There is nothing like the relaxing wave of aromas you get when you walk into a spa. Essential oils are the perfect greeting for a refreshing and luxurious spa experience. 

But your olfactory senses do much more than give access to pleasurable scents. There’s a reason when you smell essential oils, you feel a physical shift in your perception. The receptors in your nose provide a direct path to your brain. They connect to the region controlling emotions and memories.

It’s important to us at Balance Spa to make sure that you feel calm the moment you enter. We are dedicated to creating a serene environment for you from the start. Based on the smiles that we see as clients leave, we know it works! We’ve selected some of the best spa essential oils. They are here to welcome you every time you visit us. When you come to our spa, you will notice the lightly floral aroma. This aroma has a tangy citrus scent. It’s our natural aromatherapy blend. This blend includes lavender, rosemary, and lemon spa essential oils.

Aside from just smelling great, here are the benefits of each 100% pure oil that we use in our spa:

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil has a refreshing, floral scent. When inhaled, it helps reduce blood pressure, stress, and anxiety. This, in turn, increases your mood by promoting peace and tranquility. 

Aside from its soothing therapeutic effect when diffused, lavender essential oil can be used in spa facials and acne facials. Acne, eczema, and skin inflammation can be helped with lavender oil. Massages therapists often blend it into their oils for it’s pain relieving benefits. It can improve sleep and relieve symptoms associated with asthma. For in-home use, it repels insects and creates a fresh and clean smell. Additionally, it serves other purposes such as anti-fungal properties and potential to improve hair growth.

Purchase our Lavender Spa Essential Oil here, or browse our other products containing lavender.

Rosemary Oil

Like lavender oil, rosemary oil can be used in a variety of ways. Research shows that rosemary oil can help increase your memory. Inhaling the evergreen scent of rosemary oil can relieve stress. It can improve concentration and combat fatigue. It also boosts the immune system and clears congestion.   

Add rosemary oil to any of your massage treatments. It induces relaxation. It also alleviates sore and inflamed muscles. Some of our skin care products contain rosemary oil to help with acne, inflammation, and dry and oily skin. You can use rosemary oil at home to improve hair growth. It helps relieve headaches. You can also soothe digestion or use it in DIY cleaning supplies in your kitchen and bathrooms.

Lavender oil is useful for reducing blood pressure. However, rosemary oil is not recommended for those with high blood pressure. It is also not recommended for individuals with epilepsy.

Browse our products containing rosemary here.

Lemon Oil

Similarly to rosemary oil, invigorating lemon oil is helpful for concentration. Studies have even shown the scent of lemon to be helpful in office settings.

Lemon oil contains many vitamins that are healthy for the skin. It detoxifies and helps remove excess oil from the skin. At home, lemon oil is another great hair strengthener. The essential oil also provides immune support. It offers relief from indigestion and heartburn. 

Purchase our Lemon Spa Essential Oil here, or browse our other products containing lemon.

How to Disperse Spa Essential Oils in Your Home

1. Nebulizing Essential Oil Diffuser: Devices that disperses the oil with air only. No water, no heat. It releases a fine mist of 100% pure essential oil.
2. Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser : This device uses water and electronic frequencies. This combination creates a fine mist from the essential oil and water.
3. Spray Bottles: Mix essential oils with water in a spray bottle for a quick room freshener.
4. Cotton Balls: Place a few drops on cotton balls and tuck them into drawers or closets for subtle scent.
5. Potpourri: Add essential oils to dried flowers or herbs for a natural air freshener.
6. Oil Burners: Fill a bowl with water. Add a few drops of oil. Place it over a candle to release fragrance.

We use and recommend a nebulizing essential oil diffuser. This device keeps the oil in its most stable and natural form. Choose your preferred method and enjoy the amazing benefits!

Contact us today to book your next spa treatment. Explore our blog posts on other essential oils. Learn about peppermint and eucalyptus to learn more about the benefits of essential oils.

The post Turn Your Home Into A Spa With Essential Oils appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.

4 Essential Oil Blends Recipes DIY Aromatherapy

We all deserve that calm, spa-like feeling, even in the comfort of our own homes. One of the easiest ways to create that refreshing, therapeutic environment is through essential oil blends recipes. Essential oils aren’t just for massage therapy. These soothing scents can bring that same relaxation and rejuvenation right to your home to help you unwind naturally.

Wondering how to get started with essential oils? With so many oils out there, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! We’ve gathered easy essential oil blends recipes and tips to help you get started on your at-home aromatherapy journey.

Essentials Oils: Aromatherapy Profiles, Scent Categories, & Therapeutic Effects

Before exploring these fun yet relaxing recipes using lavender, spearmint, and clary sage, it may be nice to understand why these essential oils pair well together. Let’s look at how combining certain scents can create a powerful therapeutic effect.

Aromatic Notes

Essential oils can have three different notes — top, middle, or low. These essentially mean how strong or subtle a scent is and how long the fragrance will last in the air.

Top notes are the strongest, most noticeable scents but last the shortest in the air.

Middle notes are more subtle than top notes and linger a bit longer.

Low notes are a very subtle scent that lingers for a long time.

Combining strong lavender and spearmint with grounding clary sage creates a balanced aroma to help sustain your relaxation and energy.

• Lavender: Top Notes
• Spearmint: Top Notes
• Clary Sage: Middle Notes

Scent Categories

As you may know from purchasing perfumes, body washes, shampoos, and other scented products, there are different types of scents. Some products smell like flowers, others like herbs, and others like the woods. It’s the same concept for essential oils. Lavender provides an uplifting floral scent, spearmint adds a fresh herbal scent, and clary sage improves the mood.

• Lavender: Floral
• Spearmint: Herbaceous
• Clary Sage: Herbaceous

Essential Oil Effects

How does each essential oil impact the mind, body, and spirit on its own? And what happens when they are combined? Lavender’s stress-reducing qualities and spearmint and clary sage’s energizing properties bring balance. You can have the energy to be productive or enjoy a fun summer day while preventing stress from arising.

• Lavender: Stress-Relieving

Lavender essential oil is known for its natural calming effects. Massage therapists often use it with clients to gently ease stress and anxiety. Some research shows that lavender can have real therapeutic benefits, especially for those feeling overwhelmed.

If you have trouble unwinding and falling asleep at night, try using lavender oil. It’s known to be a safe, soothing way to relax before going to sleep.

• Spearmint: Energizing

Spearmint oil is like a breath of fresh air. It brings an uplifting energy that can brighten any day.

Need an afternoon pick-me-up? Try spearmint oil. It’s ideal for those moments when you need a little boost — helping to refresh the mind, improve focus, and lift your mood.

• Clary Sage: Centering

Clary sage’s grounding, earthy scent brings a wide range of benefits. It’s both energizing and centering, supporting focus while also helping calm the mind and body.

Like many essential oils, clary sage also has anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why many use it to help reduce tension and promote an overall sense of well-being.

4 Simple Essential Oil Blends Recipes for Aromatherapy at Home

How can you actually integrate this essential oil blend into your daily life? While you can combine these three oils into a diffuser, there are also other ways you can reap the benefits of these essential oils. These include:

Essential Oil Blends Recipe 1: Body Oil for Aromatherapy Massages

For this recipe, combine into a sealable glass bottle or jar:

• 1 oz carrier oil of your choice
• 5 drops of lavender essential oil
• 5 drops of spearmint essential oil
• 7 drops of clary sage essential oil

Recommendations for Use:

• Bring to Your Massage Therapy Session: Take your homemade bottle with you to your next massage, and ask your therapist to use your blend!
• After a Nighttime Shower: I recommend using this body oil to moisturize and relax before bed or after a nice relaxing shower.
• Be Cautious with Sensitive Skin: Just keep in mind that spearmint may not be the best for skin sensitivities so don’t use it on any patches of sensitive or damaged skin.

Essential Oil Blends Recipe 2: Relaxing Room/Body Mist

For this recipe, combine into a mini glass spray bottle:

• 3 oz filtered water
• 1 tbsp of witch hazel
• 22 drops of lavender essential oil
• 22 drops of spearmint essential oil
• 29 drops of clary sage essential oil

Recommendations for Use:

• Room Freshener: This mist can be used as a room freshener to help bring calm and energizing vibes to your work or home space. Try this recipe for a disinfectant room mist!
• Natural Perfume: Spray it on as a natural, uplifting perfume!
• Non-Toxic Bug Repellent: Some essential oils actually repel insects at home in a more safe, sustainable way than chemical-based repellents. Spray some on before going for a walk or gardening!

Essential Oil Blends Recipe 3: Therapeutic Bath Salts

For this recipe, combine into a sealable glass jar:

• 8 oz salts of your choice
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops spearmint essential oil
• 14 drops clary sage essential oil

Recommendations for Use:

• Warm, Relaxing Bath: If you’re in need of some inspiration, fill your bathtub with relaxing warm/hot water and 2-5 tbsp of the mixture! Grab a cup of tea or glass of wine and your favorite book, and sit back and relax!

Essential Oil Blends Recipe 4: Relaxing & Refreshing Laundry Detergent

For this recipe, simply add the following drops directly to your powder or liquid detergent before adding to your machine:

• 5-10 drops of your favorite oil: Clary sage, spearmint, or lavender

OR

• 3 drops of each oil for a complete blend

Recommendations for Use:

• Combine with Your Dryer Balls or Softener: Add drops to your wool dryer balls or softener for extra soothing scents.

Essential Oil Safety for Massage & Diffusion

While essential oils have a wide range of benefits, there are also certain things to look out for. These include:

• Do not store essential oil products in plastic. Essential oils can degrade the plastic over time and leach into the product.
• Do not ingest your essential oils. While they can be used in body products and diffused into the air, they are unsafe to eat.
• Be mindful of pets, young children, and if you are pregnant. If you have any serious health condition, please consult your doctor before using these oils.
• Be aware of where you’re getting your essential oils from. Not all essential oil products are pure essential oils and may contain additives.

Finding High-Quality Oils & Diffusers for Essential Oil Blends Recipes

For high-quality essential oil diffusers and essential oils, check out our retail section at the spa! We use a variety of beautiful essential oils and blends in our treatments. We also diffuse relaxing lavender that you’ll love the moment you walk through our doors.

Contact us at Balance Spa today at 561-208-8111 to book your appointment and see why we love essential oils so much!

The post Easy DIY Aromatherapy | Essential Oil Blends Recipes: Lavender, Spearmint, Clary Sage appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.

Fast, easy recipe for Aromatherapy room spray

1 x 4oz Glass or Metal Spray Bottle
3 Tablespoons (1.5 fl. oz) Distilled Water
3 Tablespoons (1.5 fl. oz) of Witch Hazel
10 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil
12 Drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
12 Drops Lemon Essential Oil
4 Drops Pine Scotch Essential Oil

This aromatherapy mix is perfect for the bathroom because of its refreshing, clean smell but also for its disinfecting properties. By making it yourself, you know every single ingredient and can rest assured that it’s all aromatherapy and completely natural! It also takes less than 5 minutes to make. I would recommend that you use glass or metal implements/tools when measuring and pouring the essential oils as they can literally eat through plastic. For the same reason, don’t use a plastic spray/mist bottle.

Directions

Fill the spray bottle with 1.5 fl. ounces of distilled water and 1.5 fl. ounces of witch hazel. (Even though a 4 oz. bottle is suggested, leave about 1 fl. oz. unfilled so you can shake the bottle well immediately before each use.) Then, add the essential oils. After you first make and try the spray, let it sit for about a day before making a conclusion that the aroma is too weak; the aroma can change after the air freshener has had time to sit and the essential oils have had a chance to “marry.”

Tips & Insights

Witch hazel is a hydrosol distilled from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant. It keeps the oil emulsified in the water and smells much better than alcohol. It also helps the essential oils retain their fragrance for a longer time. Be careful to not overfill your sprayer bottles. This will leave room for the spray to be shaken well, and it also ensures that the essential oil doesn’t float to the very top between uses and eat at the rubber gasket contained in the sprayer mechanism.

Safety & Storage

Caution! Many aromatherapy essential oils are contraindicated for use during pregnancy and for those with certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure and epilepsy so be sure to research the ones you wish to use if you have pre-existing conditions. Likewise, be courteous when using your spray around others.

Safe Handling of Essential Oils

When using aromatherapy essential oils, avoid direct contact with the skin (tea tree and lavender are an exception), mucuous membranes, and eyes. If eye contact occurs, flush the eyes with water for several minutes (e.g., 15-20) and consult a doctor if irritation persists. If skin contact occurs, immediately wash with warm soapy water.

Storage of Essential Oils

It’s important to store your essential oils in dark-colored glass bottles, such as amber or cobalt blue, out of sunlight and direct heat to avoid the chemical constituents from changing and thereby affecting their safety and therapeutic actions.

The post Aromatherapy Disinfectant Room Mist appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.

Orange essential oil was first recognized for it’s healing properties in ancient China. It is a powerful, uplifting oil full of brightness and zest! Think of the sunny, bright orange color of the fruit. Imagine the juicy sweetness that flows into your mouth as you bite into a segment. This is the essence of an orange that is brought to you through the essential oil of this amazing plant! It is no wonder that in ancient times, the orange was revered as “the fruit of the Gods”. Did you know that the first Oranges arrived in Florida in 1565?

Today, orange oil stands as a powerful ingredient in household cleaners, perfumes, and body care products. It is the go-to choice for those looking to incorporate natural elements into their medical treatments. This versatile oil effectively addresses anxiety, stress, insomnia, and digestive issues. Moreover, it demonstrates significant potential as both a cancer preventative and a treatment.

Practical Uses of Orange Essential Oil:

• Massage / Cellulite: Orange essential oil stimulates circulation making it a diuretic which can help for cellulite through lymphatic drainage. The lymphatic stimulant action further helps to detoxify the body, aid the immune system and general well-being. Use a 1 to 2% dilution ration to carrier oil and massage over areas of stagnation. NOTE: Must be blended with a base carrier oil first, do not use undiluted on the skin.

• Insect Repellent: Oranges generally contain an ingredient that wards off insects, ticks, flies and mosquitoes. Dab a piece of cotton wool with orange essential oil and place it in closets and cupboards to repel moths. You can apply diluted orange essential oil to your skin to prevent mosquito bites. If you have insect bites, apply orange essential oil. It can relieve the itching sensation and cool the area.
• Cleaning Agent: Orange essential oil is a good anti-bacterial and anti-septic agent. Add a few drops onto your sponge or cleaning water and use it as a household cleaner. You can make a spritzer by combining water, a few drops of orange essential oil and Epsom salt. Spritz the mixture over kitchen counter tops and table tops and wipe dry with a clean cloth. This is not only very eco-friendly, but also very cheap and smells great!
• Digestive Aid: For the digestive system, orange essential oil can help with constipation, dyspepsia and as a general tonic. Blend with a base oil and apply to the stomach area or diffuse in an air diffuser.

Orange Blends Very Well With:

Orange essential oil is one of those oils that blends extremely well with and compliments other oils. Below are some of the oils we most love to combine it with:

• Lemon Essential Oil – this gives it a very fresh citrus aroma.
• Frankincense Essential Oil – this creates a warm, comforting, stable aroma.
• Clove Essential Oil – this is a healing and medicinal combination.
• Peppermint Essential Oil – for a bright, clean profile.
• Lavender Essential Oil – a stress busting combination.

Precautions

Firstly, please make you are not allergic before using it anywhere on your body. We recommend doing a patch test. Apply a few drops to the inside of your arm and then watch for any reaction. Orange oil contains limonene which can irritate your skin. For that reason, always use it diluted in a base oil when using it on your skin. You can choose grape seed, jojoba, or coconut oil.

Remember that essential oils are absorbed into the body via the nose and pores (hair follicle on your skin). From there they enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body. So whether you diffuse the oil or apply it to your body, it will enter your blood stream. Also, most citrus oils can cause photosensitivity (sensitive to sun burn) so remember that when applying it to your skin.

SOURCES:
https://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/orange.htm
https://healthmunsta.hubpages.com/hub/Benefits-of-Orange-Oil
https://www.naturalnews.com/029155_orange_essential_oils.html

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For part 5 of “uses of”, we have eucalyptus oil – Nature’s Respiratory Reliever From Down Under”

In Greek ‘eu’ means ‘well’ and ‘kalypto’ means ‘covered’. This refers to the cup-like membrane that covers the flower as a bud. The eucalyptus oil industry is an important and colorful part of Australia’s history and heritage; they dominated the world eucalyptus oil market for over 80 years. It can probably claim the distinction of being the first truly Australian primary and secondary industry, as well as also being Australia’s first export.

History of Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus was first distilled in 1788 when Doctors White and Cossiden used it for treating chest problems. It was introduced to Europe in 1788 under the name “Sydney Peppermint” because it was extracted from Eucalyptus peperita. The production of eucalyptus oil in the 1880’s was often carried out by aboriginals and erstwhile miners as the goldfields petered out. By the turn of the century, oil was being exported to the United Kingdom, Germany, USA, Canada, South Africa, India, China, New Zealand, and several countries in the Far East.

By around 1950, the cost of producing eucalyptus oil in Australia had increased so much that it could no longer compete against Spanish and Portuguese oils and Australia lost its leading position in the eucalyptus production market. Today, Australia produces about 5% of the world’s eucalyptus oil. It takes over 50 pounds of plant material to produce just one pound of oil!

Interesting Eucalyptus Essential Oil Fact

In 1857, the French government planted the fast-growing eucalyptus trees in Algeria to ward off the noxious gases thought to be responsible for malaria. It worked, but ironically this was not due to the essential oil, but because the water-hungry trees transformed the marsh into dry land, eliminating the mosquitoes’ habitat!

Research Says

A study published in Laryngoscope in 2004 shows the usefulness of eucalyptus in treating non-bacterial sinusitis. Patients suffering from non-bacterial sinusitis showed faster improvement when given medicine containing eucalyptus oil. Also, gargles of eucalyptus oil mixed with warm water are consistently effective in treating sore throats. Another study found that an oil of lemon eucalyptus product may also keep ticks away.

Uses

In 19th-century England, eucalyptus oil was used in hospitals to clean urinary catheters. Surgeons were also using it as an antiseptic during surgery.

Medicinal eucalyptus oil produced from E. polybractea reduces cold and influenza symptoms. The antiseptic properties and the
power to clear the nasal passages and bronchial tubes make it easier to breathe. Medicinal eucalyptus oils and eucalyptol are also in cough lozenges, inhalation sprays and drops, gargles, mouth washes, toothpastes, embrocation balms and ointments, liniments, and soaps. A popular new use is to vaporize it in saunas. It is also an excellent rub for muscular aches and pains.

Eucalyptus oil is also used in antiseptics and germicidal disinfectants because of its pleasant odor and its effectiveness at killing bacteria. It is an excellent solvent which makes it an ideal spot and stain remover. You’ll fine industrial eucalyptus oils in household disinfectants and as industrial solvents. Use eucalyptus’ cleaning, deodorizing and antiseptic properties by adding eucalyptus oil to the laundry wash for cleaning and freshening clothes. The antiseptic and deodorizing nature of it makes it a perfect room freshener for hospitals and sick rooms. It kills bacteria without toxic fumes, keeping the rooms clean and sterilized.

Eucalyptus oil is also an effective insect repellent. In 1948, the U.S. officially registered it as an insecticide and miticide (kills mites and ticks).

Therapeutic Properties

Eucalyptus is universal and versatile. Some of its many properties include analgesic, antiseptic, deodorant, expectorant, and vermifuge (anti-parasitic).

Keep in Mind

This oil is powerful; use it with care. Dilute oil before placing directly onto the skin. People with high blood pressure and epilepsy should avoid use. Excessive use may also cause headaches. People with asthma, seizures, liver or kidney disease, or low blood pressure should not use eucalyptus without first talking to their doctors. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use eucalyptus. It is toxic when taken by mouth. If in doubt, please consult your doctor or pharmacist

What Does Eucalyptus Blend Well With?

Eucalyptus blends well with Thyme, Lavender, Rosemary, Marjoram, Cedarwood, and Lemon. Above all else, you can’t go wrong with eucalyptus! At Balance Spa, we love essential oils. To learn more, check out our blogs on lavender, peppermint, and rosemary.

The post Part 5: Uses of Eucalyptus Oil appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.

Derived from the Arabic ‘laimun’ or the Persian ‘limun’, eary knowledge and use of lemon is believed to have originated in China.  Subsequently, history then tracks it traveling to Italy and the Mediterranean with Arabian merchants. To alleviate scurvy and other vitamin deficiencies, the Royal Navy included lemons as part of their sailors diets at sea.  The fruit contains significant percentages Vitamins A, B and C.

Christopher Columbus took lemon seeds to the New World, including Haiti in 1493.  In search of the elusive “Fountain of Youth”, the Spanish adventurer and explorer, Ponce de Leon soon followed after.  Ponce de Leon alighted on the shores of Florida and instructed his sailors to plant 100 lemon seeds wherever they landed – this was the beginning of the great citrus industry in Florida!

Around the World

The juice and peel of the lemon are used as cooking seasonings in countries worldwide.  The Spanish consider lemon a “cure all”, especially for infectious illnesses. Lemon essential oil was historically used to try break a fever associated with diseases such as malaria or typhoid.  To reduce worker error, banks in Japan diffuse lemon essential oil periodically throughout the work day.  Who does not like the fresh and clean smell of lemon in a perfume or summer salad?

When harvested while they are still green, lemons will yield a higher quality oil.  It takes over 3,000 lemons to produce 1 kilo (2.2 lbs) of expressed oil.

Research Says

• A Japanese study suggested that after diffusing lemon oil throughout a busy office building, typing errors decreased by 54%.
• James Lind, the Scottish physician, proved in 1753 that citrus fruit prevents scurvy.

Helpful Uses of Lemon Essential Oil

• Simply add a few drops of lemon essential oil to your glass of water to purify it.  It’s also good for indigestion, heartburn and intestinal parasites.
• Use a few drops to help remove gum stuck in hair, or on clothing, furniture, etc.
• Apply a few drops to oil or grease stains on clothing before washing.
• Diffuse lemon essential oil in the air to help concentration while studying.
• Generally, it is considered safe for use in cooking by the FDA (21CFR182.20).  There are many great recipes available online using Lemon Essential Oil.
• Make your own furniture polish by adding several drops to half a cup of olive oil or beeswax.
• Rub a few drops over sticker residue to remove old stickers from walls or windows.
• Add 5 drops to your dishwasher to create a clean smell and add sparkle to your dishes.

Therapeutic properties

Lemon oil has an extensive list of therapeutic properties. It is anti-anemic, anti-microbial, anti-rheumatic, anti-sclerotic, antiseptic, bactericidal, carminative (reduces gas and flatulence), cicatrisant (forms scars to close wounds), depurative (purifying), diaphoretic (increases perspiration), diuretic, febrifuge (reduces fever), haemostatic (stops bleeding), hypotensive (reduces blood pressure), insecticidal, rubefacient (reddens the skin by increasing circulation), tonic and vermifuge (expels intestinal worms).

Warning

Lemon oil is powerfully astringent and antiseptic. Using undiluted oil directly on the skin can cause irritation on those with sensitive skin.  For an ideal blend, use five drops or less of lemon oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil. Lemon oil can contain up to 2% furanocoumarin compounds, including bergaptene. These compounds act as photo-sensitizing agents, which can increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light, causing accelerated burning and skin damage. Do not expose the skin to direct sunlight for 24-78 hours after using lemon oil. Don’t use lemon oil on the skin in the presence of sunlight.

Certain oils can be very toxic to cats. Pine and citrus products and oils, in particular those that are not of therapeutic grade, can be especially problematic.  Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

Which oils does lemon essential oil blend well with?

Although most essential oils blend well together, Lemon Oil blends well with Benzoin, chamomile, cistus, elemi, eucalyptus, fennel, frankincense, geranium, juniper, lavender, neroli, oakmoss, rose, sandalwood, and ylang ylang.

The post Part 4: Uses of Lemon Essential Oil appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.

Today’s blog is our Part 3 of Uses of rosemary oil and explains how it can increase your memory by 75%!

Rosemary’s fancy, technical name is rosmarinus officinalis. The name “Rosmarinus” is derived from the Latin ros (dew) and marinus (sea). As the name indicates, this plant tends to grow along the coast.

The connection with rosemary and memory has been a long and consistent one. The Tudors believed that rosemary could enhance memory. In Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, Ophelia famously remarked, ‘There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance; pray you, love, remember.’ Published in 1652, Culpepper’s The English Physician (also known as Culpepper’s Complete herbal), praises the herb. He recommended it for “cold benumbed joints” and stomach, spleen and bowel disorders.

Rosemary plants will rid areas of infestation, disease and pestilence. In the Great Plague of London (1665-1666), rosemary was regarded as the best herb to carry and use. It became such a valuable commodity that its value increased six-fold. French hospitals used it routinely as an antibacterial agent right up until 1930.

Rosemary Oil Research

A team of psychologists led by Dr. Mark Moss at Northumbria University in Newcastle tested the effect of rosemary essential oil. He found that using it improved memory of events occurring after its use by as much as 75%. Another recent study presented at the British Psychological Society’s annual conference in Harrogate, United Kingdom, showed that inhaling rosemary essential oil (Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8 cineol) to enhances the ability to remember events and complex tasks.

Rosemary Oil Therapeutic Properties

The therapeutic properties of rosemary oil are analgesic, antidepressant, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, cordial, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, hepatic, hypertensive, nervine, rubefacient, stimulant, sudorific and tonic. Although most essential oils blend well together, rosemary essential oil blends particularly well with cedarwood, citronella, geranium, lavender, lemongrass and peppermint.

These days sports therapists use rosemary in massage oils to alleviate the pain and inflammation of sore, aching muscles. Aromatherapists use rosemary’s briskly energizing aroma to combat nervous exhaustion and fatigue. This effect can be so powerful that rosemary is not recommended for use by people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Rosemary oil also acts as an astringent and will help regulate or decrease oily secretions of the hair follicles. It works well in hair care treatments and is treats greasy hair and dandruff.

Helpful Usage Tips

• Add 10 drops of each of rosemary and tea tree essential oils to your home-made laundry detergent for a fresh scent and excellent antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Add 5 drops to your shampoo to help with oily hair. Adding it to shampoo it not only increases the circulation to the scalp (thereby improving hair growth), but also acts as a general conditioner and tonic for the hair and scalp.
• Add 5 – 10 drops to a warm bath to help with with liver and gall problems, mucus congestion, muscular aches, cramps, pains and spasms, stiff neck, overwork, rheumatism, arthritis, colds, constipation, diarrhea, coughs, bronchitis, back pain, scalp disorders, sinusitis, mental fatigue and physical tiredness.

Around The Home

Rosemary is attractive and drought tolerant and making it perfect as an ornamental plant in gardens and for xeriscape landscaping. It grows very well in regions with a Mediterranean climate. It is easy to grow and pest-resistant. Rosemary can grow quite large and stay attractive for many years. Rosemary grows well in pots and responds well to pruning and shaping. The ground cover cultivars spread widely and have a dense and durable texture.
Rosemary essential oil is non toxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritant in dilution. Avoid rosemary during pregnancy and if there is history of epilepsy. Use a carrier oil like almond, vegetable or coconut to dilute rosemary essential oil in before internal or topical use. It is not advisable to use rosemary in its undiluted form.

Certain oils can be very toxic to cats, especially pine and citrus products and oils in particular those that are not of therapeutic grade. Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

We use rosemary essential oil in both our Immuno Massage and Muscle Soothing Clay Massage.

The post Part 3: Uses of Rosemary Oil appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.

Did you know that peppermint is one of the most popular essential oils here at Balance Spa? Between its compelling fragrance and medicinal qualities, peppermint oil is a fantastic choice for many different needs. There are many uses of peppermint oil.

Peppermint – “The World’s Oldest Medicine”

The word “peppermint” comes from the Latin word “mente” meaning “thought.” It helps with concentration. According to Greek mythology, Pluto’s wife Persephone crushed the nymph Mentha into dust after learning that Pluto had affections for her. Subsequently, Pluto turned her remains into a peppermint plant so she could be enjoyed and appreciated for many years to come.

The use of peppermint has been found in Egyptian tombs dating as far back as 1000 B.C. It not only has a multitude of proven therapeutic benefits, but it is also helpful around the home for organic pest control.  In the early 1900’s, peppermint oil soaked rags were used to catch rats.

The strong scent of the oil (combined with ferrets to chase the rodents) lured rats into cloth bags to be removed from homes and businesses.  In the construction and plumbing industry, peppermint essential oil is also used to test for the tightness of pipes. It also discloses leaks by its odor.

Research Says

• A study by Alan Hirsch, M.D. found that inhaling peppermint essential oil helps trigger a sense of fullness.
• A Kiel University study found that 10% of the peppermint oil in ethanol had the same result as taking a 1000 mg dose of paracetamol.  Widely used as an analgesic to combat tension headaches, paracetamol also reduces pain and fevers.
• Dr. William N. Dember from the University of Cincinnati, studied the mental accuracy of students when inhaling peppermint oil. The results showed that mental accuracy increased by 28 percent.
• Jean Valnet, M.D. studied peppermint’s healing effects on the liver and respiratory systems.

Helpful Usage Tips

• Inhale the fragrance of peppermint essential oil 5 – 10 times per day to curb the appetite and reduce the impulse to overeat.
• Add a drop of peppermint essential oil to herbal tea to aid in digestion and relieve heartburn.
• Keep peppermint oil in the car on your commute to stay alert. Add a few drops to a napkin, and place in the a/c vent.
• Diffuse peppermint essential oil in your room while studying to improve concentration and accuracy. Inhale peppermint oil while taking a test to improve your recall.
• Placing 15 – 20 drops on your air conditioning filter in the morning is a pleasant way to help you wake up and keep your home smelling fresh.
• Place 5 drops of peppermint essential oil on your shower floor before taking a shower.  This will revive your senses and leave your bathroom enveloped in a refreshing haze of peppermint aroma.

Around the Home

• Peppermint oil has a high concentration of natural pesticides. To deter rats, mice, ants, and cockroaches, place two drops of peppermint essential oil on a cotton ball and place it along the path or point of entry for these pests.
• Remove ticks by applying a drop of peppermint essential oil on a cotton swab and swabbing the tick. Wait for it to unhinge its head and remove from your pet.
• Mix peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil such as almond or olive oil in a foot-bath to relieve sore feet. Keep water agitated while soaking feet.
• To kill aphids, add 4-5 drops of peppermint essential oil to 4 ounces of water and spray your plants.

Therapeutic Properties

The therapeutic properties of peppermint oil are: analgesic, anesthetic, antiseptic, antigalactagogue, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, cordial, decongestant, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hepatic, nervine, stimulant, stomachic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor, and vermifuge.

Peppermint oil can assist in nervous disorders and is dramatically effective in stimulating the mind and increasing concentration. It can also help treat the respiratory tract, muscular aches and pains, and some skin problems.

Don’t Forget to Blend!

Although most essential oils blend well with one another, peppermint oil blends particularly well with benzoin, eucalyptus, lavender, marjoram, lemon and rosemary.

Be Aware

Peppermint oil is non-toxic and a non-irritant in low dilutions, but sensitization may be a problem due to the menthol content. Keep it well away from the eyes as it can cause irritation to the skin and mucus membranes.  Children under six and pregnant women should not use peppermint essential oil. If you are currently under a doctor’s care or pregnant, consult your physician prior to use. Avoid contact with eyes, mucus membranes, or sensitive skin areas. Do not apply to a fresh wound or burn.

Certain oils can be very toxic to pets. Pine and citrus products and oils are more dangerous. Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

The FDA approves peppermint essential oil for use as a food additive. Do not use peppermint oil near your eyes or open cuts. If irritation does occur, don’t use water as it will worsen the symptoms. Instead, use a pure vegetable oil on location. Do not use peppermint oil on children younger than 6 years of age. Avoid it if you have high blood pressure. Peppermint may cause skin irritation for some. In those cases, dilution is recommended.

Contact Balance Spa for More Information

We take pride in the oils we use at our spa. We hope you enjoy using our peppermint oil. For more information on essential oils, check out our our blog posts on lavender, rosemary, lemon, and eucalyptus, or contact us today to book an appointment.

The post Part 2: Uses of Peppermint Essential Oil appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.

Here at Balance Spa, we’re often asked about which essential oils to use and the best way to use them. There is so much information available online about essential oils that it can be a little overwhelming at first. That’s why we’re creating a list of the most useful oils as an easy starting point for you. Each essential oil is unique, interesting, and special in its own way.

In the next few posts, we’ll share several of our top essential oils. We’ll cover points like its history, usage, and properties. At the end of the series, we’ll recap with a summary listing all the oils and a brief description. You can use it as a handy reference for most of your aromatherapy needs.

We’ll kick the series off with a must have in every aromatherapy kit – lavender.

Lavender – The “Universal” Oil

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a fresh, sweet, floral, herbaceous aroma that is soothing and refreshing. The use of lavender has been recorded for more than 2,500 years and was historically used in perfumes, insect repellants, and in the mummification process where the dead were wrapped in lavender-dipped shrouds. In Roman times, lavender flowers were sold for 100 denarii per pound. This price was equivalent to a full month’s wage for a farm laborer at the time. In Medieval and Renaissance times, lavender was used to ward off the Black Plague. These days, we know that the Plague was spread by fleas. Lavender is a known insect repellant, so it may have been effective for this purpose. The word “Lavender” originates from the Latin word “lavare”, meaning “to wash.”

Lavender is the most versatile of all essential oils, and no home should be without it. It is an adaptogen, and therefore can assist the body when adapting to stress or imbalances. Lavender has also been used in an approved anti-anxiety medication in Germany, called Silexan.

There are many uses for lavender; here are some helpful tips:

Helpful Usage Tips:

• Inhale lavender essential oil to soothe and relax the body and mind.
• Make an herbal tea. Mix 2 drops of lavender essential oil with 1 teaspoon of local raw honey. Add this mixture to warm water.
• Add 4–5 drops of lavender essential oil in a warm bath for relaxation.
• Drop 1–2 drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow to aid in a restful night of sleep.
• Drop 15 – 20 drops on your air conditioning filter towards the end of the day to freshen the air and help unwind before bedtime.
• Apply lavender directly to a burn to drastically help reduce pain, increase healing time, and reduce scarring.
• Apply lavender directly to insect bites and stings to relieve pain.
• Add lavender to your homemade washing detergent or insect repellant spray. There are many recipes available online.
• Remember, lavender relaxes and soothes the body and mind. Don’t use at times when you need to be alert, such as driving.

Around the Home

The anti-bacterial properties and the sweet smell of lavender oil make it useful, not only for your body, but also for your home:

• Essential lavender oil is a great natural remedy for getting rid of moths. Add a few drops to the softener compartment of your clothes washer or to the final rinse of a hand wash. Never put away woolen or silk clothes for any length of time once they have been worn. This is the most common way to attract moths. Lavender oil not only keeps wardrobes free from moths, but will also make your clothes smell great. Use regularly and your wardrobe and linen cupboard will smell like a dream.
• Add a few drops to a sponge. Wipe over kitchen surfaces to deter flies. This will leave your kitchen smelling fresh and clean.
• Add a few drops onto your polishing cloth and wipe over wooden furniture after polishing. This leaves your rooms smelling fresh and clean for days.

Properties of Lavender Oil

The properties of lavender oil include anti-fungal, analgesic, antiseptic, anti-tumoral, anticonvulsant, vasodilating, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and vermifuge.

Things to Keep in Mind

Not all natural plants or plant products are beneficial to health. Deadly night-shade can be poisonous and stinging nettles sting.

Do not use these oils under any circumstances:
Bitter Almond, Boldo Leaf, Calamus, Yellow Camphor, Horseradish, Jaborandi Leaf, Mugwort, Mustard, Pennyroyal, Rue, Sassafras, Savin Southerwood, Tansy, Thuja, Wintergreen, Wormseed, and Wormwood.

Note About Animals: Certain oils can be very toxic to pets. Citrus products and oils in particular are dangerous for them. Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

General Safety Information: Do not take any essential oils internally without consultation from a medical doctor or qualified aromatherapy practitioner. If you are pregnant, epileptic, or have liver damage or cancer, consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Use essential oils only under proper guidance. Use extreme caution when using oils with children and give them only the gentlest oils at extremely low doses. It is safest to consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using essential oils with children. Conduct a skin patch test prior to using an essential oil that you’ve never used before. For more in-depth information on essential oil safety issues, read Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand and Tony Balacs.

Learn More About How Balance Spa Uses Lavender Oil

Above all else, we want to create the best spa experience possible. All of our massage rooms are stocked with Lavender Essential Oils for complimentary use in each treatment. We use soothing oils like lavender in our spa services. For more information, contact us today to book an appointment. Definitely check out our blogs on other essential oils as well such as peppermint, rosemary, lemon, geranium and eucalyptus.

The post Part 1: Uses of Lavender Oil appeared first on Balance Spa Boca Raton | Therapeutic Spa Treatments.