Wednesday 1 July 2015

Cedarwood Oil ❧


Cypress
Cedarwood oil, also known as cedar oil, is an essential oil derived from the foliage, and sometimes the wood and roots, of various types of conifers, most in the pine or cypress botanical families. It has many uses in medicine, art, industry and perfumery, and while the characteristics of oils derived from various species may themselves vary, all have some degree of bactericidal and pesticidal effects.

Although termed cedar or cedarwood oils, the most important oils of this group are produced from distilling wood of a number of different junipers and cypresses rather than true cedars. A cedar leaf oil is also commercially distilled from the Eastern arborvitae, and similar oils are distilled, pressed or chemically extracted in small quantities from wood, roots and leaves.

Cedarwood oils each have characteristic woody odors which may change somewhat in the course of drying out. They find use (sometimes after rectification) in a range of fragrance applications such as soap perfumes, household sprays, floor polishes and insecticides.

Today, cedar oil is often used for its aromatic properties, especially in aromatherapy; it can also be used to renew the smell of natural cedar furniture. Cedar oil is used as an insect repellent, both directly applied to the skin and as an additive to sprays, candles and other products.

In India, oil from the deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara, a true cedar) has been shown to possess insecticidal and antifungal properties and to have some potential for control of fungal deterioration of spices during storage.

Cedarwood oil is a mixture of organic compounds considered generally safe by the FDA as a food additive preservative. The oil is used as an antibacterial and fungicide.

CEDAR OIL USES

Cedarwood can be used in a blended massage oil, or diluted in the bath to assist with asthma, bronchitis, respiratory problems, catarrh, cystitis, painful joints, oily skin and dandruff. Care must be taken that it does not cause irritation to the mucus membranes.

When diluted in a cream, cedarwood oil is of great value for combating oily skin and related problems, as well as dermatitis and psoriasis, while bringing relief to the scalp from dandruff.

Oils such as Bergamot, Cinnamon, Frankincense, Juniper, Jasmine, Lemon, Lime, Lavender, Rose, and Rosemary blend well with Cedarwood Oil.

Acne - As an astringent, cedarwood oil creates a protective shield, as a treatment against oily skin, a skin tightener, protecting from toxins and bacteria.

Antispasmodic -  Relieves spasms and related ailments, including spasms that affect the respiratory system, intestines, muscles, heart and nerves. People that have trouble sleeping due to restless leg syndrome, respiratory seizures, asthma, and other spasmodic conditions also find relief from the soothing properties of cedarwood oil.

Astringent - It tightens loose muscles and gives a feeling of firmness, fitness and youth. This property can also be used to cure diarrhea, by tightening the muscles of the digestive system and contracting those spasm-prone muscles. As an astringent, cedarwood oil is also a useful tool for protecting the skin from toxins and bacteria. Astringent substances also cause skin proteins to coagulate, where they then dry and harden, forming a protective shield on the applied area.

Antiseptic - Cedarwood oil is used as an ingredient in herbal antiseptic creams. It’s antiseptic properties can protect wounds from tetanus germs. The cedarwood oil relieves the white blood cells and immune system of the extra stress.




Arthritis & Rheumatism - Cedarwood oil has anti-inflammatory effects on arthritis, rheumatic disorders, as well as the accumulation of toxins in muscles and joints. The inflammation of the joints and tissues that results in such debilitating pain or discomfort can be somewhat lessened by the inhalation or topical application of the oil on the skin.

Cold & Flu - Cedarwood oil alleviates irritation from cough, and cold related symptoms. It efficiently removes phlegm from the respiratory tracts and lungs, relieving congestion. It also gives relief from headaches and red and watery eyes.

Diuretic - As a diuretic, it stimulates metabolism, increases the frequency of urination, which works to remove fat, excess water and toxins like uric acid from the body.

Eczema (Seborrhoeic) - Cedarwood oil can be beneficial in treating inflammation and reduce peeling skin.

Fungicide - Inhalation of cedarwood oil protects against various types of plant, animal, and human fungal pathogens, both external and internal.

Insecticide - Repels and resists moths, mosquitoes, cockroaches, silverfish and mildew. It can be used in a vaporizer or spray, to ward off mosquitoes, flies and other insects in a large area around the house. Mix 1 tablespoon of Aloe Vera gel with two tablespoons of olive oil, and add 20 drops of cedar essential oil. Mix it thoroughly and put in a spray bottle (8 oz). Mixture can be applied to your skin or clothes.




Insomnia - Its medicinal soothing and calming properties make it a good sedative, while relieving tension and anxiety to induce sleep. In aromatherapy applications, the scent can induce the release of serotonin, which is converted into melatonin, inducing fatigue and calm. Cedarwood aromatherapy is recommended for people with chronic anxiety, stress, and depression as well.

Menstruation - It stimulates and induces menstruation, as well as regularizes cycle. Cedarwood oil can impact the hormonal function of various glands in the endocrine system, relieving pain, nausea, fatigue, and mood swings associated with menstruation.

Skin Irritations - Cedarwood oil’s relieves itching. Its astringent action is also great for acne, dermatitis, oily skin, as well as for hair and dandruff.

Tooth Ache - Cedarwood oil, used as an astringent, helps to relieve toothaches and strengthen gums.

SIDE EFFECTS

Carrot seed oil is not toxic and said to have few side effects when used properly.

Cedarwood oil overdose may cause vomiting, nausea, and thirst, and extensive damage to the digestive system. To prevent undesirable health results, one should seek a doctor’s or natural holistic practitioner's advice before orally taking any type of essential oil.

As with other essential oils, cedarwood oil should not be taken by individuals with a history of epilepsy (may trigger overstimulation) or during pregnancy (may cause bleeding).

Performing a skin test before use is recommended. Cedarwood oil may cause skin irritations if used in high concentrations. Put a drop of cedarwood oil on a small portion of your skin and wait 24 hours.  If any sign of skin irritation occurs, discontinue its use.


Chamomile Oil ❧


Chamomile or camomile is the common name for several daisy-like plants of the family Asteraceae that are commonly used to make herb infusion for various medicinal purposes. Popular uses of chamomile preparations include treating hay fever, inflammation, muscle spasm, menstrual disorders, insomnia, ulcers, gastrointestinal disorder, and hemorrhoids.

The word chamomile derives, via French and Latin, from Greek, i.e. earth apple. The more common British spelling camomile, is the older in English, while the spelling chamomile corresponds to the Latin and Greek source.




The most commonly-used species include German chamomile or wild chamomile, Roman, and English or garden chamomile. The relaxing aroma of Roman Chamomile, sometimes described as having an 'apples and straw' aroma, is an exotic and rich. German chamomile has a sweetish-warm, spicy, herbaceous aroma.

Loose leaf chamomile tea
CHAMOMILE OIL USES

Chamomile has been used for inflammation associated with hemorrhoids when topically applied. There is evidence that chamomile possesses anti-anxiety properties and could be used to treat stress, anxiety and insomnia. Chemical components of chamomile extract have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-cancer properties. Chemical compounds present in chamomile has demonstrated chemo-preventive effects against cancer cells, and has been shown to have antiseptic properties, anti-inflammatory properties, and reduces pepsin secretion without altering secretion of stomach acid.

DRUG INTERACTIONS - Chamomile compounds may interact with other medications, exacerbating symptoms.

ALLERGIES - People who are allergic to ragweed (also in the daisy family) may also be allergic to chamomile, due to due to pollen found in chamomile preparations. It is recommended that pregnant and nursing mothers not consume Roman chamomile, it has been known to cause uterine contractions that can invoke miscarriage.

Anti-microbial – Chamomile has antifungal properties that inhibit growth of poliovirus and herpes virus, blockage of aggregation of bacteria found in the stomach (Helicobacter pylori) and strains of Escherichia coli. Chamomile oil was demonstrated to be effective against bacteria such as respiratory tract and skin infections, oral infections. Chamomile tea has been used to treat parasitic worm infections.

Anti-spasmodic/Anti-diarrheal – Chamomile has demonstrated antispasmodic effects, and chamomile tea in combination with other herbs (licorice, fennel, balm mint) was shown to be effective in treating colic in children. Flavonoids and coumarins found in chamomile are considered muscle relaxants.

Arthritis & Rheumatism – Chamomile is helpful for arthritis, rheumatic disorders, as well as the accumulation of toxins in muscles and joints.
Blood Thinner – Coumarin compounds in chamomile may have blood-thinning properties.

Cancer – Studies have shown that chamomile extracts have in vitro growth inhibitors on cancer cells in skin, prostate, breast, ovarian, prostate cancer cell lines with minimal effects on normal cells.

Cold & Flu - Chamomile has a beneficial effect on bronchitis and influenza, strengthening mucus membranes in the nose, throat and lungs. As a blended massage oil or diluted in the bath, chamomile can assist in boosting the respiratory tract, fever, and vomiting.

Digestion - Dilute one to three drops of chamomile oil in 4 oz. of water or 1 teaspoon of honey to take advantage of its healing properties for respiratory and digestive issues. Also eases hiccups, and flatulence. Various formulations of chamomile have been used to treat colic.

Hair Lightener - Chamomile is often used to condition and enhance the color of blonde hair.




Inflammation – Several components of chamomile possess anti-inflammatory properties. German chamomile is used on the skin to reduce swelling, gum inflammation, and cystitis. Chamomile is applied to the skin and mucous membrane for inflammations and skin diseases. It can be inhaled for sore throats, used in baths to soothe anal or genital inflammation, and used internally for stomach and intestinal spasms and inflammatory diseases.

Insomnia - People use Roman chamomile as a tea to treat sleeping problems.

Menstruation – Used to treat menstruation and as a tea for stomach cramps.

Moisturizer - Chamomile is frequently added to skin cosmetics to serve as an emollient.

Muscle Pain - As a blended massage oil or diluted in the bath, chamomile oil can assist with muscle pains. There is also evidence that it assists circulation and aids muscular tension.

Nausea - People use Roman chamomile as a tea to treat an upset stomach or menstrual pain.

Skin Disorders - Chamomile has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and astringent – heals abscesses, boils, and other skin disorders. It also revitalizes and tones the skin, helping in cases of dermatitis, eczema and rashes. It helps damaged skin like burns, wounds, cuts, scars. slow-healing wounds, abscesses, and skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, chickenpox, and diaper rash. For these conditions, use chamomile in an infusion or bath, or as a tincture, which is a concentrated extract mixed with alcohol. Chamomile has been utilized as a skin wash to clean wounds and ulcers, and to increase the sloughing of necrotic tissue and promote granulation and proper healing.



Scapegoat's Pledge ༗



“It's too easy to criticize a man when he's out of favour, and to make him shoulder the blame for everybody else's mistakes.”
~ Leo Tolstoy

Scapegoating is the practice of singling out any party for unmerited or unwarranted negative treatment or blame. Scapegoating may be conducted by individuals against individuals, individuals against groups, groups against individuals, and groups against groups. Scapegoating relates to guilt by association and stereotyping, a tactic often used to characterize an entire group of individuals according to the unethical or immoral conduct of a small number of individuals belonging to that group.

Unwanted thoughts and feelings can be unconsciously projected onto another who becomes a scapegoat for one's own problems, whereby the chosen group, becomes the scapegoat for the individual's or the group's problems ― just as much as the backyard or school ground gossip of little groups and individuals.

A scapegoat may be an adult, child, sibling, employee, peer, ethnic, political or religious group, or country – a whipping boy, or fall guy are forms of scapegoat.





For those who have lived a life as the projection of the narcissist's or bully's insecurities and inadequacies, here is a pledge for you to live by:

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I AM MY OWN AUTHORITY
~Anonymous~

I must give myself the right to be me – to function as I see fit. It is impossible to have a sound self-concept until I am true to myself and accept full responsibility for my own individual life, my own need fulfillment. At any instant I can start a new life.

I ALLOW MYSELF THE FREEDOM – I DEMAND OF MYSELF THE RIGHT:

To recognize myself as an important and interesting person in the world – a unique and precious part of life.

To feel warm and happy, kind and loving toward myself.

To realize that at my divine center I am no better or worse, or more or less important, than anyone else in the entire world.

To be different, to make mistakes, to be "wrong," to be inadequate.

To take the time and effort to fulfill my own needs.

To be happy and free – to be harmonious and effective – to succeed.

To be open and kind, loving and lovable – compassionate and helpful.

To be keenly sensitive and aware – radiantly healthy and energetic.

To do less than perfect – to be inefficient, to procrastinate, to "goof off," to kill time.

To have "unacceptable" thoughts, images, desire and experiences.

To allow others to make mistakes, to be "wrong" – to be ignorant, to be "screwed-up."

To act spontaneously, to resist, to change my mind, to be stubborn.

To be emotional – to love, to cry, to be angry, to be selfish and uncaring.

To drop all masks and images – to not fulfill other's expectations and images of me.

To be criticized, condemned, disapproved, disliked and unwanted.

To fail and to learn from it.

To be loyal, courageous, and exceptional – in both my person and my work.

To accept my own authority – to follow my own "knowing."

I allow myself complete freedom and I recognize that I am inescapably responsible for all my decisions and actions. For I must inevitably pay the price incurred. I profit or suffer, learn and grow according to the "nature and consequences" of my act. I realize that "good and evil," right and wrong," are but intellectual concepts, for there is only wisdom and unwisdom, only wise and unwise acts.

Therefore, prior to serious decisions I ask myself, "Is this act wise? (i.e., will it injure myself or others – will it contribute to my basic needs – is it in alignment with the laws and forces of life?) What is the total price involved? Can I afford to pay it? And, am I willing to accept the consequences?"

I know that in the final analysis I need answer only to myself and that I have all the time there is for my total unfoldment – that at worst I can only postpone my ultimate reunion with the Infinite. However, wisdom and love, freedom and joy beckon me onward and I choose to proceed as rapidly as my prevailing perception and wisdom allow.

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