Aroma Wisdom - The Canadian Aromatherapy Journal Fall 2020

Aroma Wisdom The Canadian Aromatherapy Journal

Fall 2020 The Harvest Edition

education, innovation, growth, support

Essential Dreaming -

Writers Melissa Housser, Toby Johnson and Krista Lee delve into prophetic dreams

Kathleen Bednis discusses Arthritis & Aromatherapy: Managing Disease Symptoms Naturally

Sep-Nov 2020

Interview Melissa Housser talks with BCAOA member Dr. Sterling Desmond

British Columbia Alliance Of Aromatherapy ISSN 2562-2218 $7.99 CND

Aroma Wisdom

The Canadian Aromatherapy Journal

Celebrating our second year in print

BCAOA 3928 Michigan Rd, Port Alberni, BC, V9Y 5Z6

Supporting aromatherapists everywhere The Fall Edition ~ September 2020

Cover Photo by Michael Malloy

Created and printed in the Greater Vancouver Area of BC Sustainably printed on Sugar Sheet paper

2020federalli@gmail.com Staging by Delia Bove

ISSN 2562-220X (Print)

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ISSN 2562-2218 (Online)

Lilliane Graie Editor & Design, Advertising editor@bcaoa.org

Social Media & VP Melissa Housser media@bcaoa.org vicepresident@bcaoa.org

Secretary Kathleen Jaggassar secretary@bcaoa.org

Continuing Education Events cecoord@bcaoa.org

Treasurer Cheryl Martin treasurer@bcaoa.org

Registrar Leah Ursic registrar@bcaoa.org

President Colleen Thompson president@bcaoa.org

Website Louise Dawson website@bcaoa.org

Directors at Large: Shannon Bachorick, TracyAnn Schuur, Wendie MacQuarrie Admin: Wendie MacQuarrie admin@bcaoa.org

Past President: Pat Antoniak

Aroma Wisdom is an educational resource published by the British Columbia Alliance Of Aromatherapy (BCAOA). It focuses on issues important to the alternative health care community with an emphasis on aromatherapy. Published in the Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, Aroma Wisdom is available digitally to our membership for free and to the global public for purchase as a single issue or subscription. To purchase, please see our web store at https://bcaoa.org/store/ or a local bookstore.

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Contents 5 Our Contributors 7 President’s Message 8 2020 CE Guidelines 10 Announcements 13 Guest Writers: Essential Dreaming: Prophetic Dreaming Part 3 of 3 - Melissa, Toby and Krista delve into the mysteries of prophecies

19 BCAOA Educational Offering - Webinar with Kelly Holland Azzaro on September 30th

21 Guest Writer: Aromatherapy & Arthritis - Managing Disease Symptoms Naturally - Kathleen Bedniss discusses treatment options

28 Get to Know: Dr. Sterling Desmond Melissa Housser chats with a BCAOA member

32 Everyday Plant Medicine Emily Boese, RHT, chats about common herbs for daily use

35 The Classifieds 36 BCAOA mini Media Kit DISCLAIMER: THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED HEREIN DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THOSE OF THE BCAOA, ITS DIRECTORS, THE EDITOR, OR ITS MEMBERS. INFORMATION PROVIDED IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. THE BCAOA, ITS DIRECTORS, MEMBERS, AND EDITOR CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MISUSE OF ESSENTIAL OILS OR ANY OTHER THERAPEUTIC METHODS PRESENTED HEREIN. THE BCAOA RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ACCEPT OR REJECT ANY ARTICLE OR ADVERTISEMENT SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION AND DOES NOT NECESSARILY ENDORSE ANY PERSON, PRODUCT, COMPANY, COURSE, OR SCHOOL MENTIONED HEREIN.

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Contributors Thank you to all our wonderful contributors for sharing their knowledge, wisdom, experience and creativity with our community through this journal.

Kathleen Bednis - Kathleen’s journey into Aromatherapy began about 4 years ago when she attended and oil party hosted by an MLM company. The more Kathleen educated herself on the benefits of using oils, the more she knew she could help others naturally. Currently a student of Joyessence Aromatherapy Centre Inc., Kathleen started her health career over 20 years ago as a Physiotherapist Assistant. In 2005, Kathleen joined a research unit at Toronto Western Hospital to study all forms of arthritis and the effects of the disease across all aspects of an individual’s life. Kathleen remains involved with arthritis research at Toronto Western while completing her studies and is looking forward to integrating Aromatherapy with Western medicine.

Emily Boese RHT – Emily loves playing outside, growing and eating good food, and drinking a bit of nice wine or a good, hoppy IPA. With a local cheeseboard, of course. Holistic Nutrition and Herbal Medicine are her specialties. A qualified natural healthcare practitioner with a Bachelor of Natural Medicine, Emily offers one-on-one health assessments, individualised treatments and meal plans to help you get your health back on track. She recently returned to Canada after spending nearly 12 years living in New Zealand, and has settled in beautiful Kelowna, BC. While in NZ, Emily studied natural medicine at the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine. She is also a Professional Member of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of BC. www.befiercehealth.com Melissa Housser RA®, EOT® – Melissa first discovered the powerful, healing properties of essential oils while having her aura read at a festival. She was given a blend that resonated so strongly with her that she felt compelled to learn more. Since that time, Melissa has earned a Certificate in Holistic Aromatherapy, created a line of holistic aromatherapy products, and started teaching workshops about simple and natural self-care. More than ever Melissa believes that connecting the mind and body is essential in building a balanced lifestyle. Outside of Aromatherapy, she enjoys hiking, foraging, singing, guitar, yoga, and hopes to receive her horticulture certificate in the near future. Melissa can be reached at media@bcaoa.org or vicepresident@bcaoa.org Toby Johnson – Toby is an artist, gardener, bee enthusiast and cosmic stardust. Be it first aid, mental health or energy work, they have found grounding through the use of essential oils with aromatherapy training through Langara, under the instruction of Lynne Edel.

Krista Lee - Krista thoroughly enjoyed taking the Holistic Aromatherapy program and learning about different essential oils and their uses. She lives in Port Coquitlam, and enjoys paddle boarding and hanging out with her cat.

Colleen Thompson RA®, EOT®, CAHP – Colleen has worked in the field of Aromatherapy since 1995. She completed her Provincial Instructor’s Diploma Program in 1997 and now teaches a 600-hour aromatherapy certification program through her school Essence of Thyme College of Holistic Studies. She was an Aromatherapy Instructor at West Coast College of Massage Therapy from 2006-2012 and Spa Program Coordinator at West Coast College of Massage Therapy for 3 years. Colleen has written aromatherapy articles for a number of publications and conducted talks, workshops and seminars for a variety of organizations. She was named one of the five top aromatherapists in BC in 2015 and 2016. Colleen is currently the President of the BCAOA Board of Directors, is a Director of the AIA Board of Directors, and sits on the Education Committee of the AIA. Her Titles include: Certified Reflexologist, Reiki Practitioner, Lymphatic Drainage Massage Instructor, Master Formulator, Diploma in Adult Education. Colleen can be reached at info@essenceofthyme.com

EOT (Essential Oil Therapist) and RA (Registered Aromatherapist) are Trademarked Occupational Titles of the British Columbia Alliance of Aromatherapy (BCAOA)

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President’s Message Fall 2020

Dear Members, I hope you are managing to stay safe and healthy during these trying times. I know many of you have had challenges with operating your business, homeschooling children and generally having to re-invent the way you normally live your life.

Looking at the bigger picture, the pandemic has also brought opportunities to practice kindness, patience, tolerance, fortitude, growth and gratitude.

If you are feeling alone or overwhelmed, please make sure to reach out to our aromatherapy community. The BCAOA members Facebook page is a great platform to connect with others.

We’ve had to re-invent how we offer Continuing Education opportunities and, although it is wonderful when we can get together in person, this has created more inclusive opportunities for those who normally are not able to attend events in person because of distance and/or finances. Hopefully, in the future we will keep this in mind when organizing CE Events.

Please let us know if you have a topic you would like to have covered, a speaker you might be interested in or someone you know that might be a good speaker for our virtual educational opportunities.

Although our AGM is several months away, please give some thought about how you can contribute to the association. I will definitely be standing down as President, Lilliane will be standing down as the Journal Editor and Leah will be standing down as Registrar. We currently do not have a CE Coordinator. Most of us have stayed on longer than planned simply because there was no one to take our place but the time has come to pass the torch. We would be happy to mentor anyone who is interested in any of these positions over the coming months.

Please think about how you can partner with our aromatherapy community and encourage others to join this wonderful association. The larger the membership, the more opportunities we are able to provide and the more successful all of us will become.

Thank you to each of you for being an important part of the BCAOA and thank you to our hardworking Board of Directors and Education Committee Members.

Wishing you a safe and healthy fall and I hope that when the time comes to write the next President’s message, the world is in a better place!

Warmly,

Image by Couleur from Pixabay

Colleen BCAOA President

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.

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~ Albert Camus

NEW R O F FOR NEW Continuing Education Credit (CEC) Guidelines 2020 020!! !!

2 24 CECs need to be accumulated by Professional and Associate Members over each two-year cycle and cannot be carried over.

A minimum of 16 CECs need to be obtained from activities within the *“Aromatherapy” category, and up to 8 CECs can be obtained from activities within the “Non-aromatherapy” category. CECs are to be provided upon the member’s renewal anniversary.

*Credits will not be given for workshops that predominantly include material a Professional member (PA) or Registered Aromatherapist member (RA) received as part of their formal training. Topics NOT eligible for CECs may include but are not limited to the following: aromatherapy: a review of essential oil Latin names, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, pathologies, conventional blending techniques, essential oil safety, history of aromatherapy, ethics, business and marketing, and overall benefits of essential oils.

With each annual membership renewal package, members will be asked to submit a CEC activity form that lists their CEC activities, the number of CECs claimed, and copies of the required paperwork as evidence of their attendance. Each activity/course will be reviewed by the Board to ensure you receive the correct amount of CECs.

CATEGORY: AROMATHERAPY (16 CECs)

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CATEGORY: NON-AROMATHERAPY (8 CECs)

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Announcements Welcome to our Announcements page for notices of upcoming events and general interest to the community.

Members can send personal brags/achievements or special shout-outs to other members (congratulations, celebrations, births, milestones etc.), just be sure to have permission to share any personal information with the community! To send in your announcement request, email the information to the editor with “Announcement Page” in the subject line. Let’s celebrate!!

BCAOA Sponsored Events CE credits are granted for attendees of events Flower Power for Pets - Kelly Holland Azzaro will present this webinar that will help empower those wanting to learn about the therapeutic properties and versatile uses of hydrosols with their animal friends.

Date: Sept 30, 2020 Time & Place: 4:00pm PT, online Cost: Free for BCAOA members; $25 for non-members To Register contact admin@bcaoa.org For non-BCAOA sponsored events: According to BCAOA Guidelines, every full day of attendance at a recognised seminar, workshop, or webinar is equivalent to 4 CE Credits. Please contact the registrar at registrar@bcaoa.org if you are unsure of an event’s status.

Continuing Education Credits: Please refer to the above CE Activity guidelines. Proof of attendance can be sent via hardcopy or email. Please make sure to include the title of the specific event along with your name and address.

The following are for information purposes only. Inclusion DOES NOT imply BCAOA recognition. Be sure any course/workshop/seminar etc., qualifies for credits before taking it.

Sedona Aromatics - Sharon Falsetto: Offers various types of courses and workshops. Ongoing.

Information and Registration: https://sedonaaromatics.com/botanical-aromatherapy-programs/ Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy: Essential Oils for Herpes and Shingles - a downloadable short, easy introduction to the treatment of Herpes, Shingles and Genital Herpes with Essential Oils. 24-page pdf for printing and onscreen viewing.

Information and Registration: https://www.pacificinstituteofaromatherapy.com/ Other links to explore for upcoming events: Alliance of International Aromatherapists - https://www.alliance-aromatherapists.org/ The Canadian Herbalist Association of British Columbia - https://www.chaofbc.ca/ 10

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Essential Dreams Image from Pixabay

Prophetic Dreaming

In this third part on essential oils and dreaming, writers Toby Johnson, Melissa Housser, and Krista Lee experiment with essential oils to engage in prophetic dreaming.

Prophetic dreams are a specific type of paranormal or clairvoyant dream that are highly personal, break through the everyday consciousness, and select happenings from the future and intertwine them with the past and the present. They are broken down into particular varieties: precognitive, warning, factual, and inspirational (Corbett, Robinson, 14).

Precognitive dreams foretell important events, like the outcome of a big race. In 1903, German physiologist Otto Loewi dreamt that nervous impulses were transmitted chemically, contrary to the current theory that they were transmitted electrically. His theory turned out to be correct and subsequently won him the Nobel Peace prize (Corbett, Robinson, 10). The benzene ring carbon skeleton was also discovered through a precognitive dream. German chemist Friedrich August Kekule von Stradonitz dreamt of a snake biting its own tail and, upon awakening, devised the theory that the chemical structure was not a chain as was previously thought but a circular ring. (Corbett, Robinson, 10).

Warning dreams predict impending danger and have been well documented in many cases based on reliable testimony.

Abraham Lincoln predicted his own death after a dream where he was in the white house witnessing a funeral. Observers in the dream told him the corpse was the president and that he was killed by an assassin (Fontana, 78). Ancient cultures took warning dreams extremely seriously as they had helped to prevent the destruction and death of entire communities by predicting floods, storms or invasions. The importance of these dreams is evident in the carvings done by cave people, who have been shown to record their dreams on stone walls (Corbett, Robinson, 8).

Factual dreams confirm or emphasize something the dreamer knows. For example, a dream where the dreamer is late for an interview or forgets their lines in an audition is a type of anxiety dream where the unconscious is trying to tell the dreamer to curb any extravagances before burdens become prominent.

The dreamer may already know they need to save more money or that their rent is due in a few days, but might not have the best self-control so these dreams are trying to highlight the subject and thus help the dreamer realize the true situation.

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One of the first comprehensives on dream interpretation was done in the 2nd century A.D. by the Greek professional diviner, Artemidorus. He compiled the Oneiro-critica nearly two thousand years ago, and with over 32 separate English translations (Corbett, Robinson, 8), it still serves as a detailed introduction for dream diviners and the general public.

Prophetic dreams occur during the deepest of our REM stages of sleep. In a regular sleep schedule, this occurs primarily between 2 a.m. and 7 a.m. (Corbett, Robinson, 13). Experiments done at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn have proven that whether or not we remember our dreams, we do in fact dream (Fontana, 72).

The same studies actually showed that dream withdrawal can affect the quality of our lives more than sleep deprivation because our dreams allow us to go “safely and quietly insane for a time each day” and we are therefore less likely to engage in the psychotic behaviours that present themselves in our dreams (Corbett, Robinson, 10).

For those trying to induce prophetic dreams or encourage a greater recall of dreams, there are a few very helpful tools that can assist a dreamer. English electrical engineer Harold Horwood emphasizes the importance of intense meditation to induce precognitive dreams (Fontana, 74).

British aeronautical engineer John William Dunne, author of An Experiment with Time, stated that a dream diary is essential for the recall of dreams on a regular basis (Fontana, 76).

Other things to keep in mind are the effects of alcohol, drugs, over-eating, and external physical influences on our dreams. If a dream can be attributed to any of these

circumstances, the prophetic value of the dream can more or less be ignored.

More than anything, the dreamer need not doubt their ability to dream prophetically because, according to Dr. Stanley Krippner, founder of the Maimonides Dream Laboratory, the ability for certain types of dreams are “locked into one’s genetic coding through the experiences or emotions of one’s ancestors” (Corbett, Robinson, 11).

Blend #3, Prophetic Dreaming Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) – 2 drops • brings inspiration and prophecy Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var. amara) – 3 drops • helps one connect to their inner truth. (Edel, 65) German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) – 1 drop • helps facilitate understanding Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora) – 3 drops • useful with meditation Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum) – 2 drops • helps with acceptance and awareness The Gayatri Mantra was chosen for the meditation portion of this blend.

This mantra is from the Rig Veda, an ancient Indian collection of Vedic Sanskrit hymns. It is dedicated to Savitr, a Hindu sun god. By reciting this mantra, the practitioner asks for wisdom and enlightenment by way of the sun which represents inspiration.

Image from Pixabay

Inspirational dreams offer a solution or course of action in regards to personal or business matters. For the everyday dream analyzer, these are the most useful for giving clues about the destiny of oneself or the whole. The inspirational dream seeks to offer positive corrective action of problems we refuse to recognize (Corbett, Robinson, 11).

To further assist with the meditation, black and red jasper were recommended as tools to help with the understanding and recollection of dreams.

Melissa’s experience

The first thing I noticed about this blend was the change it made in my cats. They went from refusing to let me sleep to being by my side during meditation and sleep. They really seemed to like the blend. I found this blend to be neither too sedating, like the lucid blend, nor overwhelming after too long, like the night terror blend 14

and it made my dreams return to their normal, vivid, easily-recalled state.

the area where I rolled it on became red and sort of itchy.

After I noticed that I stopped using the blend topically and just diffused it.

On average my dreams symbolized the transitions in my life and at most predicted my upcoming shifts at work.

Analyzing them helped me mentally prepare for any

I don’t know which oil it was out of the blend but I have a gut feeling that it was bay laurel since I have never used it before and when we smelled it in class it just rubbed me the wrong way. I had also never experienced skin sensitization with an essential oil before this.

upcoming bad energy at work and look forward to a nice dinner with family.

I did have one dream that was truly and unexpectedly prophetic. In the dream I attended a party naked, a very common dream apparently but not one I had ever experienced. After researching the potential meaning of all the symbols, I came to the analysis that I was to come into money.

This seemed unlikely and I discounted it until the following night when I had dinner with my parents for my birthday and my mother secretly handed me a cheque for a substantial amount of money to put towards school.

It was shocking, surprising, unexpected and all the other synonyms for never-seeing-it-coming.

Once again, this dream occurred after a foot roll-on night which leads me to believe that the roll-on method was much more effective than meditation for me personally.

Krista’s experience Before this project, I didn’t know what prophetic dreaming was so I really enjoyed learning a bit more about it. Out of all the blends that we made, I liked this one the least. The smell bothered me but I used it anyways, only diffusing it every other night since it was a little strong for me.

I noticed after two nights of applying it to my wrists that

Toby's experience After diffusing, meditating, and writing in my journal for two weeks, I wish we had a time between blends, to sleep without oils as at this point I was feeling that getting ready for bed was more of a chore. However, I'd like to note that at this time I was aware of my dream states.

Perhaps it was more of a lucid dreaming style that I experienced but I was no longer a character involved in the happenings of the dream, but a floating consciousness or mind. I viewed almost all of my dreams as a fly on the wall, above the happenings, which evolved into what I called "mind hopping"; a sensation of jumping viewpoints of those active in the dream happenings.

Unlike the past two weeks, these dreams were of a gruesome nature that is closer to what I would normally

Image from Pixabay

Image from Pixabay

During the week using the blend I also had no results. I again stopped using marijuana for two nights this time and still didn’t remember anything.

experience. The themes rotated between murder, events of death, mutilation, or disgusting body morphing.

However, unlike my normal reactions, I didn't once experience fear. I was warm, calm, and held above the happenings.

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I faced many of my fears, this time not waking but being able to view and process the events, disassociated from the terror. Perhaps this blend aided me in completing the connections needed to finish processing these events and their symbolic nature, letting me be more open to their message. With that, they will pass instead of reoccurring as they normally do.

Closing Thoughts

taken in between each blend. With the time constraints given for this project, participants felt that there wasn't enough time to fully metabolize each blend so that none was left in their systems before beginning the new blend.

The reality of this may have skewed the results but these were the parameters within which the participants had to work. All in all, the best thing about this project was the opportunity to delve further into a world about which all had deep curiosities.

The world of dreaming is a vast and interesting plain. A lot was learned about sleep and dreaming throughout these past few weeks while using the essential oils. All participants agreed that they would definitely continue to use aromatherapy within the slumbering realms, expanding on the information gathered.

Krista's goal is to experience a lucid dream where she is in complete control of everything that’s happening. Toby will be keeping the Prophetic dreaming blend on hand for future negative dreams. Melissa would like to make an entirely new blend using a selection of oils from all three blends and see what differences come up through that and the use of different modes of application.

There were certain things about this process that the participants didn't like. Melissa wasn't a fan of being obligated to meditate before bed. While she enjoys meditating, and sometimes it was welcomed, the nights where she was preoccupied or just very tired, the unavoidable requirement became tedious.

Toby enjoyed that naps were considered ‘homework’; however the energy required for actively engaging in the dream states was more than they felt they were getting during the nights’ rest, often ending up more tired the more active the dreams were.

Should these experiments be attempted anew, a longer period of time would be preferred so that breaks could be

Image from Pixabay

Resources and References Fontana, David; 1000 Dreams; Watkins Publishing; London; 2013 Hall, Judy; The Crystal Bible; Godsfield Press; Great Britain; 2003 Corbett, Tomietal; The Dreamers Dictionary; Grand Central Publishing; NY; 1994 Beare, Emma; The Dream Deck; Octopus Publishing Group; London; 2006 Edel, Lynne; Aromatherapy Practitioner Program; Langara College; Vancouver; 2017 Aristotle; On Dreams; Translated by J. I. Beare; 350 B.C.E. Battaglia, Salvatore; The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy; The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy; Australia; 2003 Science.Howstuffworks.com Biospiritual-energy-healing.com Experience-essential-oils.com https://www.thebluebudha.com.au/ Essentialoilbenefits.com healergirl.com Oil-Testimonials.com Nobullying.com visiblemantra.org; Jayarava; 2011 Jenifer Parker PHD, Dreams & Nightmares Ernest Hartmann MD, Dreams and Nightmares: The new theory on the origin and meaning

Image from Pixabay

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Aroma Wisdom The Canadian Aromatherapy Journal is now available in printed format as single, multiple, or subscription orders

This fabulous journal can now be used as a value-added product for your business as a single issue or gift subscription such as: Giving a gift subscription to clients, family and friends($38 incl s/h!)

Including it with your teaching modules for your students Adding it to aromatherapy gift baskets Using it as a bonus with treatment for clients Reselling it for the cover price to add to your sales

Non-Member Prices $10.00 each $9.50 each $9.00 each $8.50 each $8.00 each

Member-only Prices - 1-25 - 25-49 - 50-74 - 75-100 - 100+ -

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each each each each each

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Please complete the order form below then scan and email it to editor@bcaoa.org, or mail it to the address below with payment.

You can also go online to place your order through Paypal or etransfer at https://bcaoa.org/store/

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Make cheques payable to the BCAOA and mail to: BCAOA Treasurer 31 Bell Crescent, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 4T4

editor with the number of journals you wish to order and your full address.

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Flower Power for Pets

(SM*)

Exploring the Use of Hydrosols for our Animal Friends This webinar presentation will empower those wanting to learn about the therapeutic properties and versatile uses of hydrosols with their animal friends.

These naturally-sourced botanicals are often overlooked when seeking safe and user-friendly options for physical and emotional balance. The beauty of hydrosols is that they are quite effective with many issues. Included in the presentation will be easy-to-use information applicable for skin and minor wound care, fear-based behavior and for use during times of grief and transition.

With the rise of the use of essential oils with both humans and their animal friends, it is important to be mindful of safe use with everyone, but even more so with animals. This presentation will offer a safe and practical options to incorporate these ‘gentle waters’ with ‘gentle spirits’.

About the Presenter Kelly Holland Azzaro is a Registered Aromatherapist, Certified Clinical Aromatherapy Practitioner, Certified Bach Flower Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist, and Reiki 19

Practitioner. Kelly is an active member of over twenty years and has served The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy Board Member positions: Vice President (NAHA) and President (NAHA), and is the current Public Relations. She also is the Journal Manager and CoEditor for the NAHA Aromatherapy Journal. Kelly is the Founder and Director of The Holistic Animal Aromatherapy Association.

Kelly has over 25 years of professional experience and educational training in Clinical Aromatherapy and Massage Therapy (including over 20+ modalities). She also has specialized training in Canine, Feline and Equine Anatomy & Physiology, Equine/Canine and small animal Acupressure-Massage Therapies, Animal Communication, Homeopathy and Herbal Therapies (Human/Animal), Reiki (Human/Animal), CrainoScaral Therapy (CST) (Human/Animal), Chiropractic Assistant (Parker Chiropractic Foundation), and advanced studies in both Aromatherapy and Flower Essence Therapy for people and their animal friends.

As an educator, Kelly’s style of teaching is heartcentered with a focus on mentorship and support for the student and their individual goals. Empowering others through education is key in a student’s journey and also inspires those seeking to connect with animals to develop a deeper level of listening and awareness skills. She offers a 300+hour program ‘Animal Aromatherapy Practitioner Certification Course’, specific to the use of botanicals with animal.

Kelly, and her husband Marco a Licensed Acupuncturist and Qigong Practitioner and Instructor have Ashi Therapy; a Holistic Healing Center where they work together as a team to educate and empower others through holistic services, education, and support. Kelly is approved by the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a Continuing Education Approved Provider.

To learn more about Kelly, please visit: www.animalaromatherapy.com

This webinar will take place September 30th at 4:00pm PT. It is free for BCAOA members and $25 for non-members.

Contact admin@bcaoa.org to register. *Stampmarked

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Aromatherapy Student: Kathleen Bednis Aromatherapy & Arthritis: Managing Disease Symptoms Naturally Joyessence Aromatherapy Centre Inc. Student writer Kathleen Bednis discusses managing arthritis symptoms with aromatherapy.

Abstract Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of chronic musculoskeletal pain and disability that impacts people typically aged 45 and older.(1) Disease related disability includes, but is not limited to, joint damage, inflammation, fatigue and depression, all interfering with quality of life. The common approach for disease management is prescription pharmaceuticals such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) and narcotic analgesics which are associated with low efficacy and adverse effects.(1, 3) Medication adherence among OA sufferers is low or inconsistent due to the fear of known adverse effects. The aim of this paper is to explore aromatherapy and symptom management of OA while highlighting the use of several essential oils that have been proven to provide positive, symptomatic relief. Integrating aromatherapy into disease management allows arthritis sufferers to manage their disease symptoms naturally.

Aromatherapy & Arthritis: Managing Disease Symptoms Naturally Arthritis and related conditions make up a large group of disorders affecting the joints, ligaments, tendons, bones and other components of the musculoskeletal system. Arthritis is one of Canada’s most common chronic conditions and is a leading cause of pain, physical disability and use of health care services.(1) Currently, there is no cure for arthritis nor are there effective interventions to slow disease progression.(2) Present day treatment is symptom-driven and often includes medication (analgesics, anti-inflammatory medication, NSAIDs, corticosteroids), exercises, physiotherapy & weight loss.(1, 3) Although medication is effective in the management of osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms, adherence to medication is low due to potentially severe side effects along with the rising costs of said medication. With many essential oils offering therapeutic properties including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, mobility and mood support, many people suffering from the effects of arthritis are reaching for complimentary therapies thereby avoiding the adverse effects of prescription medications including but not limited to NSAIDs and narcotic analgesics.

Musculoskeletal conditions are a major burden on individual’s health systems and social care systems.(4) Prevalence of arthritis in Canada currently stands at 20% or 1 in 5.(5) On the basis of projections, 1 million more Canadians will have

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arthritis within 10 years. In 20 years, the prevalence is expected to reach 24% of the population, or 1 in 4.(5) In 2003, it was projected that OA would be the fourth leading cause of disability by the current year, 2020.(4) OA is the most common type of arthritis affecting more Canadians than all other forms of arthritis combined.(5) OA results from the deterioration of the cartilage in one or more joints leading to bone-on-bone contact typically effecting the hands, feet, knees, spine and hips.(5) If left untreated, these symptoms will effect structure and function of effected joints leading to joint damage, pain, swelling, stiffness and decreased range of motion. Most people with arthritis also experience chronic pain, fatigue due to sleep disturbances, lowered mood due to anxiety and depression amongst other symptoms that can combine to diminish their quality of life.(6) Focus on early diagnosis and aggressive, appropriate treatment has been shown to decrease pain, improve joint mobility and prevent disability.(1) Treatment of OA includes medication (e.g. analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs, corticosteroids), exercise, physiotherapy, weight loss as well as management of symptoms.

Medication Adherence Current guidelines for treatment and management of knee OA recommend the use of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches including: non-opioids (i.e. acetaminophen), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids. Although effective in treatment of arthritis, NSAIDs and narcotic analgesics have several documented severe adverse effects.(6) As a result of these adverse effects — which range from heartburn, gastrointestinal bleeds, nausea, and vomiting to heart attacks, strokes, kidney problems and addiction — patients tend to use their medications irregularly, resulting in low adherence to prescribed medication or intentional non-adherence (the deliberate decision-making about the use or lack thereof of medications).(2, 7-9) More and more OA patients are resorting to non-pharmacologic therapies, or complimentary and alternate medicine (CAM), to manage their OA symptoms.(7) The potential to decrease the use of present-day therapies would eliminate adverse effects arthritis sufferers may experience and increase adherence to treatment protocol.

Complimentary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) CAM therapies are a group of diverse medical and health care treatments, products and practices that are not considered part of conventional western medicine.(4) Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of the essential oils derived from plants for the improvement of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Aromatherapy has seen a significant increase over the past two decades and is the fastest growing complimentary therapy used as an adjunct to the traditional western medicine practice.(2) Studies have shown that when essential oils are used, whether absorbed via the skin (topically), via the olfactory system (inhaled) or taken internally (under direct supervision), they can have positive effects on symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, sleep disorders and pain.(2, 7, 10) Over the past decade, research investigating the use of essential oils in the symptomatic control of OA has increased.

Aromatherapy is used in pain management and to help enhance the quality of life along with many other areas of health support. (7) Pain is the most prominent symptom for most people with arthritis and is the most important determinant of disability in patients with OA.(4) Pain also has psychological effects and is regarded as the main reason for fear, anxiety, distress and disappointment.(6) It can be controlled using various methods including systemic analgesics (narcotic and non-narcotic) and local analgesic techniques, all prescribed according to the patient’s medical conditions and symptombased needs, all of which need to be prescribed and monitored by physicians.(6) Similar to present-day therapies, essential oils hold therapeutic properties that when used topically or via inhalation, have been proven to reduce pain; stimulate the central nervous system; enhance moods; and cause sedation as well as provide antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory relief.(6)

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Aromatherapy & Arthritis In a study conducted by D. Arslan, aroma-massage was used to evaluate knee pain and functional status in subjects with OA.(6) In a non-randomized trial of two control groups and one intervention group, the intervention group received aroma-massage during treatment using a mixture of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora), Ginger (Zingiber officinale) with Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus) and Apricot Kernel (Prunus armeniaca). In comparison to the 2 control groups, the intervention group showed significant difference in decrease in pain, stiffness and physical function (VAS, WOMAC scores).

Yip & Tam assessed the efficacy of Ginger essential oil and massage among elderly with moderate to severe knee pain in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study group.(3) Treatment was assessed on knee pain intensity, stiffness level and physical functioning. Significant reduction in knee pain and stiffness were demonstrated providing evidence for recommending aroma-massage in non-invasive interventions with fewer gastrointestinal-adverse events. Aroma-massage therapy also seems to have potential for patients to be taught and educated in the use of self-massage promoting selfmanagement of short-term knee pain.(3) Several studies have emphasized that Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Ginger essential oils can be applied during aromamassage therapy to control pain and improve the physical functioning of patients with joint disease. Hwang, Lee & Kim (2011) evaluated the effect of Lavender essential oil in warm compresses on knee pain and joint flexibility stating a significant decrease in knee pain and an increase in flexibility in comparison to the control group. Varghese et al evaluated aroma-massage with Eucalyptus essential oil on females (n=60), demonstrating a decrease in joint pain and an increase in quality of life. A qualitative study by Therklson studied patients’ experiences with hot compresses and Ginger essential oil and they’re effects on pain and mobility, and found resulting decreased pain and increased joint flexibility.(6) Nasiri & Mahmodi aimed to determine the effects of aroma-massage with Lavender essential oil as an intervention for improving activities of daily living (ADLs). In a single-blinded randomized control trail, 90 patients were randomly separated into control, placebo and intervention groups. Patients in the intervention group were taught effleurage massage and then given a bottle containing Lavender essential oil and Sweet Almond Oil to massage onto their knee daily with specified pressures and at specific times for 20 minutes. Patients in the intervention group showed significant positive improvement in ADLs from the Lavender and Sweet Almond oil massage in comparison to the control and placebo group. Nasiri & Mahmodi suggest that due to the positive measurable outcomes aroma-massage demonstrated within this study and the high prevalence of OA, this technique can be suggested because of its safety, accessibility and cost-effectiveness.(10, 11) In a randomized control study exploring the effects of aroma-massage with Ginger and Rosemary essential oils on pain, functional state and quality of life in elderly individuals with knee OA by Pehlivan & Karadakovan, 90 elderly individuals were arbitrarily separated into intervention, placebo and control groups.(12) The intervention and control groups received a total of 15-20 minute leg massages twice weekly for 3 weeks with only the intervention group receiving aroma-massage.

Data was collected in weeks 0, 4 and 8 using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Index (WOMAC), Knee Osteoarthritis Evaluation Scale, and the OsteoArthritis Knee and Hip Quality of Life Scale (OAKHQoL). There was a significant difference in week 4 , with the WOMAC scores (pain and functional state) being lower and quality of life scores being higher in comparison to the placebo and control group. Findings from week 8 data collection showed that aromatherapy has more favourable and longer-sustaining effects than that of the massage, with significant differences in WOMAC pain, stiffness and functional state when compared to the control and placebo groups.

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Overall, findings of the study showed that aromatherapy has positive, longer-lasting effects on the pain, functional state and quality of life in elderly individuals with knee OA.(12)

Conclusion Today, 6 million Canadians have arthritis; it is a highly prevalent chronic condition that increases with age. The prolonged course of arthritis, especially if left untreated or managed, may result in extensive pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, and is associated with mobility limitations and dependency in activities of daily living. Canadians who reported arthritis were more likely to use medications and be multiple medication users.(9) Adherence to arthritis medication is generally low or irregular due to the increased fear of adverse side-effects prevalent among individuals with OA.(13) Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being, providing OA sufferers with the ability to control pain, minimize or eliminate swelling, increase function and quality of life while positively affecting mood without the addition of prescribed medications. Individuals suffering from OA considering using aromatherapy in conjunction with their present-day treatments should seek the guidance and advice of a Certified Aromatherapist regarding the possible risks and benefits.

Kathleen Bednis is currently a student of Joyessence Aromatherapy Centre Inc.

References 1. Badley EM, Marie. Arthritis in Canada An Ongoing Challenge. Ottawa: Arthritis Community Research and Evaluation Unit (ACREU); 2003.

2. Gedney JJ, Glover TL, Fillingim RB. Sensory and affective pain discrimination after inhalation of essential oils. Psychosom Med. 2004; 66(4):599-606.

3. Yip YB, Tam AC. An experimental study on the effectiveness of massage with aromatic ginger and orange essential oil for moderate-to-severe knee pain among the elderly in Hong Kong. Complement Ther Med. 2008; 16(3):131-8.

4. Woolf AD, Pfleger B. Burden of major musculoskeletal conditions. Bull World Health Organ. 2003; 81(9):646-56.

5. Society A. [Available from: https://arthritis.ca/].

6. Arslan DEK, Sevinc. The Effect of Aromatherapy Massage on Knee Pain and Functional Status in Participants with Osteoarthritis. Pain Manag Nurs.

2019; 20:62-9.

7. Buckle J. Use of aromatherapy as a complementary treatment for chronic pain. Altern Ther Health Med. 1999; 5(5):42-51.

8. Park KK, Choi CH, Ha CW, Lee MC. The Effects of Adherence to Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Factors Influencing Drug Adherence in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis. J Korean Med Sci. 2016; 31(5):795-800.

9. StatsCanada. 2020 [Available from: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-229-x/2009001/status/art-eng.htm].

10. Nasiri A, Mahmodi MA. Aromatherapy massage with lavender essential oil and the prevention of disability in ADL in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018; 30:116-21.

11. Nasiri A, Mahmodi MA, Nobakht Z. Effect of aromatherapy massage with lavender essential oil on pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2016; 25:75-80.

12. Pehlivan S, Karadakovan A. Effects of aromatherapy massage on pain, functional state, and quality of life in an elderly individual with knee osteoarthritis. Jpn J Nurs Sci. 2019; 16(4):450-8.

13. Laba TL, Brien JA, Fransen M, Jan S. Patient preferences for adherence to treatment for osteoarthritis: the MEdication Decisions in Osteoarthritis Study (MEDOS). BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2013; 14:160.

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Too Busy to Attend a CE Event?

n Th e Go

We’ve got you covered!

!

We now offer recorded events for purchase at our online store https://bcaoa.org/store/videos-andaudio/

Explore our new educational products then buy and download to watch or listen at your own pace.

Presenter: Patricia Antoniak Date: September 10, 2017 Length: 4 hours, 44 minutes (In 2 parts) Description: The Dynamics of Addiction This 2-part webinar discusses the use of aromatherapy with addiction, addictive personalities, and some of the causes and expressions of this difficult and damaging disease.

Presenter: Peter Holmes L.Ac., M.H. Date: April 2018 Length: 9 hours, 53 minutes (In 8 parts) Description: Day 1 Topics - Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Medicine: Exploring the psychological and physiological functions of essential oils.

Fragrance Qualities and Pharmacology: The psychosensory approach to using essential oils as remedies Day 2 Topics - Essential Oils as Bioactive Remedies: Evaluating the integrity of essential oil production and identity. Symptom Versus Terrain: Differentiating treatment priorities with the six diagnostic conditions 26

Presenter: Dr. Timothy Miller ND. MAc, LAc, RA Date: April 2019 Length: 9 hours, 53 minutes (In 7 parts) Description: Day 1 - AromaChemistry: Get ready to see chemistry in a whole new light! Dr. Tim is going to show you how fascinating AromaChemistry is and how you can use it in a profound and impactful way. Some of the basics of chemistry is revisited, as well as explore functional groups and their generalized therapeutic indications. This will help enhance and deepen your understanding of chemistry and AromaChemistry.

Day 2 - Pharmacokinetics: Pharmacokinetics is how the body interacts with essential oil components and how these compounds are metabolized and excreted from the body. A vital aspect of aromatherapy and can enable practitioners to maximize the effects of their treatments, and can guide the oil(s) and interface(s) which they might use.

Presenting The BCAPA Proceedings Manuals 2001-2014 Between the years 2000 and 2014, the BCAPA published the presenters’ notes from Continuing Education Events and meeting notes of Chapter Group forums in a bound format as their annual Proceedings Manual. The hard copies of the Proceeding Manuals were discontinued in 2015 but the they contain such a wealth of information that, now that the BCAPA and BCAOA have amalgamated, we are able to sell them at a very affordable price online in digital format.

These wonderfully informative manuals are available singly or buy the whole collection for an amazingly discounted deal!

Journal Update: We have some back issues available in print for purchase and all previous editions are available online at Issuu. Thank you all for your support!

Essential Oil Safety Booklets: These lovely and profitable publications are always available in print to order or online at Issuu.

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Get To Know: Dr. Sterling Desmond

Social Media Director & VP Melissa Housser interviews Dr. Desmond.

MH: Where are you located?

SD: Vancouver Island with the clinic located in Courtenay, BC.

MH: How long have you been practicing aromatherapy?

SD: Twenty-five years.

MH: Where did you receive your training?

SD: I received a Diploma (Theory & Practice) from the Canadian Society Professional Aromatherapists through the Aromatherapy Relexology Centre in 1995 and hands-on training from BC Aromatherapist Jeannine Strompkins. The BC Alliance of Aromatherapy designation of Registered Aromatherapist in 2003.

MH: What inspired you to begin learning about essential oils/aromatherapy?

SD: After finishing university, my first career was in business and government. Essential oils/Aromatherapy/Massage/QiGong/Chinese-Natural medicine training signalled an intuitive path towards a completely different career choice involving a more integrative approach to helping people heal.

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MH: I’ve read you also practice Acupuncture. What made you decide to pursue this vocation?

SD: In the early to mid-nineties, while learning about essential oils, reflexology, massage therapy, qigong and acupuncture, I was inspired to pursue my Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It boils down to the wisdom of plant based medicines/energies and ancient wisdom of intuitive treatments for healing. The learning never stops.

MH: Do you practice any other modalities?

SD: When I am treating a patient, I do not think of my treatment plan as broken down into modalities, as it is more fluid than that. For example, I may use different elements of traditional Chinese medicine such as Qigong (Chinese energy exercises), TuiNa (Chinese massage/structural osteopathic alignments), Acupoint (Injection Therapy), acupuncture and essential oils. Also, since 2016, I have incorporated ozone therapy with Acupoint (Acuzone or Prolozone) injection therapy using natural compounds.

MH: What is your favorite aspect of essential oils/aromatherapy? Of Traditional Chinese Medicine?

SD: Like natural medicines and herbs, aromatherapy has the aspect of combining formulas to enhance their individual properties and actions, thereby tailoring the treatment for each individual and their specific requirements for healing.

MH: What, if anything, do you find most challenging about your practice?

SD: I like to be challenged and attend to patients who require me to use whatever tools necessary to assist in resolving their mental/physical/energetic challenges, some of which they have been struggling with for years or decades. The biggest challenge is the patient’s belief in their own wellbeing/healing and the fact that they are ultimately the one in the driver’s seat. A major component of healing has to do with the patient’s neuroplasticity and its reformation within the healing process.

MH: Who and/or what has been most influential along your journey and through your learning process?

SD: Shao Lin Zen QiGong based on the Teachings of Grand Master Peng Jiu Ling is one of many people.

Influence is always the sum of our life long journey of learning.

MH: Do you have a favourite ‘fun fact’ about aromatherapy or Traditional Chinese Medicine you’d like to share?

SD: This ‘fun fact’ has nothing to do with aromatherapy or TCM per se. It does have something to do with standing up for what is right, being courageous: Viola Desmond is my great-aunt and her face is now printed on our $10 bill. Read something about her life, she is a Canadian hero.

MH: Do you have a favourite plant? If so, why and what do you use it for?

SD: Tough question, I would say Boswellia sp. for anti-inflammatory characteristics such as a supplement to assist with osteoarthritis, or as an essential oil used in conjunction with many treatment modalities to boost the immune system(s).

MH: What qualities do you find most valuable when working as an aroma therapist and/or Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine?

SD: Knowing how to truly listen to both your patient and patient’s body, and then to be able to interpret this to an appropriate treatment protocol. Learning how to embrace vitality in and from life! The ability to look for that spark in everyone and every patient, in an effort to assist others to embrace their own relationship with vitality.

MH: Any advice for those considering pursuing a career in holistic healing/alternative medicine?

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SD: Always pursue new information/education in your field. Develop a solid and integral understanding of what it takes to run a business. This is vital to the success of any entrepreneur. Being flexible and adaptable will lead to longevity. Focus on talking to people whether that is face-to-face or over the phone. I’m not a fan of over-reliance on social media, which can often precipitate misinformation.

MH: What, if any, are your goals/dreams for the future of you practice?

SD: To continue learning, practicing and contributing in assisting people to heal themselves, as long as I am able.

MH: What else would you like people to know about you/your practice?

SD: I do not take myself too seriously and humour goes a long way. Always remember to maintain a truly humble perspective. You are no different — at an energetic level — than anyone else, especially your patients.

~ Melissa ~ Dr. Desmond has extensive experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, ElectroAcupuncture, Biopuncture (Injection) Therapies including Prolotherapy, Acupoint Injection Therapy and Prolozone Injection Therapy, Ozone Therapies, Tui Na (Chinese osteopathy body alignment/massage), Laser Therapy, Energy Management Therapy, Physical Therapies such as QiGong Exercises and Yoga Exercises; Aromatherapy, Counselling and Intuitive Practices.

His qualifications are: Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Registered Acupuncturist, Registered Aromatherapist, B.A., Business Degree And he is a member of: ATCMA British Columbia Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Practitioners, SAIT Society for Acupoint Injection Therapy, Fellow Member of the American Academy of Ozone Therapy (AAOT), Member of the BC Alliance of Aromatherapy (BCAOA)

Image by JL G from Pixabay

For more information or to contact Dr. Desmond, please visit www.EvolvewithDesera.com

I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers. ~ L. M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

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Article appears courtesy of Canadian Herbalist Association of BC Professional Registered Herbal Therapist, Emily Boese RHT. When is it appropriate to use plant medicine?

We should all be harnessing the power of plants every day!

And many of us do in the foods we eat.

The line between plant medicine and nutrition can be very blurry — think about ginger, turmeric, garlic, oregano — these are all common food ingredients and yet they have also been used medicinally for thousands of years.

Anyone who has ever drunk a cup of tea or coffee has experienced plant medicine in a hot water extraction and has felt the phytochemical caffeine coursing through their veins!

Image from Pixabay

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I point this out to show that plant medicine isn’t something

won’t negatively change the way the medications are

weird or foreign, it is an integral part of our world as

working in your body.

humans!

Now let’s get into it!

One of the main things people ask me is about the safety of using plants. And as a general rule plants which have been used for hundreds or thousands of years have an excellent

Image from Pixabay

Image from Pixabay

safety profile.

The benefits of using plant medicine Humans have co-evolved with plants and are designed to utilize the nutrients and chemicals within them. Here are

**HOWEVER – if you have a serious medical

some of my favourite benefits of using plants as medicine.

condition or are on medication then it is your responsibility to speak to a practitioner before self-prescribing herbs. **

Adobe Image by Sommai

The use of pharmaceutical medications is relatively new compared to herbs and you need to work with someone who is well-trained in how these different medicines can interact.

In many cases, plants can still be safely and effectively used alongside pharmaceutical medication but you want to check it out first to ensure that you are using plants which

Plants work with the body – They tend to “nudge” it in the right direction so that the body can better self-regulate (Big shout out to Simon Mills for introducing me to the concept of the *nudge*… he’s as big of a celebrity as you can be in the

Image from Pixabay

world of herbal medicine!)

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Nutritive – Plants contain nutrients that the body can use as well as those secondary metabolites which act medicinally. So you are actually feeding your body something useful at the same time.

Gentle – Rather than forcing or blocking a reaction in the

tend to have less side effects than their synthetic

body, it is more of that “nudge” action again. Often this

counterparts.

means that there is no rebounding of an issue once the herb has stopped; the body can continue to do the work on its

A great example of this is dandelion leaf. Dandelion leaf

own.

works as a mild diuretic, meaning it helps the body flush out excess fluid through the kidneys and urinary tract.

Adobe Image by Pamela D. McAdams Image from Pixabay

Most pharmaceutical diuretics cause people to excrete potassium which we need for many important functions.

This means with the use of these pharmaceuticals, potassium levels need to be monitored and often supplemented.

This is in direct contrast to many pharmaceutical drugs – rebound insomnia, rebound reflux, and difficulties with

Also, dandelion leaf naturally contains high amounts of

weaning and dependency are common examples of issues

potassium so its action is balanced out.

found with many pharmaceuticals.

Amazing and sophisticated!

Powerful – It can feel like a paradox that plants can be both gentle AND powerful but many plants pack a punch and

Emily Boese loves playing outside, growing and eating good

their effects can be profound and fast.

food, and drinking a bit of nice wine or a good, hoppy IPA. With a local cheeseboard, of course.

Holistic Nutrition and Herbal Medicine are her specialties. She is Adobe Image by Katinkah

a qualified natural healthcare

(Anyone who wants to test this theory – have a cup of Senna tea tonight before bed and call me in the morning.)

practitioner with a Bachelor of Natural Medicine, and offers oneon-one health assessments, individualised treatments and meal plans to help you get your health back on track. Emily has just returned to Canada after spending nearly 12 years living in New Zealand, and has settled in beautiful Kelowna, BC. While in NZ, she studied natural medicine at the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine. Emily is a Professional Member of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of BC with an approach to health that is all about balance. You can learn more and

Balanced – Due to the complexity of whole plants, they

contact Emily at www.befiercehealth.com

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The Classifieds Welcome to our Classifieds Section. To submit a classified, email your information to the editor with “Classified” in the subject line.

SELLING: Gorgeous wooden cabinet geared for aromatherapy field. Includes bowls. Asking $125 Parchment brochures written by Cheryl Grossman and designed by Julie Nasmith - $0.50 each.

For more information or to buy, please contact Cheryl Grossman at cheryl.r.grossman@gmail.com

SELLING: Jeff Meursing, Marie-Louise Meursing’s son would like to sell her massage table and massage chair below. He would like $400.00 for the massage table and $250.00 for the massage chair. If you are interested, please contact Jeff directly at jeffmeursing@gmail.com

VOLUNTEERS WANTED: We are now accepting applications for Volunteers for our upcoming Committees. Join us in making our association stronger! Committees require less time than a Board position and you earn benefits. Fill out an application today at https://bcaoa.org/for-members/committeevolunteering/

CHAPTER MEETING CHAIRS WANTED: There are several openings for in-person Chapter Meeting Chairs, as well as one online. Spread the joy of aromatherapy! Information on Chapter meetings can be found at https://bcaoa.org/for-members/chapter-meetings/ 35

We are excited to invite you to join us as our brand expands in online and print.

Our content explores topics of interest to professionals in not only aromatherapy but our sister industries such as herbalism, CAM and other healing-related modalities.

We reach a global target audience of independent professionals running their own businesses, and they are looking for your business to support theirs, as well as their personal and family lives. Experienced, well-trained and caring, our members range in age from early twenties to late seventies with more than 90% of them being women. That puts them in the majority age group for women in BC. They are knowledgeable health professionals who run their own successful businesses and handle clients and suppliers on a daily basis. Our members know quality when they see it and aren’t afraid to search it out.

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Edition; Fall – The Harvest Edition; and Winter – The Holiday Edition.

Our Winter edition sells out every year, making it sought-after by readers and a fabulous place to promote your holiday sales.

Every edition offers our members the opportunity to catch up on association news as well as articles and research pertinent to their lives and businesses. This gives you the chance to catch their eye, and their interest, with your ad.

Create your ads to work with the seasons Giving your ads a seasonal touch will give them a unique look that our members will appreciate! Time-sensitive offers geared around our release dates will ensure that your specials get noticed and help make the most of your sales.

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Our journal gives businesses a place to advertise all-year round to all our readers, allows them to tailor sales blasts to seasonal or holiday themes, and offers our readers the opportunity to find just what they’ve been looking for quickly and easily.

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Want to Learn more about Aromatherapy?

Our recognized schools and teachers offer professional level courses that give you the solid education to allow you to build a business, or just feel secure knowing you are using essential oils safely.

The advantages of attending a recognized course and studying under a recognized teacher might include rapid membership processing; no cost for membership application review; and it ensures students have access to teachers with a specific level of knowledge and practical experience who have agreed to teach to the BCAOA’s core curriculums.

To see a list of our recognized schools, courses, and teachers, please go to: http://bcaoa.org/education/recognized-courses-teachers-and-schools/ If you would like to apply to have your school or course recognized, please contact us at secretary@bcaoa.org to request an application and the appropriate core curriculum.