Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Table of Contents
Introduction..3
List of Authors. 3
Chapter 1, History of Aromatherapy 5
Chapter 2, How Essential Oils Work... 9
Chapter 3, Career Opportunities for Aromatherapists.... 13
Chapter 4, Aromatherapy Massage22
Chapter 5, Aromatherapy Recipes. 27
Chapter 6, Aromatherapy Accessories...43
Chapter 7, Aromatherapy and Cats 49
Drugs to Avoid in Cats 53
Chapter 8, Flea, Tick and Mosquito Control Through Aromatherapy
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Introduction
Welcome to the Lab Rats Project. We are all Internet Marketers, recently organized as
an online authors cooperative to create niche products and to share our knowledge with
each other as we navigate the online learning process. We hope you enjoy the
information in our first book.
Chapter 1
A History of Aromatherapy
By Dr. R.J. Peters
Like acupuncture, aromatherapy has been in use for more than 6,000 years. Its origins
aren't completely documented, but there is enough evidence to assemble a decent time
line in the history of therapeutic uses of aromatic essences.
It's possible that it all began in Australia with the aborigines over 40,000 years ago, but
they weren't known for keeping records. Much of their history was passed along verbally
from generation to generation, much like that of the native tribes on all continents,
including the native North American Indians, whose history also is rich with the use of
fragrant oils for religious and therapeutic purposes.
But the Egyptians, with their use of stone tablets inscribed with stories of their culture,
are generally credited with being the first to establish the use of aromatic oils. Later, the
Greeks learned from the Egyptians, and still later, the Romans learned from the Greeks.
Concurrently, fragrant oils and plant essences were being developed in ancient China.
The oldest surviving medical book in China, Shen Nungs Herbal Book, dates back to
about 2700 B.C. and catalogs more than 300 plants and their uses. By the 16th century,
and hundreds of books later, the Chinese Materia Medica Pen Tsao contains
information on almost 2,000 herbs and 20 essential oils.
In the 1960s, French doctor Jean Valnet and biochemist Madame Maury, who both
knew of Gattefosss work, furthered the future of aromatherapy with their own
investigations.
Dr. Valnet had successfully used essential oils in the treatment of burns and wounds
during World War II, along with various fragrances in the treatment of psychiatric
problems. He wrote a book, titled Aromatherapie, which was translated into English and
titled The Practice of Aromatherapy, and which is still a popular and well-respected
volume today.
Maury developed specific massage techniques for best delivery of such oils and opened
clinics across Europe for the practice of her new techniques. She and Micheline Arcier
developed methods that are still in use today.
But it was Englishman Robert Tisserands book, The Art of Aromatherapy, published in
1977, that captured the interest of the American market.
Aromatherapy was ultimately introduced in America in the 1980s in California, where it
was embraced by health food outlets and alternative health practitioners.
Chapter 2
How Essential Oils Work
By Tamar Goldstein
Youve probably noticed that when we humans cut ourselves a red fluid (blood) oozes
out! No great news there. Similarly, when you break or injure the parts of plants they
bleed, too.
Unlike blood, this fluid is clear. It is, in fact, an oil or resin and within it can be found
trace elements of nutrients, hormones, enzymes, vitamins, minerals and anti-bodies. It
has a whole range of different properties such as anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, antiinfectious, antiseptic and can stimulate the immune system as well. Oxygen is also
found in this resin, bound chemically within other molecules such as alcohols, phenols,
esters and many other organic molecules, which together make up the essential oil.
This oil is released by the plant to clean the wound, kill the bacteria and start the
regeneration or healing process, and in fact has the same function as blood in humans
(and other animals). Like blood, this fluid/oil in plants transports the basic nutrients
necessary to feed and support the cells.
Whats more, the essential oil has the ability to permeate or penetrate the plants cell
walls and transport oxygen and nutrients into the cells themselves to support and help
their immune system. Research has shown that, because of these immune stimulating
properties, essential oils can support the immune system. So that, for instance, whether
applied topically (rubbed on) or inhaled, 70% of people who get a cold or flu will recover
faster using essential oils!
Essential oils have many special properties which give them the ability to help us deal
with odors and bacteria.
They act in several ways.
1. They are able to increase atmospheric oxygen in a closed space as they release
oxygenating molecules into the atmosphere. Oils increase ozone and negative ions in
the home, which inhibits the growth of bacteria. This prevents and destroys existing
odors of cigarettes, mold, animals, etc.
2. They are able to break up the molecular chains of some chemicals in the air, making
them non-toxic to us because of their particular electromagnetic attraction to these
chemicals.
3. Essential Oils will bond to metals and chemicals within the body and carry them out
of the body, working as natural chelators (they bond organically, forming new
compounds called chelates), so that these toxic substances cant remain in the tissues.
4. Essential Oils remove dust particles from the air, acting as an air filtration system.
5. Essential Oils are recognized as having a very marked ability to increase cellular
oxygen through their normal functioning. When applied to the body by rubbing the feet,
they will travel through the body and affect every cell, including the hair, within 20
minutes!
In orthodox medicine, one compound, such as aspirin, is made and its properties are
tested and known. However, in nature, in each essential oil, there can be many, many
different compounds, all with different therapeutic effects. They act synergistically to
give the body what it needs. Sometimes it can have opposing effects so it can act as a
relaxant or stimulant depending on whats needed.
Each essential oil contains as many as 100 chemical components, which together exert
a strong effect on the whole person. Depending on which component is predominating
in an oil, it acts differently. For example, some oils are relaxing, some soothe, some
relieve pain, etc.
Then there are oils such as lemon and lavender, which adapt to what the body needs,
and adapt to that situation. (These are called "adaptogenic.") The mechanism in which
these essential oils act on us is not very well understood. What is understood is that
they affect our mind and emotions. They leave no harmful residues.
They enter into the body either by absorption (by rubbing them on the skin) or
inhalation. Because Essential Oils are volatile, i.e., they convert into a vapor, they
stimulate the powerful sense of smell. It is known that the odors we smell have a great
impact on how we feel. In fact, it has been shown that people who have no sense of
smell have a higher incidence of psychiatric problems such as anxiety and depression.
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11
The mechanism by which essential oils acts is complex and not well understood due to
the nature of all the many compounds within each one. Nevertheless, the quality and
effect of fragrance or smell, though little understood, is an important part of our human
experience and via the many and varied healing properties of essential oils, can
enhance our lives and heal our bodies, minds and spirits.
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Chapter 3
What career opportunities
exist for Aromatherapists?
By Claire Poulton
13
Aromatherapist
According to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy, aromatherapy is the art
of using naturally extracted essences from plants to promote the health of the body,
spirit and mind. Therapy is based on each patient's reaction to different aromatic
extracts and relies on the innate healing powers within each person.
Aromatherapists work closely with their patients, observing their reactions and providing
guidance and counsel throughout the treatment. They must be creative and observant,
and able to communicate well with people.
Aromatherapists must also have a good nose and be able to distinguish between many
different fragrances. This continually growing field has found its way into other
therapeutic disciplines such as massage therapy and acupuncture - the use of aromas
helps to relax and ease the discomfort of patients as they undergo the therapy.
Because of this, career opportunities after receiving an education in Aromatherapy
(depending on your other skills) can be widely varied. Opportunities can include:
aromatherapeutic counseling
participating in a Holistic Health Clinic
establishing an Aromatherapy consulting business
retailing essential oils
becoming an author
tutoring schools and interested groups
writing articles for newspapers and magazines
taking better care of your own and loved ones' health.
Aromatherapy Retailer
Many people choose to enter retail, as aromatherapy is hot on the market. Whether you
open your own boutique selling essential oils and fragrances, or you choose to work as
a fragrance specialist for a large manufacturer of aromatherapy products, a degree in
aromatherapy will certainly be advantageous.
For people planning to go into the retail end of aromatherapy, additional training in
business and marketing may be advisable. Because essential oils, bath salts, candles,
and other items are enjoying such success on the commercial market, all areas of
aromatherapy are expected to grow.
14
Generally schools and practitioners affiliate with one of these associations. Each of
these associations is presently attempting to set educational, certification and
accreditation standards in the United States for Aromatherapy education.
The accreditation goals of these organizations include:
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These organizations, of course, have many other functions besides the coordination of
educational standards. These functions include:
What is Aromatherapy?
What are essential oils?
How do they work on the body and the mind?
How can I safely use them?
More advanced levels of study are for those who may want to have a private
consultation practice, to work in a clinic, or to combine more in-depth Aromatherapy
knowledge into their other natural health and/or allopathic health care practices.
Advanced levels of study may allow you to delve into areas such as:
production of oils
oil chemistry
advanced knowledge of effects of oils on the body and mind
understanding the link to memory
mood and emotion
advanced treatment methods and applications
the science of blending oils
safety and toxicity information
additional bio-specificities of various oils and their medicinal and traditional uses
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takes a full medical history from the client - sometimes the aromatherapist seeks
consent from the clients doctor or other healthcare professional before treatment
can begin
18
asks the client about their lifestyle, diet, exercise regime, stress levels, allergies
and any emotional issues
decides which aromatherapy oil, or blend of oils, is best suited to the individuals
needs - there are around 400 aromatherapy oils, each with different therapeutic
properties, although most aromatherapists use a range of around 50
mixes the oils - aromatherapy oils can be diluted in a carrier oil and massaged
into the skin, added to a vaporizer and inhaled, used in a bath or a compress or
added to base creams and lotions with instructions for self-administration
in most cases, applies the oils by a full or partial body massage to the client, who
will have undressed in private and lain on a couch, covered with towels
makes a note of the treatment and the blend of oils used
gives the client aftercare instructions, e.g. after using some oils the skin should
not be exposed to direct sunlight
may also supply blended oils for the client to use at home.
Many aromatherapists wear a white coat, salon dress or tunic and trousers. The job
involves bending, stretching and some physical effort.
Some aromatherapists work at more than one location, so a driving license is useful.
It is important to:
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Advancement Opportunities
Progression for self-employed aromatherapists usually means building the size of their
business. To do this, they need to establish a good professional reputation and have the
right business skills. Some combine practice with training student aromatherapists.
Some aromatherapists train in additional complementary therapies, like reflexology or
stress management, which allows them to offer additional services to their clients.
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Chapter 4
Aromatherapy Massage
By Claire Poulton
Introduction
One of the most pleasant, relaxing and therapeutic ways of experiencing aromatherapy,
is through aromatherapy massage.
When stress and depression are a major cause of a health imbalance, a full
aromatherapy body massage is the best complementary therapy treatment available. It
is also an excellent preventative treatment to ensure continuation of good health.
Contents
22
Rather than only using a relaxing and sedative blend of essential oils, together with a
calming massage, a good practitioner will suggest other ways that the client can
improve their sleep patterns. Suggestions such as a referral to a family counselor, a
change at work, earplugs, or even a referral to a nutritionist - if indigestion is causing the
insomnia. The practice of getting to the root cause is what makes holistic healing so
much more effective. The initial consultation may take between 30 to 60 minutes,
depending on the situation.
When the personal history and consultation are finished, and when other suggestions
and referrals have been made, the aromatherapist will select several essential oils,
most suited to the client's needs at this time. The oils are then blended into a massage
oil or lotion. Sometimes particular carrier oil will be used. This blend with essential oils
will then be used to give the massage.
The massage therapist will leave the room, allowing the client to undress as far as they
are comfortable, and lay down on a padded massage table. Often, to aid in relaxation,
relaxing music will be playing too. For warmth and modesty, the client will be covered
with a sheet or blanket, which the massage therapist will pull back to work on each
specific part of the body.
If the client feels uncomfortable at any time, or if a specific technique hurts, they should
let the practitioner know. Clear communication, understanding and consent are most
important. Depending on the clients needs and the practitioners individual skills and
training, different styles of somatic (refers to the body, as opposed to the mind) work
may be used.
The massage usually lasts for an hour, but may be longer or shorter, depending on
client needs. At the end of the session, the practitioner will leave the room, allowing the
client a few minutes to gently "come back to themselves," and get dressed.
After the session, many aromatherapists will also suggest the use of a blend that the
client can use at home between sessions. The practitioner will put together a blend of
oils and give instructions for use to the client.
24
Future sessions should also be agreed on. These sessions will depend on client needs,
and financial situation. Many clients find that a weekly or biweekly session is most
beneficial, particularly in the beginning. Some clients receive monthly sessions.
Aromatherapy massage is an excellent "maintenance tool," and should not just be used
to "fix a problem," but should be part of every day life if possible.
Hippocrates stated that "a daily aromatic bath and scented massage are the way to
health." It would be wonderful if we could all follow that suggestion!
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Chapter 5
Aromatherapy Recipes
By Steven Watson
27
Introduction
Aromatherapy recipes have been collected for hundreds of years, from every corner of
the world. Ancient kings and rulers sent their traders to remote parts of the globe in
search of recipes and the essential oils used to create healing wonders.
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Hazelnut Oil
Hazelnut oil is pressed from, obviously, Hazelnuts.
This is considered the most gentle of the carrier
oils, suitable for all skin types. It often serves as
the primary base oil in blends, making up a
majority of the mixture.
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Anti-Tension Massage
2 drops Sandalwood oil
2 drops Lavender oil
2 drops Petitgrain oil
Combine oils in 20 ml of carrier oil. Especially effective on the neck, shoulders, and
temples.
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"Bedtime Massage"
3 drops Sandalwood oil
2 drops Chamomile oil
Combine in 20 ml of carrier oil. Welcomed by any part of the body.
"Backache Massage"
2 drops Lavender oil
1 drop Lemon oil
2 drops Eucalyptus oil
Combine in 20 ml of carrier oil. Focus on areas of tension with fingertips
Pain-Relieving Massage
3 drops Eucalyptus oil
3 drops Frankincense oil
3 drops Pine oil
Combine oils in 20 ml of carrier oil.
Especially effective on sore joints.
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Relaxing Massage
2 drops Rose oil
2 drops Geranium oil
2 drops Lavender oil:
Combine in 20 ml of carrier oil. Very effective as a face and scalp massage. Relieves
anxiety.
Hand Massage
5 drops Lime oil
5 drops Thyme oil
5 drops Eucalyptus oil
5 drops Cajeput oil:
Combine in 4 tablespoons carrier oil.
Rub generously over the hands.
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Stimulating Massage
1 drop Rosemary oil
2 drops Lemongrass oil
3 drops Orange oil
Combine in 20 ml of carrier oil. Good for back and shoulder massages.
Full-Body Massage
Sunrise Massage
Leg Massage
2 drops Lime oil
1 drop Lemon oil
2 drops Cypress oil
Combine oils in 20 ml of carrier oil.
Massage on calves, using gentle
pressure on varicose veins.
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35
Bedtime Vapors
... for a soothing good nights sleep.
Ingredients:
8 drops Spikenard (Nardostachys
jatamansi)
4 drops Neroli (Citrus aurantium bigaradia)
4 drops Lavender (Lavandula augustifolia)
3/4 oz. Neroli hydrosol (Citrus aurantium
bigaradia)
1/4 oz. Everclear (or other high proof
alcohol)
Combine ingredients in a 1 oz. glass bottle with a spray top. Just before bedtime, shake
well and lightly spray over pillows and sheets.
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Insect Bites
5 drops Chamomile oil
1 tbsp. Aloe Vera
Apply to affected area until skin no
longer itches.
Puffy Eyes
1 drop Chamomile oil
Place drop on a cool, damp ball of
cotton wool.
Apply to closed eyes for ten minutes.
Tired Eyes
1 drop Chamomile oil
Place on a cool, damp ball of cotton
wool. Apply
to closed eyes for 10 minutes.
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Sunburn Bath
4 drops Lavender oil
6 drops Peppermint oil
Add oils to warm bath and soak for 15
minutes.
Dermatitis Bath
Eczema Massage
Cellulite Rub
2 drops Juniper oil
4 drops Rosemary oil
5 drops Fennel oil
4 drop Lavender oil:
Combine in 20 ml of carrier oil. Massage into affected area.
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Headache Inhalant
Hangover Compress
Hemorrhoids Bath
Diarrhea Massage
Constipation Massage
6 drops Thyme oil
6 drops Rosemary oil
Combine in 1 oz. Almond or Olive oil. Massage
on abdomen.
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Cramps Bath
Hives Massage
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Cystitis Bath
Bruises
Fever Compress
2 drops Bergamot oil
3 drops Tea Tree oil
Combine in 4 oz of iced water. Wring
out a piece of fabric in water, and apply
to forehead or back of neck. Re-apply
when it has warmed to body
temperature.
Bronchitis Bath
Indigestion Massage
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7 oz water
10 drops Bergamot oil
10 drops Cinnamon Bark oil
10 drops Grapefruit oil
20 drops Lemon oil
2 oz concentrated liquid non-bleach cleaner
Don't use essential oils on varnished surfaces, wood furniture, or treated surfaces, since
they may damage the surface. This cleaner is best for ceramic and porcelain surfaces,
but you might want to test a small area before using it on large areas.
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Chapter 6
How Essential Oils Are
Delivered
and the Accessories Used
By Tamar Goldstein
43
Essential Oils are used in many every day situations, and there are many different ways of using
them!
Essential Oils can be dissolved in an oil base and applied by hand, i.e., they can be rubbed onto
the skin during massage or applied to particular parts of the body by aromatherapy
practitioners to alleviate headaches or other ailments.
A few drops can be put on a handkerchief or tissue to help people sleep.
Others are formulated into bath salts, gels, etc. which can be dissolved into running bath
water to give a relaxing fragrance.
In fact, a few drops of your favorite Essential Oil can be put directly into the bath. The best
time to do this is after youve finished running the bath. You put in around 3 drops (I love
lavender!), give it a few minutes to form a surface on top of the bath water before you get in
and then RELAX! When you emerge, youll find that it stays on your skin, moisturizing it,
and of course you have the lingering reminder of it on your person!
Essential Oils can be used to keep clothes smelling nice. They can be added to dried petals as
in potpourri, which can be put in sachets and put in drawers, or just left out in bowls.
The most popular way to use Essentials Oils is to put them in devices that allow the smell to
diffuse into the air. This can be for various purposes:
To make the environment relaxing, calm, or even sensual!
To help with stress management (e.g., in a doctors surgery,
in offices, etc.)
To creating a peaceful atmosphere for meditating.
To help people who have congested chests breathe easily.
To protect people from biting insects.
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Peppermint 3-wick
45
Tea-light candle
There are many different styles of oil burners available (see above), and
they are very decorative as well.
There are other styles of diffusers which can be used in a
Car
Room
or
46
carried in a Pocket.
Aroma Globe
47
This small but efficient device fits comfortably under your nose and provides
hours of vapor from less than 1/7 drop of Essential Oil!
Finally, Essential Oils can be found in many Personal Care products such as
shampoos, facial scrubs, deodorant, and skin products. There is a huge variety
of Aromatherapy Accessories and Body and Bath Products. Please visit:
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Chapter 7
Aromatherapy and Cats
By Bill Moore
49
Introduction
Aromatheraphy for cats is the practice of using
essential oils for healing. The essential oils come
from plants, seeds, flowers, bark, and roots. The
essential oils act as the plants defense system
against bacteria, molds, yeasts, viruses and other
insects. So, how does this apply to cats?
In the past, essential oils were thought to be safe for cats and have
been recommended for the treatment of stress, mites, and upper
respiratory conditions. New evidence over the last few years has
shown this to be incorrect, and essential oils can be toxic to cats
when applied to the skin, taken internally or even inhaled. Cats react
differently to various essential oils, whereas they have been beneficial
to humans and even dogs. The problem is that cats livers cannot
expel the chemicals in the essential oils like humans, and even dogs,
can. The toxicity build up in cats can develop very quickly via internal
or external application or even breathing over an extended period of
time. This can lead to serious liver damage or even death.
The symptoms of toxicity buildup in cats include:
Awkward movement
Dizziness
Vomiting
Lack of energy
Lack of appetite
Excessive tear production in the eyes
Sneezing
Pacing or whining
Licking themselves excessively
Since cats have very thin skin, essence oils are absorbed quickly, and therefore, enter
the blood stream almost immediately. Remember, cats do not like strong odors and will
generally stay away from them.
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Peppermint
Lemon Oil
Lavender Oil
Tea Tree Oil
Cinnamon Bark Oil
Wintergreen Oil
Thyme Oil
Birch Oil
Oregano
Clove
Mountain Savory
Cassia
Peppermint
Peppermint and products that contain Pennyroyal are toxic to cats because they contain
phenols that a cats liver cannot process. It takes exposure to these products over a
long period of time before the cats will show signs of toxicity. The cats are just unable to
eliminate the poisons from their bodies. Common cleaning solutions such as Pine-sol
and Lysol contain phenols. Special care should be paid to rinse well the area to
eliminate the possibility that the cats will ingest it from licking their paws or even breathe
large amounts of the fumes.
Lemon Oil
Lemon oil is used as a bathroom cleaner and is a strong germicide, astringent, and air
disinfectant. After cleaning an area with a household cleaner that contains lemon oil,
make sure you thoroughly rinse and dry the area. If your cat is in the same area, make
sure they can leave the room if they want to. Remember, cats are very sensitive to
smells.
Lavender Oil
There are several cases where cats have been treated with Lavender oil in an effort to
help alleviate stress. Lavender oil does contain ketones that can cause neurological
symptoms over a prolonged period of exposure.
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Wintergreen Oil
Wintergreen oil contains a high content of Methyl Salicylate, which builds up in the
body, and can contribute to Salicylate poisoning and is toxic to cats.
Thyme Oil
The FDA generally recognizes thyme and thyme oil as being safe. However, thyme oil
can irritate the skin when applied topically. Taken internally in large doses, it is
poisonous. Thymol is especially toxic, and can produce the following symptoms:
nausea, vomiting, gastritis, headache, dizziness, convulsions, coma, cardiac arrest, and
respiratory collapse.
Birch Oil
Birch oils contain Methyl Salicylate, which builds up in the cats liver, and can contribute
to Salicylate poisoning. It is toxic to cats.
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Recommendations
The information in this chapter of the e-book, Aromatherapy, has not been evaluated or
approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to
diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. We do not make any claims to this effect.
This information is not intended to replace professional veterinary and/or medical
advice.
If you decide to use essential oils on your cats, always use a highly diluted formula. If
you have any doubts about essential oils, use hydrosols instead of essential oils on your
cats. Hydrosols are water based and are gentler and much easier for your cat to
tolerate. Here are some additional guidelines for the use of essential oils with your cats:
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Chapter 8
Flea, Tick and Mosquito
Control Through
Aromatherapy
By August Wusterhausen
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Introduction
Problems encountered in the summertime are external parasites like fleas and ticks.
The first line of defense against any internal or external pests is a healthy diet and
healthy animal. The healthier the animal, the less likely that a parasite will be able to
take hold.
Fleas feed on warm-blooded animals. The most common species is the cat flea,
which will bite humans, dogs, rats, chickens, raccoons and cats.
The flea will lay eggs on its animal host. When the eggs hatch, the larvae drop off the
fur onto furniture, blankets or the carpet and live by feeding on adult flea droppings. This
larval stage can last from seven days to over a year. Larvae emerge as adults when a
host is present.
Flea bites cause scratching and serious allergies in animals and humans. Fleas can
leap vertically up to seven inches and horizontally thirteen inches. Eggs are smooth,
oval and white and the larvae are 1/4-inch long bristly-haired creatures.
Fleas rarely bite humans unless the infestation is heavy.
Flea Control
To control them, follow these tips:
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Natural Remedies
Natural Remedies include:
Nematodes applied to the lawn as a spray enter the fleas bodies, feeding on
tissue and releasing harmful bacteria. They do not affect people, pets or plants,
and occur naturally in soil, so they will not adversely affect beneficial soil
organisms.
Diatomaceous earth is effective flea control when applied in a light dusting to
upholstered furniture and exposed area. Avoid breathing in desiccating dusts and
always wear a mask and goggles when applying this product.
Boric acid worked into the nap of carpet can be used to control fleas. Exercise
caution when using products containing boric acid and do not use in areas where
children or pets will come in direct contact with the chemical.
Don Hamilton, DVM, has some excellent suggestions for controlling fleas naturally. In
his book, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs, he suggests initially, to control fleas, try
shampooing your dog (or cat) weekly.
You don't need a flea shampoo. Just use a good healthy shampoo, lather up and leave
on for 10 minutes. Then do a good rinse. The bath disrupts the life cycle of the flea. If
you prefer using herbal products, you can rinse the dog with Lavender, eucalyptus and
pennyroyal. All appear to repel fleas. (These oils may be toxic to cats, so dont use them
on cats.)
Vacuum your home frequently and seal vacuum bags before disposing.
Wash the bedding of your dog weekly in warm soapy water. This is where fleas
usually breed.
Bathing your pet weekly with a mild dog shampoo prevents flea invasion.
Use cedar shampoo for your dog, and put cedar oil in their sleeping mats. Cedar
will repel fleas and other insects.
Fleas are attracted to dry skin, so to avoid it, give your dog Linatone oil mixed
with its food. Excessive shampooing should be avoided.
A mixture of brewers yeast and garlic, available in powder or tablet form can be
given in small doses to your pet. This creates a certain odor in pets, and fleas are
sure to avoid them.
Fresh or dried pennyroyal leaves is a natural flea repellent. Use this in carpets to
avoid the abundance of fleas in the home. Do not use it if you have small children
around, or cats, as this could be toxic.
A mixture of 60 ml of Lavender oil with 2.8 liters of rock salt can also be placed in
areas where dogs usually come in contact with the home environment. This
solution could also be used to wash your dog.
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Planting marigolds in the yard is helpful, too, as it repels certain types of bugs as
well as fleas.
Boiled lemon or orange peel in water can be used as a dip for dogs and can be
used also to soak into dog bedding for a few hours, then washed with warm
soapy water.
Lukewarm water with a little shampoo and detergent is a good way to prevent
fleas. A dogs body may be dipped into the solution for fifteen minutes and then
rinsed. This only works if flea infestation is light.
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Chapter 9
7 Essential Oils No Home
Should Be Without
By Clint Pollard
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Eucalyptus Essential Oil - Eucalyptus essential oil is used most often for
respiratory conditions, such as a cough or a cold. It has also been used in the
treatment of flu. It's a stimulating oil which helps relieve mental exhaustion and
aids in concentration. Other uses are easing the pain of arthritis, rheumatism and
other muscular aches and pains. Eucalyptus should be diluted, and avoided
during pregnancy.
Geranium Essential Oil - Possible uses include acne, bruises, broken
capillaries, burns, cellulitis, poor circulation, cuts, dermatitis, diabetes, diarrhea,
eczema, edema, hemorrhoids, hormonal imbalance, insomnia, jaundice, kidney
stones, lice, liver congestion, menopause, mosquito repellant, neuralgia,
ringworm, shingles, oily skin, sore throat, spider veins, stress, and tonsillitis. May
cause skin irritation in some; do not use if pregnant or lactating.
Rosemary Essential Oil - Rosemary essential oil has been used in the
treatment of acne, arteriosclerosis, asthma, bronchitis, candida, cellulite, poor
circulation, colds, colitis, dandruff, dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, dyspepsia, eczema,
fatigue, flatulence, flu, fluid retention, gout, oily hair, hair loss, headache,
infections, insect repellant, jaundice, lice, liver problems, low blood pressure,
muscle pain, neuralgia, ovary problems, palpitations, rheumatism, scalp
stimulator, sinusitis, stress, tachycardia, testicle problems, varicose veins, and
whooping cough. Do not use when pregnant, or with high blood pressure,
epilepsy; mild skin irritant.
Thyme Essential Oil - Thyme essential oil has been used for abrasions,
abscess, acne, animal bites, antibacterial, antibiotic, anti fungal, antiparasitic,
antiseptic, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, athlete's foot, boils, bronchitis, carminative,
catarrh, cellulite, chlamydia, circulatory stimulant, cold sores, colds, constipation,
cuts, cystitis, dandruff, detoxifying, disinfectant, diuretic, dysmenorrhea,
emmenagogue, energizing, fatigue, infertility (male or female), fibrosis, gout,
immunity stimulant, influenza, insect bites, insect repellent, laryngitis, lower
abdominal pain, memory loss, menopause, muscular aches, osteoporosis,
pneumonia, raises blood pressure, rheumatism, seborrhea, sinusitis, sprains,
sore throat, warts, whooping cough, and wrinkles.Thyme oil contains toxic
phenols which can irritate the skin and mucous membranes and cause
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While certain essential oils have been beneficial in treating certain conditions in certain
patients, I cannot state as fact that any of the oils can help you in any health related
issues. You should always consult a qualified Aromatherapist before using any of the
essential oils mentioned above for any health related illnesses.
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Chapter 10
Potential Risks of
Essential Oils
By Dr. R.J. Peters
Its important to exercise caution and discretion in the use of aromatic oils and
essences, as they have the potential to cause complications due to their complex
chemical natures and because they are extremely concentrated and volatile. Always
consult with a qualified practitioner and follow accepted safety guidelines.
The use of essential oils is not recommended in conjunction with the following
conditions:
Asthma
Heart conditions
High blood pressure
Cancer
Undergoing chemotherapy
Epilepsy
Pregnancy
Kidney disease
Neurological disorders
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Allergic reactions
Headache
Nausea
Skin irritations, including burns
Spontaneous abortion
Excessive diuretic effect
Negative emotions
Hypersensitivity of skin to sunlight
Aromatic essential oils may be derived from Nature, but simply being natural does not
guarantee their safety. High or improper doses and uses may not be lethal, but the
potential for toxicity can lead to undesirable results. Always consult with a professional
who is knowledgeable in the uses and proper application of each compound.
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