Nature’s offering of essential oils, the true power of their possibilities, is much deeper than the sense of smell. There is a vital fluid (essential oil) distilled from flowers, shrubs, leaves, trees, roots and seeds. This fluid within the plant plays a role in its own biological process and is therefore “essential” for the plants existence. As an example the essential oil (oils) in the leaf of a plant has the function of attracting pollinating insects and repelling pests, bacteria and viruses that threaten their existence. The Pure Essential Oils of the plant has the vibrational energy to sustain the plants very existence.
That same energy, when removed (distilled) from the plant is able to penetrate the cells of the human body and heal at the physical, fundamental level of the body. Whether administered to the skin or air diffused the molecules of the oil functions as a healing modality. (Some oils are too strong for direct application to the skin but can be diluted with high grade carrier oil).
Essential oils are used in the alternative healing modality of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the unique branch of herbal medicine that utilizes the medicinal properties found in the oils of various plants. The history of essential oils dates back to over 120 years ago as a system of healing used throughout Europe. Today there is a system of medical aromatherapy practiced in France.
The physiological effects of the fragrance from oils are brought about through the limbic system. The limbic system is directly connected to the parts of the brain that control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels and hormone balance.
Scientists have learned that one of the fastest ways to achieve physiological and psychological effects is inhalation of essential oil fragrance. Leading researchers in the field of aromatherapy in England found that oils such as orange, jasmine and rose have a tranquilizing effect. These oils alter the brain wave into a rhythm that produces calmness and a sense of well-being. There are stimulating oils – basil, black pepper, rosemary and cardamom – that produce a heightened energy response.
Essential oils can be used as treatment for conditions ranging from infections and skin disorders to immune deficiencies and stress. The oils have no serious side effects that are deadly. People experience authentic healing when using them – results can differ based on family history, lifestyle and diet. The essential oils work in harmony and balance with the body unlike prescription drugs.
Among other medicinal properties, some oils are powerful antimicrobial agents without the negative side effects of conventional antibiotics. Oils of cinnamon and eucalyptus are as powerful against some microorganisms as conventional antibiotics and are especially effective against flu viruses. Sandalwood oil has been used as a traditional remedy for sore throats and laryngitis. Lavender oil has a dramatic healing action on burns. The antimicrobial effects of the oils are due to its ability to enter the cell walls of microbes and cut off oxygen. This stops the formation of energy within the cells of microbes and kills them.
There are precautions to be considered when using essential oils. Certain oils can cause a toxic reaction if taken internally. However, their toxicity is much lower when applied externally. Other oils with high-phenol (disinfectant) content should not be taken internally for any prolonged period of time (exceeding 10 – 21 days) as doing so might have negative implications on certain aspects of the liver metabolism.
