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This the season for detox and, while many of us know about herbs to promote the body’s cleansing process, we’re less likely to think of using aromatherapy. Ellen from Atlantic Aromatics, whose excellent essential oils we’ve sold from the very beginning of Only Natural, put her thoughts on the matter together for us and here they are. So have a read and get blending, use the relaxing and mood balancing properties of essential oils to make your new year detox all the more pleasurable and effective.

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Aromatherapy and Detox

Detox is a word we hear a lot about in general these days and while there may be mixed messages about detoxing (especially in marketing blurb promoting the magical detox effects of a certain product) it does suggest that people are thinking about their health which is good.  Let’s try to get a bit of clarity about this matter.

Detoxification is “the metabolic process by which toxins are changed into less toxic or more readily excretable substances” (Dictionary.com).   Our organs all play a part in this process:, sweat from skin, urine from kidneys, C02 from our lungs etc.  Effectively this means we are detoxifying all the time, yeahhhh!  A healthy diet, daily exercise and balanced lifestyle all have a vital role to play in reducing toxins and therefore making the natural ongoing process of detoxifying less of a burden on the body and the organs performing this metabolic process.

Essential oils can assist good health and wellbeing by supporting various actions and systems in the body.  This support can allow the body to get on with it’s natural detoxification process.   Incorporating regular essential oil use into your lifestyle can provide positive health benefits.

Most essential oils will to some degree stimulate phagocytosis (keep reading) a process in the body by which white blood cells ‘clean up’ microbes and toxins.  In this way they aid purification.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Essential oils can be used to address:

Stress is well known to have severe implications on our health so anything that lavender-imagehelps reduce stress levels will benefit our health: Roman Camomile, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Neroli, Rose Otto, Sandalwood

Poor Sleep can also play havoc with healthy bodily functions: Roman Camomile and Lavender

Moods can influence how we interact with the world.  Uplifting oils are useful especially in winter months: Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lemon, Mandarin, Orange,

Circulation if sluggish can hinder important actions in the body: Black Pepper, Ginger, Geranium, Juniperberry,  Sweet Marjoram, Rosemary

Skin is the largest organ of the body.  Applying essential oils diluted in nutritious unrefined vegetable oils can help promote healthy skin.  (Dry brushing prior to application will enhance absorbtion).

A few suggested blends:

frankincense-imageRestore: Rose Otto, Frankincense, Sandalwood

Relax:  Lavender, Roman Camomile, Imortelle or Carrot Seed

Revitalise:  Geranium, Juniperberry, Grapefruit

Dilute approx. 2 drops of each oil (6 drops in total) in 1 tablespoon of organic vegetable oil (Sweet Almond, Avocado, Jojoba)

Facial Skin can be complex.  For the most sensitive skin types try kaolin clay mixed with organic rosewater or fresh juice of cucumber.

Dry Brushing is a serious friend of our skin and health in general.  Promoting circulation and exfoliating dead cells.  Just 2-3 minutes a few times a week before showering, always moving upwards on legs and arms.   You will see the difference if you keep at it.  Be sure to use a medium bristle brush.  Great info: http://www.bodecare.com/page/about/

Enjoy essential oils safely.  If suffering from medical conditions seek professional advice from a qualified practitioner or your doctor.

Do Not: Apply undiluted oils to your skin.  Drink essential oils in water.  Exceed recommended dilutions.  Leave oils within reach of children.

My blog https://allthingsaromatic.wordpress.com/ may have some items of interest regarding the use of essential oils.

You can browse our range of Atlantic Aromatics Essential Oils here.

Ellen Cox is a Professional Aromatherapist, Accredited Trainer and a member of The International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]