By Maria Harrison, LMT
T
he use of essential oils is rising dramatically, as more people discover alternative health treatments and age-old remedies for feeling better. With all the buzz out there, you may have questions about using essential oils. What are they? Are they new? How do I use them? Is there a difference in quality? Are there any dangers? There are so many details and historical uses; let’s take a closer look. So, what exactly are essential oils? Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts taken from the leaves, seeds, roots, rind, or blossoms of plants. Each oil contains its own complex mix of beneficial compounds that make it useful for a specific purpose. Some oils are used to promote physical healing such as to treat swelling, fungal infections or pain. Others are used for their emotional value such as calming anxiety. 48
Canton Family Life | JANUARY 2018
Essential oils have been around forever, well, almost. Archaeological findings tell us that humans have been using essential oils for 5000 years or longer. Their use as healing remedies is well documented in Egypt, China, India, Greece, Rome, and many other places. Once called “aromatic oils,” the term “aromatherapy” was coined by French Chemist René Maurice Gattefosse in 1937. One of the more colorful stories from history is the origin of thieves oil. There are a few variations, but here is the common summary: During an outbreak of the Bubonic Plague in 15th Century England, it’s been told that four thieves roamed the countryside looting and plundering the homes, and even the bodies, of the dying or dead. When they were finally caught, the magistrate offered them a reduced
sentence for their crimes if they would share the secret of how they protected themselves from contracting this fatal disease. Taking the deal, they told stories of their herbal knowledge gained from their travels and the powerful medicinal properties when combined in certain ways. The specific herbal blend they created was highly effective and is often referred to as “thieves oil.” Thieves blend is one of the most popular blends today. Many people insist this is the best way to fight off a cold, flu or any other type of infection. Clinical studies on one brand in particular have confirmed its effectiveness in some cases. You can find it in a premixed oil blend from various companies along with toothpaste, cleaning solutions, hand soap and more. You can also easily make your own oil blend (see the recipe at the end of this article).
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