relatives lavandin, maritime lavender and spike lavender, are now grown in countries ranging from Japan to Russia to Italy.

Lavender is, by far, the most widely used and multifaceted of the common

Recovering from medical procedures can also be extremely mentally and physically grueling. In order to test lavender's ability to combat post-procedural stress and recovery, NYU Medical Center implemented a test on twenty-five women receiving breast biopsies. Subjects were given aroma of lavender in their oxygen supply during post-procedural recovery. A promising relationship was noted between how satisfied patients were with their pain recovery and the use of lavender aromatherapy. This is significant, as control group subjects seemed to experience more discontentment with pain management post-surgery. A second study, at the same university, sought to determine whether lavender could be an effective pain management tool in laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Traditionally, opioids and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are administered to combat post-operative pain. In this study, lavender was used in conjunction with these medications to again test its efficacy as a pain-management tool. Researchers found lavender aroma lowered patient's dependence on traditional medicines, offering hope that this plant could be used with other medical procedures.

The central nervous system, both the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems, respond powerfully to lavender's soothing qualities. Because it affects the entire nervous system, lavender is capable of alleviating symptoms of stress ? raised heart rate, frustration, worry ? without interfering with our capability to deal with stressors that require immediate action. Anxiety and stress often find their sources in situations which are not always related to actual threats or emotional turmoil, but are instead simply turnings of the mind in response to feelings or helplessness or heightened expectations or fears. Discovering ways of calming stress responses is imperative for creating harmony in the body and mind. Lavender penetrates the central nervous system, making it a perfect plant for working with daily stress and also for pacifying our nerves at the end of a long day, when we so dearly need our sleep.

Lavender oil is easily combined with a variety of carrier oils for massage application, to create compresses, for dermatological use and as a salve or balm. As its Latin root implies, it is excellent when used in bathing, and it can also be used with youngsters. It creates a heavenly mood when used in a vaporizer or diffuser in your home, office or car, and won't likely offend others with its gentle scent. Lavender buds can also be tossed into gourmet cooking and add an intriguing aroma to herbal decoctions. And don't forget those delightful flax and lavender eye pillows ? if insomnia plagues your nights, lavender is your best ally. For daytime stress, keeping a bottle of lavender essential oil in your car or bag can neutralize a wide variety of symptoms that keep you from functioning at your best. Just stop, breathe deep and let this beautiful oil show you how to regain your footing once more.

Aromatherapy Research Update: Essential Oils Can Help With Your Smarts

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:02:00 +0000

Scientific research regarding health and medical applications of essential oils is going on regularly at universities and other facilities around the world. Many of these studies are immediately applicable to aromatherapy practitioners for improved health and well-being, while others spark interest in the potential of essential oils as a part of future medicine protocols. Modern scientific research is regularly confirming aromatherapy's practical medical applications! Here's a look at two important journal publications just released about direct effects of essential oils in the brain, reviewed by the staff at Ananda Aromatherapy of Boulder, Colorado.

These two are really interesting studies, as inhalation of many essential oils have been considered sharpening to our mental capacities. These have been thought to be more esoteric effects of aromatherapy, like the aroma just makes us feel good so we are a little more mentally clear. Now some of the biochemical mechanisms of these effects are being elucidated, proving it's not just all in our minds! Rosemary and Lemon are two very common, inexpensive oils researched for their ability to directly impact test scores of university students (in Japan at least), and reduce errors made by office workers (also in Japan -- thankfully, Japanese scientists are into aromatherapy). These oils are readily available, inexpensive, safe, and can be used in nebulizing diffusers (which output therapeutic concentrations of essential oil vapor).

In the first study, perfomed at the Institute for Environmental Sciences at the University of Shizuoka Japan, Tarragon, Inula, Lavender and Holy Basil were tested for their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. In other words, their ability to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, the primary information-handling neurotransmitter. Supplements with this action are becoming more and more popular with regular folks trying to increase their smarts, and are used to treat dementia (Alzheimer's) by increasing the amount of acetylcholine in the brain.

Of the essential oils tested, Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) produced in France had the highest inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, though all the oils tested showed significant AChE inhibitory activity. All the oils were analyzed by GC/MS to find the individual natural chemical constituents of the oils which produced this effect. Of real interest is that 1,8-Cineol had the greatest inhibitory activity of all the constituents examined. Why this this interesting? Rosemary essential oil has long been considered a mental stimulant (we find in the office to be particularly brightening) and has been studied for this effect, improving mental focus in humans through a variety of tests. The primary component of Rosemary essential oil is 1,8-Cineol (it is also a major constituent of Eucalyptus oils, used for invigorating massages and steam treatments).

Also of great interest was that the effect of these constituents relative to their amounts in the complete natural essential oil was not very high -- meaning the complete essential oil, with nature's balance of the chemical constituents, was synergistically more effective than the singly-extracted molecules. This is a theme in aromatherapy: that the complete natural essential oil will generally have more benefits than a single 'active ingredient' extracted in a laboratory -- Therapeutic grade oils are those that retain the natural balance of the plant's, with proper harvesting and distillation methods.

While a single chemical from an essential oil may show a specific effect in a biochemical pathway, these molecules don't smell very interesting. A really fine, wildcrafted Rosemary essential oil is a pleasure to breathe in. Other studies have shown stress reduction (along with mental stimulation) occurs when Rosemary is inhaled, and it's well known that our brains perform more accurately when not under stress. The bottom line is that while it's a regular practice for researchers to examine single components of a natural substance to find the 'active ingredient', in general in natural medicine, and in particular with aromatherapy, the whole natural extract will be better for our health.

The second study very much ties in with the first, as it demonstrates the ability of Lemon essential oil to directly prevent dementia (Alzheimer's). The causes of dementia are not well understood, though some pathways are clearly documented. Toxicity from certain chemicals may lead to a breakdown in neurotransmitter systems, resulting in dementia symptoms. In research performed at the Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry in Shizouka, Japan, Lemon essential oil was shown to inhibit memory impairment from scopolamine exposure, preventing dementia. AND, as a final note of the study, the combined primary constituents of Lemon essential oil were shown to inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity! Lemon essential oil both prevents dementia and increases acetylcholine stores in the the brain.

How can you benefit from these studies? The best method is to find a cold-air nebulizing diffuser. These employ no water or other carrier, and make a very fine mist of essential oils that easily evaporate into your room. These are the only diffusers that create high concentrations of essential oils in the air -- enough to show measurable biochemical effects. A 'warming' diffuser or other non-nebulizing style will allow you to smell the aroma, though the concentration will be significantly lower. At Ananda Aromatherapy we've been trying Lemon and Rosemary together, along with a little sweeter oil like cold-pressed Orange, Tangerine or Mandarin. Lavender or Ylang Ylang might go well with this too, for a calming effect at the same time. One can set the diffuser up on a timer so it runs ten minutes every hour and run it all during the day. The oils can always be changed to other 'brightening' aromas, as they will likely have similar effects -- getting the mind sharp and staying sharp!

The Incredible Benefits of Lemon Essential Oil Aroma

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:49:00 +0000

Simple Lemon essential oil is often overlooked for it's aroma-therapeutic effects, mostly as it's not very exotic. Lemon..."ho-hum, I've got lemons in the 'fridge"...but the idea of Frankincense or Helichrysum sounds like it might do us more good ~ in a mysterious sort of way. But all essential oils have their use, and lemon is at the front of the pack in terms of supporting mental and emotional health.

Lemon essential oil has long been used as a mental stimulant and brightener of the mind. Now scientific investigators have demonstrated some of the mechanisms for this effect. In Japan, a study has shown that lemon oil vapor (as produced by a nebulizing diffuser) has anti-stress effects by modulating both the Serotonin and Dopamine neurotransmitter systems. The conclusion was that lemon oil aroma has both anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects. Other research performed in Japan years ago showed a significant improvement in mental accuracy for office workers inhaling the aroma.

Also recently published by other Japanese researchers shows that lemon oil actually limits the toxicity of scopolamine ~ a natural plant alkaloid with medicinal effects at low dosages, that shows neurotoxicity at higher dosages. Scoploamine overdose can cause dementia and memory loss. Lemon oil prevented these effects from occuring.

Lemon oil is easy to use, and very safe. It's aroma can be enjoyed from any diffuser, though it would be best to use in a cold-air unit due to the delicate nature of citrus essential oils in general. One can simply just enjoy the aroma as frequently as you like. Here are the studies:

Study: Components of lemon essential oil attenuate dementia induced by scopolamine.

Zhou W, Fukumoto S, Yokogoshi H.Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry and G-COE Program in the 21st Century, Graduate School of Nutritional and Environmental Science, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan.

The anti-dementia effects of s-limonene and s-perillyl alcohol were observed using the passive avoidance test (PA) and the open field habituation test (OFH). These lemon essential oils showed strong ability to improve memory impaired by scopolamine; however, s-perillyl alcohol relieved the deficit of associative memory in PA only, and did not improve non-associative memory significantly in OFH. Analysis of neurotransmitter concentration in some brain regions on the test day showed that dopamine concentration of the vehicle/scopolamine group was significantly lower than that of the vehicle/vehicle group, but this phenomenon was reversed when s-limonene or s-perillyl alcohol were administered before the injection of scopolamine. Simultaneously, we found that these two lemon essential oil components could inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity in vitro using the Ellman method.

Study: Lemon oil vapor causes an anti-stress effect via modulating the 5-HT and DA activities in mice.

Komiya M, Takeuchi T, Harada E.Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan.

We examined the anti-stress action of the essential oils of lavender, rose, and lemon using an elevated plus-maze task (EPM), a forced swimming task (FST), and an open field task (OFT) in mice. Lemon oil had the strongest anti-stress effect in all three behavioral tasks. We further investigated a regulatory mechanism of the lemon oil by pre-treatments with agonists or antagonists to benzodiazepine, 5-HT, DA, and adrenaline receptors by the EPM and the FST. The anti-stress effect of lemon oil was significantly blocked by pre-treatment with frumazenil, benzodiazepine receptor antagonist, or apomorphine, a nonselective DA receptor agonist. In contrast, agonists or antagonists to the 5-HT receptor and the alpha-2 adrenaline receptor did not affect the anti-stress effect of lemon oil. Buspirone, DOI, and mianserine blocked the antidepressant-like effect of lemon oil in the FST, but WAY100,635 did not. These findings suggest that the antidepressant-like effect of lemon oil is closely related with the 5-HTnergic pathway, especially via 5-HT(1A) receptor. Moreover, the lemon oil significantly accelerated the metabolic turnover of DA in the hippocampus and of 5-HT in the prefrontal cortex and striatum. These results suggest that lemon oil possesses anxiolytic, antidepressant-like effects via the suppression of DA activity related to enhanced 5-HTnergic neurons.

Study Confirms Synergistic Antimicrobial Effect of Natural Essential Oil Constituents

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 15:53:00 +0000

Here's wonderful evidence that nature is making balanced medicine ~ that the past ventures of western science to "isolate the active ingredient" in a natural substance, then use ONLY that is really not necessary. In fact, it's been somewhat wasteful in term of the energy requirements needed to single out the "active ingredient" rather than just use the whole natural substance itself...perhaps we're a litte biased here at Ananda :-) ...knowing that whole, true essential oils are medicines, and made-made isolates rarely have the same wholistic therapeutic action.

In this study performed at Institute of Complementary Medicine in Zurich, Switzerland, the antimicrobial effects of the individual chemical constituents of Thyme essential oil were studied each individually, then together. It turns out their effects are additive, and the conclusion is that a natural balance of several active ingredients may have the greatest efficacy.

Study: Additive Antmicrobial Effects of the Active Components of the Essential Oil of Thymus vulgaris - Chemotype Carvacrol.

Iten F, Saller R, Abel G, Reichling J. at the Institute of Complementary Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.

Herbal remedies are multicomponent mixtures by their nature as well as by pharmaceutical definition. Being a multicomponent mixture is not only a crucial property of herbal remedies, it also represents a precondition for interactions such as synergism or antagonism. Until now, only a few phytomedicines are accurately described concerning the interactions of their active components. The aim of this study was to search for interactions within such a naturally given multi-component mixture and to discuss the pharmaceutical and clinical impacts. The thyme oil chosen for the examination belongs to the essential oils with the most pronounced antimicrobial activity. Antibiotic activity of thyme oil and single active components were tested against six different strains of microorganisms. The checkerboard assay was used to search for interactions. The time-kill assay was used to verify the observed effects and to get information about the temporal resolution of the antimicrobial activity. The degree of the detected interactions corresponded with the demarcating FICI measure of 0.5, which separates the additive from the over-additive (synergistic) effects. Therefore, the observed effect was called a "borderline case of synergism" or, respectively, "partial synergism". Partial synergism was observed only in the presence of KLEBSIELLA PNEUMONIAE. Additive antimicrobial activity was observed for the combination of the two monosubstances carvacrol plus linalool and thymol plus linalool as well as with the combination of the two essential oils of the carvacrol and linalool chemotypes. An increase of the carvacrol oil concentration from one to two times the MIC resulted in a considerable acceleration of the kill-rate. Thyme oil is composed of several different components that show antimicrobial activity (at least: carvacrol, thymol and linalool). The antimicrobial activity of thyme oil is partly based on additive effects, which might especially enhance the rapidity of the antimicrobial action. In addition, a mixture of several active ingredients that varies in its composition from year to year and from lot to lot as is the case with herbal remedies may be more stable concerning the antimicrobial activity than mixtures containing just a single active component.

Joining the Medical Aromatherapy Explosion

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:31:00 +0000

As consumers, we are truly embracing the natural health movement. We've taken a good hard look at our medical system, and realize there must be something better -- and it turns out that Nature has been offering it this entire time in the myriad forms of plant medicine. Using plants and herbs for healing has been happening the whole during the whole of human civilization. Researchers have now even discovered animals in the wild eating particular plants to cure their ills. We are now seeing an explosion of interest in "aroma medicine", the use of pure and natural essential oils as powerful healing tools. And these tools are readily available to you and your family to improve your health and wellbeing.

The body of scientific research regarding the healing actions of essential oils has grown vastly over the last 20 years. A search on Pub Med, an on-line database of the US National Library of Medicine, for "essential oil" returns 8808 results as of April 10th, 2009. The very first listing describes the anti-dementia (Alzheimer's) effects of Lemon essential oil! The diversity of actual medical applications of essential oils is truly incredible -- more diverse than just the plants themselves, as many essential oils have multiple applications. The inhalation of lemon has been shown to improve mood, improve mental accuracy and even act as an antimicrobial, perfect for general household cleaning.

A few other very notable scientific results: Clove essential oil has the highest ORAC value (an assay of anti-oxidant activity) of any plant material ever tested, with a figure of over 100,000 -- most "superfoods" are in the 5,000 to 20,000 range. Many, many studies have confirmed the stress-reducing effects of essential oils: Lavender repeatedly shows a calming effect, it helps folks sleep as well as the most prevalent prescription sedative drugs, and actually lessens animal aggression. In case you don't care for Lavender, Sandalwood has these same effects with a more earthy aroma. The simple inhalation -- what many of us might really think of when we hear the term "aromatherapy" -- of Lavender and Rosemary essential oils results in lower Cortisol (stress hormone) levels and increased quenching of oxidative radicals by our own body's defense systems. The complimentary effects are amazing: just the scent of these natural aromatics reduce physical markers of stress AND increase the action of the body's anti-aging protection mechanism.

Perhaps the most important effects of all are those seen in the treatment of serious illnesses. Many modern medical aromatherapists believe the greatest promise of essential oils still lay in the development of protocols for treatment of infectious disease. The MRSA "superbug", referring to one of several strains of Staphylococcus bacteria that are resistant to the powerful antibiotic drug Methicillin, has become an overwhelming problem in the world's hospitals. Folks go in for care of one condition, and while their immune defenses are low, they come down with an infection that's very hard to cure (because man-made antibiotics don't work). Enter essential oils: Pub Med is filled with studies showing the efficacy of essential oils like Tea Tree and Geranium against MRSA (particularly when combined with another potent natural antibacterial, Grapefruit Seed Extract).

Future medical applications even include treatment of Cancer, the most feared disease of all. Natural medicine doctors have been admonished for years by proclaiming that "nature has a cure", yet the body of evidence continues to grow with the many studies showing the anti-tumorial action of oils like Frankincense and Lemongrass. These plants have been used for centuries for healing -- now, the essential oils offer us very concentrated medicine that happens to be very compatible with our physiology. Essential oils easily penetrate our cell membranes, travel safely through our bloodstreams, and can play a dual role of eradicating tumors while enhancing the ability of our immune system to do its job (other studies are showing essential oils actually "tune" the electrical state of our white blood cells such that they do a better job of removing unwanted microbes from our bodies).

It's important to note that essential oils don't just effect serious medical conditions -- they have a place in our everyday lives, too. Tea Tree essential oil is a wonderful, effective antibiotic, especially useful when combined with soothing Lavender for childhood cuts and scrapes (if you're tough, just use the Tea Tree to prevent infections). Essential oils have been shown to reduce bacteria in the mouth which reduce tooth decay. Helichrysum essential oil is one of the most profound pain relievers and inflammation-reducers for muscular injuries, and makes small kitchen burns heal almost instantly (just a drop on that little hot spot and you'll be quickly convinced!). Sea Buckthorn heals wounds and reduces wrinkles. Chamomile or Mandarin have been used for years in Europe to soothe the traumas of childhood, and lend a hand to parental sanity. The scent of many pure essential oils just makes folks happier (and it's important to note this same results do not occur with "fragrances", a term for man-made smells -- they do not have the same make-up as natural plant aromatics do -- and in fact, many people are allergic to them).

So how do you get started? Which are the best oils for you and your family? There are a great many books on the subject, and you can find a general theme to get yourself started: Medical Aromatherapy and Advanced Aromatherapy are titles by Doctor Kurt Schnaubelt, many books by Valerie Worwood help you enrich your life and the lives of your children with essential oils. There's books for blending for skin care, hair care, pet care, home care, emotional healing and more. Further, if you or someone you know is truly ill, seek out a skilled, knowledgeable practitioner that can help you develop an aroma-therapy protocol (which, with all of natural medicine, will work in combination with diet and lifestyle changes to bring about optimum health and wellness). Someone with many years of experience with essential oils will be your best ally in making your world a better place with the brilliant healing powers of essential oils -- at the same time, getting started is fun and easy just by picking a few oils that sound right for you, and introducing them into your life just as you need them.

A Great New Carrier Oil: Fractionated Coconut

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:43:00 +0000

Ananda Aromatherapy has just added a wonderful carrier oil with a very diverse list of applications: Fractionated Coconut oil. Yes, our reaction was a little strange too: "Fractionated"? Is that good? Yes, now we can use this excellent carrier oil ~ which is typically solid at room temperature ~ for all our aromatherapy needs.

Fractionation is simply the process of separating the shorter and longer molecular chain 'fractions' of the oil. In the case of coconut, we keep the shorter chains, which then remain liquid at temperatures we use for therapeutic needs. These shorter chains are technically called 'Medium Chain Triglicerides'. These molecules are the most stable of all in coconut oil, and have a virtually limitless 'shelf life' ~ a great benefit when blending, as your natural perfumes or therapeutic creations will retain their freshness for some time.

Coconut oil has a long list of health benefits: it is an excellent skin moisturizer, suitable for most skin types. It is very hydrating and easily absorbed ~ particularly the 'medium chain fraction'. The oil is beginning to be used by Naturopaths for dermatitis of all types, and used generally for dry skin. Interestingly, it has been noted that the oil is very similar to human subcutaneous fat; its processing actually makes it closer to our own body's natural makeup! Consuming the oil as a nutritional supplement has been a practice of athletes for many years, as it actually increases the body's rate of fat burning.

Coconut also has a lovely light feel, fast becoming appreciated by massage therapists. It doesn't leave stains on fabric after washing, so when used in your topical aromatherapy blends, there's no need to worry about oil on your clothing (though some essential oils like Rose Absolute, Blue Tansy or Sea Buckthorn Berry are naturally pigmented, so you might want to check these out individually if using a deeply colored essential oil).

Fractionated coconut oil is THE carrier of choice for natural perfumers. It has virtually no aroma of its own, and with the light clear texture and long shelf life, makes a perfect vehicle to 'carry' your aromatic creations. (Jojoba oil is also an excellent choice, particularly if seeking an oil that will be a little thicker ~ though it too has little aroma of its own and is very stable).

Use Fractionated Coconut in your topical aromatherapy massage blends, reflexology formulas and other therapeutic recipes as you would any other carrier. It will blend with other carriers with specific therapeutic uses as well, like Tamanu, Rosehip seed and the like.

Quick Tips to Learn About Diffusing Essential Oils

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 16:07:00 +0000

Diffusion of an essential oil means to distribute the oil in the air around you. Essential oils easily evaporate ~ more easily than water ~ so this is a pretty straightforward thing to do. At the same time, there are ways to get even more essential oil in the air, at a higher concentration than, say, if you just let a bottle sit open on a table. This is where an aromatherapy diffuser comes it. The diffuser evaporates the essential oil faster, using one of many possible methods (more on that in a moment). And why would you want to evaporate the oil faster? If you just left a bottle sitting open, you and your family would occasionally smell the aroma coming from the bottle; if you'd like your whole room or house to be filled with that aroma, you'd use a diffuser.

The least expensive diffusers work very well for bringing aroma into the air. They often use heat to evaporate essential oil ~ others use a small fan ~ and both these types often have a small replaceable pad onto which a few drops of essential oil are placed. These diffusers have the advantage of low cost and ease-of-use, though they generally are only for small spaces, like a single bedroom or small office. More advanced diffusers, called ultrasonic diffuser, are like small ultrasonic humidification units, built to diffuse essential oil along with a mist of air. They are well-liked, particularly in dry environments ~ the ultrasonic diffusers are also made to fill a somewhat larger space with aroma.

There are other simple, inexpensive 'low-tech' methods of diffusing essential oils. These are as simple as candle warmers ~ where a candle gently evaporates a few drops of essential oil floating on a small bowl of water above a tea-light candle (don't forget the water! So many people report these devices burn their oils, but they've put them just over the heat!). A Reed Diffuser is also common, which evaporates aromatic oils through bamboo reeds and slowly into the air. Though they do most often use a synthetic dispersion agent called DPG or dipropylene glycol, which most aromatherapists will not recommend using, as at some point the diffusion process requires one breathing in its vapors.

The most advanced aromatherapy diffusers produce a fine, concentrated mist of pure essential oil, without water or heat. (Our favorite on the planet is the Florihana professional model we have here). In medicinal aromatherapy practices, therapists will sometimes have their clients actually breathe the visible vapor of an oil or oil blend to help them get well. In Europe, one can find an apparatus that looks like an oxygen tent, though instead allows the patient to breathe in oils that are considered highly anti-viral or anti-bacterial. This employs what is called a "nebulizing diffuser" (this is not the same as an "ultrasonic nebulizer" in that no water is used). The nebulizing diffusers are wonderful in that they can be used in both small spaces, just for aromatic needs, or for larger areas where a high concentration of essential oils are desired in the air. At the same time, they can take a little more attending to ~ needing the occasional cleaning ~ and typically use precision glass pieces to make the fine mist of essential oil evaporate properly. Even so, the best of these available today are small, quiet, nice looking and easy to maintain.

The essential oil one can diffuse vary as much as the diffusers themselves. If you're just wanting to make your space smell wonderful, choose a few of your favorite aromas and just go for it! Use small amounts at first to conserve your oils, while you get an idea of how much essential oil diffusing for so long suits your tastes. Some people are more sensitive than others, so take your friends and family into consideration as well. Note that children generally need much less oil to notice and have a response to, so lower your starting volume for the younger ones of your family. Blending oils from the same family is easy to do, and generally results in a very fun scent. To simply bring great cheer to a room, woods and needle oils work especially well, as their scents are broadly loved. Balsam Fir, Pine, Spruce, Black Spruce and Juniper Berry go very well together; the Citrus oils also combine well ~ you can blend virtually any combination of Lemon, Grapefruit, Orange, Tangerine and Mandarin and make a very uplifting combination. If you like floral aromas, you can try blending your favorites of those as well, though they take a little more close attention to the ratios of each oil so that one does not overwhelm another. When you start, it's not a bad idea to take notes about how many drops of each oil you've used and adjust them to make your favorite combination the next time. There are many pre-made diffuser blends of pure essential oils available as well, so consider giving them a try.

Finally, if you're wanting to diffuse with specific therapeutic purposes in mind, you might want find some recipes from Aromatherapists created with your needs in mind. Lavender diffused during the course of the night (in very small amounts) can significantly improve sleep ~ this would be considered a therapeutic application. To improve mental clarity, Rosemary has shown positive results in many studies, and is a lovely stimulating aroma. To support the immune system, some therapists recommend a blend of Rosemary, Thyme Linalool, Hyssop and Melissa. You can pick and choose among the immune supportive oils that sound best for your needs ~ and the essential oils from herbs also seem to easily blend well together to create a fun and healing combination.

So there is a primer on diffusing essential oils. To recap, first pick the diffuser style that will suit your needs, whether you'll just like to smell the aromas in a smaller space, or diffuse significant quantities for health reasons. Next, you can blend one oil at a time (diffusers usually do not require one to clean them between oils, nor are the therapeutic effects significantly altered by this), by a pre-blended formula, or create your own diffuser mixture. Just be sure not to include any fixed or carrier oils for diffuser use (many massage formulas can be converted to diffuser use simply by removing the carrier oil). Start slowly, remembering that you'll generally need less oil than you think to produce the effect you need.

Using Essential Oils to Care for Colds and Flu

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 16:44:00 +0000

It's a tough time of year as the seasons change again ~ we see many folks getting symptoms of colds and flu: runny noses, coughs, sore throats and body aches. Our staff has had great success using therapeutic grade essential oils themselves, and sharing them with others whom have avoided getting sick, or finally kicked their long-term illness.

Essential oils are the concentrated aromatic compounds of plants. In one respect, they are the signaling mechanisms of the plant world, created by an interaction of plants and the sun. These chemical messengers are distilled into little bottles for us to us to heal ourselves ~ and our bodies respond profoundly to this medicine. A simple scientific study recently showed how Eucalyptus essential oil significantly improved the phagocytotic ability of lyphocytes ~ the white blood cells responsible for ridding the body of foreign invaders. It was not the oil that was eliminating the foreign body, but the oil was changing the white blood cell in such a way that it could do its job more effectively.

Many other studies have shown the anti-viral effect of essential oils ~ this is due to the oils inhibiting viruses from entering the cells. One of the mechanisms proposed for this action is a change of 'membrane potential' of our cells, meaning that the electrical condition they normally reside in has been changed by the presence of the essential oil. And it is very important to note that only a tiny amount of essential oil is needed to create this effect ~ much less than is needed, for example, to eradicate all the bacterial from a petri dish (a common lab test for the anti-microbial action of a particular essential oil).

So what does this all mean for caring for the common cold and flu? It means we can fine tune our immune system with a small amount of essential oil to prevent ourselves from getting sick, and to lessen the duration and intensity of symptoms using essential oils if we've caught a cold. Essential oils penetrate our skin very easiliy, and just a few drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil massaged into our lymph nodes can make a huge difference for many, many people. It's easy to do, can be very rewarding, and one smells really wonderful to boot!

Here are a few ideas of using essential oils for supporting the immune system:

Massage 20 drops of Nialouli into the sturnum and under the armpits when stepping out of a hot shower. Doctor Kurt Schnaubelt believes this to be one of the most profound ways to keep the white cells prepared to properly defend the body.
Make a blend (only a few milliliters are needed total) of 1 part Melissa, 2 parts Thyme Linalool, 2 parts Hyssop and 2 parts Rosemary Cineol. Add 3 drops of this blend to a teaspoon of carrier and massage into the body as above, or massage the tops of the feet (a very important part of the energy pathways of the body for the respiratory system).
Choose 3 essential oils you are drawn to for caring for your immunity and your environment. Blend them in equal amounts (or let your intuition guide you to your own recipe) and diffuse them in your space using a nebulizing diffuser. These diffusers make a high concentration of essential oils in the air ~ enough for your body to absorb and boost immune system efficacy, and likely disinfecting the air around you at the same time.

Application of essential oils is very flexible. Many oils can have similar effects while having different aromas. Choose the oils you are attracted to, and utilize the knowledgebase available on the internet and through health professionals in your area to help them us their healing potential for you and your family.

Essential Oils Lower Test Taking Stress, Again...

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 15:34:00 +0000

Over the years, there have been numerous studies regarding the effects inhaling essential oils either while studying, while test taking, and generally 'in school' ~ as the results are easily measures: test scores, on average, would be different if aromatherapy contributed a significant effect. A study just performed at the Christine E Lynn College of Nursing in Boca Raton, Florida, supports the previous results ~ inhaling essential oils produces measurable effects on test-takers.

This time, the study focused specifically on test-taking anxiety. Ever get stressed out before an important exam? Well here you have it ~ 'the use of lavender and rosemary essential oil sachets reduced test taking stress in graduate nursing students'. We expect the tests they'd be taking were not very "light". On the contrary, probably very complex, and meant a lot in their lives.

A similar study produced by the Department of Nursing at Nambu University in Korea, students were given an aroma lamp with Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary and Clary Sage essential oils. Again, the students using aromatherapy reported lower stress regarding their test taking.

THE TAKE HOME POINT: The inhalation of pure essential oil aromas (note that these were not 'fragrance oils', but true essential oils) lowers stress. It can't just be for nursing students who take tests, can it? (This is a bit of a joke we're making, as there are MANY studies showing aromatherapy lowering subjective scores of anxiety and stress in peer-reviewed journals around the world). And these studies seem to indicate the 'casual' incorporation of aromatherapy in one's life can make a difference ~ just smell the oils when you feel like it, and they might just change your mood for the better. And we all know the great effects that can potentially have on one's health! Here are the studies:

The effects of lavender and rosemary essential oils on test-taking anxiety among graduate nursing students.
McCaffrey R, Thomas DJ, Kinzelman AO. Christine E Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA.

Test taking in nursing school can produce stress that affects the ability of students to realize their goals of graduation. In this study, the use of lavender and rosemary essential oil sachets reduced test-taking stress in graduate nursing students as evidenced by lower scores on test anxiety measure, personal statements, and pulse rates.

The effect of aroma inhalation method on stress responses of nursing students.

Park MK, Lee ES. Department of Nursing, Nambu University, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju city, Korea.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to identify the effect of aroma inhalation on stress responses (physical symptoms, levels of anxiety, perceived stresses)of nursing students. METHOD: This study was a quasi-experimental research using a non-equivalent pre-post design and was conducted from June 1 to June 5, 2002. The subjects consisted of 77 junior nursing students who were divided into 39 experimental group members and 38 control group members. A pretest and Post-test were conducted to measure body symptoms, the level of anxiety, and the level of perceived stress. In the experimental group, aromas were given using an aroma lamp, lavender, peppermint, rosemary and Clary-Sage. In the control group, the treatment was not administered. RESULT: As a result of administering aroma inhalation to nursing students, their physical symptoms decreased, their anxiety scores were low, and their perceived stress scores were low, showing that aroma inhalation could be a very effective stress management method. CONCLUSION: Nursing educators should play an important role in contributing to college students' physical and psychological health by helping enhance their recognition of stress management and effectively relieving their stress using essential oils.

National Aromatherapy Conference 2009 this February

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:39:00 +0000

The following is the schedule for the 2009 Aromatherapy conference to be held in San Rafael, California, this February 20th - 22nd. The focus this year is "Cancer, Degenerative and Auto-immune Diseases". The conference is presented by the Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy. Visit their website for more information.

The following is a list of the presenters, and their topics:

A convincing body of scientific research confirms the singular ability of essential oils to reduce the risk of developing tumors. Studies on the antitumor effects of essential oil components have been funded by the NIH and have resulted in a key patent held by the United States.

The fact that essential oil efficacy against tumors is not better known is a consequence of the way health care and pharmaceutical dollars are allocated. Since well known and traditional natural medicines cannot be patented, returns on investment are difficult to monopolize. Funds for research predominantly go to synthetic substances which can be owned exclusively by their manufacturer.

The most pertinent American research of the day proving the anticancer effects of essential oils was presented at the 2000 conference Essential Oils and Cancer (Available in the proceedings of the 4th wholistic aromatherapy conference). The 2009 Conference builds on this basis and presents the most fascinating development of aromatherapy to date: New scientific understanding resulting in healing concepts that do not require the expensive, impersonal and frightening intervention of high-tech medicine. Instead, simple uses of essential oils deliver a maximum of protection against the most dreaded diseases of our time.

Plenary lectures, featuring world-renowned scientists and physicians, are complimented by panel presentations where members of the aromatherapy community share their practical essential oil applications

Anne-Marie Giraud-Robert: Essential Oils for Cancer Patients

Dr. Anne-Marie Giraud-Robert will discuss using aromatherapy along side conventional cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation or chemotherapy with the aim of reducing toxicity, stimulating the organism?s own defenses and draining toxins from liver and kidneys. Essential oils can prevent and treat infections during chemotherapy and protect the skin during radiation therapy. They manage many symptoms after completion of conventional treatments, such as fatigue, blisters, nausea, epistaxis and lymphedema.

Dr. Giraud-Robert will summarize complementary use of essential oils in over 1400 clinical cases, including ovarian, lung, prostate and other cancers, observing increased efficacy of the conventional treatment, improved quality of life and dramatically increased average survival rates.

Michael Wink: Scientific Basis for Essential Oil Efficacy

In the perspective of conventional medicine, medicinal plant extracts are generally considered to be of low efficacy. Prof Wink makes the point that this is due the difficulty, conventional pharmacology has, to correctly assess the activity of natural multicomponent mixtures.

Plants cannot run away when attacked by herbivores nor do they have an immune system to fight infection. Instead they have developed biologically active secondary metabolites to serve as their defense.

Prof. Wink will present the molecular mechanisms by which secondary plant metabolites induce physiological effects and also how natural multicomponent mixtures such as essential oils have evolved to become highly effective and how they outperform mono substances.

Jeffrey Yuen: Essential Oils for Degenerative Disease

Jeffrey Yuen has pioneered the application of essential oils according to the principles of Chinese Medicine. Mr. Yuen draws from unparalleled knowledge of the traditions of Chinese medicine. He has fascinated aromatherapy enthusiasts everywhere as he unifies time tested tradition with contemporary aromatherapy.

According to Classical Chinese medicine, degenerative disease develops when we no longer regenerate sufficiently because our ability to derive energy and nutrients from the food we eat has become impaired. A fist step to reversing degenerative processes is to use essential oils according to the individual constitution of a patient so that nutrients are properly digested and absorbed and waste materials are eliminated.

Scott Franzblau: Essential Oil Efficacy against Tuberculosis

Professor Scott G. Franzblau, PhD is director of the Institute for Tuberculosis Research at the College of Pharmacy of the University of Illinois, where he has been conducting experiments demonstrating the efficacy of a number of essential oils against the bacterium that causes most cases of tuberculosis: Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

James Geiger: Aromatherapy in the 21st Century

Dr. James Geiger, MD is a practicing anesthesiologist and author of The Sweet Smell of Success. He will present a review of the latest research covering hitherto unfamiliar areas of essential oil efficacy:

* Efficacy of Essential Oils against the Chagas pathogen.
* Inhibition of the inflammatory protein NF-KB by sesqui terpenes.
* Treatment of diabetic gangrene with essential oils.
* Black Pepper essential oil for stroke patients.
* Inhibition of inflammation by essential oils of Ginger, Helichrysum and Frankincense blocking LOX (Lipo oxygenase) and COX (Cyclo oxygenase).
* Preventing osteo arthritis.
* Essential oils and appetite suppression.

Elson Haas: Nutrition Strategies to prevent Degenerative Diseases

Dr. Elson Haas, MD is the author of numerous books including Staying Healthy with the Seasons. He combines eastern and natural approaches with western modalities. Based on his many years of experience and his medical background Dr. Haas will discuss nutritional aspects in preventing degenerative disease.

Richard Maldonado: Aging: A Native American Perspective

In his practice, Richard Maldonado has helped countless individuals master life's challenges through the wisdom of his Native American heritage. In this culture, plant spirit is tapped to remedy imbalances of the soul. Mr. Maldonado will tell American plant tales and visit some of the ceremonial aspects of his Peruvian lineage.

Pam Taylor: Supporting Elderly Patients with Chronic Diseases

Dr. Pam Taylor is a practicing naturopath confronted with real life problems on a daily basis. She will share her experiences on reducing chemotherapy induced nausea as well as the many ways in which degenerative disease symptoms in the elderly can be eased or even cleared up with essential oils.
Mark Webb

Medical Applications of Australian Aromatics

Mark Webb is the author of the much acclaimed Bush Sense, The Clinical and Medical Applications of Australian Aromatics. He will discuss commonly and some not so commonly available Australian aromatics as well as their developing clinical and medicinal uses, from Tea Tree to Agonis fragrans and Kunzea.

Gary Young: Therapeutic Spectrum of Ecuadorian Essential Oils

Dr. Gary Young, ND is the author of several books and the authority behind the hugely popular Young Living enterprise. In his presentation Dr. Young will share results about indigenous essential oils of Ecuador as well as revolutionary research about intravenous application of Melissa essential oil to restore atrophied liver

Reducing Environmental Toxicity for Companion Animals: Nancy Brandt

Detoxification protocols with essential oils can be used internally and topically with animals, to clean the home environment from harmful toxins and also to neutralize bacterial, viral and fungal challenges.

Valerie Cooksley: Cancer Prevention with Essential Oils

A significant degree of cancer prevention is achieved by using essential oils in personal regimens (primary) and also as replacement for many toxic household chemicals (secondary).

Jimm Harrison: Melanoma Suppression

Melanoma, squamous and basal cell cancers are among the most damaging consequences of exposure to sunlight. Jimm Harrison will present current research on flavonoids, poly phenols and essential oils to treat sun damage and to prevent cancer.

Janice Hein: Essential Oils in Corporate Clinical Environments

In the US medical use of essential oils has been mostly limited to individuals. Clinical application as seen in other countries is the exception. Ms. Hein will discuss the politics, policies, financial support, and maneuvering involved with aromatherapy implementation in hospitals.

Mindy Green: Essential Oil and Skin Cancer

The scientific literature is clear that mono terpene compounds from essential oils affect metabolic pathways relevant in cancer formation. As research of whole essential oils for direct external use in treating skin cancer is scarce, concerned individuals have extrapolated from existing science and gathered their own experiences. Incorporating specific essential oils into daily skin care is an easy way to pro actively protect skin from skin cancer and other serious conditions.

Lance Morris: Resonant Sound Therapy

Resonant sound arises by the patient making a vocal tone and the practitioner adding a resonant overtone ultimately leading to fascial release.

Kevin Redmond: Healing the Death Wish

Healing the emotional and energetic cause of cancer requires unravelling the original death wish. The presentation addresses healing the death wish through the 16 chakras, chaos and commitment and the role of perception in healing.

Greg Toews: Energy Healing and Essential Oils

Principles of energy healing are universal to all spiritual practices. Healing and spiritual growth go hand in hand. Medical aromatherapy is a perfect tool to connect energetic cleansing, and anchoring of spiritual energies in a quantifiable fashion.

Robbi Zeck: Emotional Support for the Chronically Ill

Emotional aspects and family support are significant in the treatment of chronic conditions. Skillful selection of essential oils helps chronically ill patients in attaining a positive state of mind.
Meet the Distillers

Producers from Australia, Germany and the US: Georg Effner will present his unique distillation technique for essential oils such as Angelica Seed and Hops and reference antitumor effects of Angelica archangelica. Peta and John Day are the exclusive producers of Fragonia (Agonis fragrans), which along with Kunzea, has inspired aromatherapy. Peta and John will speak about these and other oils they produce. Janet Brown and Marty Jacobson from AllStar organics will share their experiences growing and distilling aromatic plants in the Marin county hamlet Lagunitas.

Thyme and Peppermint Studied for Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Actions

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:58:00 +0000

Recent studies are examining essential oils as means to preserve food without the use of synthetic chemicals. The two important features of essential oil activity is that they act both as antimicrobials, preventing the growth of unwanted micro-organisms, and as anti-oxidants, preserving 'freshness'. (These actions take place not only in petri dishes, but within humans as well). Here are a couple of studies examining Thyme and Peppermint essential oils and their actions:

Chemical composition of essential oils of Thymus and Mentha species and their antifungal activities.

Sokovi? MD, Vukojevi? J, Marin PD, Brki? DD, Vajs V, van Griensven LJ.Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovi?", Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.

The potential antifungal effects of Thymus vulgaris L. (Thyme essential oil), Thymus tosevii L., Mentha spicata L. (Spearmint essential oil), and Mentha piperita L. (Peppermint essential oil) and their components against 17 micromycetal food poisoning, plant, animal and human pathogens are presented. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodestillation of dried plant material. Their composition was determined by GC-MS. Identification of individual constituents was made by comparison with analytical standards, and by computer matching mass spectral data with those of the Wiley/NBS Library of Mass Spectra. MIC's and MFC's of the oils and their components were determined by dilution assays. Thymol (48.9%) and p-cymene (19.0%) were the main components of T. vulgaris, while carvacrol (12.8%), a-terpinyl acetate (12.3%), cis-myrtanol (11.2%) and thymol (10.4%) were dominant in T. tosevii. Both Thymus species showed very strong antifungal activities. In M. piperita oil menthol (37.4%), menthyl acetate (17.4%) and menthone (12.7%) were the main components, whereas those of M. spicata oil were carvone (69.5%) and menthone (21.9%). Mentha sp. showed strong antifungal activities, however lower than Thymus sp. The commercial fungicide, bifonazole, used as a control, had much lower antifungal activity than the oils and components investigated. It is concluded that essential oils of Thymus and Mentha species possess great antifungal potential and could be used as natural preservatives and fungicides.

Study: Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of three Mentha species essential oils.

Mimica-Duki? N, Bozin B, Sokovi? M, Mihajlovi? B, Matavulj M.University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Department of Chemistry, Novi Sad, FR Yugoslavia.

The present study describes the antimicrobial activity and free radical scavenging capacity (RSC) of essential oils from Mentha aquatica L., Mentha longifolia L., and Mentha piperita L. (Peppermint essential oil). The chemical profile of each essential oil was determined by GC-MS and TLC. All essential oils exhibited very strong antibacterial activity, in particularly against Esherichia coli strains. The most powerful was M. piperita essential oil, especially towards multiresistant strain of Shigella sonei and Micrococcus flavus ATTC 10,240. All tested oils showed significant fungistatic and fungicidal activity [expressed as minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) values, respectively], that were considerably higher than those of the commercial fungicide bifonazole. The essential oils of M. piperita and M. longifolia were found to be more active than the essential oil of M. aquatica. Especially low MIC (4 microL/mL) and MFC (4 microL/mL) were found with M. piperita oil against Trichophyton tonsurans and Candida albicans (both 8 microL/mL). The RSC was evaluated by measuring the scavenging activity of the essential oils on the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and OH radicals. All examined essential oils were able to reduce DPPH radicals into the neutral DPPH-H form, and this activity was dose-dependent. However, only the M. piperita oil reduced DPPH to 50 % (IC50 = 2.53 microg/mL). The M. piperita essential oil also exhibited the highest OH radical scavenging activity, reducing OH radical generation in the Fenton reaction by 24 % (pure oil). According to GC-MS and TLC (dot-blot techniques), the most powerful scavenging compounds were monoterpene ketones (menthone and isomenthone) in the essential oils of M. longifolia and M. piperita and 1,8-cineole in the oil of M. aquatica.

Lemongrass Essential Oil Studied for Anti-Cancer Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:45:00 +0000

Lemongrass as an herb has been used for centuries for its positive health effects. In Ayurvedic medicine, it has been used for relief of menstrual discomfort and nausea. The fresh grass is used in indigenous medicine systems around the world. Recently, the essential oil has been the subject of scientific studies regarding its effects on cancer cells. One of the features of cancer cells is the upset of natural cell death. Lemongrass appears to be effective as a form of chemotherapy, causing cell death to occur as it should: "Our results indicate that the oil has a promising anticancer activity and causes loss in tumor cell viability by activating the apoptotic process". These studies indicate that Lemongrass essential oil, with its low toxicity, has the potential of being an inexpensive 'alternative' treatment in the future.

Study: Anticancer activity of an essential oil from Cymbopogon flexuosus.

Sharma PR, Mondhe DM, Muthiah S, Pal HC, Shahi AK, Saxena AK, Qazi GN.Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu 180001, India.

The essential oil from a lemon grass (see lemongrass essential oil) variety of Cymbopogon flexuosus was studied for its in vitro cytotoxicity against twelve human cancer cell lines. The in vivo anticancer activity of the oil was also studied using both solid and ascitic Ehrlich and Sarcoma-180 tumor models in mice. In addition, the morphological changes in tumor cells were studied to ascertain the mechanism of cell death. The in vitro cytotoxicity studies showed dose-dependent effects against various human cancer cell lines. The IC(50) values of oil ranged from 4.2 to 79mug/ml depending upon the cell line. In 502713 (colon) and IMR-32 (neuroblastoma) cell lines, the oil showed highest cytotoxicity with IC(50) value of 4.2 and 4.7mug/ml, respectively. Intra-peritoneal administration of the oil significantly inhibited both ascitic and solid forms of Ehrlich and Sarcoma-180 tumors in a dose-dependent manner. The tumor growth inhibition at 200mg/kg (i.p.) of the oil observed with both ascitic and solid tumor forms of Ehrlich Ascites carcinoma was 97.34 and 57.83 respectively. In case of Sarcoma-180, the growth inhibition at similar dose of oil was 94.07 and 36.97% in ascitic and solid forms respectively. Morphological studies of the oil treated HL-60 cells revealed loss of surface projections, chromatin condensation and apoptosis. The mitochondria showed apparent loss of cristae in the cells undergoing apoptosis. The morphological studies of Sarcoma-180 solid tumor cells from animals treated with the oil revealed condensation and fragmentation of nuclei typical of apoptosis. Morphological studies of ascites cells from animals treated with the oil too revealed the changes typical of apoptosis. Our results indicate that the oil has a promising anticancer activity and causes loss in tumor cell viability by activating the apoptotic process as identified by electron microscopy.
Study: An essential oil and its major constituent isointermedeol induce apoptosis by increased expression of mitochondrial cytochrome c and apical death receptors in human leukaemia HL-60 cells.

Kumar A, Malik F, Bhushan S, Sethi VK, Shahi AK, Kaur J, Taneja SC, Qazi GN, Singh J.Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India.

An essential oil from a lemon grass variety of Cymbopogon flexuosus (CFO) and its major chemical constituent sesquiterpene isointermedeol (ISO) were investigated for their ability to induce apoptosis in human leukaemia HL-60 cells because dysregulation of apoptosis is the hallmark of cancer cells. CFO and ISO inhibited cell proliferation with 48 h IC50 of approximately 30 and 20 microg/ml, respectively. Both induced concentration dependent strong and early apoptosis as measured by various end-points, e.g. annexinV binding, DNA laddering, apoptotic bodies formation and an increase in hypo diploid sub-G0 DNA content during the early 6h period of study. This could be because of early surge in ROS formation with concurrent loss of mitochondrial membrane potential observed. Both CFO and ISO activated apical death receptors TNFR1, DR4 and caspase-8 activity. Simultaneously, both increased the expression of mitochondrial cytochrome c protein with its concomitant release to cytosol leading to caspase-9 activation, suggesting thereby the involvement of both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis. Further, Bax translocation, and decrease in nuclear NF-kappaB expression predict multi-target effects of the essential oil and ISO while both appeared to follow similar signaling apoptosis pathways. The easy and abundant availability of the oil combined with its suggested mechanism of cytotoxicity make CFO highly useful in the development of anti-cancer therapeutics.

Getting the Most from Essential Oils Using Reflexology

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 01:08:00 +0000

Evidence shows that the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Japanese, Russians, and Indians all worked on the feet as a tool to encourage good health. Originally known as 'reflex zone therapy', Reflexology is a holistic healing method that involves pressure and massage of the reflex points found on the feet and/or the hands. Reflexology teaches that one?s vital energy circulates between the organs of 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. These reflexes found on the soles of the feet or the palms of the hands reflect the health of the whole organism. Through stimulation of the circulatory and lymphatic systems, and by encouraging the release of toxins, Reflexology supports the entire body in healing itself.

A method for ?activating the healing powers of the body?, modern Reflexology is both a science and an art. As a science, it requires careful study, practice, technical knowledge, and skill. As a healing art, Reflexology works best when the therapist works with patience, dedication, intention, and (most importantly) loving care.

Reflexology is not a ?foot massage?. Reflexology does not diagnose illness. Reflexology does not treat specific diseases. However, when combined with sound healing practices, reflexology can help to facilitate healing and encourage well-being.

Many benefits of Reflexology:

Stress Reduction and Relaxation- Reflexology assists in alleviating the effects of stress by inducing deep relaxation. The nervous system is allowed to rest and consequently functions in a more balanced state. As the body moves toward homeostasis, healing can take effect. Lavender essential oil is fabulous for decreasing stress and facilitating relaxation. 3-4 drops of therapeutic grade Lavender essential oil in the palm of your hand and then gently holding your friends or clients feet with the intention of sending them love and relaxation. Other relaxing essential oils include: Sandalwood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, Rose, and Roman Chamomile. A lovely calming blend includes equal parts Lavender and Chamomile in the carrier oil of choice. Rose essential oil is fabulous for opening the energy of the heart.

Cleanses toxins and impurities from the body- 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. Soaking your friends feet in epsom salts with a few drops of essential oils can help to facilitate the release of old energy. This is a very healing therapy that is safe for elderly, pregnant, and children. Use � ? � cup of epsom salts in warm water. Add in 3-4 drops of essential oils and relax for half and hour. Foot baths are wonderful for those who have been ill or are exhausted. Aromatherapy baths are generally considered safe as long as the essential oils are properly dispersed throughout the water. Grapefruit, Geranium, and Juniper are all wonderful essential oils for detoxification.

Revitalizes energy- Reflexology works on with subtle energy flows to revitalize the bodies natural internal healing mechanisms. The epsom salt foot bath is also wonderful for revitalizing one's overall energy. Choose essential oils that are uplifting such as Black Spruce, Bergamot, Rosemary, Rosemary blends nicely with lavender for clearing nervous exhaustion. Remember with essential oils that a little goes a long ways. You can always blend the oils with a small amount of carrier to ensure that the oils do not burn the skin. Bergamot is considered relaxing, calming and restoring. It may also help to lift depression as it encourages the flow of Chi (life-force). Always dilute Bergamot in a carrier before applying to the feet or skin.

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 friends feet with Rose oil and then along them to bask in the high vibration healing of this beautiful flower. Ylang Ylang essential oil is lovely for balancing one's masculine and feminine energies.

Improves circulation- The feet are furthest from the heart (where circulation can tend to be stagnant); Reflexology stimulates and encourages blood flow to the feet thus helping to nourish all the extremities of the body. A non-toxic, non-irritating oil Spruce is an excellent choice for those with poor circulation. Ylang Ylang, Sweet Marjoram, and Lavender essential oil have been found to reduce blood pressure.

Preventative health care- Good health depends on balance, equilibrium, and the natural functioning of all the body systems. This dynamic state of balance is called homeostasis. For the body to function optimally, all systems must work in synergistic harmony. Body work in general and specifically Reflexolgy is a wonderful preventative healing technique. Trust your instinct when choosing a reflexologist or massage therapist. Ask a friend for referrals and be consistent in getting body work.

Nourishes practitioner and client- The Reflexologist is a conduit for healing. As healing takes place, the practitioner and the client both experience a sense of well-being. This well-being can carry into other areas of the clients and practitioners life and the dynamic benefit is then extended out into the world. Reflexology is an amazing and dynamic tool in assisting oneself and one?s client in becoming independently healthy. In my opinion as having both received and shared reflexology sessions with clients and friends, this method of healing is fantastic!

Bibliography:
1) Feet First, a Guide to Reflexology; by: Laura Norman with Thomas Cowan, Simon and Schuster, New York, 1988.
2) The Complete Guide to Reflexology (Revised); by: Kevin and Barbara Kunz, (International) Reflexology Research, New Mexico, 1993.
3) The Joy of Reflexology (Healing Techniques for the Hands and Feet to Reduce Stress and Reclaim Health); by: Ann Gillanders, Little, Brown, and Company, Boston and New York, 1995.

Essential Oils for Cold Care

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:49:00 +0000

The true medical aromatherapists around the globe tell us time and time again: the most effective use of essential oils for health is the combating of infectious illness. Aromatherapy in the US is still mostly relegated to support of the psyche - which it does quite well - but study after study continues to confirm the antibacterial and antiviral effects of essential oils, along with their great compatibility with human physiology. Many protocols (detailed instructions) have been translated and published from the European medical aromatherapy literature - information which you can personally incorporate into your own natural health and wellness program.

For the uninitiated, essential oils are the volatile aromatic compounds distilled from plants. They are the chemicals that give plants their smell; the luscious aroma of a rose or the sharp scent of peppermint. Plants use these chemicals for, among other things, defense from invaders such as bacteria, fungus and viruses. Each plant's oils have a unique makeup as a result of the plant's own physiology, natural environment, and its potential microbial invaders. Because of their chemical structure, essential oils are easily absorbed into the human body, passing through cell membranes, then further on into the bloodstream due to their 'lipophillic' nature (a structure in alignment with the lipid components of our cell walls). Essential oils can protect us from microbes in many different ways, from keeping the space around us naturally microbe-free, to readying our immune system for defense, to actually destroying the microbes once they've entered our bodies.

For starters, lets look at keeping the air and our environment pure and healthy. A cold-air nebulizing diffuser works best for this, as it creats a fine mist of essential oils which disperse throughout your living or work space. Diffusing essential oils into your environment provides three primary benefits: First, the oils are directly eliminating microbes in the air, thus reducing the concentration of live pathogens you may be inhaling or touching at any time and reducing the load on your immune system. Second, most essential oils, and particularly the strong anti-microbial ones, have an uplifting effect on the psyche and a sharpening effect on the mind. Your space will smell nicer, and generally will be more pleasant to be in. This can be very pronounced in certain workspaces where the air can be heavy.

Lastly, in many cases, essential oils will actually fortify your own immune system to prevent you from catching an illness in the first place - some studies have shown mammalian cells having increased resistance to microbial invaders after exposure to essential oils. Many single oils can be used for this - Eucalyptus Radiata or Eucalyptus Globulus are excellent all-around choices, as is Ravensara, and the oil of Rosemary of the Cineol chemotype. A popular oil blend can be made using 3 parts clove bud oil, 5 parts lemon oil, 1 and a half parts Eucalyptus Radiata, 1 and a half parts Rosemary Cineol and 2 parts Cinnamon Bark oil. Diffuse these oils to your heart's content - it's a wonderful combination!

Next, it's important to fortify your own immune system. Medical aromatherapists don't claim essential oils as wonder drugs in this regard - it is important to keep yourself healthy for your immune system to work effectively. Many natural medicine physicians believe it important to keep your own internal 'friendly bacteria' in balance for best protection. This can be done by eating a 'clean' diet with an abundance of natural and organic foods, and consuming intestinal bacterial support in capsule form (available at almost all health food stores). On the aromatherapy front, the essential oil of Niaouli has been considered by some to be the single most powerful supporter of the human immune system. Niaouli essential oil is distilled from the leaves of the Niaouli tree, native to Madagascar, but now being cultivated in Spain for aromatherpy use. According to Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, one of America's leading medical aromatherapists, "Niaouli oil is as complex in its composition as it is in it's uses...One of the fastest-acting and most effective applications of Niaouli is to apply anywhere between 5 and 20 drops to the whole body during the morning shower. This procedure will become entirely holistic if a loofah glove is used and the oil is worked into the skin along the energy meridians. This application...is especially recommended in the flu season, as it stimulates the defense mechanisms of the body." Niaouli would also be appropriate for diffuser use similar to the Eucalyptus varieties.

Supplementation with Essential Fats Improves Skin Health

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:09:00 +0000

Essential oils in blends with carrier oils have long been used to improve skin health, heal wounds and reduce the signs of aging. When seeking to improve skin health, in addition to topical formulas, it is VERY important to consider nutrition and internal supplementation with certain nutrients. One of the nutrients that most consistently improves skin health markers is essential fatty acids (or simply 'essential fats').

Essential fats are oils typically pressed from seeds that the body needs, but cannot make from other fats in the diet. These 'essential fats' are just oils with unique molecular arrangements ~ different configurations of carbon and hydrogen atoms than found in 'non-essential' fats, or fats that the body CAN in-fact make on its own from other nutrient sources. Our 'Western' diets are typically low in essential fats, and supplementing can not only improve the health of the skin, but have a significant positive impact on many other systems in the body.

Evening Primrose Oil and Hemp Oil are two oils cold-pressed (in order to best retain their healthful properties) from seeds. These oils are high in omega-3 fatty acids, and each have other unique fatty acids within them that are very beneficial to skin health, brain health, emotional and mental health, and hormonal balance. These oils are often found in capsules for dietary supplementation, though we tend to just 'swig' a tablespoon or so from the bottle every so often, as the cost relative to capsules is significantly lower.

Here are a couple of studies that note the improvement of skin health with the consumption of essential fatty acids as supplements. Note that the supplement size is fairly small (1-2 grams, which is less than a teaspoon per day ~ we generally use a tablespoon, which is 3 teaspoons), and the time for the users to show improvements seems relatively long. Maybe with larger amounts, the time would be less, but that is yet to be part of the experiments.

The first study describes the use of Evening Primrose in improving general skin health ~ the second describes Hemp Oil as beneficial in atopic dermatitis (irritated skin that is not the result of allergens in direct contact of the area). Other studies describe Evening Primrose also useful for this condition, and it is also likely the case that Hemp Oil supplementation will improve skin health overall. Both of these oils can be used topically as well, with or without the addition of low concentrations of essential oils (1-3%) for therapeutic effects.

Study: Systemic evening primrose oil improves the biophysical skin parameters of healthy adults.

Muggli R. AdviServ Consulting, Rotbergstrasse 11, CH-4114 Hofstetten, Switzerland.

Biophysical skin parameters are indicators of age-related structural and functional changes in skin tissues. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy adults tested the effect of Efamol evening primrose oil [EPO, a gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) containing vegetable oil] on skin moisture, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), redness, firmness, elasticity, fatigue resistance and roughness. Efamol EPO was administered orally in soft gel capsules, 3 x 500 mg b.i.d. for 12 weeks. Measurements were taken at baseline and at weeks 4 and 12. The two treatment groups did not differ at baseline and at week 4. At week 12, however, all measured variables, with the exception of skin redness, were significantly different in the EPO group compared with placebo. Skin moisture, TEWL, elasticity, firmness, fatigue resistance and roughness had significantly improved by 12.9, 7.7, 4.7, 16.7, 14.2 and 21.7%, respectively. The two-sided levels of significance in favor of the EPO treatment ranged between 0.034 and 0.001. These findings lend further support to the notion that GLA is a conditionally essential fatty acid for the skin, i.e. it is unable to synthesize GLA, and therefore depends on preformed GLA for optimal structure and function.

Study: Efficacy of dietary hempseed oil in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Callaway J, Schwab U, Harvima I, Halonen P, Mykk�nen O, Hyv�nen P, J�rvinen T.
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kuopio, Finland.

BACKGROUND: Hempseed oil is a rich and balanced source of omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Anecdotal evidence indicated that dietary hempseed oil might be useful in treating symptoms of atopic dermatitis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Dietary hempseed oil and olive oil were compared in a 20-week randomized, single-blind crossover study with atopic patients. Fatty acid profiles were measured in plasma triglyceride, cholesteryl and phospholipid fractions. A patient questionnaire provided additional information on skin dryness, itchiness and usage of dermal medications. Skin transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was also measured. RESULTS: Levels of both essential fatty acids (EFAs), linoleic acid (18:2n6) and alpha-linolenic acid (18:3n3), and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA; 18:3n6) increased in all lipid fractions after hempseed oil, with no significant increases of arachidonic acid (20:4n6) in any lipid fractions after either oil. Intra-group TEWL values decreased (p=0.074), qualities of both skin dryness and itchiness improved (p=0.027) and dermal medication usage decreased (p=0.024) after hempseed oil intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary hempseed oil caused significant changes in plasma fatty acid profiles and improved clinical symptoms of atopic dermatitis. It is suggested that these improvements resulted from the balanced and abundant supply of PUFAs in this hempseed oil.

Using Essential Oils for Natural Immune System Support

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 18:57:00 +0000

While much emphasis has been placed on the mood-elevating, anti-anxiety effects of essential oils, the medical aromatherapy literature repeatedly states that the most promising use of natural aromatic oils is in treating infectious illness and supporting immune system function. Many guides are available for detailed instructions for using essential oils in this way - here we'll offer a primer on using aromatherapy to bolster your own immune response and supporting your body through the cold and flu season.

Briefly, essential oils are the volatile components of plant chemistry - the chemicals made by plants that give them their wonderful scents. While these oils have a variety of uses for the plant, they act primarily as a defense mechanism against microbial and other invaders. Due to the un-ending variety of plant species, environments and possible 'invaders', there is an enormous variety in the composition of essential oils from different plants around the world. The aroma of Basil for example, is quite distinct, and can be differentiated from other plant aromas. Each plant's aromatic oil has a distinct chemical makeup, and as it turns out, some are extremely effective in supporting our own body's defense against microbial invaders such as viruses and bacteria. Essential oils can protect us from microbes in many ways, from keeping the space around us naturally microbe-free, to fortifying our immune defense, to actually destroying the microbes once they've entered our bodies.

The first line of defense is keeping your environment cleansed by diffusing essential oils in the air. Get a little nervous when friends or co-workers have a sneezing or coughing fit? Here's an excellent defense tactic - diffuse one or more of the powerful yet pleasant smelling antimicrobial oils into your space. Eucalyptus Radiata is probably the most popular for this; it has been referred to as an 'aromatherapists designer oil' because of its broad range of immune-supportive effects and its pleasant aroma. Other oils used with a little softer scent are Green Myrtle and Ravensara. A very pleasing yet powerful blend can be made using 3 parts clove bud oil, 5 parts lemon oil, 1 and a half parts Eucalyptus Radiata, 1 and a half parts Rosemary Cineol and 2 parts Cinnamon Bark oil. Use this in a cold-air diffuser which makes a fine mist of the oils, dispersing them throughout your environment for best protection.

Beyond your outside environment, it's important to strengthen your own immune system. Essential oils have been studied for their ability to prevent viruses from actually penetrating our cell walls, keeping bacterial levels in check, and cleansing toxins from our bodies. Of the many oil available, two very notable oils are Niaouli MVQ and Bay Laurel (or Laurel Leaf). Both can be applied directly to the body, though if you encounter any skin sensitivity, dilute the oil or discontinue use. Niaouli is a powerful overall fortifier of the immune system; apply 10-20 drops along the meridians of the body directly after the morning shower when the pores are still open and the skin is soft. This is particularly recommended during the 'cold and flu season' to stimulate the body's natural defense mechanisms. Bay Laurel is of great support to the lymph system; a few drops can be applied to the nodes at the neck or armpits for immediate relief of swollen glands in many cases. Using a few drops on the solar plexus in the same manner as Niaouli described above once or twice a week will also provide general immune system support (Laurel may have sensitizing effects on the skin if used continuously for long periods - do not use more frequently than necessary for best effects).

Treating the common cold or flu with essential oils once the illness has set in will help ease the symptoms, though prevention is still the best medicine. If you've managed to catch an illness however, at the very first signs, application of ten to twenty drops to the skin of both Eucalyptus Radiata and Bay Laurel essential oils to the skin in the steam of a shower is called for. Eucalyptus can be applied to the chest and back, whereas Bay Laurel should be applied directly to the lymph nodes to support the immune response. Orally injesting one drop of Bay Laurel once or twice a day at the first sign of sore throat is also indicated, and has been noted to have a pronounced effect on reducing further symptoms. Green Myrtle can be used in cases of bronchial infection where Eucalyptus may be found to strong an aroma. Ravensara used in the same manner is called for in cases of colds and flu - it can be a stronger antiviral than the above mentioned oils, and has a pleasing aroma. If the skin is sensitive to these oils, they can be diluted down to 5% in a carrier oil such as Hazelnut, or inhaled directly from a diffuser. As with any aromatherapy application, be careful not to overdo it! Your body will tell you when you've had enough - essential oils do tend to work quite well in suprizingly low concentrations.

For general cold and flu care, Eucalyptus Radiata (Narrow Leaf) or Globulus (Blue Gum), Green Myrtle and Ravensara Aromatica can be applied topcally or used with a diffuser or inhaler to loosen mucus and support the body's cleansing process. In addition, Rosemary of the Verbenone chemotype is indicated for sinus infections and bronchitis; medical aromatherapy texts indicate this may be inhaled, applied topically in small amounts to the chest area, or even dripped into the nose, one drop at a time (caution is noted here for sensitivity). Also, Thyme essential oil is called for in many cases of bacterial infection - inhalation from a nebulizing diffuser can be an effective route of administration.

When choosing your own self-healing methods as part of your overall natural health and wellness program, it is important to choose the proper modality for each situation. Conventional medicine has it's place, and should absolutely be employed when it will provide the best results. When it comes to common colds, the results have not been so dramatic. Alternative therapies have offered a reasonable solution, and can be effective if used wisely and with discretion. There are many helpful texts available for the use of essential oils as medicines - Advanced Aromatherapy and Medical Aromatherapy, both by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, are excellent sources for the intermediate to advanced practitioner. Be aware of your own body's sensitivity to any essential oil and adjust usage accordingly, and seek professional advice whenever necessary.

Frankincense Studies Show Anti-Cancer and Immunostimulant Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 21:43:00 +0000

Frankincense, the resin (similar to tree sap) of the Olibanum trees of Africa, has been used as a healing agent for literally thousands of years. Both the resin and the essential oil distilled from the resin have been the subject of scientific studies. The studies have focused on the immunostimulant and anti-tumor (anti-cancer) effects of these substances. And while one of these studies below mentions the steam distilled essential oil, some of America's leading science-based aromatherapists believe the CO2 distilled variety to be the superior health-enhancing agent. It shows a chemical profile closer to the natural resin of the tree, yet is still very easy to work with in terms of essential oil blending, topical application and inhalation.

Here are a few selected study abstracts, which note that Frankincense stimulates lymphocyte transformation (essentially the immunne system preparing cells to fend of disease) and acts as a destroyer of tumors.

Study: Chemistry and immunomodulatory activity of frankincense oil.

Mikhaeil BR, Maatooq GT, Badria FA, Amer MM. Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.

The yield of steam distillation of frankincense essential oil (3%); and its physicochemical constants were determined. Capillary GC/MS technique was used for the analysis of the oil. Several oil components were identified based upon comparison of their mass spectral data with those of reference compounds published in literature or stored in a computer library. The oil was found to contain monoterpenes (13.1%), sesquiterpenes (1%), and diterpenes (42.5%). The major components of the oil were duva-3,9,13-trien-1,5alpha-diol-1-acetate (21.4%), octyl acetate (13.4%), o-methyl anisole (7.6%), naphthalene decahydro-1,1,4a-trimethyl-6-methylene-5-(3-methyl-2-pentenyl) (5.7%), thunbergol (4.1%), phenanthrene-7-ethenyl-1,2,3,4,4a,5,6,7,8,9,10,10a-dodecahydro-1,1,4a,7-tetramethyl (4.1%), alpha-pinene (3.1%), sclarene (2.9%), 9-cis-retinal (2.8%), octyl formate (1.4%), verticiol (1.2%) decyl acetate (1.2%), n-octanol (1.1%). The chemical profile of the oil is considered as a chemotaxonomical marker that confirmed the botanical and geographical source of the resin. Biologically, the oil exhibited a strong immunostimulant activity (90% lymphocyte transformation) when assessed by a lymphocyte proliferation assay.

Study: Immunomodulatory triterpenoids from the oleogum resin of Boswellia carterii Birdwood.

Badria FA, Mikhaeil BR, Maatooq GT, Amer MM. Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, 35516 Mansoura, Egypt.

The immunomodulatory bioassay-guided fractionation of the oleogum resin of frankincense (Boswellia carterii Birdwood) resulted in the isolation and identification of 9 compounds; palmitic acid and eight triterpenoids belonging to lupane, ursane, oleanane, and tirucallane skeleta were isolated form the resin. These triterpenoids are lupeol, beta-boswellic acid, 11-keto-beta-boswellic acid, acetyl beta-boswellic acid, acetyl 11-keto-beta-boswellic acid, acetyl-alpha-boswellic acid, 3-oxo-tirucallic acid, and 3-hydroxy-tirucallic acid. The structures of the isolated compounds were deduced based on spectroscopic evidences. The lymphocyte transformation assay of the isolated compounds proved that the total extract retained more activity than that of any of the purified compounds. (ed. note: 'purified compounds' means any of the single molecules isolated from Frankincense ~ the CO2 supercritical extract is not purified in this way; it contains a complex mixture of natural chemicals present in the resin).

Sudy: Anti-tumor and anti-carcinogenic activities of triterpenoid, beta-boswellic acid.

Huang MT, Badmaev V, Ding Y, Liu Y, Xie JG, Ho CT. Laboratory for Cancer Research, College of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020, USA.

Boswellin (BE), a methanol extract of the gum resin exudate of Boswellia serrata, contains naturally occurring triterpenoids, beta-boswellic acid and its structural related derivatives, has been used as a traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammatory and arthritic diseases. Topical application of BE to the backs of mice markedly inhibited 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced increases in skin inflammation, epidermal proliferation, the number of epidermal cell layers, and tumor promotion in 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-initiated mice. Feeding 0.2% of BE in the diet to CF-1 mice for 10-24 weeks reduced the accumulation of parametrial fat pad weight under the abdomen, and inhibited azoxymethane (AOM)-induced formation of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) by 46%. Addition of pure beta-boswellic acid, 3-O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid, 11-keto-beta-boswellic acid or 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid to human leukemia HL-60 cell culture inhibited DNA synthesis in HL-60 cells in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values ranging from 0.6 to 7.1 microM. These results indicate that beta-boswellic acid and its derivatives (the major constituents of Boswellin) have anti-carcinogenic, anti-tumor, and anti-hyperlipidemic activities.

Tea Tree Essential Oil Shown Effective Against Staph Bacteria

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 22:19:00 +0000

Staphylococcus bacteria are the cause of infection in many, many situations (ranging from acne, to life-threatening systemic and bronchial infections). MRSA, a drug-resistant strain of this bacteria has been dubbed 'the superbug' due to its challenging medical implications.

Many, many studies have been published in peer-reviewed journals describing the antibacterial action of Tea Tree essential oil. Tea tree is probably the most well known and widely used antibacterial essential oil bar none. It is inexpensive and very safe to use (though some find it's aroma not especially appealing. We have found very fresh Tea Tree oil to actually have a pleasing sent).

Tea tree appears to exert its antibacterial action by disrupting the integrity of cell membranes of the bacteria, causing 'leaks' in the cell walls to occur. Also, when individual chemicals were isolated from Tea Tree oil, these did not have as potent an effect as the complete oil (as is often the case with natural medicines). Due to the vigor of the MRSA bacteria, however, it has also been found that a blend of oils, also including Geranium, has been more effective. The blend is not available to the public however, as the researchers are preparing a commercial formula.

Here are a few abstracts and studies describing the actions of Tea Tree on varieties of Staph bacteria:

Abstract: Staphylococcus aureus and wounds: a review of tea tree oil as a promising antimicrobial.

Halc�n L, Milkus K.School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria continue to be a major health concern worldwide. In particular, Staphylococcus aureus, both methicillin-resistant and -sensitive, are of concern in their ability to cause difficult skin and underlying tissue infections. Melaleuca alternifolia oil (tea tree oil), an essential oil, has demonstrated promising efficacy in treating these infections. Tea tree oil has been used for centuries as a botanical medicine, and has only in recent decades surfaced in the scientific literature as a promising adjunctive wound treatment. Tea tree oil is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and has demonstrated ability to activate monocytes. There are few apparent side effects to using tea tree oil topically in low concentrations, with contact dermatitis being the most common.

Tea tree oil has been effective as an adjunctive therapy in treating osteomyelitis and infected chronic wounds in case studies and small clinical trials. There is a need for larger clinical trials to further examine efficacy of tea tree oil as an adjunctive wound therapy, as well as improved guidelines for developing plant-based medicines.

Study: A randomized, controlled trial of tea tree topical preparations versus a standard topical regimen for the clearance of MRSA colonization.

Dryden MS, Dailly S, Crouch M. Department of Microbiology and Communicable Disease, Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Romsey Road, Winchester, Hampshire SO22 5DG, UK.

Two topical MRSA eradication regimes were compared in hospital patients: a standard treatment included mupirocin 2% nasal ointment, chlorhexidine gluconate 4% soap, silver sulfadiazine 1% cream versus a tea tree oil regimen, which included tea tree 10% cream, tea tree 5% body wash, both given for five days. One hundred and fourteen patients received standard treatment and 56 (49%) were cleared of MRSA carriage. One hundred and ten received tea tree oil regimen and 46 (41%) were cleared. There was no significant difference between treatment regimens (Fisher's exact test; P = 0.0286). Mupirocin was significantly more effective at clearing nasal carriage (78%) than tea tree cream (47%; P = 0.0001) but tea tree treatment was more effective than chlorhexidine or silver sulfadiazine at clearing superficial skin sites and skin lesions. The tea tree preparations were effective, safe and well tolerated and could be considered in regimens for eradication of MRSA carriage.

Antimicrobial effects of tea-tree oil and its major components on Staphylococcus aureus, Staph. epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes.

Raman A, Weir U, Bloomfield SF.Department of Pharmacy, King's College London, UK.

Major components of two tea-tree oil samples were identified using thin layer and gas-liquid chromatography (TLC and GLC). Using a TLC-bioautographic technique, the tea-tree oils, terpinen-4-ol, alpha-terpineol and alpha-pinene were found to be active against Staphylococcus aureus, Staph. epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes whereas cineole was inactive against these organisms. The MIC values of the three active compounds increased in the order alpha-terpineol < terpinen-4-ol < class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_50">pinene for all three micro-organisms. MIC values of the tea-tree oils and terpinen-4-ol were lower for P. acnes than for the two staphylococci. This study supports the use of tea-tree oil in the treatment of acne, and demonstrates that terpinen-4-ol is not the sole active constituent of the oil.

New Studies Continue to Confirm the Anxiety-Reducing Effects of Lavender Essential Oil

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:17:00 +0000

Studies often utilize lavender essential oil, as it's effects are well documented, it is easy to obtain, and displays it's aroma-therapeutic effect in a wide variety of conditions. The first study examines the use of lavender oil as an ingredient in the Ayurvedic treatment called 'Shirdohara', or the dripping/pouring of a warm fixed oil (such as sesame) on the forehead of a patient. The addition of lavender to the fixed oil significantly increased the relaxation response to the treatment.

The second indirectly implies the relaxing effects of lavender oil by testing the known relaxing constituent of the oil: Linalool. This molecule is naturally present in Lavendula angustifolia species, and is most prevelent in Lavender grown at high-elevations in France (hence the importance of 'high-elevation' lavender). This studied notes dramatic changes in physiology solely from the inhalation of Linalool. We expect the complete oil to be a more pleasant experience, as it smells more like a flower than just one, sweet, chemical constituent. The conditions used in the study - the vapor concentration of Linalool, can easily be created at home using a nebulizing aromatherapy diffuser with the lavender oil of your choice.

Study: Pharmaco-physio-psychologic effect of Ayurvedic oil-dripping treatment using an essential oil from Lavendula angustifolia.

Xu F, Uebaba K, Ogawa H, Tatsuse T, Wang BH, Hisajima T, Venkatraman S. University of Toyama, Presymptomatic Health Promotion, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama City, Japan.

Ayurvedic oil-dripping treatment, Shirodhara, involves the use of medicated herbal sesame oils. In our previous reports, we found that Shirodhara with plain sesame oil induced anxiolysis and an altered state of consciousness (ASC) in healthy subjects. We studied the pharmaco-physio-psychologic effect of Shirodhara with medicated sesame oil including an essential oil from Lavendula angustifolia (lavender) in the present study. Sixteen (16) healthy females (38 +/- 8 years old) were assigned at random to three treatments applied by a robotic oil-dripping system: plain sesame oil (plain Shirodhara), medicated sesame oil with a 0.3 volume % of lavender essential oil (lavender Shirodhara), or the control supine position.

Psychophysiologic parameters including the heart rate, skin temperature of the dorsum of hands and feet, as well as anxiety and ASC were monitored, and the rates of change of these items were calculated to assess the psychophysiologic changes brought about by Shirodhara. Lavender Shirodhara showed potent anxiolytic and ASC-inducing or promoting effects, and induced the largest increase in foot skin temperature. The correlation between anxiolysis and ASC, as well as the correlation between these psychologic effects and the elevated foot skin temperature were larger in the lavender Shirodhara than in the other two conditions.

It was speculated that the psycho-physiologic effects of lavender Shirodhara would be brought about by three mechanisms: (1) the well-known relaxing action of essential oils from L. angustifolia mediated by olfactory nerves, (2) the pharmacologic action of substances absorbed through the skin or mucosa in the sesame oil or lavender essential oil, and (3) the physiologic effect of sesame oil dripped on the forehead induced by the somato-autonomic reflex through thermosensors or pressure sensors in the skin or hair follicles via the trigeminal cranial nerve. The complicated pharmaco-physio-psychologic action of Ayurvedic oil treatment may provide a useful model for future pharmaco-physio-psychotherapy.

Study: Inhaled linalool-induced sedation in mice.

Linck VD, da Silva AL, Figueir� M, Luis Piato A, Paula Herrmann A, Dupont Birck F, Bastos Caram�o E, S�vio Nunes D, Moreno PR, Elisabetsky E. Laborat�rio de Etnofarmacologia, Brazil; PPG Ci�ncias Biol�gicas-Bioqu�mica, Brazil.

Linalool is a monoterpene often found as a major component of essential oils obtained from aromatic plant species, many of which are used in traditional medical systems as hypno-sedatives. Psychopharmacological evaluations of linalool (i.p. and i.c.v.) revealed marked sedative and anticonvulsant central effects in various mouse models. Considering this profile and alleged effects of inhaled lavender essential oil, the purpose of this study was to examine the sedative effects of inhaled linalool in mice. Mice were placed in an inhalation chamber during 60min, in an atmosphere saturated with 1% or 3% linalool. Immediately after inhalation, animals were evaluated regarding locomotion, barbiturate-induced sleeping time, body temperature and motor coordination (rota-rod test). The 1% and 3% linalool increased (p<0.01) pentobarbital sleeping time and reduced (p<0.01) body temperature. The 3% linalool decreased (p<0.01) locomotion. Motor coordination was not affected. Hence, linalool inhaled for 1h seems to induce sedation without significant impairment in motor abilities, a side effect shared by most psycholeptic drugs.

Essential Oils Found Effective Against Drug Resistant Candida

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 17:56:00 +0000

Candida fungal infection is a relatively common ailment in the Western world. Approximately 75% of women will experience a yeast infection in their lifetime (also known as vaginal candidiasis), with about 50% having the infection reoccur. Candida overgrowth can occur in many organs; it is also found in the mouth and throat (as 'thrush'), in the esophagus, abdomen, lungs, blood (called 'candidemia') and other organs. Candida fungus is naturally present in the human body, and is usually kept in check by a balanced endogenous microbe profile and healthy immune system. Natural medicine doctors believe the prevalence of stress, along with acid-forming and high-sugar diets allow Candida fungal species to over-proliferate, resulting in one or more of the many symptoms of infection.

In recent years, many scientific studies have shown essential oils, the concentrated steam-distillates of plants, to be effective in eradicating Candida. Oils can be ingested with the direction of a qualified practitioner, diluted and applied topically, or are sometimes used in the form of a vaginal ovule (a natural herbal vaginal implant spiked one or more with essential oils). Several of these studies have focused on the efficacy of Tea Tree essential oil, which is inexpensive, readily available, and relatively safe when used under the care of a natural health professional.

Fluconazole is a drug commonly used to control Candida infections; yet, as is the case with many pharmaceutical preparations, some Candida species are resistant to the drug's effects. In a recent study published in the November issue of the Canadian Journal of Microbiology, several essential oils were tested for efficacy in eradication of both fluconazole-susceptible and fluconazole-resistant species. The main finding, as described by researchers of the Federal University at Santa Maria, Brazil, was that the fluconazole-resistant species were more susceptible to the effects of essential oils than their fluconazole-susceptible counterparts.

This is exciting news that can bolster the use of natural medicines in conventional therapy settings, given that between 5% and 33% of Candida cases may be from fluconazole-resistant strains. Further, it was the essential oil of Oregano, now commonly found in encapsulated form in health food stores across the country, that showed the most potent anti-fungal activity in the study. Oil of Oregano is considered a very potent anti-microbial agent, effective against a broad range of infectious microbes.

At the same time, Oregano oil can be dangerous if mis-used. Direct application to the skin or undiluted ingestion of the oil can cause severe irritation. It is important to use this and other essential oils with the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner for treatment of illness and disease. While the essential oils tested in the study were examined individually, several oils are often used at once or in series for the best results. In Europe, where aroma-medicine has been a common practice for many years, oils are prescribed in very small amounts, in precise formulas for best results. In North America, therapists typically suggest the use of other complimentary therapies and lifestyle changes to support the immune system, in combination with essential oils, to bring the body's natural microbes into balance.

Studies Show Lavender and Grapefruit Aromas Have Opposite Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:16:00 +0000

Let me first say that The Ananda Apothecary is completely opposed to animal testing (unless of course your cat really happens to enjoy essential oils...ours loves Rose). Since this data is being released to the public, however, and we think it's possible it may be of some use, we would like to keep you updated on research being presented in the field of Aromatherapy.

Here are studies by researchers at Osaka University in Japan, comparing and contrasting the effects of Lavender and Grapefruit essential oils. Lavender is always considered relaxing or sedating, and Grapefruit is always considered a stimulant. These studies confirm these categories of these oils, noting changes in metabolism solely through inhalation of the aromas. Lavender decreased metabolism, while Grapefruit increased it. Grapefruit is used for cellulite reduction, and here the researchers show that the metabolism of brown adipose tissue is actually increased by Grapefruit oil. Grapefruit aroma also decreased appetite. At the same time, Lavender lowered body temperature, blood pressure and metabolism, confirming this oil's use for support of sleep.

Study: Day-night difference in thermoregulatory responses to olfactory stimulation.

Tanida M, Shen J, Nakamura T, Niijima A, Nagai K. Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan. mtanida@sk.ritsumei.ac.jp

Previously, we observed that olfactory stimulation with scent of grapefruit oil (SGFO) or scent of lavender oil (SLVO) affected, elevated or lowered brown adipose tissue temperature (BAT-T) in conscious mice, respectively. In the present study, to test the day-night difference in the actions of olfactory stimulations, we examined the responses of BAT-T and body temperature (BT) measured as the abdominal temperature to SGFO or SLVO during day-time at 14:00 and night-time at 2:00 in conscious rats. In the light period, BAT-T and BT were suppressed after SLVO and elevated after SGFO whereas in the dark period, these parameters remained unchanged with olfactory stimulations. Bilateral lesions of the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) eliminated the effects of olfactory stimulations with SGFO and SVLO on BAT-T and BT. Moreover, sympathetic nerve activity innervating brown adipose tissue (BAT-SNA) changes after SGFO or SLVO were abolished in SCN-lesioned rats. Thus, we concluded that there is day-night difference in the effects of SGFO or SLVO on BAT-T and BT, and that the SCN might be involved in these effects.

Study: Olfactory stimulation with scent of grapefruit oil affects autonomic nerves, lipolysis and appetite in rats.

Shen J, Niijima A, Tanida M, Horii Y, Maeda K, Nagai K. Division of Protein Metabolism, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.

In a previous study, we found that olfactory stimulation with scent of grapefruit oil (SGFO) excites the sympathetic nerve innervating the white adipose tissue in rats. Here we further examined the effects of SGFO in rats and observed that olfactory stimulation with SGFO excited the sympathetic nerves innervating the brown adipose tissue and adrenal gland and inhibited the parasympathetic gastric nerve. Local anesthesia of the nasal mucosa with xylocaine or anosmic treatment using ZnSO4 eliminated the autonomic changes caused by SGFO. Moreover, stimulation with SGFO elevated the plasma glycerol level, and treatment with either ZnSO4 or an intraperitoneal injection of diphenhydramine, a histamine H1 receptor-antagonist, abolished the glycerol elevation by SGFO. Furthermore, a 15-min exposure to SGFO three times a week reduced food intake and body weight. Finally, limonene, a component of grapefruit oil, induced responses similar to those caused by SGFO, and diphenhydramine eliminated the glycerol response to limonene. Thus, the scent of grapefruit oil, and particularly its primary component limonene, affects autonomic nerves, enhances lipolysis through a histaminergic response, and reduces appetite and body weight.

Aromatherapy Oil Components Studied for Natural Sedation Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Tarah Michelle Cech, ND) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:33:00 +0000

Of all the naturally occurring compounds in essential oils, Linalool, a monoterpene alchohol, has been the most studied for it's relaxation effects. Linalool is found in high concentrations in oils that are often used for their calming effects, such as Lavender (particularly High Elevation varieties) and Ylang Ylang. These studies represent a sampling of the many investigations, and are easily reproduced by inhaling some essential oil yourself. Linalool appears to act as a natural sedative without harmful side effects, and may even reduce glutamate-induced toxicity due to over-stimulation. Here are the studies:

Study: Inhaled linalool-induced sedation in mice.

Linck VD, da Silva AL, Figueir� M, Luis Piato A, Paula Herrmann A, Dupont Birck F, Bastos Caram�o E, S�vio Nunes D, Moreno PR, Elisabetsky E. Laborat�rio de Etnofarmacologia, Brazil; PPG Ci�ncias Biol�gicas-Bioqu�mica, Brazil.

Linalool is a monoterpene often found as a major component of essential oils obtained from aromatic plant species (ed. note: particularly in French Lavender essential oils grown at higher elevations), many of which are used in traditional medical systems as hypno-sedatives. Psychopharmacological evaluations of linalool (i.p. and i.c.v.) revealed marked sedative and anticonvulsant central effects in various mouse models. Considering this profile and alleged effects of inhaled lavender essential oil, the purpose of this study was to examine the sedative effects of inhaled linalool in mice. Mice were placed in an inhalation chamber during 60min, in an atmosphere saturated with 1% or 3% linalool. Immediately after inhalation, animals were evaluated regarding locomotion, barbiturate-induced sleeping time, body temperature and motor coordination (rota-rod test). The 1% and 3% linalool increased (p<0.01) pentobarbital sleeping time and reduced (p<0.01) body temperature. The 3% linalool decreased (p<0.01) locomotion. Motor coordination was not affected. Hence, linalool inhaled for 1h seems to induce sedation without significant impairment in motor abilities, a side effect shared by most psycholeptic drugs.

Study: Effects of Linalool on glutamatergic system in the rat cerebral cortex.

Elisabetsky E, Marschner J, Souza DO. Depto de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Linalool is a monoterpene compound reported to be a major component of essential oils in various aromatic species. Several Linalool-producing species are used in traditional medical systems, including Aeolanthus suaveolens G. Dom (Labiatae) used as anticonvulsant in the Brazilian Amazon. Psychopharmacological in vivo evaluation of Linalool showed that this compound have dose-dependent marked sedative effects at the Central Nervous System, including hypnotic, anticonvulsant and hypothermic properties. The present study reports an inhibitory effect of Linalool on Glutamate binding in rat cortex. It is suggested that this neurochemical effect might be underlining Linalool psychopharmacological effects. These findings provide a rational basis for many of the traditional medical use of Linalool producing plant species.

Study: Stimulative and sedative effects of essential oils upon inhalation in mice.

Lim WC, Seo JM, Lee CI, Pyo HB, Lee BC. R&D Center, Hanbul Cosmetics Co. Ltd., 72-7 Yongsung-ri, Samsung-Myun, Chungbuk 369-830, Korea.

This study investigated the stimulative or sedative effects of inhaling fragrant essential oils (EOs) by using a forced swimming test (FST) with mice. This behavioral test is commonly used to measure the effects of antidepressant drugs. The inhalation by mice of EOs, such as ginger oil (p<0.05), thyme oil (p<0.05), peppermint oil (p<0.05), and cypress oil (p<0.01) resulted in 5% to 22% reduction of immobility. The same results were achieved when over-agitation was artificially induced in the mice by an intraperitoneal injection of caffeine (a psycho-stimulant). In contrast, inhalation of some EOs by the mice resulted in increased immobility. To evaluate more correctly the sedative effects of EOs, the immobility of over-agitated mice induced with caffeine was ascertained after the inhalation of various EOs. Inhalation of lavender oil (p<0.01) and hyssop oil (p<0.01) increased the immobile state in mice that were treated with caffeine. The results of this study indicate that the inhalation of essential oils may induce stimulative or sedative effects in mice.