balm mint bush – Earth to Kathy

January 8, 2018

Do Essential Oil Diffusers Really Work?

So, do essential oil diffusers really work? There are many different types of essential oil diffusers dispersing aroma into the air. Here is a review of the varieties: Cool Mist Diffusers Cool mist essential oil diffusers, also called ultrasonic diffusers, typically involve adding about 5 ounces of water and a […]

January 30, 2018

Eucalyptus Essential Oil in the Laundry

Eucalyptus Essential Oil Added to the Laundry By: Kathy Sadowski, MS in Aromatherapy, RA, LMT 1/30/18 As a massage therapist, a common issue I have is oil staining my work sheets and clothes with massage lotions. I am lucky if my yoga pants and work sheets last a year before […]

April 3, 2018

Analgesic / Pain

Analgesic substances reduce pain in a variety of ways: as a local anesthetic or anti-nociceptive, and also via the nervous system. The menthol constituent in peppermint has shown topical anti-nociceptive activity, lavender aromatherapy has shown to calm nerves after surgery to help reduce pain, and comfrey has been used for […]

April 3, 2018

Anti-inflammatory

Inflammation is our body’s response to infection and injury. Its purpose is to clear out foreign cells and dead cells from the local area. Inflammation is characterized by increased redness, heat, pain, and swelling to an area. Anti-inflammatory herbs reduce inflammation in various ways. For example, spices like turmeric, ginger, […]

April 3, 2018

Antibacterial

There are many types of bacteria, and not all bacteria are bad. Some good bacteria in the body help aid in digestion and fight infection. Pathogenic bacteria can cause disease. Wikipedia does an excellent job of categorizing and listing the most common types of bacteria: Pathogenic Bacteria List. Antibacterial herbs […]

April 3, 2018

Anti-fungal

Certain herbs are known for their anti-fungal actions. Most research studies have been in vitro; more human studies are necessary. Recipes to Help with Fungal Infections Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description […]

April 3, 2018

Antimicrobial

Herbs and essential oils are known for their antimicrobial potential, and have been studied for their abilities to inhibits or kill microbes including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and yeast. It is important to understand therapeutic margin for each botanical, the amount at which a substance is both safe and effective to […]

April 3, 2018

Antioxidant

Antioxidant herbs, fruits, and vegetables have the potential to reduce oxidation, which can cause free radicals to form. This can then contribute to aging and disease. Eat Your Colors! Antioxidants protect your cells! They are found in the richly colorful fruits and vegetables that we eat. Here are some examples: RED […]

April 4, 2018

Antiviral

Antiviral herbs and essential oils may help reduce viral infections. Echinacea has proven noteworthy in helping with prevention of common cold viruses. For most botanicals, more research is needed to determine safe and effective amounts. Antiviral – Recipes Blog Articles Can essential oils offer antiviral activities against the flu? Read […]

April 7, 2018

Repellent

Many essential oils and herbs have shown repellent action against a variety of bugs and pests. Repellent Herb and Essential Oil Recipes Blog Articles RESEARCH The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description of each article/study. This […]

April 19, 2018

Absorption Enhancement / Transdermal Delivery

1,8-cineole / Cineole / Eucalyptol / Cajeputol

1,8-cineole, also called eucalyptol, is an oxide found in basil, bay, cajeput, cardamom, eucalyptus, niaouli, rosemary, sage, camphor, laurel, mugwort, and spike lavender. It smells fresh and minty. Oxides contribute to an oil’s aroma, and have strong therapeutic actions, but can be neurotoxic, liver toxic, and a respiratory irritant in […]

April 24, 2018

Piperitone

Piperitone is a ketone as found in dill, spearmint, cornmint, calamint, catnip, peppermint, and certain eucalyptus species. Many ketones can be toxic internally and topically. Some can be convulsant, toxic to the liver, or neurotoxic in high doses. Do not overuse or use for prolonged periods of time. Links to Plants […]