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The Fragrant Makeup
Any perfume you buy or make yourself is a chemical compound made from fragrant oils, aroma blends, fixatives and solvents which produces a pleasant or attractive smell. Women primarily use perfume in order to smell nice for work, a special event, or even to attract a mate.
The composition of any perfume starts with base perfume oils, which are natural, animal or synthetic, and are then diluted with a solvent to make them light and applicable. Perfume oils in the purest form can cause damage to skin or an allergic reaction, so the adding of solvent is necessary to make them less potent. The most prevalent solvent used in the manufacturing of perfumes is Ethanol.
Plants are the oldest source for obtaining fragrant oil compounds from flowers and blossoms parts. Other plant parts, such as leaves, twigs, roots, rhizomes, bulbs, seeds, fruit, wood, bark and lichens are also considered for use in perfume making.
Perfumes made using animal sources are normally made from Musk, which is obtained from either the Asian Musk Deer or Civets (known as Civet Musk), as well as Ambergis (a fatty compound). Some perfume makers may also use either Castoreum or Honeycomb in the production of their perfumes.
Synthetic source perfumes are produced through or-ganic synthesis of multiple chemical compounds, in which such things as Calone, Linalool, Coumarin and Terpenes are used to make synthetic fragrant oils. By using synthetic products in perfume making, you can produce scents which may not even exist in nature. In fact, this has become a very valuable element in the making of perfumes nowadays.
A perfume composition will either be used to aug-ment other products, or patented and sold as a perfume after it has been allowed to age for one year.
Unfortunately, fragrance compounds will, after time, begin to deteriorate and lose strength if stored incorrectly. It is therefore important when making your own perfume that you store them in tightly sealed containers and keep them out of light and away from heat, as well as away from oxygen and other organic substances. For best results, store con-tainers in a fridge at a temperature of between 33 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Today more than ever, perfume is popular around the world, because of its use and its application continues to grow.
For purchasing essential oils please visit http://HealWithEssentialOil.com.
Methods of Making Perfume
For more information about essential oils please visit http://HealWithOil.com.
Making perfume is an art that’s been around for many centuries. To many, it’s much more than an art. It’s a creation of thought, inspiration and care, resulting in some of the most beautiful fragrances imaginable.
Although there have been different methods implemented through the years, the general principle and purpose of making perfume is the same: extracting a desired scent. In an earlier chapter we covered many methods of extracting fragrances from various plant parts. There are actually two methods of scent extraction today: effleurage or distillation.
• Effleurage is a process where a glass plates are filled with highly purified and odorless animal or vegetable fat, where petals of your choice are placed. The petals of fresh flowers are pressed into the fat and will stay in the grease for a few days so the essence has a chance to disperse and leak into the compound.
After a few days, the petals are removed and replaced with freshly picked ones. This process continues until the greasy compound is saturated with the essence. This process is repeated several times. Once the saturation point has been reached, the petals are removed and the grease and fragrant oil mixture, also known as effleurage pomade, is washed with alcohol so that extract can separated from the grease.
The remaining grease is used to make soap and, once the alcohol evaporates, you have the essential oil you need for perfume. Effleurage is not only very time consuming but an expensive way of extraction as well. This process is often used for Jasmine and tuberoses.
• Distillation is a process where steam is used to capture the fragrance. The plants or flowers are put in the top part of a sill on perforated trays, with the bottom part filled with water. The water is brought to a boil, as it’s the steam that brings out the fragrances and scent-bearing components, which are transferred into an attached glass-cooling worm to be refrigerated and condensed.
The essential oil and water mixture is placed in bottles, where the essential oils will rise to the top leaving the scented water on the bottom. While the scented water is used for toilette water and other purposes, the essential oil is made into the finest perfumes.
Although technology has provided perfume makers with state-of-the-art equipment to make their perfume quickly and efficiently, the methods are still basically the same. Once they have the desired perfume, they don’t stop there. Being chemists as well as artists of the trade, they’re able to mix them with other essential oils to create exotic and beautiful fragrances.
Art of the Apothecary
For more information about biblical essential oils please visit http://HealWithOil.com.
Apothecary is defined in today’s terms as “a health professional trained in the art of preparing and dispensing drugs.” Derived from the Greek word apotheke, it means a repository or store room and from the Hebrew word raqach, which means to perfume. Some bible translations use the word perfumer instead of apothecary, such as “to prepare spices.” In biblical times, the Levitical priesthood served as apothecaries as well. One of the responsibilities for the priests included preparing the holy anointing oil and incense. In Exodus 30:22 – 28, we read about the instructions the LORD gave to Moses concerning the ingredients of the holy anointing oil:
“Moreover the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Take thou also unto thee principal spices, of pure myrrh five hundred shekels, and of sweet cinnamon half so much, even two hundred and fifty shekels, and of sweet calamus two hundred and fifty shekels, And of cassia five hundred shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, and of oil olive an hin: And thou shalt make it an oil of holy ointment com-pound after the art of the apothecary: it shall be an holy anointing oil.”
This highly perfumed formula prescribed by God comprised of the finest spices: flowing myrrh, sweet-smelling cinnamon, fragrant calamus cane, cassia and olive oil. Specific instructions for its use consecrated or set apart articles for Temple worship as “holy.” This included the ark of the testimony, the holy tabernacle, and all of its furnish-ings. Because of its specialness, Yahweh gave an admonition to NOT reproduce the EXACT formula, nor use it on ordinary people. This is something believers should respect as they explore study and create biblical scents.
God not only gave Moses specific instructions for combining these essences for the Holy Anointing Oil, but for also combining them into a pure and Holy confection to be burned as an incense as a testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation before Yahweh. In Exodus 30:34 – 38, it says:
“And the LORD said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum; these sweet spices with pure frankincense: of each shall there be a like weight: And thou shalt make it a perfume, a confection after the art of the apothecary, tempered together, pure and holy: And thou shalt beat some of it very small, and put of it before the testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation, where I will meet with thee: it shall be unto you most holy. And as for the perfume which thou shalt make, ye shall not make to yourselves according to the composition thereof: it shall be unto thee holy for the LORD. Whosoever shall make like unto that, to smell thereto, shall even be cut off from his people.”
Apothecaries remained a prominent part of Israel’s culture after being taken into Babylonian captivity and upon returning to Jerusalem during the time of Nehemiah and Ezra. In Nehemiah 3:8 it tells how they participated in the rebuilding of the city:
“Next unto him repaired Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, of the goldsmiths. Next unto him also repaired Hananiah the son of one of the apothecaries, and they fortified Jerusalem unto the broad wall.”
Though the term “apothecary” is not found in the New Testament, the practice of compounding and burning Holy Incense still continued. In fact, this duty was consid-ered such a great honor for those of the Levitical priesthood they had to cast lots for it. Luke 1:9 tells how lot fell on Zacharias:
“According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.”
Some may consider the duties of the apothecary and priest to be a lost art since the destruction of the 2nd Temple. However, Yeshua spoke of another temple (His body) in which believers are members of and are to be a priest unto. 1 Peter 2:5 says,
“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”
Today, the ancient art of perfumery and apothecary is being restored.
History of Perfumery using Essential Oils
For more information about using essential oils please visit http://HealWithEssentialOil.com.
Historical records reveal that people’s use of scents, aromas, fragrances and essential oils have been used in almost every culture for millenniums. The Egyptians used aromatics in embalming, while the Greeks attributed sweet aromas to their gods by burning incense and the Babylonians perfumed the mortar with which they built their temples. In fact, Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt drenched the sails of her ships with the most exotic fragrant essential oils so that their essences would herald her arrival along the banks of the Nile. The Hebrews scattered fresh leaves, twigs, and stems of fresh mint, marjoram and other herbs on the dirt floors of homes and synagogues. By walking on these, the fragrant essential oils would be released into the air. This practice was also common in the temple, where they sacrificed animals where the scent acted as a disinfectant as well as an air freshener.
Both the Assyrian’s and Egyptians used scented oils. Because of this, the demand for the raw materials necessary to produce both fragrances and remedies led to the discov-ery of new ways to extract scents from the plants used. Such techniques as pressing, decoction, pulverization and macera-tion were developed and mastered by both the Assyrian’s and the Egyptians. They even made attempts to produce essential oils by distillation. These methods will be discussed in the next chapter.
Slowly, the use of perfumes spread to Greece, where not only were they used in religious ceremonies, but also for personal purposes as well. When the Romans saw what the Greeks were doing, they began to use fragrances even more lavishly. There are many manuscripts that ascribed to how herbs were brought from all over the world to produce the fragrances they used.
After the Roman Empire fell, so the use of aromas for personal use declined. However, during the Middle Ages, perfumes again were used, this time only in churches in Europe for religious ceremonies and to cover the stench of disease and death which abounded at that time.
When trade with the Orient was reestablished at the beginning of the 13th Century, exotic flowers, herbs and spices became more readily available around Europe. Venice quickly became the center of the perfume trade. It was not long before perfumery soon spread to other European countries. The perfume trade then developed even further, as those returning from the crusades reintroduced perfume for personal use.
By the late 18th Century, the synthetic material for fragrances was being produced, which led to the beginning of perfumery in the modern age. Thus, with the introduction of synthetics, perfumes would no longer be exclusively used by the rich and famous. Now with synthetics readily available to produce perfumes, they could be made on a much larger scale, although natural oils were still being used to help soften the synthetics. Today, natural products still remain a very important part of the production of perfumes in modern formulations.
More and more people today are turning away from the industrial techniques of producing perfume, preferring to make it themselves. Most find it is not only easy to do, but a great source of pleasure and fun.
Ancient Uses for Perfumes & Essential Oils
For more information about essential oils, please visit my website http://HealWithOil.com. If you would like to purchase pure therapeutic-grade essential oils, please visit http://HealWithEssentialOil.com.
In ancient times, essential oils and other aromatics were used for religious rituals, as well as for the treatment of illness and other physical and spiritual needs. According to the Essential Oils Desk Reference compiled by Essence Science Publishing, “Records dating back to 4500 B.C. describes the use of balsamic substances with aromatic properties for religious rituals and medical applications. The translation of ancient papyrus found in the Temple of Edfu, located on the west bank of the Nile reveals medicinal formulas and perfume recipes used by the alchemist and high priest in blending aromatic substances for rituals performed in the temples and pyramids. As well, Hieroglyphics on the walls of Egyptian temples depict the blending of oils and describe hundreds of oil recipes. Within these writings tell of scented barks, resins of spices, and aromatic vinegars, wines and beers that were used in rituals, temples, for embalming and medicine. Thus, the Egyptians were credited as the first to discover the potential of fragrance and were considered masters in using essential oils and other aromatics in the embalming process. They created various aromatic blends for personal use, placing them in alabaster jars – a vessel specially carved and shaped for holding fragrant oils. In fact, when King Tut’s tomb was opened in 1922, 350 liters of oils were discovered in alabaster jars. Amazingly, because of the solidification of plant waxes sealing the opening of the jars, the liquefied oil was in perfect condition.
In the upper region of Egypt, a sect of Jews, called Essenes, were known for their healing arts and use of essential oils. Both Philo and Josephus writings indicated that at the period in which John the Baptist and Jesus were born, the Essenes were scattered over Palestine, numbering about four thousand souls. The Essenes or Therapeuts (used interchangeably) refer primarily to the art of healing which these devotees professed, as it was believed in those days that sanctity was closely allied to the exercise of this power, and that no cure of any sort could be imputed simply to natural causes. (Source: http://sacred-texts.com, http://bopsecrets.org)
The Holy Scriptures record over 1,035 references to aromatics, ointments, savors, fragrances, plants and incense-most implying essential oils. Twelve of the most highly-praised fragrances in the world mentioned in the Bible include: Frankincense, Myrrh, Spikenard, Hyssop, Cypress, Myrtle, Aloes, Sandalwood, Galbanum, Cinnamon, Cassia, and Onycha. Many were in the prescribed preparation of the Holy Anointing Oil and Holy Incense for Temple services, as well as for anointing and healing the sick. The people of the ancient world understood the importance of maintaining wellness and physical health, as well as the oils’ ability to enhance their spiritual state of worship, prayer, and for the purification from sin. King David alluded to this in Psalm 51:7 when he wrote, “Purge me with hyssop and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” While David’s Psalm may have been speaking of a “spiritual purification” from his own sin of adultery with Bathsheba, today we know that the chemical constituents of essential oils including hyssop are able to penetrate the cell wall and transport needed oxygen and nutrients to the cell nucleus. Most essential oils can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled into the lungs where they then make their way into the bloodstream. The sense of smell affects the limbic region of the brain, which controls emotions, memory and the hypothalamus, which regulates the pituitary, which in turn balances the entire hormonal system of the body.
Making Solid Perfume – A Simple Recipe Using Essential Oils
The Simplicity of Making Solid Perfume
For more fun recipes and uses for essential oils, please visit http://HealWithOil.com.
While filling up your little perfume containers with your favorite homemade perfume is fun, easy and exciting, you’ll find that making solid perfume is even easier.
Most of the supplies for making solid perfume can be found at a craft and health food stores. Therefore, read this list and get to the store so we can get busy making your favorite scent solid perfume.
• A small glass bowl for mixing
• 1 saucepan
• 1 stirring stick or straw
• A glass, stone or ceramic container for your perfume
• Essential oil of your choice
• Beeswax
• Almond or jojoba oil or vitamin E
Put 1 tablespoon of almond or jojoba oil and 1-tablespoon wax in the small glass jar. Put about an inch of water in the saucepan and put the far in the water. Bring the water in the saucepan to a boil to allow the wax to melt. When it’s completed melted and liquid, remove it from the stove.
Add about 8 to 12 drops of essential oils into the mixture. Stir it with a straw or stirring stick, allowing as little as possible to stick to them so as not to waste any of your precious perfume. Make sure it’s thoroughly mixed.
Pour your liquefied wax into your glass or stone container and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. The mixture you’ve made will make about one half ounce of solid perfume. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to make a larger amount.
When you’re ready to use the perfume, all you have to do is rub your finger on the surface of the perfume and rub it on your neck, wrist or any place you desire. You’ll find that solid perfume is easy and fun to make, you’ll want to experiment with many different fragrances. It’s great for traveling and can be put in a small container of your choice and carried in your purse or glove compartment.
Different fragrances can be made for medicinal or special purposes. For instance, a mixture of lavender or chamomile oils makes a very relaxing scent. Applying solid perfume of cypress or cedar is great for a foot rub. You’ll find that you not only will want to have several of these unique perfume scents in your home but they make great gifts as well.
Biblical History of Essential Oils – Egyptians – Temple of Edfu – Perfumes – Hieroglyphics
For more information about the biblical essential oils, please visit my website http://HealWithOil.com.
Ecclesiastes 9:8, “Let thy garments be always white: and let thy head lack no ointment.”
In ancient times, essential oils and other aromatics were used for religious rituals, as well as for the treatment of illness and other physical and spiritual needs. According to the Essential Oils Desk Reference compiled by Essence Science Publishing, “Records dating back to 4500 B.C. Describes use of balsamic substances with aromatic properties for religious rituals and medical applications. The translation of ancient papyrus found in the Temple of Edfu, located on the west bank of the Nile reveals the medicinal formulas and perfume recipes used by the alchemist and high priest in blending aromatic substances for rituals performed in the temples and pyramids. As well, Hieroglyphics on the walls of Egyptian temples depict the blending of oils and describe hundreds of oil recipes. Within these writings tell of scented barks, resins of spices, and aromatic vinegars, wines and beers that were used in rituals, temples, for embalming and medicine. Thus, the Egyptians were credited as the first to discover the potential of fragrance and were considered masters in using essential oils and other aromatics in the embalming process. They created various aromatic blends for personal use, placing them in alabaster jars – a vessel specially carved and shaped for holding fragrant oils. In fact, when King Tut’s tomb was opened in 1922, 350 liters of oils were discovered in alabaster jars. Amazingly, because of the solidification of plant waxes sealing the opening of the jars, the liquefied oil was in perfect condition.
In the upper region of Egypt, a sect of Jews, called Essenes, were known for their healing arts and use of essential oils. Both Philo and Josephus writings indicate that at the period in which John the Baptist and Jesus were born, the Essenes were scattered over Israel, numbering about four thousand souls. The Essenes or Therapeuts (used interchangeably) refer primarily to the art of healing which these devotees professed, as it was believed in those days that sanctity was closely allied to the exercise of this power, and that no cure of any sort could be imputed simply to natural causes. (Source: http://sacred-texts.com, http://bopsecrets.org)
The Holy Scriptures record over 1,035 references to aromatics, ointments, savors, fragrances, plants and incense-most implying essential oils. Twelve of the most highly-praised fragrances in the World mentioned in the Bible include: Frankincense, Myrrh, Spikenard, Hyssop, Cypress, Myrtle, Aloes, Sandalwood, Galbanum, Cinnamon, Cassia, and Onycha. Many were in the prescribed preparation of the Holy Anointing Oil and Holy Incense for Temple services, as well as for anointing and healing the sick. The people of the ancient world I believe understood the importance of maintaining wellness and physical health, as well as the oils’ ability to enhance their spiritual state of worship, prayer, and for the purification from sin. King David alluded to this in Psalm 51:7 when he wrote, “Purge me with hyssop and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.”
Aromatherapy: Essential Oils For Romance In Your Marriage
by Penny Barker
Aromatherapy consists of using different aromas to affect a person’s mood or behaviour. In the practice of aromatherapy, each essential oil is believed to possess unique specific properties that positively affect different areas of a person’s life. Some are used to soothe physical ailments, while others can increase concentration, stamina or energy, and possibly jumpstart your libido. The use of aromatherapy essential oils in sexual practices and rituals has been around for centuries and spans many cultures. It is said that the famous seductress Cleopatra indulged in the practice of aromatherapy, using the intoxicating scents of cinnamon, cardamom and rose to bewitch and entice Marc Antony.
How to Use Aromatherapy Essential Oils
There are many ways to incorporate the benefits of aromatherapy into everyday life, and various methods of using essential oils. They can be applied to the skin, but must first be diluted with a carrier oil as they are too powerful in their undiluted form. You may prefer to inhale the oil scent by placing a few drops on a clean cloth or tissue and putting it near your nose, or you can use steam inhalation. It is also possible to put a few drops of oil diluted with a carrier oil in your bathwater. Just add your preferred scent to one ounce of carrier oil and mix well into the warm water. Aromatherapy essential oils can be added to lotions, massage oils, and shower products to help revitalize your mind and body, all the while providing you with a very sensual experience.
Carrier oils
Aromatherapy essential oils must be “carried” onto the skin by carrier oils as they are too concentrated to be applied directly on the skin. Carrier oils are also known as base oils or vegetable oils. Some popular carrier oils include sweet almond, grapeseed, jojoba, sunflower, avocado, and olive oil.
Scents to Raise the Libido
The use of aromatherapy essential oils can enhance almost any mood. A person’s sense of smell is tied to the area of emotion and memory in the brain; consequently, a particular pleasing scent can recreate wonderful feelings associated with a pleasurable past experience. Spicy scents can definitely make an individual feel energized, while light floral scents can put you in a sensual and relaxed mood. The aromatherapy essential oils can be placed in a diffuser to create a seductive atmosphere in the room, used to perform a sensuous massage or blended in a warm bubble bath for two! There are hundreds of scents used in the practice of aromatherapy. Here are a few essential oils known to produce positive results in the area of love and sexual relations:
Rose – A deeply floral scent that is relaxing and known to promote compassion, love and sensuality.
Vanilla – A subtly sweet aroma that induces feelings of security, compassion and love.
Jasmine – A comforting scent that is warm and floral. Indian women use it in their hair to entice their husbands into love-making.
Ginger – A woody aroma that provides feelings of warmth when used in a massage, and is known to increase endurance. Many brides of South Asia use this oil in creams on their wedding day.
Clove – A spicy, rich and penetrating scent with warming properties which is intoxicating to the senses.
Ylang Ylang – A very powerful scent, originally from China, which can be very enticing when mixed with other oils such as clary sage or geranium. Its floral and exotic odor can enhance stimulation.
Bergamot - A sweet and spicy aroma that produces intense refreshing effects.
Cedarwood – An intensely woody aroma that has soothing and strengthening properties that promotes inner strength and confidence.
Originally published on SearchWarp.com for Penny Barker Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Article Source: Aromatherapy: Essential Oils to Jumpstart your Libido
Healing Essential Oils of Biblical Times
For more information about the biblical essential oils, please visit our website http://HealWithOil.com or to purchase pure therapeutic grade essential oils visit http://HealWithEssentialOil.com.
Essential oils have been revered for their therapeutic and beautifying abilities since the first human civilizations emerged. Oils and resins, as hard-to-obtain substances, have long had special roles in medicine and religious activities. In order to obtain an essential oil, an inordinate amount of the plant must be collected, making the end product highly valuable. Perhaps the most well-known documentation of aromatic oils being used in religious contexts is in the Old and New Testaments. The Bible recounts many uses of aromatic oils as objects of prosperity, kindness, health and worship. We see instances of herbs like spikenard being used to anoint Jesus and frankincense being turned into a precious incense for use in religious ceremonies. The Bible shows us that the use of essential oils and resins has always been a critical part of worship for Jews and Christians.
Steam distilling essential oils is a modern process that necessitates sophisticated technology and access to large amounts of water, two things that were unavailable in Biblical times in the Middle East. The oils we read about in the Bible were probably herbal infusions, where an aromatic plant is soaked for a long time in a more abundant oil, such as olive oil. While the exact substances may differ between what we use today and what was available 2,000 years ago, these oils still held the same cultural importance we attribute to medicinal oils. Spikenard, cassia and the other herbs mentioned in the texts were valued because of their inherent healing qualities and because they were hard to find. No matter how these oils were created, obtaining essential oils was not an easy endeavor.
We find about twelve essential oil plants listed in the Bible: juniper, myrtle, spikenard, frankincense, myrrh, galbanum, cinnamon, cedar, cedar and sandalwood, hyssop and cypress. One part of the puzzle that is unclear to modern scholars is whether all these plants were used as essential oils or if they were herbal plant remedies. Regardless, the Bible certainly makes reference to the Jews and Christians using these plants for anointing and also for medicine. There are varying interpretations of how many healing plants mentioned in the Bible were used for medicinal or sacred purposes. However, contemporary aromatherapy still recognizes these oils as important ingredients in the essential oil repertoire, and it is clear humankind has valued these plants for thousands of years.
The aromatic plants of the Bible reflect the dryness of the Middle East. These plants can survive harsh climates and little rainfall. Fortunately for humankind, this unforgiving environment has given birth to many of aromatherapy’s most well-loved plants. The oils of the Bible come from a variety of plants, most of which are hardy, desert-dwellers. Cinnamon is a bark from an aromatic tree that curls once it is removed and dried. Sandalwood, cedar, cypress and juniper are also all trees or shrubs found in the Mediterranean region. Historically, they were used for wood as well as medicine, aromatherapy and incense. Frankincense, myrrh and galbanum are resins derived from the barks of trees. They are often burned directly, also used in incense and retain their aromatic qualities for a long period of time. Modern aromatherapy often uses frankincense and myrrh for their abilities to connect us to higher planes of awareness. The frequently mentioned hyssop is an aromatic plant with purple flowers that is widely cultivated for use in cooking and herbal medicine. Myrtle, a flowering short tree or shrub, is a common aromatherapy plant as well that grows wild in these dry climates. Finally, spikenard, also called nard in the Bible, is a plant that is native to the Himalayan region of Asia. It was imported to the Middle East and used as an expensive perfume.
The Old Testament contains the most references to healing plants. One of the first of these plants to be mentioned in the Bible is cinnamon. In Exodus 30:23-29, God instructs Moses to create an anointing oil made from myrrh, cinnamon, cassia, cane and olive oil. He advises Moses to place the oil on all the implements used for worship in the Tabernacle in the Wilderness, the portable alter created for worship during the Israelites’ 40-year journey in the desert. Through being anointed, the objects became transmuted into sacred vessels. The act of anointing objects and people with precious oils is carried throughout the Old Testament and can be found in the New Testament as well.
Jesus’s life history has a number of instances when essential oils were conferred on him as acts of faith and appreciation. The book of Matthew tells of the kings from the East that came to offer Jesus gifts at his birth, notably frankincense and myrrh. As we already learned, these two resins are often used in modern times to assist in spiritual work. Jesus also received gifts of spikenard from two women. The first woman cracked a jar of spikenard and poured it above Jesus’s head. The second gift-giver, Mary Magdalene, used her life savings of the same plant oil to anoint his feet. Using her hair, she then massaged the oil into his skin. These acts of faith and gratitude were seen as humble sacrifices as spikenard was a particularly expensive oil to obtain.
Today, the oils of the Bible are frequently used in aromatherapy for healing physical ailments, connecting with spiritual or meditative states and even as offerings in religious contexts. Many of these oils have been used in unison, such as frankincense and myrrh, for thousands of years. Their widespread cultivation and our appreciation for their medicinal qualities have traversed the globe as Jews and Christians have continued to respect and use these rare oils. While aromatherapy as it is practiced today is a relatively new field of medicine, the use of medicinal oils is actually as old as civilization itself. By learning how these plants were used during Biblical times, we can connect to traditions that have recognized the relationship between humankind, the plant world and spiritual awakening.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Aromatherapy diffusers and burners are available at The Ananda Apothecary at www.anandaapothecary.com.
Basic Uses and Benefits of Aromatherapy
Please visit our website http://HealWithOil.com for more information about essential oils and how to use them for divine health.
Basic Uses and Benefits of Aromatherapy
If you haven’t taken advantage of the benefits that you can gain from aromatherapy, it is never too late to start learning so that you can apply what you have discovered in the process. You may have already heard of the concept. Although these days, there are many ways of relaxation and healing techniques that are being introduced, this one remains to be popular because this is easy to follow, plus the fact that this won’t cost you much.
The process utilizes botanical oils. These are extracts and essences from sources such as herbs, trees and flowers. The type of essences that you have to use in order to benefit from such source depends on what you want to cure and your reasons for undergoing the procedure.
Tracing the Roots
This procedure can be traced back in the 1920s when Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist, coined the term after witnessing how the lavender oil can cure skin burns. Now this has become a branch of herbal medicine that applies the medicinal properties of the oils and essences from various herbs and plants. And the idea is now being applied in most countries around the world, especially in parts of Europe and North America.
The approach is popularly used at spas and holistic treatments. This is also being integrated on products used for relaxation purposes such as candles and different essences of massage oils. Through time, many people are discovering the effectiveness of the process. For most of its users, this has become an integral part of their lives as it can alleviate pains, fatigue and stress.
How Does It Work?
There are many things that essential oils can do to one’s body. It has the following effects depending on the type of oils used and its sources. The effects range from being tranquilizing, antiviral, anti-bacterial, adrenal stimulating and other pharmacological end result.
The matter is simple. You inhale the essential oil. Through your nasal cavity, its molecules enter your system. When it’s already inside your body, the limbic system in your brain gets stimulated. Such system is responsible for your emotions and memories. It is also directly associated with parts of your body that controls heart rate, your breathing and blood pressure. This is also connected with the hypothalamus, adrenals and your pituitary gland.
The oils help in maintaining the balance between your physiology and emotions. Such oils are extracted from different parts of the sources such as the leaves, flowers, branches, roots and even flowers and buds. The processes involved in creating this include stem and water distillation, cold pressing and steam distillation. You must be cautious in using the matter. You must take note that it can be harmful if you will take the matter orally. If this must be done, you must seek the help of a professional to carry out the process.
The Basic Uses
This method is known to relax one’s body and lessen tensions and stress. This has also been popular to treat different conditions such as bruises and burns, allergies, insect bites, headache, colds, flu, menopause, sprains, joint pains and a lot more. This can also help you regain your strength and energy and help you sleep if you feel restless or if you are suffering from insomnia.
As more and more people discover the marvels that aromatherapy can bring, this method will surely go a long way and its popularity will never cease to exist.
Scenting Your Home For Success
We love talking about fun ways to use your essential oils in the home and our guest author, Paul has some crafty ways to add more scent to you home. Please visit http://HealWithOil.com to find all your pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils.
There are many ways to scent your home using perfumes and herbs. In today’s world, you will find many gadgets on the market that are designed to make your home smell like scented flower fields or warm ocean winds.
The main problem with using modern products like air fresheners and incense is that the fragrance fades quickly. Air fresheners also put chemicals in the air that those with sensitive lungs may find disagreeable.
There are many alternative ways to scent a home where the fragrance lasts for weeks, months or years…that are not only more affordable but that also smell more wonderful.
One method would be to take squares of cloth and make little pillows about 4 inches square stuffed with herbs or nicely scented potpourri. Lavender buds make wonderful smelling sachets, as do dried citrus rinds and dried flowers.
Place these small pillows wherever you would like the scent to linger…in the bathroom, closet or under your sofa.
You can also make nice decorations of plaster of Paris to hang in your closets, by your windows or in your car. To do this, purchase candy moulds, essential oils (or any scented item like perfume or potpourri) and small twine. Mix the scent of your choice into your plaster of Paris, pour into your moulds, then take pieces of twin and tie the ends into a knot to create a loop. Press the knot into your plaster so that the twine will stay in place once the plaster dries.
A nice twist for this method would be to mould your plaster into small oval Tupperware bowls then stack them neatly in baskets throughout your home, These are known as scented rocks and make attractive décor.
A nice way to get the scent of roses in your home would be to make rosewater soaked papers, and use these as stuffing inside of your scented pillows instead of dried florals or herbs.
To do this, simmer a cup of rose petals with one cup of water for 3 to 4 hours until the water is strongly scented. If the water evaporates during the simmering, just add a bit more.
Once the concentration is strong, strain the mixture, then place strips of paper in the water and simmer until most of the water is evaporated. Next, lay your paper somewhere to dry, such as laying them on a towel or hanging them from a clothes hanger. Once dry, tear into little pieces and place in your sachets. Although the scent may not be as strong as you would like, once your pillows have been made and sit in place for a time, you will notice a nice, slight rose scent in your home. You simply need to give your home time to warm the papers, which releases the scent.
You may also use these papers in your vacuum cleaner. Place the strips in an envelope and place the envelope in your vacuums bag. As you vacuum your home, you will notice a nice rose scent in the air.
About the Author:
Want to know more about How to start a Craft Business? Paul provides a wealth of resources at http://www.pkblogging.com/craft-and-home-business-ideas
Get Rid of Stretch Marks Naturally with Frankincense Essential Oil
Getting rid of stretch marks naturally using frankincense essential oil is just one of the uses for this incredible fragrance. Some of the other ways you can use Frankincense essential oil include: reduce swelling, helping with insomnia, and concentration. See list below for more ways. For more ways to use essential oils, visit our website http://HealWithOil.com.
1. To help reduce swelling and irritation of an insect bite, place a drop of frankincense oil on location.
2. Dilute 50% frankincense oil with 50% carrier oil and apply to blistered areas, three times daily as needed.
3. To help improve concentration, apply 1-2 drops of frankincense oil to the temple areas and back of the neck.
4. Apply 2-3 drops at the base of nails, to strengthen weak or brittle nails.
5. Sore feet? Try massaging a blend of 50% frankincense oil with 50% carrier oil on the soles of each foot at night.
6. Rub a couple drops of frankincense oil on stretch marks twice a day.
7. Trouble sleeping? Apply 1-3 drops of frankincense oil to the shoulders, stomach and soles of feet.
8. To help strengthen the immunity system, apply 1-3 drops of frankincense oil to each foot.
Ways to Use Myrrh Essential Oil – Canker Sores – Killing Staphylococcus and other skin conditions
Uses For Myrrh Essential Oil
Visit our website for more ways to use essential oils for healing, http://HealWithOil.com.
1. To help make canker sores disappear, apply one drop of myrrh oil.
2. For an excellent mouthwash, mix 2-5 drops of myrrh oil with water. Swish and rinse.
3. To help with gingivitis, rub 1-2 drops of myrrh oil on gums.
4. For a warm, soothing aroma, drop 2-3 drops of myrrh oil on a dried log of wood. Allow time to soak into wood, before placing in the fireplace.
5. Troublesome skin conditions? Rub 1 drop of myrrh oil on blemish to help it go away.
6. For external wounds, mix 10 drops of myrrh oil with 25 ml of water and apply directly to affected area.
7. For colds and/or bronchitis, mix 1ml of myrrh oil with a carrier oil in a 15ml bottle, to help with phlegm.
8. Use myrrh oil for killing staphylococcus (a wound bacteria).
9. For vitaligo (a skin condition where patches of skin lose pigmentation), blend myrrh oil with sandalwood oil and apply.
10. Apply myrrh as nature’s pain reliever.
Synergy Essential Oil Blend Kit – Now on Sale for $24.95
This kit is offered on http://HealWithOil.com. It lists for $49.95, but if you purchase it this week, you will get a refund of $24.95 through paypal immediately. Look at all the benefits of these pure, therapeutic grade essential oils:
Synergy is defined as, the interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects. Therapeutic grade essential oils have powerful qualities, but when combined with other essential oils the properties can be greatly enhanced. This is what is known as a Synergy Blend.
We are now offering some of the finest Synergy Blends available:
* Energy Type Essential Oil Synergy Blend contains: Peppermint, Rosemary, Lemon, and Eucalyptus that together are considered uplifting and revitalizing.
* Invigorating Type Essential Oil Blend contains: Sandalwood, Black Pepper, Lemon and is perfect while on the job for the extra kick you need to get through the day as it promotes vigor and mental strength.
* Mental Clarity Type Essential Oil Synergy Blend contains: Bergamot, Basil, Lemon, Grapefruit and are believed to enhance mental focus; this oil can help when working on large projects and those tasks requiring clear and decisive mental thought.
* Relaxation Type Essential Oil Synergy Blend contains: Lavender, Marjoram, Patchouli, Mandarin, Geranium, Chamomile are reputed as being some of the best for promoting a peace and relaxation. Try it after a particularly trying day at work.
* Sports Type Essential Oil Synergy Blend contains: Wintergreen, Camphor and Pine which are well known for their effectiveness on muscles and joints. This blend is great for tired, sore muscles. When applied there is a tingling, cooling effect.
* Sensuality Type Essential Oil Synergy Blend contains: Ylang Ylang, Patchouli, Orange Sweet, Sandalwood, and Jasmine and is for calming, feelings of well being and reducing nervousness.
Synergy Blends are known for helping to create a peaceful, relaxing uplifting and revitalizing. These oils are best used with a cool mist nebulizing diffuser to avoid damaging the oils therapeutic properties.
Spikenard Essential Oil Puts Insomnia To Bed
The other night I fell asleep like I normally do and about ten minutes later the phone rang and that’s all it took to make me one of the 64 million other Americans staring at the ceiling. Frustrated with my tossing and turning, my wife suggested I go to our website and find what essential oil is good for insomnia.
I found Spikenard essential oil helps promote sleep. So I broke out the Spikenard and tapped out a couple of drops into my hand and rubbed some on the bottom of my feet and before long I was cutting some serious Zzzz’s. As I drifted off to sleep, the thought occurred to me, “How many others have this problem, but don’t know about this wonderful natural sleep aid?”
I never had a problem getting to sleep before and never gave much thought to the problem of Insomnia. I knew to avoid caffeinated drinks late in the day, so I made it a rule not to drink any after 4:00. After doing a little research on the topic, I find out that’s only part of the problem. Fear, stress and anxiety are big contributors to those not able to get a good nights sleep. With today’s economy I’m sure the number is increasing.
Insomnia is defined by the experts as: the inability to get to or stay asleep and the result of the lack of quality or quantity of sleep. Which makes for a not-so-good next day. Most sleeplessness occurs in the early part of the night. Sleeplessness which occurs later in the night or just before normal time of waking up, could be caused by depression.
According to Lexicon-Biology.com; Melatonin is a molecule manufactured by a gland of the brain that functions as a hormone. It influences the sleep-wake cycle by acting according to the day-night alternation. Children rarely have problems with insomnia because their bodies produce a sufficient amount of this hormone to keep them asleep. Now us older folk our bodies do not produce the same levels of melatonin as when we were younger. It just happens that Spikenard essential helps with that problem.
Spikenard oil, is pale yellow in color with a medium viscosity and has an earthy warm aroma. It is an aromatic herb with rhizome root which is ground into a powder and then steam distilled to extract the precious oil. The technical name for Spikenard is Nardostachys jatamansi and is of the Valerianaceae botanical family. Originally from the Himalayan Mountains of India it expanded into China and Japan . Incense traders traversed thousands of miles through the holy land, Egypt and far into the Roman Empire .
One of the main reasons for Spikenard’s popularity is its high concentration of Sesquiterpenes. Oils that are high in Sesquiterpenes work down at the sub-cellular level, which affects the membrane fluidity and allows oxygen transfer. It also can access the DNA in the cell which can erase information in the memory of the cell. This is an important step to setting the stage for reprogramming the cell’s DNA to its original intent.
So when that insomnia keeps you up let Spikenard put it to bed.
If you would like more information about therapeutic grade essential oils, please visit my website http://HealWithOil.com.
Virgin Oilive Oil’s Spiritual Significance
Virgin Olive Oil
Olive oil is used as a carrier oil and the Bible clearly states that the only grade of olive oil suitable for holy anointing purposes is the “first oil.” The Bible discusses this in Leviticus 24:2: “Command the children of Israel, that they bring unto thee pure oil olive beaten for the light, to cause the lamps to burn continually.”
Today, first oil is called “virgin oil.” Virgin olive oil has a wonderful fragrance and flavor. First oil is not pressed from the fruit but drained from the crushed fruit.
The “first oil” or virgin oil serves as a spiritual picture of the Bride of Messiah. She is the first to come out of Babylon on her own and is drawn by the Ruach. The Bride has a fragrance the world recognizes as different.
The second oil, or “pressed oil,” is inferior and its fruit is crushed, stamped, and squeezed to get the very last drop of oil. This oil was not acceptable as an offering to the Temple—as it has no flavor or fragrance.
Believers who are sluggish and foolish have to be beaten and endure fiery trials like the second oil to come out.
The choice still remains theirs. Will a believer be a fragrant offering to Him or be hard-pressed and remain tasteless to the world? 2 Corinthians 2:14-15 says, “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ.”
For more information about the biblical essential oils, please visit Rebecca’s website http://HealWithOil.com.
Onycha Essential Oil
Onycha Essential Oil
Onycha comes from the Balsam or Benzoin Tree of the Far East. However, rabbis debate whether Onycha is a resin from a tree. Some believe it is an aromatic from a mussel or shell because of its Hebraic root. Others, such as Rabbi Gamaliel (whom the Apostle Paul studied under), believe it is actually a part of the balsam species.
The Hebrew word “Onycha” is shecheleth, which means “part of the holy incense, sweet kind of gum, and shines as the nail.” Because of this definition, some believe Onycha comes from the same mussel which provides the purplish-blue color used to dye tzitzits or fringes on the prayer shawl.
As seen in Exodus 30:34, Onycha is used in the holy anointing oil. It is also mentioned in the Talmud and the Old Testament Apocrypha.
According to Strong’s Concordance, it is from the same root word as shachal, meaning “to roar; a lion from its characteristic roar.” This describes Yeshua, the Lion of the tribe of Judah! The Lord has been given all authority in Heaven and Earth as the Lion of Judah (Matthew 28:18 and Revelation 5:5).
Onycha is one of the heaviest oils and is too thick to pour. Its scent will seem familiar to some because it contains vanillin aldehyde, which gives it a vanilla scent.
Therapeutic/Medicinal Uses
Healing properties of Onycha include: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic. It combats arthritis, gout, asthma, bronchitis, and skin conditions.[1]
The author of Aromatherapy Solutions writes that Onycha was used for thousands of years for respiratory conditions.[2] Many have used it for poor circulation, flu, chills, colic, coughs, and skin conditions such as chapped or inflamed skin.
Onycha is valued for its ability to speed the healing of wounds and prevent infection. Other names it is called include: “Friar’s Balm,” “Benzoin,” and “Java Frankincense.”[3]
The fragrance of Onycha is a reminder to Satan that he is a defeated foe and believers share in the Lord’s authority “to tread on… all the power of the enemy” in His name (Luke 10:19).
[1] Stewart, David, Ph.D., D.N.M. Healing Oils of the Bible. Care Publications. 2003.
[2] Aromatherapy Solutions.
[3] Essential Oils Desk Reference. Essential Science Publishing.
For more information about the biblical essential oils, please visit Rebecca’s website http://HealWithOil.com.
Myrtle Essential Oil
Esther 2:7 says:
“And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle’s daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter.”
The Hebrew word Hadassah, Esther’s Hebrew name, means “Myrtle.” Because the Bible mentions this, she probably used Myrtle during her preparation for its therapeutic qualities of balancing the hormones.
Myrtle is also a treasured herb used in the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles (the Feast of Sukkot mentioned in Nehemiah 8:15 and Zechariah 14:16).
Myrtle is a picture of Elohim Echad, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:4, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD.” Its leaves are in clusters of groups of threes, but all grow from the same point on the stem. The Hebrew word echad means “one comprised of more than one.” The leaves of the Myrtle plant are a picture of the Father, Son and Ruach HaKodesh—the Holy Spirit—as it says in Deuteronomy 6:4.
Therapeutic/Medicinal Uses
The oil of Myrtle is effective for normalizing hormonal imbalances of the thyroid, hypothyroid, and ovaries, as well as soothing the respiratory system.[1] The therapeutic properties of Myrtle show that it is anti-infectious, a liver stimulant, eases prostate, is a decongestant, and a skin tonic.[2]
Myrtle has been used to help with asthma, sinus and respiratory infections, tuberculosis, hormone imbalances, and hypothyroidism.
Myrtle is very helpful for clearing anger.
[1] Essential Oils Desk Reference. Essential Science Publishing. Page 61.
[2] Ibid.
For more information about the biblical essential oils, please visit Rebecca’s website http://HealWithOil.com.
Anointing Oil that breaks the Yoke
Psalm 133:2 it describes the anointing of Aaron with “precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments.” The words “precious” and “ointment” indicate that this was not just olive oil but pure oils such as were used in the holy anointing oil.[1]
The Hebrew word for “anoint” is masach, which means “to smear, spread, or massage,” and in some cases it means “to pour oil over the head or body.” It shares the same root term as “Messiah,” mashiyach, meaning “anointed one.” In the New Testament, the Greek word Kristos or “Christ” means “anointed one” and is used 361 times.
Other words and phrases used in the Scriptures such as anointing oil, ointment, spices, incense, perfumes, odors or sweet savors, aromas, or fragrances, all imply essential oils.
A unique act of anointing is found in ancient Chinese medicine—for thousands of years they have placed oil on the inside of the ear and this place was called the “sheman” point. Yahweh instructed anointing this point of the right ear in Leviticus 14:17: “And the rest of the oil that is in his hand shall the priest put upon the tip of the right ear of him that is to be cleansed, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot, upon the blood of the trespass offering.”
This practice was used in a cleansing ceremony for leprosy to cleanse the leper and his house, and in another ceremony to release emotional patterns of guilt. Both of these rituals involved Cedarwood, Hyssop, and a “log of oil” (10 fluid ounces) which would have been beaten olive oil containing aromatics. Modern research has found that this portion of the ear is where one releases and resolves issues of guilt regarding their parents.
The biblical act of anointing is mentioned 156 times in the Bible. The Hebrew word for “anointing” is shemen, which means “fat oil, fatness, or olive oil.” In Isaiah 10:27, it says, “And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off they neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing.” It is the anointing oil that breaks the yoke.
For more information, visit my website, Http://HealWithOil.com.
[1] “The Old Testament: Volume Four.” A David Solomon and Elijah Vanguard video, copyright 1997.
For more information about the biblical essential oils, please visit Rebecca’s website http://HealWithOil.com.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Pure and holy biblical incense contains genuine Frankincense, which burns with ascending white smoke. Revelation 8:3-4 says that the original altar of incense continues to be used before the throne of God in Heaven.
Frankincense represents the godly prayers of His people rising to the throne (Exodus 30:1-9; Revelation 5:8). As ministers of the Lord, the priests burned incense before the ark in the Holy of Holies.
The Hebrew word lebonah means “incense,” which is Frankincense. There are five other places in the Bible where lebonah was translated “incense,” meaning Frankincense. The Hebrew word for “Frankincense” means “pure or white.” This is because of the milk-colored drops of aromatic resin that flow from the slashed inner wood of the tree.
The Boswellia Olibanum tree, which produces Frankincense, takes forty years to mature. In July 2006, the Tampa Tribune reported an over-harvesting of the trees and how the next generation isn’t producing seedlings. The book of Revelation says that these oils will cease in the last days.
Pure Frankincense was also placed on the loaves of bread to symbolize the purity and fragrance of Christ, the true Bread of God (Leviticus 24:5-7, John 6:32-33, Exodus 30:34-36). A portion of this prescribed incense was not burned but simply placed before the ark in the Holy of Holies. God said that this is “where I shall meet with you; it shall be holy (the holiest) to you.” This represented the prayers in Heaven between Yeshua God’s Son and the Heavenly Father.
In Numbers 16:46-50, it reads:
“And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the altar, and put on incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for there is wrath gone out from the LORD; the plague is begun. And Aaron took as Moses commanded, and ran into the midst of the congregation; and, behold, the plague was begun among the people: and he put on incense, and made an atonement for the people. And he stood between the dead and the living; and the plague was stayed. Now they that died in the plague were fourteen thousand and seven hundred, beside them that died about the matter of Korah. And Aaron returned unto Moses unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the plague was stayed.”
This incense used by Aaron in the book of Numbers stopped the plague from spreading. Believers can follow this example to protect themselves from the coming plagues in the last days.
The Gift of Frankincense
Frankincense was not only used for incense, but was offered as a gift. In Isaiah 60:3, Isaiah prophesied of the Magi’s gifts: “And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.” And verse 6 continues, “The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD.”
The Magi’s arrival is seen in Matthew 2:11:
“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.”
Mary and Joseph may have used the gifts to help protect Yeshua, keeping Him strong and healthy.
A Pure Cure-all
The Egyptians considered Frankincense to be a universal cure-all, used for everything from gout to a broken head—in other words, from “head to toe.”
In northern Egypt, a sect of Jews called “Theraputei” continue to practice the healing arts by anointing the sick with oils and laying hands on them, as Yeshua did in His adult life.
Therapeutic/Medicinal Uses
Fumigation was one of the ways biblical people used essential oils—today, diffusers create the same effect.
Frankincense is safe to inhale, rub on the skin, and to take internally. It supports the immune system.[1] The Arabs make teeth-whitening chewing gum from this resin. Frankincense heals cuts and wounds and also cures the common cold.
Today, Frankincense is used in many perfumes and colognes including the best-selling men’s fragrance “Old Spice” and Estee Lauder’s “Youth Dew.”
Uses for this oil include asthma, headaches, hemorrhaging, high blood pressure, tonsillitis, warts, allergies, cancer, ulcers, bronchitis, and respiratory infections.
Frankincense essential oils stimulate and elevate the mind. It overcomes stress and despair.[2]
[1] Essential Oils Desk Reference. Essential Science Publishing. Page 48.
[2] Ibid.
