The World Health Organization, through it's International Agency for Cancer Research, has recently concluded Roundup is "probably carcinogenic to humans". Roundup is a widely used herbicide manufactured by Monsanto. Of course, Monsanto is disputing the March 20 ,2015 assessment published in the Lancet Oncol. 2015 issue. The World Health Organization's research agency found limited evidence of non Hodgkin lymphoma in humans. Lab animals are also subject to cancer from exposure. Monsanto claims  the Researchers selectively chose studies to suggest Roundup is carcinogenic to animals and people. Roundup is designed to work with genetically modified crops, such as corn and soy. It's use in agriculture is worldwide.

Essential oils and essences have been used to reduce cancerous tumors for thousands of years. Success is individual and circumstantial. Read about each of them on my website,www.aromahealthtexas.com. They include Carrot seed,  Frankincense,German and Roman Chamomile, Rose geranium, Litsea cubeba,Clove , Ravintsara and Yarrow. Essential oils can be used along with other treatments by a professional who understands their chemical properties and how these relate to the body and other treatments. Hospitals have used several of my therapeutic essence blends during treatment, including Harmony , Self Image, Deep Sleep,Stop Suffering, Toxic Thyroid, Transitions, Gratitude and Forgiveness.By appointment to create a special ,individualized blend, call Judy Griffin at 1 800- 496  2125. All my products are organically grown and processed without chemicals.

The Enhancement Feng Shui Mister adds a smile and sparkle for the home.It's an uplifting aroma is excellent to use when I'm working at home or home alone. Sometimes the lack of human interaction makes me feel lonely, tired, disorganized or distracted. It's like angels have arrived to visit me when I use this spray.

As a Mom, I appreciate that my children can use the Feng Shui misters as needed without harm. They learn to monitor their bodies needs at an early age before problems get out of hand.

So, thank you again for the wonderful aromas, therapeutic creations and books. I love to read about the plants, even if they don't grow where I live. It's like the plant spirits  are with me when I read about them. So friendly!

 I have created many aromatherapy products for Hospice and palliative care patients for over 30 years to relieve pain, anxiety, nausea, depression,  fear and fatigue. The blends are used in hospitals and in the home environment by professional therapists trained in their field. Control of pain is the main goal . Patients may have cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's, A.L.S. and neurological disease, renal failure, severe stroke or chronic illness. As the patient is able to increase alertness and relax, aromatherapy can be used to trigger pleasant memories, increase family bonds and overall well being. I use essential oils and Petite Fleur Essence combinations to be applied or misted into the air for symptoms and grief for the family members.

Harmony therapeutic essence  is one of the most important blends ,a combination of several antique roses and lavenders I organically grow and distill. The blend is very calming, reducing pain, anxiety and depression. Transitions is a blend of Sweet Annie, tea roses and Melissa (lemon balm) to encourage family bonds, trigger pleasant memories and increase well being. It is designed to release past pain. Forgiveness, increases relaxation as it reduces pain and fears, a blend of German Chamomile essence, rose geranium, violet leaf, Orange flower absolute and Old French roses, all grown in my gardens. The light aromas also reduce coughing,confusion, hallucinations and help regulate blood pressure and pulse. I make a Grief blend for family and patients using vanilla absolute, hyacinths and sweet herbs to reduce shock, and replace loss with the beautiful memories.

 I make several lotions for massage, circulation, pain reduction and lymphedema, using stimulating essential oils and essences, such as double mint, peppermint, spearmint, rosemary, and lemongrass. A lotion made from several lavenders is used for dry skin and relaxation. Custom blends are always welcome to enhance the patient's pleasure and well being.

For bed sores, bruising, rashes, and other skin conditions, I make a comfrey cream ,containing allantoin and yarrow for quick healing. I either add aromas or leave it naturally unscented. Most hospice patients enjoy light scents, finding strong odors offensive. And, too many aromas can be confusing for them.

In hospitals, I am now offering mists  made with natural aromas, such as coffee and foods patients have enjoyed.They are safe to mist on the patient's lips, if requested. Normally, I only use aromatherapy topically, so the tiny molecules can travel directly to the brain. Moods and pain can be changed within seconds.

Aromatherapy blends for children I prepare with food grade essential oils only. Children respond well to these familiar odors. They are nontoxic and used discreetly. Touch and aromas are the only healing children understand. I use soothing names, such as Luv u lots and  Dreamtime.

 Aromatherapy for hospice and palliative care help all of us to understand there is a better world awaiting us with open arms.

Easter lily helps anxious people . The fear behind the anxiety is failure, unspoken and unnamed. Failure is usually about a future event or how to succeed in events yet to come. Sometimes the personality can become controlling or obsessive about her environment. This all stems from fear of failure and the inability to process all the information coming into the cognitive brain. The person feels edgy, especially in certain situations such as crowded areas, amusement rides, and when fine and gross motor skills are needed. Grounding occurs in present time, not worrying about what is to come. Lily personalities need to practice visualization, seeing themselves work through and complete each challenge and opportunity in life.

 Apply 2-3 drops on the throat, wrist or chest 3x daily until worry is replaced with a vision and successful feeling about the future. Self- control is the key to the future. Benefits from wearing Petite Fleur Essences usually are evident within 3 weeks.

For more information on Peite Fleur Essences  read The Healing Flowers and Flowers the Heal by Judy Griffin, PhD. or email aromahealthtexas.com

For the past 35 years Harmony and Relaxation therapeutic blends have been used successfully in patient care to reduce the Nocebo effect. The blends are used before and after chemotherapy and cancer treatment at Baylor Hospital's Healing Environment program in Dallas and Irving Texas Patient care began with bone marrow and stem cell patents and quickly spread throughout all departments, including speech therapy. Topical application allows the aromas to be used with other modalities.

The Nocebo effect occurs when expectations and negative suggestions cause symptoms or illness to occur. Nocebo effect is both biochemical and physiological, displaying with a variety of cues. Cortisol and histamine levels dramatically increase, targeting adrenal and hypothalamus involvement. Recently, Ted Kaptchuk at Harvard medical, proved Nocebo occurs without conscious awareness.

 Therapeutic aroma blends lessen anxiety and unconscious responses. I have clinically used Harmony and Reduce Stress essences in the United Kingdom and USA for over 25 years to balance a full spectrum of stress. These aromas change brain chemistry within seconds affecting moods and fears. Given a repose from the stress response, the brain can adjust to homeostasis.

For more information, contact Judy Griffin PhD. 8172935410 aromahealthtexas.com

Source includes: The Scientist: Worried Sick, by Megan Scudellari, July 2013

Lemon Rose Clarifier reduces complex conditions leading to acne.Ninety percent of civilized people develop acne during their lifetime. Recent research suggests Propionibacterium acnes initiates inflammation of the skin. This  results in excessive oil production and large mounts of dead skin and/or cysts. Although many conditions exist with acne, the primary target is to reduce inflammation and oil reduction of the skin. Lemon Rose Clarifier reduces several strains of P. acnes and oil production simultaneously to prevent and heal acne.

Lemon Rose Clarifier is misted on the affected skin morning and evening after thorough cleansing. Always avoid the eyes. Lavender silk and satin body and shower cleanser can be successfully used for deep pore cleaning. And, for added protection and regeneration, Rose oil SkinTherapy may also be misted on the skin at bedtime.

It's simple, easy and effective. Clients enjoy results within days , continuing for weeks. Cancer patients using chemotherapy agents causing acne also enjoy good results using Lemon Rose Clarifier.I have used these products therapeutically for over 30 years successfully. No adverse side effects have been reported. However, it is best to test a patch of skin with product to assure there is no sensitivity. The plants are grown organically and processed from my gardens without chemicals.

To learn more safe and effective remedies and recipes, go to aromahealthtexas.com for the following books by Judy Griffin, PhD.:

Mother Nature's Herbal; Flowers that heal; Herbs for Health and Beauty; Aromasignatures

Other sources include: No Easy Answers, by Elizabeth k. Wilson: Chemical and Engineering News:American Chemical Society, March 3, 2014.

The Young at Heart

  Tangerine, Citrus madarosis, originated in China and the Far East, as the mandarin orange.  Citrus reticulata came to the West in the early 1800’s.  When mandarin orange trees came to America, it became known as the tangerine.  Today’s tangerine is larger and more aromatic.  True mandarin essential oil is very sweet and floral.  The essential oil of mandarin is non-toxic, and perfect for children.  It calms children, reducing fear and insomnia.  Essential oil is produced by cold pressing the outer skin.  An orange- colored oil is produced.  Children enjoy mandarin or tangerine oil in a bath or foot rub.

Calming Foot Rub

            In 1 ounce of warm sesame oil, add the following essential oils:

                        10 drops of Mandarin’ 

                        10 drops of Tangerine

                          2 drops of Sandalwood

            Mix well with a non-metal instrument.  Apply warm to little feet.  Gently massage the oil into the bottom of the feet.  Cover the feet with clean socks.

            Bottle remaining blend in dark glass with a tight fitting cap.  Refrigerate until further use.  Finish the blend within 3 months.  Also refrigerate mandarin and tangerine essential oils.

            The elderly enjoy mandarin to enhance digestion and peristalsis.  Mandarin treats indigestion, hiccoughs, constipation and colic.  Combine it with stimulating fixatives, such as coriander, cinnamon, or ginger root.  Apply warm to the abdomen.

Stimulating Digestant

            In 1 ounce of warm carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

                        10 drops of Mandarin  

                        10 drops of fennel

                          2 drops of cinnamon

                          2 drops of coriander

            Mix well with a non-metal instrument.  Apply warm to the abdomen and massage for several minutes in a clockwise motion.

            Children may prefer tangerine substituted for mandarin essential oil.  The therapeutic properties are similar, children preferring the less floral aroma of tangerine.  The question may be whether sweet orange essential oil can be substituted for tangerine or mandarin.  Sweet orange will be energizing, but not as specific as the other two oils.  It is more specific for unblocking sluggish energy, especially of the liver and spleen.  Orange is balancing; mandarin and tangerine are calming.

            Bottle any remaining blend in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.  Refrigerate and apply warm daily to normalize digestion.

            Mandarin combines well with neroli to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.

Stretch Mark Prevention Blend

            In 2 ounces of jojoba oil, add the following essential oils:

                        15 drops of Neroli

                        25 drops of Mandarin

                          2 drops of Tonka bean

            Allow to cure overnight.  Massage onto the tummy with clockwise, circular motions every day.  Refrigerate remaining blend in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.

            Mandarin is safe during pregnancy.  Here is a headache blend to use for tension   and seasonal headaches.

Mama’s Headache Blend

            In 1 ounce of carrier oil, add the following essential oils:

                        10 drops of Mandarin

                        12 drops of German Chamomile

                          2 drops of Cardamom

            Allow to cure 3 hours or overnight when possible.  Massage 2 drops on each temple, the forehead or back of the neck.  Relax with either a warm or cold compress across the center of the forehead or back of the neck.  Bottle remaining blend in dark glass with a tightly fitted screw cap.  Refrigerate.

            Tangerine is excellent oil for premenstrual tension.  Use it throughout the month, in mid cycle, or during those crabby or weepy days to chase the blues away.

How to Treat a Lady

            In 1 ounce of sesame oil, add the following essential oils:

                        15 drops of Tangerine

                          5 drops of Geranium

                          5 drops of Lemon Balm

                          1 drop of Clary Sage or Angelica root

            Clary is more calming; Angelica is more centering and is a fixative to hold the aromas.

            Tangerine offers a less floral or sweet blend to lift the mood form crisis to complacence.  Sesame oil is also soothing to the nervous system, the best carrier oil for this blend.

            Allow the blend to cure overnight, bottled in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap, in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place.  Massage 5 drops onto the neck and throat 2 or 3 times, as needed, to maintain a happy presence.

            Tangerine also helps a sad or pouting child build positive feelings.  I like to combine Tangerine with a small drop of vanilla when it’s crying time again.  Diffuse the blend into a room and share to joy.  Adults will benefit from the aroma lift also.

No More Pouting Blend

            Combine 20 drops of Tangerine with 1 drop of Vanilla essential oil.  Drop into a cup of steaming, hot water, or diffuse into the room.  Relax and enjoy the benefits.

            Tangerine has antiseptic, cleansing and toxic properties.  The oil helps correct oily and acne prone skin.  It can also be added to a shampoo or rinse to alleviate acne occurring below the hair line on the back of the neck.  I choose tangerine because it does not have a floral or sweet scent like mandarin.  Tangerine is a good choice for teenagers who can benefit from the uplifting effect.  It also smells better than tea tree, eucalyptus and the strong aromas used in acne and oily skin treatments.

 The following blend is a new and unique one.  For best results, avoid fatty and fried foods.  Eat six or more cups of fruit and vegetables daily, especially the ones high in vitamin A.  Drink two quarts of water daily during the summer, which may include herbal teas and electrolyte beverages.  Include regular exercise and relaxation.  Use skin care that is paraben free, avoiding heavy makeup or products that can clog pores.

Ph Balanced Cleanser

            In 3 ounces of pure aloe, add 1 tablespoon of witch hazel and 1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin.  Stir and add:

                          1 drop of Rosemary

                        30 drops of Tangerine

                          1 drop of Patchouli

            Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting cap.  Use this combination 3 times daily to wash the face and neck.  Pat dry.  Store remaining blend in the refrigerator.  Note:  Make sure the glycerin is made from only vegetable sources.

Mask for Oily and Acne Prone Skin

            In 2 tablespoons of wet clay, add the following essential oils:

                        6 drops of Tangerine

                        2 drops of Cypress

            Mix well.  Apply immediately to the face and neck.  Relax for 10 minutes, then rinse skin thoroughly.  Pat dry.  Repeat once or twice weekly.  Note:  You can purchase green clay powder and add approximately 10 drops of pure water to each tablespoon.  Mix and add essential oils.  Do not use chemically fragranced wet clay.  It can cause irritation and eruptions.

Simple Tonic to Tighten Pores

            Beat 1 egg white with a fork to mix well.  Add 3 drops of Tangerine essential oil.  Spread over a clean face and neck.  Allow to dry.  Rinse with cool water after several minutes.  Repeat 2 or 3 times weekly.

The Medicinal Rose - Blog 21

Roses have been successfully used for many centuries. Rose oil has a harmonizing effect on the psyche and moods. It balances the emotions and regulates overactive emotional responses. If the emotional nature is oversensitive or non- responsive, rose oil brings into balance. Rose oil acts as a relaxing tonic, reducing many complaints.

            Rose is known to reduce skin outbreaks. A pure rose oil or absolute is applied topically to shingles twice daily undiluted. The aroma will also reduce tension.

            I use rose oil in 84 blends in private practice and as complimentary therapy in hospitals. The blends reduce many symptoms, as well as keeping maternity patients balanced and happy as they await a joyous arrival. Rose oil blends well with any essential oils without overpowering a blend. I used rose oil to anoint my mother as she passed to the other side. As a room spray, rose oil kept all of us calm and patient Rose oil blends helped alleviate grief and depression as I continued without her.

            Women appreciate rose oil to keep them happy throughout the month. It alleviates occasional sadness, mood swings, angry outburst, and the bloated feeling associated with the menstrual cycle. Rose naturally strengthens the uterus to prepare women for pregnancy.

To Alleviate Pelvic Symptoms

In 2 ounces of carrier oil, add:

10 drops Rose Oil

1 drop Clary Sage

4 drops Roman Chamomile

1 drop Angelica root

Bottle in dark glass and a screw cap for several days before messaging the pelvic and abdominal area to alleviate cramping. Repeat every 30 minutes until symptoms abate.

To Alleviate Menstrual Discomfort

In 2 ounces of carrier oil add:

5 drops Rose, increase up to 10 drops for a dominant rose scent.

5 drops Cypress

3 drops Sandalwood

1 drop Yarrow oil

Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Allow curing at least 3 hours before messaging the abdomen and pelvis. Repeat every 15 to 30 minutes until flow decreases. Do not drink chamomile or ginger teas.

For Delayed or Missed Menses

In 2 ounces of carrier oil add:

6 drops of Rose

1 drop of Basil

1 drop of Fennel seed

3 drops Coriander seed

Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Allow curing at least 24 hours before messaging the pelvis and abdominal area 2 times daily. Do not use if pregnancy is a possibility.

For Irregular Menses

In 2 ounces of carrier oil add:

10 drops Rose

3 drops Geranium

1 drop Fennel

1 drop Rosewood

Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Allow curing at least 3 days before messaging the pelvis everyday. It can take 3 months to achieve balance.

Mood Swings and PMS depression

In 1 ounce of carrier oil add:

5 drops Rose

3 drops Bergamot

5 drops Ylang ylang extra or absolute (the absolute aroma is stronger)

1 drop Pink Grapefruit (Citrus deucumana)

2 drops Peru Balsamar or Tonka bean

Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Allow curing at least 1 hour, up to 3 days. Massage on neck, throat, and sternum (upper chest). It is best to have this blend ready and available when needed. It can be worn everyday or as needed. This blend also helps post partum depression. Always get the physician’s approval as applicable.

Occasional Depression in Men

In 1 ounce of carrier oil add:

6 drops Rose

1 drop Patchouli

1 drop Pink Grapefruit or Bergamot (both appear to stimulate serotonin) Bottle in dark glass and cap. Cure 3 hours or more and massage on face, neck, and chest.

Mood Swings for Men

Oh, yes, men have mood swings. It’s alright to offer this simple solution. The following aromas are very balancing.

In 1 ounce of carrier oil add:

5 drops Rose

3 drops Ylang ylang extra or absolute

3 drops Tonka bean(Dipterix odorata)

Note: 1 drop of Angelica root may be added to increase stamina, grounding “earth” energy; reducing weakness and indecision. The aroma is very strong. Only use 1 drop to prevent overwhelming the other lighter aromas in this blend. Readjust the blend by adding more rose if necessary. Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Cure 3 hours or longer before messaging neck, face, and chest.

Tension Headaches

Use this blend to reduce tension in the face, neck, and shoulders, or when a tension related headache occurs.

In 1 ounce of carrier oil add:

6 drops Ylang ylang extra or absolute0extra is very sweet and lighter than the absolute).

4 drops Rose

1 drop Lemon grass, or Litsea culeba for a hint of lemon aroma.

2 drops Lavender

2 drops Candalwood(to harmonize the blend, and as a fixative).

Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Allow cure 3 hours to 3 days. Message onto neck, shoulders, temples, and forehead.

The Language of Love- Blog 22

Lovers have used the aroma of lavender for centuries to express the innocence and pure intentions of love. Women are especially drawn to the clean scent of lavender. They enjoy it in cologne, cosmetics, household cleaners and laundry. Lavender is a to scent linen and spray, or diffuse in a room. Lavender is the most used essential oil, most beneficial and least toxic.

            Lavandula officinalis is native to Iraq and southern France, growing in mountainous terrain. This is the wild species, growing on steep slopes in rocky soil. The wild mountain variety has many hybrid species. The most popular is Lavandula angustifolia, a lager plant producing more blooms and essential oil. The original, wild lavender is not commercially grown because each plant must be cut individually by hand and carried to the valley to be distilled. Horticulturist crossed L. officinalis and L. angustifolia with a native Spanish L. latifolia to produce lavendin, the variety that is grown commercially today.

            Lavendin can be grown in lower altitudes in large fields. Harvesting can be done by machine. The long spikes of blue flowers produce an abundant supply of essential oil that keeps the price reasonable. Lavendin is sterile, producing no seed for reproduction. A clone, Lavendin grosso, is the preferred lavender for commercial growing. Grosso grows as tall as a 6-foot man or women, with floral, blue spikes reaching for the sky. These varieties do not produce the most healing essential oil. Most is diluted and sold as inexpensive bath oil, and cleaning products.

            Aromatherapists and natural perfumers use Lavandula officinalis and angustifolia only. These are less likely to be diluted and have an exquisite aroma. These varieties have over 160 healing properties that successfully treat a long list of complaints. The cost is affordable, especially considering the list of benefits L. officinalis has an aroma that restores the nerves and stimulates the body’s defenses. In medieval times, L. officinalis was believed to produce and maintain purity and character. To offer someone lavender was to offer love in its purest form.

            The word Lavandula is derived from the Latin root, “lavare”, which means to wash. Lavender is both deodorizing and detoxifying. I use the hydrolate as a natural deodorant. The natural cleansing properties treat external ulcers, boils, abscesses, and wounds. Lavender is one of the few essential oils, which can be worn undiluted. It has antiseptic qualities to disinfect the wound, and pain relieving properties as a nervine. Lavender stimulates white blood cell production that rush to the site, remove toxins, and bacteria.

            Lavender is also the best treatment for burns and subsequent scarring. Saturating a burn in lavender oil will relieve pain and greatly increase healing. It can also be diluted in aloe gel as a carrier.

Burn Formula

In 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel add:

6 drops L. officinalis

Stir several times before applying directly to a burn. Repeat several times daily until the wound heals. Store any leftover in a dark glass bottle and screw cap. Refrigerate.

            It is a well-known story that I restored 50% of my youngest son’s hearing in 3 weeks using lavender oil. He has since heard everything he wants! Use the following formula for earaches. Do not allow the dilution to get inside the ear canal. The application relaxes people.

Ear Oil

In 1-teaspoon olive oil or St. John’s Wort oil add:

2 drops L. officinalis

Apply to the front of the outside ear and down to the side of the neck. One drop of the dilution may also be put on a cotton ball and loosely applied to the inside of the ear.

            The most important therapeutic effect of lavender is on the heart. Lavender strengthens the heart by lowering blood pressure when necessary and calming arrhythmias, racing heartbeats, and nervous lovers. Let’s start and end this session with the language lovers comprehend: calming and uplifting blends for massage and stress reduction. As the heart is supported and strengthened, love will rush in.

Heart and Soul

In 2 ounces of carrier oil, add:

30 drops of L. officinalis

10 drops of Bergamot

5 drops Lemon Balm

4 drops Peru Balsam

5 drops Sandalwood

Bottle in a dark glass with a screw cap. Allow to cure at least 3 hours before messaging the upper back, arms and chest. Refrigerate leftover blend to keep the citrus oils from loosing potency. The following spicy scents are warming and stimulating, releasing psychological tension.

Getting in the Mood

In 2 ounces of carrier oil, add:

10 drops of L. officinalis

6 drops Jasmine (sambuc is very sensual)

5 drops Mandarin Citrus reticulate

2 drops Immortelle, Helichrysum angustifolium

1 drop Juniper, Juniperus communis

2 drops Coriander

1 drop Clary Sage

Bottle in a dark glass with a screw cap. Allow to cure overnight for best effects, or at least 3 hours. Massage chest, upper arms and shoulders, thighs, and lower back, carefully avoiding broken skin. This blend keeps a women’s heart open and interested.

All Heart

In 1 ounce of carrier oil, add:

15 drops of L. officinalis

10 drops Neroli

5 drops Rose

10 drops Ylang ylang absolute

5 drops Benzoin, styrax

Bottle in a dark glass with a screw top for 3 days before applying drops on the base of the throat and chest. Men will attract the women of their dreams with this scent. This blend uses lavender absolute to reduce the very floral scents, though still heavenly.

Man’s Best Scent

In 1 ounce of carrier oil, add:

10 drops Lavender absolute

6 drops Sandalwood

1 drop Jasmine

1 drop Patchouli

3 drops Orange

Bottle in a dark glass with a screw cap. Allow to cure for 3 hours, or up to 3 days. Apply to the neck before leaving for the night or going on a date.

The Great Harmonizer- Blog 23

Lavender is one of the best essential oils for harmonizing a blend, a perfume, or a treatment. The scent can neutralize an odorous blend that is overpowering. Small amounts of lavender can also be added to a perfume blend that is very sweet or floral. A few drops of lavender will produce a calming, yet refreshing addition to the blend.

            Once the combination is applied the aroma will blend with the individual’s body chemistry, releasing a unique odor. A blend will smell different on every person. If you are preparing a blend for another person, the blend can be tested with perfume blotters. These are small strips inserted into the blend, after each additional oil. Smell the strip immediately and every 15 minutes afterwards for up to one hour. This will allow the potency to be adjusted and the true scent to ripen. Once the aromas are completed, allow the scent to cure up to 3 days before applying. It will be fun to smell the blend every day to observe how it changes. Keep a notebook of every blend, the number of drops of each essential oil, and how the smell affects you. When the receipt wears the aroma, note how he or she is affected by the smell and what feelings or memories it evokes.

            If you are making a blend to wear, apply a drop on your skin and observe the scent and affects after each essential oil. You can use perfume blotters if you prefer. Perfume blotters may work best with an alcohol base, like a perfume. When preparing an alcohol base perfume or cologne, allow the completed blend to cure for up to a month, noting observations on a daily, or weekly basis. A perfume can transform totally overnight. It is exciting to create an alchemical process. Notes and observations will aid maturation of your skills as an aromatherapist.

 Relaxing Lavender Massage and Foot Rub

In 2 ounces of carrier oil add:

2 drops L. officinalis

4 drops of Clary Sage

1 drop Rosewood

Optional 1 drop Knotted Marjoram Petite Fleur Essence, 

. Bottle in a dark glass with a screw cap for at least 3 hours.  Massage muscles, feet or tight areas.

 Or, add a few drops in a room mister or aroma lamp.

Immune Enhancer

In a 1 dram (3.7 ml.) dark glass bottle add:

10 drops L. officinalis

4 drops Lemongrass

2 drops Thyme, Thymus vulgaris

1 drop Angelica, Angelica offiicinalis

1 drop Ginger

Fill remainder of the bottle with distilled water. Cap with a tightly fitting top. Allow to cure 3 hours or longer. Turn the bottle over 3 times. Add 3drops to a aroma lamp or room mister.

            Lavender, alone, or combined with other essential oils relieves headaches and migraines. Lavendula is both pain relieving and antispasmodic. It is a natural antidote for stress, and all components of headaches. Apply frequently to obtain the best results. Massage the neck, temples, and forehead.

Headache Relief Formula

In 2 ounces of carrier oil add:

20 drops L. officinalis

5 drops of Clary Sage

5 drops Lemon balm, Melissa officinalis

10 drops Benzoin

2 drops Rockrose, Cistus labdaniferus, or its oleoresin, labdanum

Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Allow to cure at least 3 hours before massaging the neck, upper shoulders, forehead, and temples.

            Lavender heals many skin problems. It is antiseptic, astringent, and deep cleansing. The balancing effect treats dry skin and acne. Like rose, lavender benefits every skin type. The oil stimulates lymphatic drainage to reduce toxic impurities metabolized by the skin. This increases new cell growth for hair, scalp, and skin. Add lavender in a hair rinse and it reduces hair loss. Use lavender to treat eczema and psoriasis combined with pure lemon balm essential oil. It is safe to use on diabetic skin ulcers and boils. Wear lavender undiluted for stings and insect bites.

The following combination treats soft tissue skin problems, including eczema and psoriasis. Always skin test a small area prior to treating the entire surface.

Skin Rashes

In 1 ounce of aloe or jojoba carrier oil add:

10 drops L. officinalis

5 drops Immortelle

 2 drops labdanum oleorosin or rock rose essential oil

Bottle in dark glass with a screw cap. Allow to cure up to 3 hours, before massaging skin.

Lavender has been used for cystitis and urinary symptoms for at least 200 years. It works well with juniper essential oil in a sitz bath to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. An easy preparation is to make the following bath salt recipe.

Lavender Bath Salts

In a 16-ounce glass jar, add:

6 ounces Epsom salts

2 ounces sea salt

Mix thoroughly and add:

40 drops of L. officinalis

10 drops Juniper, Juniperus communis

2 drops Cedarwood, Cedrus atlantica

4 drops Sandalwood

Cap tightly. Sore in a cool cabinet or closet. Allow to cure 7 to 10 days before adding 4 ounces to a warm, drawn bath. Note: Not recommended for children. Consult a physician immediately if fever occurs with any urinary symptoms.

            I have used the lavendula officinalis, I grow, for over 10 years in hospitals in combination with Petite Fleur essences and other essential oils for nausea, and side effects of chemotherapy. It is important to begin wearing the blend before chemotherapy starts, so the individual will not correlate lavender with the side effects of chemotherapy.

            Nausea during pregnancy is treated individually. Although lavender reduces nausea and motion sickness, it does not always help pregnant women. Each expectant mother must find the aroma to help her. Usually it is some bizarre aroma, such as eucalyptus. However, lemon is a good guess. Some moms to be prefer no aromas. Moms rule. When baby arrives, essential oils are not recommended for children under 18 months. Lavender is not recommended for male children.

            To reduce insomnia and encourage a good night sleep, have a lavender foot and body massage. Sleep with the angels!