Essential Oils
Essential oils are complex mixtures of aromatic chemicals found in certain kinds of plants. They contain many therapeutic compounds including antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, antimicrobials and anxiolytics. (Dhifi et al., 2016).
The term “essential oils” comes from the Latin word “essentia”. “Essential” was first applied to distilled oils from plants and then to “fragrance” in the 1700s.
Therapeutic grade essential oils are a more complete expression of aromatic plant material and have a number of healthful benefits. The application of essential oils for health benefits is called “aromatherapy”.
Essential oils are not air fresheners or perfumes. Commercial fragrances do not contain the full volatile organic compounds of traditional aromatic substances. Essential oils are volatile compounds, they need to be bottled up or they will evaporate on their own.
Commercial fragrances are not volatile, they need to be put into the air through pressure or heat. They are usually obtained from the plant material via steam distillation.
When essential oils are blended together they are often blended with a therapeutically selected carrier oil. A therapeutic blend of oil does not contain fillers or other added chemicals.
Precaution needs to be taken when using essential oils therapeutically. For example, some essential oils should not be used if pregnant, if prone to epilepsy or if taking certain medications. Some essential oils should not be applied undiluted to the skin.
Each person has a unique biological makeup, which is why precaution always needs to be taken when using essential oils. Individuals must take responsibility for their own well-being. (Wellington, 2020)
Information and statements regarding essential oils have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease.
Essential oil works differently depending upon the person’s biological makeup and three other factors: how it is being applied, which oils are being used and the dilution rates of the oils.
Aromatherapy is a holistic therapeutic in that it takes into account a person’s physical, mental and emotional aspects. Some essential oils should not be used if pregnant, if prone to epilepsy or if taking certain medications. Some essential oils should not be applied undiluted to the skin. As with all holistic approaches it is necessary for the individual to take responsibility for their own well-being. Aromatherapy is a complementary therapeutic. It is not “alternative medicine”.
PSYCH-K®
PSYCH-K® is a method of introducing positive affirmations to the subconscious mind. A self-limiting belief is identified, then a positive belief statement is crafted to remedy it.
Psychological Kinesiology, a form of biofeedback and from where the term “PSYCH-K®” is derived, “is used to establish communication with the subconscious.
Then together we can replace old beliefs buried deep in our subconscious that hinder us with new life-affirming beliefs that support us.” (Doran)