
Perfume Oils: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. What is the differece between essential oil & perfume oil?
A. Thank you for your interest in Aromatherapy. Below is the "short" answer to your question. The difference is that Essential Oils are natural and Perfume Oils are synthetics. Perfume Oils are also sometimes called Fragrance Oils.) This is the conventional way of using these terms ALTHOUGH some people and companies may not always comply with the conventions. Almost all essential oils are derived from the steam distillation of plant material. A few plants won't "give up" their oils easily so they are solvent extracted - these are called absolutes. Hope this answers your question. Please feel free to contact us if you I did not answer your question fully or if I can be of help in any way. - J.P. Perspiration Odor: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Dr. Power, which of the essential oils and carrier oils would you recommend to use for underarm perspiration. Would the oil lose its effect if I mixed it with baking soda or mineral salts? Thank you.
A. Thank you for your question. Several essential oils are helpful for controlling body odor. These include Bergamot, Lavender, Neroli, Juniper and Cypress. Cypress helps to decrease, but does not completely eliminate, perspiration. Actually, I feel it is not the healthiest choice to completely eliminate perspiration as only strong aluminum base antiperspirants will do this and perspiring is a natural function that benefits the body. My own formula for underarm care is two drops lavender, 1 drop cypress and 1 drop Bergamot in 2 tablespoons of grapeseed oil, applied lightly to the underarm area. Since Bergamot can increase you chances of sunburn, eliminate it if your upper body will be getting sun. I would not mix the oils with baking powder or mineral salts. I hope this is helpful to you. - Best Regards, Joie Power, Ph.D. Pheromones: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. .... I was wondering if you can tell me what essential oils carry high pheromones? I hope I spelled that right! I was told that men are attracted to such like an aphrodisiac. I appreciate your response, T.
A.Thank you for your interest in aromatherapy. Pheromones are chemical substances produced by certain animals and insects which function to attract others of the same species for the purpose of mating. There has been much debate as to whether or not human beings produce pheromones which attract members of the opposite sex and also as to whether or not animal derived pheromones have any effect on humans. Since pheromones are produced by animals and insects, essential oils do not contain pheromones because essential oils come only from plants.
On the other hand, sexual attraction and smell are certainly connected, even when pheromones are not involved - this is why the perfume industry is so successful. In aromatherapy, two essential oils have the reputation of increasing one's attractiveness to the opposite sex and these are Jasmine and Sandalwood. I have also found that some men seem drawn to the smell of Patchouli in a woman but there are some who dislike it. You could try any of these oils individually, or try blending Jasmine and Sandalwood. Always mix your essential oils with a carrier oil (2 drops EO to 1 tsp. of carrier oil, such as sweet almond or grapeseed). Dab it on pulse points in the neck and at the wrists but don't over do it as a strong "perfumy" smell turns many men off. You will quickly get used to the smell and not notice it but this doesn't mean it's not working.
If you have looked at our website, you may have noticed that we have male and female aphrodisiac blends. These have been formulated to increase sexual drive, using different formulas on men and women. You might want to give them a try. To read more about them, click: Massage Oils. - Joie Power, Ph.D. Pregnancy: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Dr. Power, I've heard mixed reviews on using lavender oil during pregnancy because it can induce miscarriage. Is this true? Thanks, Laura
A. True Lavender (lavandula angustifolia, lavandula vera, and lavandula officinalis) is considered safe to use externally during pregnancy (never take essential oils internally whether you are pregnant or not). There are some other types of lavender, however, know as lavandula stoechas, spike lavender, lavandula latifolia, and lavandin, which you should avoid.
Never buy any essential oil that does not give you the full botanical name on the label - this way you will know that you are getting the right thing. Again, the lavender that you should use will have the botanical name lavandula angustifolia, lavandula vera, or lavandula officinalis. As with any essential oil, use it in moderation - no more than 2 drops diluted in at least one teaspoon carrier oil or one cup water. Do not use a particular oil(s)everyday for more than one week without taking a break of one week.
You may wish to visit our web site and read a bit more about our Lavenders, especially our organic Lavender Provence: http://www.dreamingearth.com/essentialoils.html.
Best Regards, Joie Power, Ph.D. Privacy Policy: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Is my personal information safe with you?
A. Yes. We do not sell names or mail / e-mail addresses to anyone. Periodically, we may send updated price lists or info on "specials" but otherwise you will not be contacted. No phone calls will be made unless there is a problem with your order and additional information is needed. Profile - Essential Oil: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. What does an EO profile consist of? Also...what can you tell me about callophyllum carrier oil?
A. J., I have seen the phrase "essential oil profile" used in two ways, one to indicate the individual biochemical constituents of the oil and the other to indicate its' properties and the conditions against which it's effective. The biochemical analysis is done by means of a GC/MS (gas chromatography / mass spectrography) report. To see how these reports are used, click: www.dreamingearth.com/gas_chromatographs.html.
Calophyllum inophyllum is also known as Palm Kernel Oil and Tamanu and is grown in the South Seas and Madagascar. It is a thick, sticky oil that has been said to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain relieving) properties. It comes from the South Sea Islands where it has been used for hundreds of years to treat sciatica, rheumatism and wounds. It is also useful for burns. It has been recommended for use on mucous membrane lesions. It must be used sparingly and must be mixed with another carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil. Do not confuse this with enriched cocoa butter which is sometimes sold as Tamanu or Palm Kernel Butter.... J.P. Prostate & Essential Oils: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Dr. Power - my wife got me an essential oil that was good for prostrate - do you know what it is and how much and can you get it to me in 2-3 days?
A. Thank you for your question and your interest in aromatherapy.
Geranium, Cypress and Pine are often used in formulas for relieving inflamed prostate and in France Mastic (a resin) (Pistacia lentiscus) is sometimes used. In her book on aromatherapy, Valerie Worwood suggests the following formula:
Lavender - 5 dr
Cypress - 10 dr
Eucalyptus radiata - 10 dr
Thyme linolol - 5 dr
Diluted in 2 tablespoons carrier oil. Use this to massage around the lower abdominal area and lower back up to 3 times a day. Never use essential oils undiluted and never take internally.
We carry all of these essential oils in stock except Mastic, which would take 2-3 weeks to obtain.
There is a good chapter on prostatitis in the Encyclopedia of Natural Healing by Murray and Pizzarno. Of course, for serious health problems you are advised to consult your regular health care provider.
Best Regards, Ivan G. Prim Recommended Books: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Could you suggest a couple of good, but basic, books on aromatherapy?
A. Recommended Basic Books: Aromatherapy A Basic Guide by Clare Walters, Barnes & Noble 1999 and Clare Maxwell-Hudson's Aromatherapy Massage by Clare Maxwell-Hudson, Dorling Kindersley 1994. Recommended Books 2: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. What books do you recommend?
A. The following is a list of books that we highly recommend:The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils
Julia Lawless
Elements Books, PO Box 830, Rockport, MA 01966
1995The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy
Valerie Ann Worwood
New World Library, 58 Paul Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903
1991Aromatherapy an A-Z
Patricia Davis
C.W. Daniel Co, Ltd., 1 Church Path, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1JP, England
1988Aromatherapy Massage
Clare Maxwell-Hudson
Dorling Kindersley, Ltd., London
1994Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health & Beauty
Roberta Wilson
Avery Publishing Group, Garden City Park, NY
1994Veterinary Aromatherapy
Relaxation: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Nelly Grosjean
C.W. Daniel Co, Ltd., 1 Church Path, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1JP, England
1994
Q. What Essential Oils will help me relax?
A. You might try our Relaxing Massage Oil or Lavender Lotion. For relaxation you might also wish to consider using pure essential oils such as Lavender, Chamomile, Clary Sage & Marjoram. Also, if you like citrus aromas, a combination of Lavender and Sweet Orange Essential Oils is both relaxing and refreshing. Relaxation - Lavender: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. What's a simple way to use essential oils to relax and which one would be a good choice?
A. I think Lavender is the best "single oil" choice. A simple way to use Lavender to help you sleep is to put a few drops on a tissue and tuck it under your pillow. Another way is to use an aromatherapy diffuser to get the aroma in the air - we have several types on our web site. Still another way is to put a few drops of Lavender in a warm (not hot) bath, swirl it around and then relax in the tub 10 to 15 minutes before bed. I suggest changing to a different oil every week so that you don't habituate to a particular aroma. Read through our Essential Oil Descriptions to help you decide on others that might work for you. Rest Easy! FYI - We have 3 different kinds of pure Lavender Essential Oil. Lavender, Provence (organic), Lavender, Eastern Europe and French Lavender 40/42. All 3 are of excellent quality but personal favorite (and the most expensive, or course) is the organic Lavender, Provence. Response Time: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
COMMENT: I just received my order! Thank you again for responding to my question so quickly. It has been great doing business with your company. - Beverly Scabies: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Dear Dr. Power, I have read there are several essential oils that can be used to treat scabies. The most common being Rosemary, Lavender, Spearmint, and Bergamot. How should those oils be used to treat scabies and does it kill the eggs and end the cycle? I am a massage therapist and many of my clients have recently been exposed to scabies, so I am wanting to use some of these oils for massage. Will it help? Thank you, M. H.
A. Dear M., Scabies, as you know, is caused by a mite and is very contagious. The mite lives in sheep and those who work with sheep or raw wool are susceptible, as is anyone who is exposed through human contact.
Here is an approach recommended in Patricia Davis' book:"Make an oil to apply to effected areas by adding 4 drops Peppermint and 4 drops Lavender to a teaspoon of vegetable (carrier) oil (such as sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, or olive oil) - you can apply up to 2 teaspoons of this formula at a time."This is a stronger concentration of Essential Oils than is usually used in Aromatherapy so patch test first to make sure there is no skin reaction. Apply to all itching areas at least twice a day, preferably after a bath. It will be more effective if 2 drops Lavender and 2 drops Rosemary are mixed in a teaspoon of milk and added to the bath also. This may eventually kill the mites.
The mites live in clothing, towels, sheets, etc. and some unfortunate people have had to destroy all of these things and start over to rid themselves of these pests. At the very least, everything that can be washed must be washed, preferably at a high temperature. A solution of White Camphor and Lavender should be mixed in alcohol (5% white camphor, 5% lavender and 90% alcohol) and sprayed on mattresses, pillows, couches, etc. (I can't guarantee that it won't stain fabrics). Be careful not to inhale this mixture while spraying (wear a mask) and let things air out afterwards as camphor is somewhat toxic.
Once the mites are gone, the skin may be dry and blotchy. Lavender, myrrh and neroli in a carrier oil with a little wheatgerm oil added (not more than 5%) will help. Mix essential oils for this purpose at a dilution of 2 drops essential oil per teaspoon of carrier (vegetable) oil.
Best Regards, Joie Power, Ph.D. Scar Tissue: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. I have a problem with scar tissue in my right wrist since I had surgery and therapy for a fractured wrist. Could you recommend a essential oil and carrier oil that could help me out?
A. According to "historical traditional herbal folklore", the following essential oil formulas may help diminish scar tissue: ˝ oz. Camellia Oil (carrier oil), ˝ oz. Rosehip Oil (carrier oil), ˝ oz. Flaxseed Oil (carrier oil), 10 drops Vitamin E Oil, 4 drops Neroli (essential oil), 3 drops Palmarosa, 3 drops Rosewood, 2 drops Benzoin, 2 drops Frankincense, 2 drops Patchouli. Security Policy: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. How about on-line security?
A. All credit card transactions take place over a secure server. Your order comes directly to us in an encrypted code and remains safe in your personal file. Shelf Life: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. How should essential oils be stored?
A. The shelf life of most essential oils is at least one year and probably two with proper handling. Keep stored in cool dark place in dark glass container (but not refrigerated). Personally, I've had some around for longer and they seem to be okay. (See article, Aromatherapy - The Basics in our Reference section.) Skin Problems: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. I am very interested in Botanical products but the range of it is so wide that I don't know where to start to buy. Can you recommend some products to me? My skin has been plagued by tiny under-the-skin bumps. When bumps matured, they turned to pustules. the skin specialists cannot help my problem and I am annoyed about the scaring and roughness on my skin. Can you give me some advice. C.
A. Essential oil of Lavender is said to be antiseptic, soothing to skin, and to help with scars. Add 4 drops to a warm (not hot) bath or make cold compresses with 4 drops in 8-10 oz (250ml) distilled water (shake well). J.P. Sweaty Feet: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Hello: I would like to know which is the product that could help or cure sweaty feet, how efficient is it and if how much is it. If you know other product, please let me know it.
A. Thank you for your question and your interest in aromatherapy.
Essential Oil of Cypress is very helpful for some people with sweaty feet. The best way to use it is to take a container large enough to put your feet in up to the ankle bones, fill it with cool to tepid water, put 3 drops of Cypress Oil in it and soak your feet for 10 minutes or so (distilled or filtered water is best). You could also make a spray by putting 4 oz of distilled water in a spray bottle and adding 24 drops of cypress oil - shake well each time you use it. Essential Oil of Cypress is $8.73 per 10ml bottle.
Best Regards, Joie Power, Ph.D. Tendonitis: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. ....What are some aromatherapy approaches for someone who has tendonitis and osteoarthritis? Thanks very much, D.J.
A. Dear D., Concerning tendonitis and arthritis, here is a formula that you may find soothing for the bath:
Rosemary - 10 drops
Lavender - 10 drops
Peppermint - 5 drops
German (blue) Chamomile - 5 drops
If you have high blood pressure, you should NOT use the Rosemary and if you are allergic to Chamomile you should NOT use it either.
This combination can also be used for massage to specific areas of the body. Add 2 to 4 drops of the above MIXTURE per teaspoon of carrier oil like Sweet Almond or our base (S. Almond + Grapeseed + Jojoba).
Of course, essential oils are NOT a form of "treatment" for any condition and cannot "cure" any condition but they are soothing and comforting and may in that way be helpful.
I cannot overemphasize the importance of nutritional factors in arthritis and for good health in general. A resource which may be helpful to you in this regard is the book Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 2nd edition, by James Balch and Phyliss Balch. This book has a good section on arthritis. - J.P. Therapeutic Grade / Aromatherapy Grade: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. ........ can you tell me what "Therapeutic Grade Oils" (aka aromatherapy grade) are? There is no such thing in the trade and it actually is discussed on various lists and it said to be a marketing hype thing that real aromatherapists ignore. What is your slant on it. Who tells you that the oils are "therapeutic (aromatherapy) grade"? - U.K.
A. We find that if you are looking at the therapeutic properties of essential oils, then there is often a very real difference between one and another. That is why we always review the MS/GS reports for each oil before making a purchase. No one tells us that these are are "aromatherapy grade" or "therapeutic grade". This is the decision we make and the label we apply. "Therapeutic Grade" or "Aromatherapy Grade" (same thing) may be considered by some to be marketing hype but, in fact, they are not. We use these terms to differentiate our essential oils from other essential oil "stuff". We use the term to mean that we consider our essential oils to be of excellent quality and suitable for therapeutic applications. There is no official grading system other than perhaps the use of the term "food grade" or pharmaceutical grade, which often denote oils inferior to those sought by aromatherapists. You could say that all essential oils are alike. You could also say that all wines are alike. I think there is often quite a lot of difference between one wine and another and one essential oil and another.Some oils for sale on the market are adulterated and some have had certain components removed or come from the second or third distillation of the plant material. We consider such oils to be inferior and definitely not therapeutic grade. All our oils are pure, unadulterated, complete and from first run distillations (unless otherwise plainly stated).
We purchase our essential oils either directly from growers or through known sourcing agents (people who know the oils and the growers). We check the material data sheets on each oil and the gas chromatographs to be sure they have the properties we're looking for. We only select the oils that we feel have the "right" properties. That's what we mean by aromatherapy grade. Is it hype? I don't think so but some might. By the way, we could go through a lot less hassle and buy almost any of our EOs at significantly lower prices but then we'd just be selling stuff. That's not our goal. We want to provide the best essential oils that we can find. Note: to read Dr. Power's article on Quality click Reference.
Washing Oils from Sheets: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Hi, How do you remove rancid oil odors from sheets and linens? - P.
A. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Make sure sheets have all oil removed when washed - use a detergent especially formulated for removing oil - like ALL - and maybe wash them twice.
2. If necessary, add an oil dispersant - one of the best I have found is Go-Jo - it's a mechanic's hand cleaner found in autoparts stores - generally use one or two tablespoons per wash load.
3. add a few drops of a good smelling disinfectant essential oil to the dryer - I would suggest Sweet Orange, Lemon or Lavender - whichever you prefer - place a few drops on a cloth and toss it in with the sheets.
To order the Essential Oil(s) you'll need, click:On-Line Shopping Catalog
I'm guessing that you are a massage therapist. If so, don't forget to ask for our "Practitioner's Discount" in the "comments" section at the end of the online order form - you save 20% but pay for shipping. Wholesale: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. Do you sell wholesale and can I buy wholesale over the web?
A. Yes, we sell wholesale to retail stores, and to bulk users/resellers like candle and soap makers, spas, massage clinics, etc. And, yes, you can buy wholesale over the web. Click Wholesale to find out how or e-mail wholesale@dreamingearth.com. Wintergreen - toxic?: TOP On-Line Shopping Catalog
Q. My husband is handicapped. I use essential oils including wintergreen to help with his muscles and joint pain. I picked up a new book yesterday it said never use Wintergreen - it is toxin. Is this true? I'd like a book that teaches you to mix up good lotions can you recommend one? - Anon
A. Thank you for your interest in aromatherapy. Wintergreen is considered a potentially hazardous essential oil due to the fact that it is almost always completely composed of methyl salicylate which can be harmful in high concentrations. Although many commercially available products do contain Wintergreen, the amounts are low. Methyl salicylate does have pain relieving properties but because high concentrations can be harmful my advice is to stay away from it.
Many essential oils, such as Chamomile, Lavender, Rosemary, Marjoram, and others also have reported pain relieving properties and are a better choice, so long as they are used properly. Two books that may be helpful to you are Valerie Worwood's The Complete Books of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy published by New World Library and Roberta Wilson's Aromatherapy for vibrant Health and Beauty published by Avery Publishing Group. Read the whole book (not just the formulas) so that you understand how to use oils in the proper manner. This way, you will avoid problems like allergic reactions or overdosing and will feel confident and safe in what you are doing.
Good Luck to you and your husband. Let me know if you have any further questions. - Joie Power, Ph.D.