Aromatherapy

Many people only think of herbs in the kitchen. Although, sometimes they think of them for medicinal purposes. And as far as Essential Oils are concerned, you may think – what’s that?

If you’ve never heard about this, keep reading and you will begin to understand. It’s not as complicated as it may seem. Let’s see what some of the possibilities are.

-In addition to adding extra flavor in recipes, herbs and food-grade essential oils can stimulate your immune system

- Using herbal teas and therapeutic essential oils can help your digestive systems. There are great sources if you are looking to detoxify your body.

- A lot of store bought cleaning supplies, cold remedies, digestion supplements, etc can contain chemicals that can cause toxicity to the body. You can avoid this with herbs and therapeutic grade essential oils.

If you think this is new-age hocus pocus, you’re wrong! The use of herbs and essential oils has been ongoing from the beginning of civilization. They have been vital to the preservation of food, among other things. Think of things that are mentioned in the Bible-frankincense, myrrh, bitter herbs-these natural things had a purpose then, and continue to be useful today. Pliny, a soldier of ancient Rome, wrote a Natural History, which references the use of many plants. He lived in the first century. Much of his knowledge is attributed to the research and writings of Mithridates of Eupator (120-66BC). So plants and their chemical properties have been important since the dawn of time.

Even today, herbs are uses in medicine. One example of the combining of herbs and medicine is foxglove. Scientists use this to make medicine that treat specific heart problems.

The advantage we have in modern society is that we have perfected agricultural methods, and ways of extracting the best out of the herbs and flowers that give us essential oils. We have been able to achieve purer, more potent, and more consistent results. Therapeutic oils are an example of this great scientific achievement.

You should be aware, as you learn about using herbs and essential oils, that not all essential oils are the same. Many are not to be ingested; if you want to use oils for recipes, you must seek out food-grade oils. And if you plan on using oils for aromatherapy, purchase only those labeled “therapeutic-grade.” Not all natural food stores or health food stores carry therapeutic-grade oils. They are different because they are more potent and effective than the every day store-bought variety. Since they are extracted and refined using the best methods available, you can expect much better results with therapeutic-grade oils than if you purchase inferior oils.

Start today and point your family on the path to better health and well-being by including herbs, herbal supplements and therapeutic-grade essential oils in your household. Chances are, your family will have increased energy and focus, and get colds and viruses less often. And keep in mind that history is the best teacher, which is how we can conclude today that the benefits of using herbs and essential oils are real.