...And I'm Back on Aromatherapy Notes - at Least for Now!

So, last month I transferred the Aromatherapy Notes blog over to its own domain name.  Unfortunately, I suffered a devasting blow to all of my blogs and websites last weekend when a hacker maliciously hacked them all and caused them to go down.  In addition to that, it appears that we have some sort of major problem with our main home computer (at least I have my laptop for now).

So, after a few days of fretting, I came back to blogger and, resurrected from the ashes, the old Aromatherapy Notes blog.  It hasn't been updated in over a month but it does provide a resource of all my past aromatherapy information and links to all of my essential oil profiles at Suite 101 (which were not affected in the hack as it is an independent website that I write for).  I wanted to at least provide something of aromatic use to my readers :)

My aromatherapy websites and the Aromatherapy Notes blog WILL return but the process is taking longer than anticipated.  And, in the name of professionalism and continuity I wanted to put something back on line.  So, here we are!  Back on blogger for now!  I'll keep you updated and thank you for being here :)

In addition, you can find some of my aromatherapy wedding products now over at Etsy!  Click here.

And you can still find me on facebook:

Sedona Aromatherapie
Aromatherapy Wedding
Chocolate Aromatherapy
Girly Chat

or follow me on twitter @sedonaaroma or @girlychat

Just for your info:

My websites that are currently out of service are:

http://www.sharonfalsetto.com/
http://www.sedonaaromatherapie.com/
http://www.aromatherapywedding.com/
http://www.chocolatearomatherapy.com/
http://www.aromatherapylibrary.com/
http://www.aromatherapyglossary.com/
http://www.aromatherapynotes.com/
http://www.girly-chat.com/
http://www.writewebtext.com/

But in the words of Arnie, "I'll be back!" :)

Aromatherapy Notes Blog Has Moved!

We have now moved!

I posted on Monday that the Aromatherapy Notes blog was moving to its own domain name.  Well, that move has now taken place.  Although there are a few tweaks and final bits to polish up, the main web site is up (including content imported from this blog) and I will be posting new aromatherapy blog posts on the new domain from now on.

I notice that some people follow this blog through both networked blogs and google connect.  You can still do that on the new Aromatherapy Notes blog but you will need to switch over :)

So come on over!  All the new aromatherapy talk is now over at Aromatherapy Notes!

See you there!

NB - BY THE END OF THE YEAR (2010) THIS BLOG WILL BE DELETED.  ALL CONTENT CURRENTLY ON THIS BLOG CAN BE FOUND ON THE NEW DOMAIN.

The Aromatherapy Notes Blog is Moving!



We are moving!

 Its been on the cards for a while, but last week I finally got round to starting to move the Aromatherapy Notes blog to its own domain name.  The new Aromatherapy Notes blog isn't quite yet complete, but I hope to get it fully functional by the end of October.  All the original content from this blog has been transferred over to the new Aromatherapy Notes blog, so the information hasn't been lost.

However, if you currently "follow" this Aromatherapy Notes blog on blogger, you'll need to make a note to "follow" my new Aromatherapy Notes blog.  I'll post another post when the new blog is fully functional to remind you, but I am not going to making any more "proper" aromatherapy posts on this blog from now on.

The reason I'm moving the Aromatherapy Notes blog onto its own domain name is simply to make the blog more professional looking - and to link it more easily into my "aromatherapy family" of web sites.  I hope that you will like the new Aromatherapy Notes blog and will continue to "follow" me over there!  See you soon! :)

Sustainability of "Threatened" Essential Oils

A couple of months ago I wrote an article about the Difference between East Indian and West Indian Sandalwood Trees.  Sandalwood, like some other essential oils such as rosewood, attracts media attention because the extraction of the essential oil "threatens" the plant species from which it is extracted.  Some aromatherapists will not use sandalwood essential oil for this reason, and prefer to use an "alternative" oil.

Gathering qualitative information about the sustainability of "threatened" essential oils is difficult because people often have opposing opinions on the matter!  However, there are both organizations and individuals around the world who believe in helping to spread the word about such matters.

I was recently contacted by Mane Essentials, a small supplier of essential oils in the UK, about the article I mentioned above.  Although Mane Essentials have a small operation, if you take a look at their web site you will see that one of their aims is "to monitor the market for...endangered products and to keep up to date with crop reports which will ultimately affect our industry."

Mane Essentials very kindly linked to my sandalwood article on their web site and this in turn lead me to discover some information about Cropwatch.  According to their web site, Cropwatch is:

" an independent Watchdog for Natural Aromatic Products used in the aroma, traditional herbal medicine and phytochemicals industries."

In the US, a similar project, in the form of the Aromatic Plant Project, aims to:

"encourage the growing and distillation of true essential oil plants in the United States for the production of hydrosols and essential oils."

If you take the time to do your own research on these operations, and on others, you will find that there are a lot of "small" voices fighting for the sustainability of "threatened" essential oils and distilling essential oils from plants in the best and "purest" way.  After all, essential oils come from a natural source - and if we destroy that source in its entirety, there will be no more of that particular plant, or essential oil!

Unfortunately, we live in a world where we do not seem to appreciate what we have until its no longer there - so take the time to research and learn as much as you can about the essential oil you are buying.  Your children, and grandchildren, may thank you in the future :)

Professional Aromatherapists and Professional Organizations

I published an article a week or so ago on professional aromatherapy organizations.  Although, it doesn't cover all the professional aromatherapy organizations out there, I tried to include a sample of the main professional aromatherapy organizations in the English speaking world.  These organizations do not "regulate" the aromatherapy industry but do provide a tier of "professionalism" for those aiming to be a "professional aromatherapist" in an often unregulated world (especially in the United States).

For further information, here's the link to the article:

Professional Aromatherapy Organizations

The "Quality" of Aromatherapy Teaching

As I've discussed in previous posts, including distance learning aromatherapy courses, essential oil suppliers and aromatherapy information to be found on the internet, finding "quality" aromatherapy information is difficult.  Especially if you don't know what you should, or should not be, looking for.  Its no different when you are assessing the "credibility" of an aromatherapy teacher, or an aromatherapist who is holding aromatherapy information seminars.  As someone who is planning to set up some aromatherapy information seminars in the coming year, and also take some further education in aromatherapy, I thought I would look at how you can assess the "credentials" of your prospective aromatherapy teacher/instructor!

Regulations and rules vary from country to country for aromatherapy, so I can only write about what I know and have learned from my time in both the U.K. and the U.S.  However, there are some general points you should be checking off your checklist before signing up for an aromatherapy course/information seminar with a prosective aromatherapy teacher/instructor.  These include:

•  what are the qualifications and experience of your aromatherapy teacher/instructor?
• how long has your aromatherapy teacher/instructor been practising aromatherapy and in what format? (i.e. treatments, products, writing etc)
• what is your aromatherapy teacher/instructor's reputation in the aromatherapy world?  Find all the information you can on them to verify their credibility, i.e. interviews, magazine articles, web site reviews etc
• who did your aromatherapy teacher/instructor train with themselves for their aromatherapy qualification?  This can tell you a lot about the "seriousness" of your aromatherapy teacher/instructor.  If they themselves trained with a highly respected aromatherapy "authority", chances are your training/instruction will be of the same standard.
• what kind of aromatherapy class are they offering?  If it is a "diploma" in aromatherapy, is it accredited by an aromatherapy organization?  Or is it a simple information session, which will not give you the "credentials" to practice aromatherapy, but enough information to stimulate your interest for further study or use a few blends safely at home?
• do they belong to a professional aromatherapy organization?
• is it instruction in "true" aromatherapy and the use of "pure" essential oils?
• can the aromatherapy teacher/instructor answer your questions personally?
• what is the cost of the course/class/session?  Is it "over the top" or "reasonable" for the information you will get?  Prices can vary from several hundred dollars for a 2 day course to several thousand dollars for a diploma course.

Aromatherapy regulation is different in the United States and the United Kingdom (the United States is essentially unregulated, so be very cautious as to who you give your money to and for what kind of an aromatherapy "course").

With regards to my own situation in holding aromatherapy seminars, here are a few pointers that I will be informing prospective clients of:

• I will be holding aromatherapy information seminars and not classes that will "qualify" you to set up as an aromatherapist
• my aromatherapy information seminars are simply a way of imparting enough aromatherapy information to stimulate your interest into further study of aromatherapy (and direction to accredited diploma courses) or allow you to use aromatherapy at home on yourself
• you will not receive a certificate or diploma to practice aromatherapy at the end of the day!  But I will direct you to who you can obtain an accredited qualification from.

Basically, my aromatherapy information seminars will be an "extension" of my aromatherapy articles, web sites and other information I have written over the past couple of years but giving me a chance to meet people face to face and rely more information and understanding.

I have been thinking a lot on how to plan aromatherapy information seminars in the coming year, so if you have some thoughts on something specific, please let me know.  Otherwise, I will do my very best not to "sell" you on something I am not, but give a quality and informative session!  I also have a few other unique selling points to add to these sessions, so watch this space!  And I hope to see you in Sedona some time soon!

N.B.  I will release aromatherapy information session content and dates on the "Aromatherapy Notes" blog when they are set up (probably early next year) :)

Aromatherapy or Aromatherapie?

The modern day concept of aromatherapy is accredited to Rene-Maurice Gattefosse (1881 - 1950), a French chemist, who famously plunged his burned hand into a vat of lavender, instead of water, and found that he did not suffer the scarring and burns he feared.  This new practice of the use of essential oils was therefore named "aromatherapie," the French word for aromatherapy.

When I moved to Sedona, I put a bit of thought into the name for my new aromatherapy practice.  Describing what you do and where you do it is always sound marketing advice for a business.  However, in tribute to the modern day birth of aromatherapy, I amended my business name to reflect its French origin, so rather than be "Sedona Aromatherapy" I became "Sedona Aromatherapie" (although technically, in the French language, "aromatherapie" would precede the location).

Unfortunately, most people simply do not "get" why my business name is "Sedona Aromatherapie" and not "Sedona Aromatherapy."  The common comment is that I've mis-spelled the word (subsequent explanation that it is actually the French spelling is lost on most people) and the majority of my mail is addressed to "Sedona Aromatherapy."

So, I've become resigned to the fact that I am known by both "Sedona Aromatherapie" and "Sedona Aromatherapy" (and use both names as such).  Apparently, cultural practice and aromatherapy knowledge does not always translate - literally! :)

If you want to read the original French version of  Gattefosse's "Aromatherapie", it is now translated into English and available at Amazon as Gattefosse's Aromatherapy.

A Modern Herbal by Maud Grieve: Available in Both Book and Online Format

A Modern Herbal, Maud Grieve, Amazon

If you are serious about understanding the botany of the plants used in aromatherapy, you may want to check out A Modern Herbal by Maud Grieve.  Although the book was first published in 1931, it still contains a lot of relevant information about medicinal plant uses.  Not only can you purchase the book through book retailers, such as Amazon, there is also an online format offered at Botanical.com.

Who was Maud Grieve?

Maud Grieve (1858-1941) founded The Whins Medicinal and Commercial Herb School in England.  She had extensive knowledge of medicinal plants and eventually shared this knowledge through the publication of A Modern Herbal in 1931, although she had published literature on herbal medicines during World War I (1914-1918).   A Modern Herbal has extensive descriptions of medicinal plants and herbs, including botanical profiles, medicinal uses and recipes.

Although you need to remember that the book was published nearly 80 years ago, much of the information in A Modern Herbal is useful to aromatherapists today, regarding plant profiles and medicinal properties.  Just remember that this is not a book about essential oil properties exclusively.  However, I have found it to be a good starting point for much of my article research, particularly as a source of one of the more "reliable" resources online.  I would recommend A Modern Herbal as a book for the "serious aromatherapist who wishes to understand more about the botany of medicinal plants." :)

Essential Oils as Disinfectants

Use Essential Oils to Disinfect Your Dog's Sleeping Area 

Some essential oils are particularly suited to certain jobs!  For example, last week my dog got sick and left, well, quite a mess overnight in his sleep area.  So how to get rid of the smell and make sure the area was sanitatory once again?

Essential oils to the rescue!  In this particular incidence, I used a couple of drops of both pine and lemon essential oil in water and washed down affected area of the floor.  Within a short period of time, the area once again smelt more pleasant.  Not only that, pine and lemon essential oil possesses antiseptic and bactericidal properties to make sure any germs that were still lurking were banished too :) 

Examples of other essential oils that I could have used for the same job include:

• lavender
• eucalyptus
• cypress.

The result was one happy me - and one happy doggie - who now had a more pleasant sleeping area once again.  And I hadn't exposed him to any offensive house cleaning chemical products either :)

One last tip, add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to the bedding and water when putting into the washer for both antiseptic purposes and a more fragrant outcome!

Aromatherapy Magazines

Its hard to find quality aromatherapy information both in print magazines and online - and there are not many magazines and journals solely dedicated to the practice of aromatherapy.  However, there are a few magazines out there aimed at international aromatherapists and aromatherapy students including:

• Aromatherapy Today
• Aromascents
• International Journal of Clinical Aromatherapy
• International Journal of Essential Oil Therapeutics.

For more information read:

Aromatherapy Journals and Magazines

What Does "Aromatherapy" Mean to You?

"Aromatherapy" is a word that is often loosely applied to a number of different practices.  It can mean different things to different people - which is why there is often a lot of confusion and "controversy" surrounding the practice of aromatherapy.  In the true, healing sense of the practice, aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of pure essential oils.  However, aromatherapy can also describe (either rightly or wrongly):

• massage
• fragrance oils
•  bath and body products
• candles
• other "treatment" packages.

The versatility of aromatherapy can also be its downfall in some instances.  Aromatherapy can be combined with any number of other therapeutic practices, including reflexology, ayurvedic medicine and reiki.  However, because of its versatility it can become open to abuse.  Therefore:

• check you know the difference between pure essential oils and fragrance oils
• check what "oils" are actually being used in an "aromatherapy" massage or other therapeutic practice
• check that "aromatherapy" candles, bath and body products are composed of "real" aromatherapy ingredients - or are they "fake"?

This is a subject area which I have covered before, in different formats and in different places, but I still find that many people are confused about aromatherapy.  So my advice is -  the true practice of aromatherapy is both healing and powerful - just make sure you are receiving the "real deal. " :)

The Safe Cosmetics Act (2010): What is the Impact for the Business of Aromatherapy Products?

There's been a lot of talk recently in the United States about the introduction of the Safe Cosmetics Act 2010 (H.R. 5786) into the U.S. House of Representatives on July 20, 2010.  What exactly will be the impact for small aromatherapy businesses who make their own products?

I am sort of "caught in the middle" of all the talk about it because I don't make my own aromatherapy products from scratch (as in bases, I buy those in) but I do add in essential oils to my products.  All ingredients are fully disclosed on my web sites (to the best of my knowledge) and on product labels - but if the Safe Cosmetics Act is implemented how will this affect my aromatherapy business?  Aromatherapy products are not the only part of my aromatherapy business but it is a part of it.

I am fully aware that large companies have been using "unnatural" ingredients in many familiar cosmetic products for years and it is argued that this is why the Safe Cosmetics Act is being proposed - to make cosmetics "safer" for the public.

However, those of us who have small aromatherapy businesses are probably more aware of what goes into our products than the large cosmetic companies.  I am always writing about "adulterated" essential oils, for example! In addition, aromatherapy is, by and large, an "unregulated" business in the United States, leading to further confusion, and sometimes "mistrust," of the industry by consumers, because of the "underhand" practices of some larger "aromatherapy" companies.

This is a hotly disputed debate which has lead to heated discussions on both sides of the fence.  Where do you stand on the Safe Cosmetics Acts 2010?  And what would it mean to you?

You can read more about the campaign for Safe Cosmetics and the implications for small businesses here.

Galbanum Essential Oil

Galbanum essential oil is probably not an essential oil that many people are familiar with.  It is certainly not one of the more common essential oils used in aromatherapy - yet it is one of the "ancient" oils, such as myrrh, frankincense and sandalwood, names that are probably more familiar to those using aromatherapy.

Galbanum essential oil does have some therapeutic properties for aromatherapy - it is digestive, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic - but it is probably not used my many in aromatherapy today.

To learn more read:

Galbanum Essential Oil for Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy Blogs and Garden Blogs

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic practice and use of essential oils.  As essential oils are naturally extracted from a variety of scented plants, aromatherapists should have a good knowledge of botany and the chemistry of essential oils, to understand how essential oils work and in order to be able to identify a pure essential oil from a synthetically substituted essential oil.

Where possible, I try to establish links with other quality aromatherapy blogs and websites on the web.  But, as aromatherapy is so closely linked to botany, and therefore to the garden world, it would also be beneficial to establish links with garden blogs and garden websites - predominately those with a scented theme!

If you are a gardener, who has an interest in scented plants, and have a relevant garden blog or website, please contact me to discuss exchanging links!  I really think it would be beneficial to the both of us!

The Historical Use of Medicinal Lavender

Lavender has been used for thousands of years by different ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and the Romans.  It appears that the medicinal value of lavender was discovered early on in time and its popularity doesn't seem to have waned over the years at all.  Lavender is probably one of the most familiar essential oils used in aromatherapy.

Lavender is also one of the most gentle essential oils, due to its chemical make-up, and is therefore suitable for the treatment of a wide number of health problems; as the saying goes:

"if in doubt, use lavender!"

For more information on how lavender was used medicinally in history, read:

Medicinal Uses of Lavender in History

Aromatherapy Networks: Are They Are a Support or Threat to Your Aromatherapy Business?

This past week, I've been reading a lot about "writer's envy" on the writers' networks and blogs.  And I thought this concept could in fact apply to almost anything - including the aromatherapy world.  If you are a practising aromatherapist, you will know that it can be a bit of a lonely road.  So social networks, such as facebook and twitter, plus aromatherapy forums, can not only help to keep you in touch with the outside world - but connect you with other aromatherapists in your fields.

However, not only do these social networks enable you to network with other aromatherapists, they also give you an insight into how and what other aromatherapists are doing.  Are they more successful than you?  And if so, do you find this a threat or an inspiration?

I network with other aromatherapists from around the world, so I don't consider anybody an "immediate" threat - after all, how can an aromatherapist who lives in Australia, England or even the other side of the United States be a siginificant "threat" to my aromatherapy business?  And even if I make a local contact, isn't it better to have some support in your field?  Different people have different ideas and ways of viewing things, so its quite likely that another aromatherapist is not going to be offering the "exact" same services and products as you.

Personally, I am thankful for my social network of both writers and aromatherapists who help keep me "sane" and understand what I do on a daily basis.  Although family and friends are supportive, unless they have a real passion and interest in your particular line of work, it can be difficult for them to fully understand and appreciate your skills.

My social network of aromatherapists has put me in touch with more experienced aromatherapists and kept me in touch with past contacts who I believe I can learn much more from in my work.  Ideas and inspiration come from a number of places, so you never know who might be that next important aromatherapy "connection" in your life.  I am sure that without my social network, I woudn't be where I am today and looking forward to the future with new ideas and plans for my aromatherapy business :)

If you want to network with me you can find me on facebook or follow me on twitter @girlychat.  I hope to see you there for some aromatherapy support and inspiration! :)

Different Varieties of Lavender

I think that it is safe to say that lavender is one of the most favorite essential oils in aromatherapy.  It is simple to use and can be used by nearly everyone.  Lavender essential oil also has a number of therapeutic properties.  However, did you know that there are about 39 species of lavender, some of which are suitable for therapeutic use and some of which are not.  In addition, some varieties are also called by the name of the country from which they are produced, adding to further confusion!  Lavender is simply not just lavender :)

If you want to learn a little more about the different varieties of lavender and their uses read:

Different Types of Lavender

Aromatherapy Wedding Bouquets

Chelsea Clinton, the daughter of 42nd U.S. president Bill Clinton, got married over the weekend to Marc Mezvinsky.  At Chelsea's request, the wedding invite list did not include a long list of celebrities and well known people - but was kept mainly to close family and actual friends.  However, I was more interested in Chelsea Clinton's wedding bouquet than anything else!

Some of you may know that I also have a web store called Aromatherapy Wedding.  It was inspired by my experience of working as a wedding hair assistant last summer - and because Sedona is a huge wedding destination.  My object was to bring some aromatherapy and fragrance into the life of brides as they began their new journey :)  However, many brides subconsciously choose to have aromatherapy in their wedding through their choice of wedding bouquets.  Fragrant flowers are a popular choice for wedding bouquets and include:

• roses
• gardenia
• lilies
• lily-of-the-valley
• hyancinth
• hydrangeas.

Chelsea Clinton's wedding bouquet was a simple, white ball of gardenia flowers - and apparently, "organic" and "natural" were of considerable importance to Chelsea in planning her wedding.

So, if you are getting married in the near future, or know someone who is, take the time to decide not just what color you want to add into your wedding - but what message you want the day to convey through the fragrance of your wedding bouquet too! Fragrances form memories that stay with us for a lifetime..... :)

Can You Use All Essential Oils Produced by Fragrant Plants in Aromatherapy?

Many plants produce essential oils.  However, some plants produce a limited amount of essential oil, or it takes a large amount of plant matter to produce just one drop of essential oil; rose is a good example of this scenario. According to Shirley Price, in Aromatherapy Workbook, there are over 200 plants that produce an essential oil.  However, there are actually only 21 plant families which produce enough essential oil, free from toxicity, that are safe to use for pure aromatherapy work.

If you have access to The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, by Julia Lawless, you will see that Lawless profiles over 160 essential oils.  However, if you read the descriptions of each essential oil carefully you will further see that some essential oils do not have a use in aromatherapy.  Many are used in the fragrance and perfumery industry, where the purity and healing powers are not as vital to use - and many more still can be extremely toxic in any situation.

So, the answer to the question, "Can you use all essential oils produced by fragrant plants in aromatherapy?" is no.  Although many essential oils have many therapeutic properties that can be used in aromatherapy, there are those that are best avoided too - for several reasons :)

For further information read my article:

Essential Oils Not Suitable for Aromatherapy Use

A Lifetime of Aromatherapy Learning

In case you haven't read my previous posts, I recently created a new web site called Aromatherapy Library.  My idea for Aromatherapy Library is to provide a "hub" of all my aromatherapy articles that I have written for various other web sites and magazines, as people frequently ask me if I have written anything on a particular subject.  This way, I can direct them to the one web site, instead of trying to reach into the far depths of my brain and remember when/where/if I wrote a particular aromatherapy article!  Although I have a relatively good memory, in my opinion :) , I must have written in excess of 700 articles, blog posts and web site pages (not all on aromatherapy but a wide range of subjects) in the past couple of years, a number which is forever increasing, so even my memory isn't that good!

However, in the process of building my new Aromatherapy Library web site, I decided to amend and re-write my original aromatherapy articles, with a link back to the original place it was published.  Therefore, I find that I am "re-learning" or "re-discovering" some facts about aromatherapy once again!

In addition, I plan to start some advanced aromatherapy studies at the end of the year, if all falls into place (fingers crossed), so I will be learning some new aromatherapy information too!  It just made me realize that you can never have enough facts and information about aromatherapy, however much you think you know!  Its a bit like life I suppose - a continuous learning curve....  :) :)

So, although I hope to provide a wide array of aromatherapy information through my blog, articles and web sites, I still challenge you to go out there and read as many aromatherapy books, articles and other information as you can!  And if you come across something that's simply too good not to share, please let me know.... :)

Essential Oils in Aromatherapy for Women

Some esential oils are specifically useful for the many problems women are plagued with.  From teenage skin problems, to PMS, to pregnancy and the menopause, women endure a number of problems in life that are accompanied by several unwanted symptoms.  So, its nice to know that certain essential oils will help with some of those problems!  Although many essential oils can be used in aromatherapy to help women's problems, these are some of the most popular oils in my experience....

To find out read:

Five Popular Essential Oils in Aromatherapy for Women

Insects, Bugs and Ant Bite Treatment With Aromatherapy

A month or so ago, I posted about my deck problem with ants and the use of peppermint oil to deter them.  As "bug season" seems to be in full swing here in Arizona, I had another experience yesterday with the insect variety, this time with fire ants.  Fire ants, although small, bite big.  I couldn't believe the size of the bite that came up from such a small insect!  However, as soon as it happened, even before the bite began to show, I slapped on some tea tree and geranium essential oil, in a white lotion base, and the swelling/bite was reduced and relieved in a matter of minutes.  I continued to apply the lotion throughout the day and although the bites are still there (yes, they got me more than once before I realized what was happening!), the use of aromatherapy in this instance certainly helped!

I have used a combination of tea tree and geranium essential oil in a white lotion base previously, specifically to treat:

•  mosquito bites/repellant
• other bug bites
• heat rash.

I've also used it on my niece (who was about three years old at the time) with success - unfortunately, she is also prone to being a prime attraction where insects and bugs are concerned!  Just remember to reduce the quantity of essential oils used for a young child and do a patch test first, if possible.

And good luck with the insects this summer! :)

Fragrant Trees of Australia

Australia is home to a number of fragrant trees that have been used medicinally both by Aboriginal people and, more recently, as essential oils in aromatherapy.  Scented trees of Australia, such as tea tree, eucalyptus and niaouli, are well known for their antiseptic and anti-viral properties.  Like many other essential oils which possess similar properties, these particular essential oils all belong to the same botanical family too - the Myrataceae plant family.

To learn more about the fragrant trees of Australia and some of the essential oils which they produce read:

Medicinal Use of Scented Trees Native to Australia

Growing Lavender in Arizona

I posted on June 1, 2010 about Lavender in the Arizona Mountains and Red Rock Farms.  Unfortunately, as seems to have been the way for me this year, my plans to visit Red Rock Farms during the lavender festival did not happen as planned.  Although frustrating, all is not lost.  It is possible to visit throughout the rest of the year and I already have some thoughts on how to utilize lavender in my own back yard.

Our property consists of just over an acre of land here in Sedona.  Most of that, is "au naturelle" landscaping - you get the picture :)  However, landscaping with lavender, even here in Arizona, is possible.  Imagine awakening to the fragrance of lavender each day (when in bloom) - and as a base for an aromatherapy business, what could be more fitting?

Several years ago, a few vineyards started to spring up around Sedona.  California is probably more noted for its wine than Arizona but now the vineyard business in Sedona seems to be taking off.  So, perhaps lavender in Sedona, as oppose to lavender in Provence, is also a contender!  At the moment, I'm just thinking of landscaping but who know where that may lead to? :)

Watch this space over the coming year for an update on my lavender landscaping!

Aromatherapy Library: A Resource for Aromatherapists

A couple of months ago I launched a new aromatherapy web site called Aromatherapy Glossary, an introduction to familiar words used in aromatherapy.  As a follow-on from that web site, I have just launched Aromatherapy Library which will be an eventual round-up of all my aromatherapy articles that I have written in the past couple of years, in addition to being a resource and starting point for further information for aromatherapists.  The web site is new, with only a few articles posted as present - but it is a long work-in-progress, so check back often for new articles and updates!

In the meantime, take your first look at:

Aromatherapy Library .....

Scented Grasses in Aromatherapy

There are several scented grasses that are used in aromatherapy.  The most common use of scented grasses is as an insect repellent and citronella is probably one of the more popular scented grasses for the summer time control of mosquitoes and other insects.  However, other scented grasses, such as palmarosa and lemongrass have additional aromatherapy uses, in addition to having a long use in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine.

To learn more, read the full article:

Scented Grasses with Medicinal Properties

Different Types of Orange Essential Oil in Aromatherapy

Orange essential oil can be confusing.  As some of the varieties of orange oil come from the same botanical tree, even the Latin name can be confusing.  So you need to know both the Latin name and the part of the plant the orange oil is extracted from to know exactly which type of orange oil you are dealing with!

To learn more about sweet orange essential oil, bitter orange essential oil, petitgrain essential oil and orange blossom essential read:

Orange Essential Oil for Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy Update for 2010

As we are nearly half way through 2010 and its also a year since I started my aromatherapy blog, I thought it was time to give an update on my aromatherapy plans.  Those of you who have been following my aromatherapy blog in the past year may remember that back in December 2009 I talked about starting aromatherapy classes in 2010.

Unfortunately, my plans for that have been set back a little, partly due to personal reasons and health.  Although this has been a little frustrating for me, it has given me time to think out more clearly what I want to achieve with regard to aromatherapy teaching classes. For the remainder of 2010, I intend to concentrate on writing as much as I can about aromatherapy. I write aromatherapy articles for both LiveStrong.com and Suite 101, in addition to this aromatherapy blog.  I am also working on aromatherapy information web sites in order to accumulate a lot of my aromatherapy writing in one place.  My first aromatherapy information web site was Aromatherapy Glossary, and I have another one pending.

Of course, I continue to practice aromatherapy through Sedona Aromatherapie, Aromatherapy Wedding and Chocolate Aromatherapy.  I am hoping that 2011 will allow me to move ahead with my aromatherapy teaching plans as I have some creative ideas on how to do that here in Arizona!  So, all I can say, is watch this space - and in the meantime, enjoy my aromatherapy articles :)

Aromatherapy Blogs I Read

I started writing Aromatherapy Notes one year ago, in June 2009.  When I first started my aromatherapy blog, I knew little about writing a blog and had only been writing online for about a year before that.  In the past year, I've diversified my writing into other areas, and other publications, in addition to writing several new aromatherapy web sites of my own.

However, aromatherapy remains my first passion and I love to write about it! My plans for my aromatherapy business are a continual work-in-progress, but writing seems to be a natural part of it now, as I love to be able to pass that knowledge and information onto other people.  In the future, I hope to be able to expand that knowledge and learning process by eventually holding aromatherapy classes of my own here on our property in Sedona, Arizona.

In the course of research, I've come across other aromatherapy blogs, from which I've learned something too!  So, for now, here's some more aromatherapy information in the form of the aromatherapy blogs I read and follow:

• The Aromahead Blog 
• Heather Scent Aromatherapy
• The Fragrant Muse
• Aromatique Essential's Blog
• Creations from Eden.

If you have an aromatherapy blog and would like to exchange links with me, please drop me a line!

Tried and Tested: Peppermint Oil and Ants

In case there was any doubt as to the validity of the use of peppermint oil in deterring ants, I had first hand experience in the matter this week.  A number of ants decided that it was a good idea to hang out on my deck.  I didn't exactly share their belief - so set about putting down a few drops of peppermint oil in their vicinity.  It was amazing how quickly they dispersed themselves - and, to date, they haven't yet returned.  In addition, it was a safer route to go than toxic chemicals, as my dog particularly likes to laze on the deck in the sun of an afternoon :)

However, I would advise using slightly less peppermint oil than I did.  In my enthusiasm, I went slightly overboard to the point that I now have a very minty fragranced deck! :)

Different Types of Mint Oil in Aromatherapy

"Mint oil" is a broad term used to describe a number of different mint oils used in aromatherapy.  As mint oils generally contain a high level of menthol content, which can cause some adverse reactions depending on the situation, it is advisable to "get to know your mint oil" before attempting to use it.

Mint oils often encountered in aromatherapy use include peppermint, spearmint and cornmint oils.

To learn more read:

Mint Essential Oil for Aromatherapy

Lavender in the Arizona Mountains...

It doesn't seem like the words "lavender" and "Arizona" should go together in the same sentence - yet Arizona has one of the largest lavender farms in the Western hemisphere, rivaling those lavender fields in Provence, France!  Red Rock Ranch and Farm is located at an elevation of 6,100 feet in the White Mountains of Arizona, a couple of hours drive from where I live here in Sedona.  Sedona itself is located at an elevation of 4,500 feet - not the "traditional" low desert landscape often associated with Arizona and found in the southern part of the state in Phoenix.

Red Rock Farm states that they have over 45,000 lavender plants on a 130 acre ranch.  Between June 24 and July 3, Red Rock Farm is holding its 7th Annual Lavender Festival.  Throughout the lavender festival it is possible to tour the farm, see lavender oil distilled and see culinary demonstrations with lavender too.  It is something which is already scheduled on my calendar, so watch out for my thoughts and review of our trip there some time in July!  I am sure I will come away with some more knowledge, thoughts and inspiration in how to use lavender, particularly in relation to aromatherapy....  :)

For more information on lavender:

The Lavender Essential Oils

Ways to Use Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

I have found that even though some people are aware of essential oils and their use in aromatherapy, many do not realize the vast number of ways essential oils can be used in aromatherapy.  I am constantly thinking of creative and innovative ways to market aromatherapy here in the U.S. and have discovered that aromatherapy can, in fact, be incorporated into many areas of your life!

Apart from the usual aromatherapy lotions and oils, aromatherapy comes in the form of candles, bath oils, shampoos and natural perfumes.  Essential oils can also be used to clean your home.  And don't forget weddings and travel too!

To learn more read:

Different Ways of Using Essential Oils in Aromatherapy 

Aromatherapy Awareness Week

Aromatherapy Awareness Week is recognized both in the U.K. and Australia, albeit at different times of the year, but as far as I am aware there is no such event in the U.S.  In 2010, the U.K. marks Aromatherapy Awareness Week between June 7th and June 13th while Australia marks Aromatherapy Awareness Week between October 6th and October 13th.

My only reasoning for the lack of such an event in the U.S. is because both the U.K. and Australia are at similar "stages" in the progress of the recognition of aromatherapy as a valid therapy whereas the U.S. is, to some extent, still trying to "catch up".

Aromatherapy Awareness Week basically increases the awareness of aromatherapy to the public and demonstrates ways in which aromatherapy is used.  Personally, if such an event existed in the U.S. I would be all for it because since moving to the U.S. from the U.K. I have found that aromatherapy means different things to different people and a lot of people are still trying to understand the true power, potential and validity of aromatherapy, particularly in health care settings.

If you practice aromatherapy in the U.S. what do you think of the idea of an Aromatherapy Awareness Week?  Do you think it would benefit you - and more importantly aromatherapy - or do you think it would simply be a distraction from the practice of aromatherapy?

Let me know your thoughts by posting a comment below! :)

U.K. Hospital Offers New Mothers Aromatherapy for Labor Pain

Its something those trained in aromatherapy have always known - but actually seeing aromatherapy in practice in health care was a rare event until recent years.  In the U.K. that is.  I am not so sure that aromatherapy is used as widely in the U.S. in true health care as in the U.K., partly because of the complicated issues surrounding health care insurance.

However, health care in the U.K. is set up slightly differently and the National Health Service (NHS) is starting to incorporate aromatherapy use into more "serious" medical practices.  BBC Bristol reports that expectant mothers under North Bristol NHS Trust, at Southmead hospital and at Cossham Birth Centre (from Fall 2011), are receiving aromatherapy treatments for labor pain, anxiety, muscle pain and pregnancy related sickness from trained midwives.

Some of the essential oils that are offered by North Bristol NHS Trust trained midwives include:

• frankincense - to calm
• lavender - for anxiety and insomnia
• peppermint - for nausea
• clary sage - to ease labor pain
• bergamot - to strengthen immune system.

These essential oils are used under the guidance of midwives who have completed aromatherapy training.  It appears that the U.K. medical service is finally recognizing aromatherapy for its true healing practices - and there will be a new generation of babies who enter this world to the aromatic fragrance of essential oils! :)

For more information on the useof aromatherapy and essential oils in pregnancy read:

Essential Oils for Pregnancy

Follow Up: Essential Oils for Travel

My post on Monday May 10, 2010, Take Aromatherapy on Vacation, Travels and Holidays, inspired my latest article!

If you want to know more about which essential oils to use for:

• travel sickness
• jet lag
• stomach upsets
• sun burn
• insect bites

read Essential Oils in Aromatherapy for Travel and learn why peppermint, ginger and lavender essential oils are invaluable to take on vacation - no matter where in the world you are traveling...

Take Aromatherapy on Vacation, Travels and Holidays!

As we approach mid-May, thoughts for many people turn to vacations and holidays or exotic travel trips!  But it doesn't really matter how far you travel from home - it may be just a weekend break camping locally or a 5,000 mile trip to the other side of the world - aromatherapy can be a useful tool to have along for the ride!

Many essential oils used in aromatherapy can form the basis of an essential oil "first aid" kit for travel which can help with some of the familiar - and some unfamilar - problems which arise on vacations and holidays.  Here's a few common travel problems which aromatherapy can help with and a couple of suggested essential oils to take with you:

• travel sickness -peppermint and ginger essential oils
• jet lag - grapefruit, lemon and geranium essential oils
• mosquito bites and repellent - tea tree and geranium essential oils.

Its probably a good idea to take lavender essential oil too, as lavender oil is good for nausea, sun burn and upset stomachs.

As always, blend all essential oils in a lotion or carrier oil base before using, and reduce quantities for use with young children.

I also find that when I am traveling that it is useful to take along familiar lotions and potions such as my shampoo, soap and scent sprays which I make with essential oils.  Hotels often have "standard" soaps and lotions which may be irritating to the skin.  If you have room, it is also nice to take along some aromatherapy candles which set a pleasant ambience in a hotel room - or are useful insect repellents when camping (if you choose the right essential oil based candle!).

Based on my experience of traveling, I put together some basic aromatherapy lotions for the Sedona Aromatherapie store, with some aromatherapy travel kits - and travel sized aromatherapy candles.  Visit the travel section in the Sedona Aromatherapie web store to learn more.

In the meantime, happy traveling!  And watch for more aromatherapy travel tips throughout the summer, as I come across them!

Aromatherapy Connections on the World Wide Web

I recently did a post, Using the Internet as an Aromatherapy Resource, as a way of accessing aromatherapy information, research and studies online.  However, I also thought it was worth mentioning the value of the internet and the world wide web as a networking tool for aromatherapists.  Where it was once only possible to connect locally with like-minded aromatherapists, it is now possible to connect with aromatherapists from all around the world and to share information - all without living your home in many instances!  It doesn't matter if you are in Australia, up a mountain in Europe, or on the beach, if you can get an internet connection, you can connect with aromatherapists from all around the world!

Social networking sites such as Face Book and My Space, and the micro networking site, Twitter, have contriibuted greatly to the ease in which aromatherapists can share information.  Learn about the different ways aromatherapy is used, and the different rules and regulations of different countries, by simply joining up with one of these networking tools.  I currently have aromatherapy connections in Australia, across the U.S. and Canada, the U.K. and other parts of Europe simply through social networking on these social media web sites.

Although not as common or as popular as social networking, there are a few online aromatherapy forums, usually aimed at the beginner or hobbyist, through which you can connect with others in aromatherapy too.  It is advisable to check the validity of information exchanged on these forums, but I have also picked up some useful tips and information, in addition to contributing my own experiences on these forums.

Most reputable aromatherapy organizations usually have a web site and/or a social networking page too, so you can often find links to aromatherapy articles and studies by signing up for these web sites or checking them regularly.

Of course, nothing replaces the face-to-face contact and interaction with other aromatherapists, but the world wide web has presented me with opportunities I would not have had in the past - and makes me feel less alone in the world with some much needed support from other aromatherapists!

If you would like to connect with me on the internet:

Twitter - follow me @girlychat
Face Book - Sharon Falsetto (personal page) - please send me a friend request and add a comment or too about aromatherapy, as I don't automatically accept all friend requests, if I don't "know" you!
Face Book Business Pages - Sedona Aromatherapie, Chocolate Aromatherapy and Aromatherapy Wedding.

Aromatherapy and Cancer

Does aromatherapy help with cancer?  Although, science is still out on this one, I have used aromatherapy to help clients who were recovering from cancer.  That's not to say aromatherapy CURES cancer - it is not a claim a reputable aromatherapist would ever make, but it can help with some of the side effects of cancer, such as pain, nausea and stress.

There are many essential oils which can help in pain management in diseases such as cancer; essential oils such as lavender, roman chamomile and frankincense are known for their analgesic properties.  In addition, essential oils such as lemon, ginger and peppermint can help with nausea and stress relieving essential oils include lavender, rose and geranium.

Aromatherapy is cited as a "support" therapy for cancer, that is it is used to help deal with the side effects associated with cancer.  The use of aromatherapy with cancer should be used with the knowledge of a doctor to make sure it doesnot interact or contradict any other forms of treatments of medication which the patient may be undertaking.  Some clinical studies, according to the National Institute of Cancer, show that aromatherapy helps improve the quality of life for cancer patients, at whatever stage of the disease they may be at.

Always check with a qualified professional before using aromatherapy with a cancer patient, as each person is different and there may be additional contraindications to take into account, in addition to the usual warnings associated with some essential oils and with certain conditions.

However, used correctly and wisely, I believe that aromatherapy is a useful tool to help the quality of life in cancer patients.

For further information consult:

•  The National Institute of Cancer
• Cancer Research U.K.

Aromatherapy, Massage or Aromatology?

Aromatherapy is a term which is often misused and misunderstood; aromatherapy is a collective term, in some instances, used to describe anything from a massage to perfume.  So its no surprise that people are sometimes confused when confronted with aromatherapy.  Aromatherapy can, in fact, be used cosmetically, clininally and medicinally, in addition to massage.

Although aromatherapy is basically the use of essential oils, it is the different ways in which those essential oils are used - and the distinction from fragrance oils - which needs further clarification and definition.  If you though aromatherapy was "just a pretty smell" or "just a massage" read on to learn more about the:

Types of Aromatherapy Treatments and Practices...

Aromatherapy Glossary - An Introduction to Common Aromatherapy Words

When I first started studying aromatherapy, some of the words used to describe essential oils, not to mention some of the more "exotic" essential oils which I had never heard of, often confused me.  What exactly was "adulterated", "cardomon", "cicatrisant", "phototoxic", "synthetic" and "volatile"?

Just a few years ago the world wide web as we know it today was not as evolved - facebook, believe it or not, didn't exist until just a few years ago!  Although I did some research on the internet for my aromatherapy studies, I relied more on actual books for reference.  However, sometimes it would have been nice to find a source where I could go to look something up.  A bit like using the dictionary when you are unsure of a word....

...and so evolved Aromatherapy Glossary, my latest aromatherapy web site!  However, this is purely an information web site, unlike my other aromatherapy web stores and you can simply visit the web site, look up "citratrisant" for example, and go away with the information.  If you want more information about me or my work, there are links to all of my other web sites and some of the aromatherapy words in the aromatherapy glossary link through to a more in-depth article.  I would also encourage you to reference other sources for information, as an aromatherapy student.  However, I do believe Aromatherapy Glossary is a good starting point for many - and will truly help you make "scents of aromatherapy words"! :)

Visit Aromatherapy Glossary to learn more...

Scientific Research Confirms Essential Oils Are an Alternative to Antibiotics

Aromatherapy students have always known the power of essential oils, yet those unfamiliar with the use of essential oils, often dismiss the "real" power of what essential oils can do.  Science is constantly testing essential oils and verifiable research goes a long way to helping essential oils become recognized as more than "just a pretty smell."

Science Daily reports that Professor Yiannis Samaras and Dr Effima Eriotou of the Greek Technological Educational Institute of Ionian Islands recently presented research at the Society for General Microbiology's spring conference in Edinburgh, Scotland which proved the efffectiveness of some antibacterial essential oils in fighting certain "superbugs".

Thyme and cinnamon essential oils were found to be effective against several strains of bacteria in tests carried out.  Professor Samaras said:

" Not only are essential oils a cheap and effective treatment option for antibiotic-resistant strains, but decreased use of antibiotics will help minimise the risk of new strains of antibiotic resistant micro-organisms emerging."

Anti-bacterial essential oils include tea tree, thyme, cinnamon, lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, peppermint and black pepper.  Research such as this can only help strengthen the campaign to get essential oils accepted for use into medical settings.  Many scientific studies have been conducted over the years on essential oils - and perhaps slowly the medical profession is truly starting to realize the potential of essential oils...