Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry Syrup

It is that time of year.  Sniffles and sneezes abound.  This delicious blend helps prevent colds and flu or will help if you are feeling ill already. Elderberry syrup is antiviral and helps boost the body's immune system.   Cinnamon, cloves, and ginger are antiviral and warming, and the honey helps sore throats and coughs. 

1 cinnamon stick

5 cloves

½ cup dried elderberries or 1 cup fresh or frozen berries.

1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger (or 2 drops of ginger essential oil

2 cups water

1 cup wild honey

To a saucepan, add all ingredients except honey.  Cover and bring to a boil.  Once it boils, turn down the heat and simmer covered until it is reduced by ½ (20 to 30 minutes).

Pour the reduced concoction through a strainer into a bowl.  Press down on the berries to get all the juice.

Add the honey and stir well.  Pour into a clean jar.

Can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.

This delicious blend helps prevent colds and flu or will help if you are feeling ill already. Elderberry syrup is antiviral.   Cinnamon, cloves, and ginger are warming and the honey helps sore throats and coughs. 

Take up to a tablespoon per hour when ill or take a tablespoon a day to help prevent illness.  You can also add a tablespoon to mug full of hot water as a delicious warming tea.

Herpes: Natural Remedies and Essential Oils

Herpes is a very common viral disease. The CDC reports that “Nationwide, 16.2%, or about one out of six, people 14 to 49 years of age have genital HSV-2 infection.” Although, there are other reports that state that the infection rate is much higher.

 Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). Type I, or “oral herpes” generally occurs around the mouth. It is often referred to as cold sores or fever blisters. Genital Herpes (Type II) is the second most common form of herpes and occurs around and on the genitals.

Quite often, people can be infected while showing no outward signs of infection. Herpes is spread through direct contact with a person who has the virus. The virus does not live for long outside the body, so it is very unlikely to “catch” the virus by sharing showers or toilets. There is no cure for herpes. Once infected, a person will always retain the virus, although he/she may not experience any outbreaks. The virus may lie dormant in the body for years. Unfortunately, it is still possible to spread the infection.

 It is not known exactly what causes recurrent outbreaks, but some triggers have been identified, including immuno-suppressant drugs, alcohol, processed foods, colas, white flour products, sugar, refined carbohydrates, coffee and drugs. Outbreaks may occur during times of stress or when the immune system is compromised. Fortunately, over time, episodes of active disease generally reduce in frequency and severity.

 There are medications available to reduce the occurrence, severity, or length of outbreaks. But these medications often come with unwanted side-effects, including: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. Alopecia and kidney issues have also been reported. Use of these drugs has also produced resistant strains of the viruses.

 There are many natural remedies that are available and they are inexpensive as well as healthful:  5,000 to 10,000 mg of vitamin C daily may prevent and inhibit the growth of the virus. Oral supplements of zinc (50 mg/day) have been beneficial in clinical studies. 300 to 1,200 mg daily of lysine, together with a diet low in its contrasting amino acid arginine (avoid peanuts, chocolate, seeds, and cereals). The amino acid lysine prohibits growth of H. simplex virus while arginine stimulates its growth.  Avoid alcohol, processed foods, colas, white flour products, sugar, refined carbohydrates, coffee and drugs. Do not consume citrus fruits and juices while the virus is active.

Herbs: Herbal treatments should include: Echinacea, goldenseal, myrrh, and red clover. Melissa herbal extract and licorice root have topical antiviral activity and inhibit the growth and cell-damaging effects of H. simplex. Get plenty of rest and reduce stress. Essential oils have been used for centuries for their antiviral as well as their immunos-timulating properties. Among those that have been found to be most effective with the Herpes Simplex viruses are: Melissa (lemon balm) lavender peppermint geranium tea tree star anise eucalyptus chamomile.  Adding 1 drop of an individual oil or a combination of oils to the affected area 3-4 times a day has been shown to ease pain, and reduce the severity and length of the outbreak.

 One study on the “Efficacy of plant products against herpetic infections” conducted at Heidelberg University in Germany showed the effectiveness of Melissa (lemon balm), tea tree, and peppermint oil in treating genital herpes: “Essential oils from various aromatic medicinal plants are highly active against some viral infections, e.g. labial herpes caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. Balm oil, tea tree oil and peppermint oil demonstrate in vitro a significant antiherpetic activity, mainly related to a direct drug-virus particle interaction, some essential oils also act directly virucidal. Interestingly, these essential oils are also highly active against acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus strains.

In clinical studies, tea tree oil has been shown to possess antiherpetic, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, as well as to accelerate the healing process of herpes labialis. Applying diluted essential oils three to four times daily for the antiherpetic treatment of affected areas is recommended.

Some companies have marketed plant products, e.g. from Melissa, for the treatment of recurrent herpetic infections.” 1 A second study from the same department shows the effectiveness of essential oils against Acyclovir-resistant strains of the herpes virus. “Acyclovir-resistant clinical isolates of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) were analyzed in vitro for their susceptibilities to essential oils of ginger, thyme, hyssop, and sandalwood. All essential oils exhibited high levels of virucidal activity against acyclovir-sensitive strain KOS and acyclovir-resistant HSV-1 clinical isolates and reduced plaque formation significantly.” 2  

Many noted experts on essential oils recommend essential oils for herpes outbreaks: Valerie Worwood recommends: Geranium, tea tree, lavender, thyme, lemon, chamomile, rose, hyssop.

Julia Lawless recommends: Bergamot, eucalyptus (blue gum), lemon, and tea tree.

Davis recommends combining 6 drops of each: bergamot, tea tree, and eucalyptus in 5 mL of alcohol. Dab as soon as first signs appear to stop development of blisters.

Salvatore Battaglia recommends: Bergamot, cajeput, geranium, lemon, Melissa, niaouli, ravensara, rose otto, tea tree.

Wabner suggests three applications of undiluted Melissa oil directly onto the blister for one day. The herpes usually disappears within 24 hours.

Apply only to blister as irritation may be caused to surrounding skin. Although it is not possible to rid the body of the herpes virus, we are able to make living with it an easier task.

Recipes

ACHS Herpes Application
2 oz distilled water
1/2 oz Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
1/4 oz Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
1/4 oz Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Apply to the affected area several times per day. Shake well before using.

Worwood Recipe:
8 drops Geranium
3 drops Lemon
6 drops German Chamomile
8 drops Tea tree
5 drops Lavender

Combine all oils. Wet a cotton ball and add 1 drop of the blend and apply to the cold sore once a day.

 References: 

 1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21607799
 2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17353250 

TISSERAND, R, BALACS T, ESSENTIAL OIL SAFETY A GUIDE FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS, 1996, CHURCHILL LIVINGSTONE, UK. 

BATTAGLIA, S, THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO AROMATHERAPY, 1995, PERFECT POTION, AUSTRALIA 

LAWLESS, J, THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF ESSENTIAL OILS, 1995, ELEMENT BOOKS, UK 

WORWOOD, V, THE COMPLETE BOOK OF ESSENTIAL OILS AND AROMATHERAPY, 1991, NEW WORLD LIBRARY, US 

ACHS AROMATHERAPY CLASS STUDY GUIDE 

HTTP://WWW.CDC.GOV/STD/HERPES/STDFACT-HERPES.HTM

What are Essential Oils and Hydrosols?

Essential oils are highly concentrated and volatile components created by various plant tissues of a  plant species.  They consist of sometimes hundreds  of individual biochemical components. These distinctive  components defend plants from insects, harsh  environmental conditions, and disease.  In some cases,  they are used to attract beneficial insects. Essential oils are the result of millions of years of evolution and they are, therefore, incredibly complex in nature.    The therapeutic properties of the oils are the result of all the constituents working together rather than the sum of its parts.  Although it is possible to analyze their  chemical composition, they are virtually impossible to  reproduce in laboratories.  Hydrosols are the aqueous portion of the distillate,  separated from the distilled essential oil after the steam and oil vapors are condensed. It is also called Floral Water. Hydrosols contain minute amounts of soluble essential oil and the corresponding beneficial attributes of the oil itself, only more dilute, which makes them gentler than the  essential oils.

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Natural Deodorants and Essential Oils

The skin is the largest organ of the body. The average adult has approximately 18 square feet of skin, which weighs approximately seven pounds and the skin receives one third of the blood circulating through the body.  If one is ill or unhealthy, it can often be seen in the appearance of the skin. 

The skin is an essential method of elimination of the body’s waste.  Sweating and perspiring result in the elimination of approximately 1/3 of the body’s waste each day.  It is, therefore, an important cleansing mechanism. 

It is important not to impede this process of elimination.  If toxins are not eliminated through the process of sweating, these toxins will either be stored in tissue or the kidneys must take on this task and may become overworked.

Antiperspirants inhibit sweating generally by blocking the glands which produce sweat.  As we have seen, this is not a healthful action.  As well as stopping sweat, antiperspirants often contain chemicals that are absorbed into the skin, such as aluminum and parabens.  There have been conflicting reports on whether these chemicals are carcinogenic or contribute to Alzheimer’s disease.  Some studies, such as a 1998 study reported in Molecular Medicine Today ¹ link the use of antiperspirants containing aluminum with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s due to a systemic accumulation of aluminum.  Although there has been no study that can definitively show that aluminum in antiperspirants can lead to Alzheimer’s, there are many links that seem to make it well worth it to avoid the risk.  Aluminum is generally excreted by the kidneys.  However, individuals who have impaired kidney function may develop dialysis dementia due to the fact that their bodies cannot remove the aluminum effectively.²   Aluminum certainly seems to play a key part in dementia.  Why take the chance?

Another option is to use deodorant.  Deodorants do not inhibit sweat production.  They work to stop the smell that people often find offensive that comes with underarm sweat.  However, even deodorants may contain chemicals that have been shown to be toxic, such as parabens.  Parabens have been shown to be able to mimic the action of the female hormone estrogen.  Estrogen can increase the growth of human breast tumors.  It must be taken into consideration that parabens are found in an extensive number of body care products and cosmetics.  While the amount in one product may be small, it increases considerably when we take into account how many products we apply to our bodies daily.  Be sure to check the label on your deodorant to be sure that it does not contain parabens.  (These chemicals all end in “paraben”.  Methylparaben, propylparaben, etc.)

Sweat does not have an offensive smell.  Some people may even like the smell.  It is the bacteria combined with the sweat that creates the smell that many people do not like.  Essential oils are perfect ingredients for natural deodorants.  There are many essential oils that have been shown to be antibacterial.  When applied as a deodorant, essential oils inhibit the growth of bacteria.  And they can even kill bacteria that exist.  As opposed to many deodorants that mask the smell with chemical fragrances, essential oils work to stop the bacteria from occurring.

1.    1.  ( Exley C (March 1998). "Does antiperspirant use increase the risk of aluminium-related disease, including Alzheimer's disease?". Molecular Medicine Today )

2.     2.  http://alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?documentID=99

Hydrosols

Hydrosols are the gently scented waters that remain after the steam distillation of essential oils. These waters contain minute amounts the water-soluble constituents of the essential oils.  Therefore, hydrosols are very safe and gentle. Unlike essential oils, which are extremely concentrated, hydrosols are soft and very pleasant smelling.

Although they are mild, hydrosols contain a wide range of therapeutic compounds which makes them highly effective for treating various health concerns.   Hydrosols are perfect to use as a facial mist prior to applying moisturizer for additional hydration.  They can be misted on the face during the day for a gentle, hydrating lift.  Also, as a room spray, body mist, in the iron, as a bed linen mist, as a rinse for hand washables, and much more.

Neroli Hydrosol has a beautiful, light floral scent.  It is the result of the steam distillation of the orange flower.  It is wonderfully clarifying and uplifting.  It has antimicrobial properties, leaving a clean fresh feeling.

Lavender Hydrosol is a refreshing aromatic water that can be used any time you need refreshment, or when you want to cool down on a hot day. Its calming effects are wonderful for children and can also be used to clean cuts and scrapes. Used as a spritzer it acts as a rejuvenating spray at the home, office, or in the car. Lavender water has a wide variety of therapeutic benefits with many uses. This is one of the more relaxing and balancing hydrosols. It is ideal for oily and combination skin, and is an excellent coolant for minor burns, rashes, and hot sores. Mentally refreshing and marvelous on the emotions! 

Peppermint Hydrosol is perfect as a revitalizing and refreshing body spray. Peppermint hydrosol is well rounded and very robust. It can be used liberally on the body as a general cooler, and it is particularly helpful for abrasions, hot spots, and as a facial toner. 

Rose Hydrosol is a wonderful toner for all skin types, especially mature skin.  It makes a beautiful body splash, anti-anxiety spray, deodorant, and room freshener. Roses are known everywhere for their link to love and sensuality, and Rose Hydrosol is no different.  It is wonderful for those days when one feels sensual. This is an aphrodisiac with roots dating back thousands of years. 

Sandalwood Hydrosol is a steam distilled hydrosol from whole Sandalwood. Sandalwood is exotic, alluring and deeply mesmerizing.  Sandalwood essential oil may be too penetrating for some and certainly too expensive for many.  Sandalwood hydrosol is a fabulous alternative.  It has the full, woody, calming scent of Sandalwood essential oil, but in a milder version. It is great as a body perfume, as an invigorating room spray or as a bed linen, with its aphrodisiac qualities.

Sandalwood

The history of Sandalwood- Santalum album

The Sandalwood tree Native to tropical Asia.    It is a small evergreen, parasitic tree up to 30 feet high with brown-grey trunk.  It has leathery leaves and small pinky-purple flowers.  Sandalwood is a semi parasitic tree and survives only by becoming attached to the roots of other plants.  Only when the roots are well attached can the tree derive nutrients on its own. Sandalwood's name is derived from the Sanskrit chandana.

The sandalwood tree used to flourish in southern India, particularly in the forests of Karnataka. However, years of over harvesting and unsustainable practices have placed the tree under extreme threat.  All sandalwood trees in India and Nepal are now government-owned and their harvest is strictly controlled.  Unfortunately, many trees are illegally cut down and smuggled out of the country. It is an Australian variety which is replacing the traditional Indian sandalwood in supplying the world's needs. Some sandalwood is distilled in Europe and the USA.

   

The oil is found primarily in the heartwood and larger roots of the tree; therefore, it is necessary to uproot the entire tree for harvesting.  Sandalwood trees are never cut down.  Only mature trees are harvested. Trees younger than 20 years produce smaller quantities and inferior oil. The Indian government has strict regulations governing harvesting of Sandalwood.  Only trees that are 30 years or older are used.  The highest quality oil comes from trees that are at least 60-80 years old.

The use of Sandalwood goes back at least 4,000 years.  India has always been one of the primary exporters of sandalwood and is now the main producer of the essential oil. The oil has been used in India for at least 2,000 years and is one of the first products traded. The highest-quality sandalwood comes from the Mysore region in India. 

Sandalwood was an important medicinal herb in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicines. It is used to treat stomach ache, vomiting, gonorrhea, choleric difficulties and skin complaints.  In the Ayurvedic tradition, it is used mainly for urinary and respiratory infections, for acute and chronic diarrhea.  In India it is often combined with rose in the famous scent aytar.

It is believed that the oil was known in Sri Lanka over 1000 years ago and used for embalming the corpses of princes in since the 9th century.  The ancient Egyptians also used the oil for embalming, as well as in medicine.  The wood was used in ritual burnings for their gods.  Sandalwood was often used in death rituals of many countries.  In India it was burned on funeral pyres and even used to make coffins for the very wealthy.

Sandalwood has long been revered as a sacred tree in India. It is used in many religious ceremonies. The wood has been used for making many religious artifacts and figures for thousands of years.  It has been used to build ancient temples, rosaries, staffs and figurines above the doorways as well as the doors themselves.  The scent then permeates the building.  The wood has always been valued for its fragrance and its resistance to insects. Because of its resistance to white ants, the wood was often used in early buildings.

Sandalwood and its products are integral in Brahmin, Buddhism, and other religious rituals.  It has long been the aroma of choice for meditation.  Sandalwood sawdust and oil, gum Arabic and other materials were molded into incense sticks.  “It is one of the most calming incenses and therefore is one of the preferred ones for meditation. It calms the mind, enhances mental clarity, and aids in the opening of the Third Eye. The aroma increases devotion and combined properly can help transmute sexual energy for those who are practicing celibacy.” (http://www.scents-of-earth.com/sandalwood1.html )

In Buddhism, it is considered to be one of the three incenses integral to Buddhist practice, together with Aloes wood and Cloves. It is believed that the burning of the incense has emotional, spiritual, and medicinal benefits by relaxing, grounding and opening the mind. It is also frequently used for incense in China.

It is burned in the sacred fires in the Zoroastrian Temples to soothe the troubles of all humanity.

Sandalwood grew to be a vital accessory in Hindu rituals as well. It is made into a paste for marking the skin.  The paste is believed to have a cooling effect on the body. The paste, oil and wood have medicinal applications and the powdered wood is even used in antidotes to snakebites.

In 1792, the Sultan of Mysore declared it a royal tree.  To this day, no individual may own a sandalwood tree.  Although the landowner does receive a stipend for having the tree on his property, it is still owned by the government. 

Sandalwood was rarely mentioned in medieval Europe.  It was not until the 18^th century that sandalwood became well known and highly prized in Europe.  It was sometimes recommended in the 18^th century Europe for the treatment of gonorrhea and urinary tract infections. 

It was not until the 1900s that Sandalwood's use was significant in European and American perfumery.  It is now appreciated for its fixative ability as well as its fragrance. It is a base note which remains constant for quite a long time.  Its aroma is sweet, exotic, and woody. Today it is often used in fine perfumes.

It became popularized in the west by the perfume industry and then became applied medicinally after the 1920's by French aromatherapists.  It is often used to soothe, restore, rejuvenate, and heal. Depression, anxiety and insomnia are believed to be improved by sandalwood.

Sandalwood is antimicrobial (its main component is beta-santalol ~90% ) and can therefore be used for acne, but it must always be properly diluted with a carrier oil.

It is extremely important when buying Sandalwood to know the origin and to know that it is from a source that is harvesting legally and sustainably. It is estimated that approximately 75% of the sandalwood leaving Karnataka, India is smuggled.

Sandalwood is among the perfumes approved by Islamic tradition, and is therefore very popular in Muslim countries. Saudi Arabia is the biggest importer of Sandalwood in the Gulf.  “Indian sandalwood is shipped secretly to the Gulf, but it is reserved for upscale customers.  Orders are in the range of millions of dollars, because the wood costs up to 13,700 dollars per kilogram.  A vial of the oil extract costs between 400 and 1,000 dollars.” (http://www1.american.edu/projects/mandala/TED/sandalwd.htm)