heads up! Sara Gelzer will be in the building November 1st

Open Day November 1st.  Sara is the Shirley Price international distance learning tutor.  Based in Switzerland she tutored the aromatherapy diploma for Shirley Price before opening her own clinic.  If you are considering the Shirley Price distance learning course or part way through your studies do come and join us at 8 Hawley Road, LE100PR at 1pm for a chat.  A major part of the distance learning are the case studies and how to fill in the client record cards so come and learn and do some examples.  Sara will also demonstrate some massage techniques.

Essentia

Anti viral properties - case study MC outbreak in a primary school - how can essential oils help?

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a viral infection of the skin caused by molluscum contagiosum virus which infects only humans. This distressing infection is most common in children aged one to ten years old.  The virus can be spread among children at day care or at school. MC is contagious until the bumps are gone-which, if untreated, may be up to 6 months or longer.  Eczema too can be associated with an MC infection.

The body of evidence regarding the effectiveness of natural botanicals against a great variety of viruses is growing. German scientists found extracts of more than 100 species of the Lamiaceae family to have antiviral effects. This discovery lead to an increase in the examination of essential oils in Europe for the treatment of viral infections.  Essential oils from many plant families have now been demonstrated to have antiviral properties.

Should essential oils be applied undiluted to the MC lesions?  Generally no.  Essential oils are highly concentrated and can be highly irritating to a sensitive skin.  Care must be taken not to drop neat oil onto the skin, particularly infant skin which can be very sensitive so it will be better, however tempting, to use diluted oil particularly as the study below shows 10% dilutions of citral can still be effective in neutralising the MC virus.  However citral itself is highly irritating and the recommended dilution is 1% so should other essential oils be considered by the therapist?

French aromatherapists are bolder with their essential oils advice still favouring dilution but prepared to use higher doses or neat oils carefully applied on viral lesions where justified.  French aromatherapists are often medically qualified so better placed to judge such circumstances where side effects are possible as they do day to day with conventional medicines.

With adult skin which is less sensitive than childrens skin there may be a case of using a toothpick to drop a very tiny amount of essential oil with known anti viral properties directly onto the centre of viral lesions.  Lemon oil applied like this makes short work of viral warts but viruses vary in structure and MC is more like the Herpes virus except it results in raised lesions so may not be vulnerable to Lemon oil (which contains only 5% citral).  Melissa contains only 11% citral but is highly effective against the herpes virus.  Unlike the more irritating oils Melissa can be applied undiluted to the skin.

Australian lemon myrtle

A 2004 study demonstrated over 90% reduction in the number of MC lesions in 9 out of 16 children treated once daily for 21 days with 10% dilution of essential oil of Australian lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) dissolved in olive oil. (1)

Lemon Myrtle is 95% citral, should not be applied undiluted at all because of the risk of skin irritation. Dilutions as low as 1% can result in irritation if an individual is sensitive.  For any essential oil or essential oil blend it is as well to do a patch test on the elbow 24 hours before attempting treatment to test for such individual sensitivity.  Other sources of citral of approximately 75% citral are May Chang, Lemongrass, Lemon Tea Tree. Lemon myrtle oil which has a high reputation in Australia is available diluted in a cream or lotion in the UK from Ann Clemont of www.BushEssentials.co.uk  T: 01388 819991.

Tea tree oil is also reported to at least reduce growth and spread of lesions when used in dilute form. Tea tree oil may cause contact dermatitis to those with sensitive skin, although less often in dilute form. 

Antiviral Components of Oils

The components of essential oils showing antiviral activity, and the oils in which they can be found, are as follows (from K. Schnaubelt, Ph.D. - Advanced Aromatherapy, p. 36):

Anethol - found in Anise
Alpha-Sabines - found in Tea Tree, Laurel, and other oils
Beta-Caryophyllene - found in Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme Linalool, and other oils
Carvone - found in Dill
Cinnamic aldehyde - found in Cinnamon Bark
Citral - found in Melissa, Lemongrass, Lemon Myrtle, Lemon tea tree and other oils
Citronellol - found in Rose and Geranium
Eugenol - found in Clove
Gamma-Terpinene - Found in Juniper, Eucalyptus, Niaouli, Tea Tree and other oils
Linalyl acetate - found in Clary Sage, Lavender, Bergamot and other oils

1.  ^ Burke BE, Baillie JE, Olson RD (2004). "Essential oil of Australian lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children". Biomed. Pharmacother. 58 (4): 245–7. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2003.11.006. PMID 15183850.                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Lemon, Grapefruit and Mandarin and Eucalyptus oils make good base components for a fresh smelling anti-viral blend for the diffuser to combat viruses airborne on dust or water or on surfaces.  This may be the safest use of Lemon Myrtle.  Can be used in a diffuser, but is effective in a perfume burner, on a handkerchief or tissue placed on a radiator or dropped on the corner of the pillowcase.                                                                                                                                                                               Essentia

commercial break - Shirley Price Gold Collection for care purposes

Shirley Price Bathroom Balms formulated with essential oils and herbal extracts for specific care purposes can be obtained from Shirley Price distributors and satellite colleges in 40 countries worldwide or from our online shop www.NiceAroma.co.uk.  For directions always read the label.

Facial treat rejuvenator
This luxurious blend contains essential oils of fennel, frankincense, lavender and lemon
in a base of grapeseed and wheatgerm. The facial treat blend reduces the appearance
of wrinkles and scarring.  This special mixture is also effective for reducing puffiness
around the eye area, and maintains skin tone and sebum production. 
Size:        30ml        Code:        6004

After bath lotion
This light, non-greasy lotion is ideal for moisturizing your whole body after a bath or
shower.  A luxurious blend of special  essential oils enhance the youthful appearance of
the skin.
Size:        125ml        Code:        6007

After Sun milk
A soothing moisturising milk designed to moisturize and nourish the skin when exposed to the sun.
After Sun milk is specially formulated to care for the skin while tanning and should be applied regularly.  
After Sun Milk does not contain a sun filter.  Use after showering following your tan or sun exposure.
Size:        200ml        Code:        6008

Peppermint balm
A light, moisturizing balm blended with essential oils renowned for their cooling
properties.  This balm is useful forsoothing and cooling the skin.
Size:        125ml        Code:        6010
 
After shave balm
Prepared for the man whose skin is dry or irritable after shaving, this light, moisturizing
balm is blended with lavender, peppermint and sandalwood to soothe and cool the skin.
Size:        125ml        Code:        6011

Scalp tonic
The invigorating and restorative properties of cedarwood, juniper, lavender and
rosemary are combined in orange flower water to produce our special formula to care for 
thinning and impoverished hair.
Used regularly in conjunction
with scalp massage, this tonic can improve the appearance of fine, thinning hair.
Size:        30ml        Code:        6012

Shampoo
Our  highly effective, specially formulated shampoos are enriched with essential oils to
help dry, greasy, normal hair or
hair infested with headlice.  The gentle cleansing action nourishes the hair while
maintaining a natural pH balance,
leaving hair feeling extra clean and manageable.
Size:        125ml        Code:        6013 (dry) / 6014 (greasy) / 6015 (normal) / 6023
(head lice)

Hair conditioner
A unique conditioner especially formulated with essential oils to help maintain healthy
hair and scalp.  The hair is left
feeling soft and silky as the conditioner imparts a healthy shine to the hair while
nourishing the scalp.
Size:        125ml        Code:        6016 / 6024 (head lice)

Jasmine aromatic body oil
Jasmine aromatic body oil, with its exotic aroma is useful for relaxing a stressed skin,
minimizing fine lines and tense muscles, helping the skin to appear smoother and
healthier.
Size:        30ml        Code:        6001

Neroli aromatic body oil
Neroli aromatic body oil is nourishing for dry and flaky skin.  Because it is so deeply
moisturizing, the skin appears younger, healthier and fresher.
Size:        30ml        Code:        6002

Rose aromatic body oil
Rose aromatic body oil is rejuvenating, calming, nourishing and helps the delicate skin
in the chest, face and neck area to appear smoother and younger.
Size:        30ml        Code:        6003

Find out more

Revising - top middle and base notes, Poucher

Now we come to one of my favourite englishmen.  It is forgotten now but a century ago England dominated the mass market of fragrance due in large measure to the genius of the chief chemist at the London firm of Yardley now owned by Wella.  His name was W.A. Poucher and he lived to the age of 96. One of his many lasting contributions was to classify fragrant substances including essential oils according to their volatility on a scale 1 to 100 which is of great use not only to a perfumer but to an aromatherapist as well. 

However before this decimalisation WA Poucher originally classified essential oils according to the 88 notes to be found on a piano hence 'top', 'middle' and 'base' notes which helped him remember and personalise the fragrant compounds he worked with.  Like musical notes some essential oils like the floral and citrus fragrances have a sharp quick note which quickly falls away while some a relatively long lived and take upto 24 hours to evaporate.  Composing a perfume was like composing a tune with lingering base notes, impressive middle notes and sharp short lived top notes.

Oils containing the smallest and therefore the most volatile of molecules are termed 'top' or 'head' notes, those containing more of the heaviest and least volatile molecules are called base notes, those in the middle as 'middle' or 'heart' notes. 
Find out more- see Poucher's scale 

Just as a knowledge of the solubility of essential oils is useful so a knowledge of their volatility is useful and not just in the creation of perfume.  A holistic therapist uses their knowledge to deal with common ailments and improve the happiness and self image and so health of their clients.  The perfume that is worn by men as well as women is a great boost to confidence and wellbeing.  It is not too far fetched to imagine a holistic therapist using their knowledge of the volatility of essential oils to create an aroma which their clients have an affinity to.  Art with a little help from science.

One of Shirley Price's contributions is to apply this to the emotional effects of the oils.  Top notes being more volatile are indicated when the mind needs a lift as in poor concentration or despondancy.  Bottom notes being more relaxing come into their own for relieving intense feelings which are difficult to let go like anxieties and stresses.  With this in mind when blending oils for a particular individual oils can be selected from each group.  "the fact that you love the smell is healing in itself" ref Aromatherapy Workbook p182

A good example of this is Sandalwood which is burned by middle eastern brides on honeymoon to relax their husbands.

WA Poucher is perhaps better known for his love of British mountain photography.  Find out more.

Essentia

Treating the respiratory system - sinusitis

Infection travels easily from the mouth, nose and throat to the sinuses, the resulting inflamation is called sinusitis and those who suffer from it can find it extremely debilitating with associated headaches, ear ache and discharge of mucous.  If the mucous is clear that tends to indicate an allergy.  If greenish or yellowish then an infection.  A steam inhalation using anti microbial and anti inflamatory oils is indicated and will promote drainage (decongestant) and ease pain (analgesic).  Facial massage once the steam inhalation has reduced the congestion will assist drainage.  Oils with relevant properties are cajuput, eucalyptus, spike lavender, lavender, lemon, myrtle, ravensara, peppermint, pine, thyme, tea tree).

Essentia

Treating the skin - eczema

When do I apply a compress and when a cream?  The general rule of treating the type and stage of eczema is wet on wet.  Wet dressings are bathed in solutions containing essential oils are applied for 30 minutes 4 times a day to acute weeping eczema.  Dry lesions are best treated with creams.

ref Lehrbuch der Phytotherpaie, Meuss AR 1988

Essentia

Treating the skin - acne causes

Patients of complementary therapists sometimes seek advice on acne which while responding to antibiotics during treatment then recurs.  Aromatherapy treatments using essential oils clear acne in about 8 weeks in conjunction with a cleansing program.  It doesnt seem right putting oil on an oily skin eg tea tree directly on the pustules until they dry then 10ml fresh season jojoba with a blend like lavender, geranium and bergamot.  A number of oils can be used and an aromatherapist will advise.  Why does it work? 

Acne is caused by overactivity of the sebaceous glands that secrete oily substances on to your skin.
The surface of your skin has lots of small sebaceous glands just below the surface. These glands make sebum (a natural oil) that keeps the skin smooth and supple.

Tiny pores (holes in the skin) allow the sebum to come to the surface of your skin. Hairs also grow through these pores.

The sebaceous glands of people with acne are especially sensitive to normal blood levels of the hormone testosterone, found naturally in both men and women. 

If you are prone to acne, testosterone triggers the sebaceous glands to produce excess sebum. At the same time, the dead skin cells lining the openings of the hair follicles (the tubes that hold the hair) aren't shed properly and clog up the follicles.

The combination of these two effects causes a build-up of oil in your hair follicles. This causes blackheads and whiteheads to form.

For some people, their acne doesn't progress beyond this stage.
However, in other people the build-up of oil in the hair follicles creates an ideal environment for a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes to grow.  This the tea tree oil clears due to its antimicrobial activity.

These bacteria usually live harmlessly on your skin but when the conditions are right, they grow. They feed off the sebum and produce substances that cause an immune response. This inflames the skin and creates the redness associated with spots.

In more severe inflammatory acne, cysts develop beneath the skin's surface. If these cysts rupture, the infection can spread. This can result in scars.

Contrary to popular belief, acne isn't caused by diet or hygiene. However, acne can be hereditary.

Essentia

Esoteric agriculture or a universal principle?

Its a little late in the evening to tackle this topic but lets have a go.  I have a Soil Association audit tomorrow and I am thinking about why we do this.

When all is said and done there is nothing more important than our relationships with plants, animals and each other.  It is hard to see those relationships clearly except in both a spiritual ethical way and in a strictly materialistic way.  In normal times the moral is to the material as three is to one but of course farmers facing a particular pest attack such as the small white snails which devastated the lavandin crop in France a few years ago (or locust swarms in Egypt) should not stand on their organic principles!

When this thinking is applied to fertiliser and compost  a comparison might be to eating synthetic highly processed food.  This leave us unsatisfied and unhealthy.  Fertilising the soil with synthetic chemical fertilisers eventually leaves the soil exhausted and degraded.  Fertilising with organic compost leaves the soils productivity unharmed and so despite the additional costs of labour intensive composting in theory farms run on these lines should be competitive with conventionally run farms before issues of scale are considered.  Here the community can help with community sponsored agriculture whereby for example 4000 families will support organic farming by having a weekly delivery of vegetables and plant oils. 

This thinking is a universal principal applicable in many contexts besides farming.  Such thinking is strongly associated with Germany and with Steiner and for those who have followed him. In its application to agriculture it goes further than the British Organic model.  Incidentally those who did follow this thinking in Germany courageously rejected National Socialism in Germany in the 1930s and none joined that party.  In consequence a large part of the natural movement in Germany was banned and their lodges closed.  British thinkers who have been inspired by Steiner include CS Lewis and Tolkein whose books are classics.  Through Steiner we reach Goethe and Nietzche and can see why my beloved Shakespeare has always been so popular in Germany.

Training.  Regarding our adult aromatherapy college the Shirley Price International College of Aromatherapy there is much of Steiners approach to education.  To give a flavour for this consider his principles in relation to childrens education.

Up to the age of seven encourage play, drawing, story telling, being at home, nature study and natural things.
Teach a child to write and be creative before you teach them to read. Do not keep changing a teacher
Concentrate on one subject at a time - do two hours per day for several weeks
Find links between art and science.
Engage and make sure that the student is enthusiastic about the material being covered.
Give a moral lead but do not teach a particular set of beliefs.
Encourage learning for its own sake. Do not just work for exams.

Products.  Would you like to find out more about biodynamic agriculture? 
http://www.marianfarmsbiodynamic.com/our_farm.php
We expect to have an almond oil made on Demeter principles available in the new year.

Almond production in California is the states biggest export.  Find out more about Californian growers who share a dedication to maintaining the highest standards of responsible growing and production.
http://www.bluediamond.com/

Top Ten essential Oils and Gift ideas

Many practising aromatherapists would include Immortelle in their top ten essential oils.  What are your top ten Shirley Price essential oils?  see Shirley Price Organic Immortelle on Amazon with free next day delivery to 10 EU countries.

Below are NAHA's Top ten student oils, find out more on this link

Peppermint, Mentha piperita: Useful in treating headaches, muscle aches, digestive disorders such as slow digestion, indigestion, and flatulence.

Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus globulus or Eucalyptus radiata : Helpful in treating respiratory problems, such as coughs, colds, and asthma. Also helps to boost the immune system, and relieve muscle tension.

Ylang Ylang, Cananga odorata : Helps one to relax, and can reduce muscle tension. Good antidepressant.

Geranium Pelargonium graveolens : Helps to balance hormones in women, good for balancing the skin. Can be both relaxing and uplifting, as well as antidepressant.

Lavender(Lavandula angustifolia): Relaxing, and also useful in treating wounds, burns, and skin care.
Helps to balance hormones in women, good for balancing the skin. Can be both relaxing and uplifting, as well as antidepressant.

Lemon, Citrus limon : Very uplifting, yet relaxing. Helpful in treating wounds, infections, and house cleaning and deodorizing.

Clary Sage, Salvia sclarea: Natural pain killer, helpful s in treating muscular aches and pains. Very relaxing, and can help with insomnia. Also very helpful in balancing hormones.

Tea Tree, Melaleuca alternifolia : A natural anti fungal oil, good for treating all sorts of fungal infections including vaginal yeast infections, jock itch, athletes foot, and ringworm. Also helps to boost the immune system.

Roman Chamomile, Anthemis nobilis : Very relaxing, and can help with sleeplessness and anxiety. Also good for muscle aches and tension. Useful in treating wounds and infection.

Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis: Very stimulating and uplifting, good to help mental stimulation as well as to stimulate the immune system. Very good for muscle aches and tension. Stimulating to the digestive system.

Another top ten

Renowned for their anti bacterial and antiviral properties interest in Essential Oils always come to the fore at times of outbreak of infectious disease.  What are the top ten?

Here is a useful article by Dominique Baudoux a leading pharmacist and aromatherapist whose books have kept alive so much research and inspired more studies.   Antibacterial and Antiviral properties

Clove      Ravensara ............................

We are very proud that academic institutions choose Shirley price oils for their students and researchers choose Shirley Price oils for their researches.  Is the choice of essential oils just of academic interest?  No the properties of essential oils do not depend solely on the headline ingredients.  If they did aromatherapists would simply use cheaper non pure essential oils and easily made essential oils with nature identical ingredients like synthetic linalool.  Experience has shown these synthetics to be useful for fragrance or flavour purposes but 'lifeless' for therapeutic purposes.

And what are Essentia's top ten essential oils and absolutes for family use?

Chamomile will soothe, Lemon will remove a wart and crush skin infection, Lavender will make baby's bathtime a delight (fresh Jojoba vegetable oil will banish nappy rash), Peppermint for concentration,  Pine for the lungs, Rosemary for the memory! Tea tree for the feet, now I can be indulgent  Rose otto,   Jasmine and Sandalwood .....................

Regarding these precious floral oils which are very popular but very expensive dont buy out of date oils.  Regarding the Shirley Price Rose Otto and Jasmine you should of course know of our 2010/11 source of supply the excellent Biolandes cooperative - find out more on these links Rose Otto,  Jasmine. 

If your husband is running low on welcome ideas for birthday gifts and christmas 2010 then just forward this post or enter SHIRLEY PRICE and the name of your favourite essential oil in the Amazon.co.uk browser!

Shirley Price Amazon store
Aromastream EU wiring
Aromastream UK wiring
Aromastream US wiring
See the Rio range of diffusers, ionisers and air purifiers in our store. 
All with free next day delivery to 10 EU countries

Essentia

IFPA conference, Worcester

Some of the Shirley Price distributors exhibition materials on display at the IFPA Conference Worcester UK 2010. 

Its always a great pleasure to see old friends and customers and of course to make new ones!

Next to the Shirley Price stand were the innovative Comfy Cushions who attracted a lot of interest from therapists for their innovative couch cushions.  For home users these make giving a massage on the floor a far more comfortable experience.  Find out more.

It was great to see speaker Eve Taylor OBE in such good form.  Never stop learning she said to me.  I wish I had 10% of her energy!  Certainly everyday we learn something new about personal health and beauty and how to be a happy human.  The more I experience of complimentary therapy the more important I think this is.  Doctors can make us well but they cant make us happy and happiness is key to health.  Yet who does not feel happiness in the presence of flowers?  Among English Christians some of the earliest visions of heaven are recorded as being like sitting in a flower meadow.  Of course in this life we cannot sit in a flower meadow all day.  We have to work! 

After 10 hours on a computor of course eyes become tired and dry.  This is why Shirley Price formulated her original chamomile eyedrops.  These are at first quite astringent but the eye gets used to them and users soon report a marked improvement in their eyes.  This product became popular in China among University Students whose hard work caused them eye irritation and who spread the word about the effectiveness of this product.

Like all Shirley Price products their reputation is spread by word of mouth - the best recommendation of all.

Shirley Price International Aromatherapy Diploma

We accumulate interest each semester in the IFPA accredited aromatherapy diploma and when we have a class of 6 students firm up timings and location with students and tutors.  The diploma course has been very active in the UK with a module running every month in 2009/10.  The distance learning too is very active.  The study has the theoretical content of the first year of a university batchelors degree and is also highly practical.

One of the nice things about over 6000 students training with Shirley Price is when students return as authors, tutors and volunteers on the aromatherapy diploma course.  Module one of the 4 module course is available in several countries including the UK, Korea and Taiwan.  The Shirley Price international tutors Sara Gelzer, Elaine Zimmermann and Madelaine Knapp-Hayes who form a highly accomplished team.  We usually train modules 2,3,4 of the aromatherapy diploma in the UK or Switzerland for most classes but locations and requirements vary. 

Shirley Price distributors tend to be aromatherapists and like to take the training.  This ensures they have excellent knowledge of the plant oils they supply in their countries.  We tend not to have exclusive distributor arrangements so we are always interested in hearing from new distributors, particularly those interesting in joining a class or who are qualified aromatherapists, complementary therapists or health and beauty professionals.

Essentia

Home shoulder, neck and back massage

A massage is a great way to relieve muscular tension, boost circulation and promote health and vitality.
A short yet effective de-stress massage.  If you are feeling tense the sense of touch alone is a very active relaxant.  Take the time to try this instead of a glass of wine every other day when getting in from work.

All you need is yourself, a chair, a friend and five minutes to spare.

Sit, fully clothed, but not over-dressed, upright in a comfortable, preferably straight-backed chair with your feet firmly placed on the floor. For extra comfort you may want to place a small cushion in the small of your back to support your lumbar spine.
Relaxation

Deep breathing increases the levels of oxygen throughout the body, nourishing exhausted muscles, releasing tension and promoting a sense of mental calmness.
To help yourself relax even better try focussing on your hands as you breathe: soften your hands and fingers. when we are tense or stressed, it often ends up in our hands.

The Massage
Rub your hands together for 10 seconds to warm them up, then gently place them on the recipients shoulders for 10 seconds to introduce your reassuring touch.

Begin gently ‘squeezing’ the muscle bulk either side, along the top of the shoulders for 30 seconds to get the circulation into these large important muscles.

In a comfortable position, gently and positively rest your forearms on the mid-point of the top of the shoulders. Gently apply more pressure, encouraging the receiver to breathe and not to resist the pressure. Continue applying these pressure moves rhythmically along the top of the shoulders right up to the neck and back again.

Now massage the back with circular movements as far down as you can.

Ask the recipient to rest their forehead either in your hand or against your arm as you stand to the side of them. With your other hand across the back and at the base of the neck begin gently squeezing the muscles either side of the neck right up to the base of the skull. This area can be extremely sensitive, so avoid using direct pressure here.

Place your forearms back on the shoulders for 20 seconds, gently increasing pressure.

Finally place your hands on the shoulders firmly for 20 seconds asking the recipient to take three deep and slow breaths.

Essentia

Health and Beauty - Using Organic base formula for green products

Pictued are white lotion, shampoo and bodywash bases.  Organic base cream and body butter is also available.

Essential oils and carrier oils can be added to organic bases for differant purposes.  For example adding rosehip oil, sandalwood and geranium to create a self tanning lotion popular in some western countries.  No streaks!

Essentia

Aroma Ethics - CAMTC - Everything in moderation - including moderation

Aromatherapy does not always involve massage.  Some clients do not like it.  A full body massage is though indicated for stress and depression. Men do find massage both relaxing and sexulally stimulating that is a fact.  How is the clinic based or mobile therapist to deal with that?  And what of exploitative massage parlour massage in red light districts? 

This week CA Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed AB 1822, a bill that, if passed, would have mandated the presence of law enforcement members on the state's massage regulatory board, the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). The governor called the bill "unnecessary" and wrote the following to the state's assembly members:
Every community frame its laws to meet local conditions.  The approach to past criminal and gang activity is to say yes they are manipulative and arrogant youths but they'll meet a nice girl and settle down.   These days magistrates report that girls can be as bad as the boys.  Nonetheless just because someone has spent some time on the wrong side of the law they are not sent to the mental or physical equivalent of a concentration camp for the rest of their lives.  Some city districts can become segregated in this way and that is a challenge.  Cultures of course differ.  Islamic jurists favour making an example of offenders.  The challenge is to constantly reconnect the 2% of the population who are prone to doing wrong and injustice into the community. 

By influencing mood aromatherapy has its part to play in this challenging area of school absenteeism, offender rehabilitation and in the area of addiction and so can be a very much part of the solution.  Geranium for overaggressive young males is effective.

Essentia

Whats cooking? Aromacuisine for rejuvenation - Diet

Enjoy the benefits of essential oils day to day with aroma cuisine.
Digestive transit
Pictured is the aroma star fresh basil leaves.  Wonderfully aromatic and appetising Basil is a good nerve tonic highly prized by professional athletes and politicians alike.  Be sure to tear the basil leaves to release their aroma.  Fresh Basil also encourages good digestion.  A nice fresh olive oil from Nyons, Balsamic vinegar from Modena with mozarella cheese and on the vine tomatoes.  It tastes as good as it looks and its very filling the other important aspect of diet.
here are some other beneficial dietary thoughts
Green tea
Green tea is believed to help regulate blood pressure, lower blood sugar, boost the immune system, lower cholesterol and studies have even shown that green tea can be effective at preventing cancer.  Again you can enjoy the benefit of essential oils using flowers like chamomile in hot water.
Leafy greens
Spinach and other leafy foods are high in folate which is vital in preventing DNA and blood vessel damage to maintain a healthy circulatory system.  Young boys in particular find green vegetables unpalatable and so become prone to acne and eczema.  Before you reach for the Shirley Price Acne and Eczema cream look at encouraging fresh vegetables.  Boys like Brocolli so what not try that?
Dark chocolate
Cocoa is rich in a group of antioxidants called Flavinoids which help preserve healthy function of the blood vessels. A square a day
Fish and Soy products
A diet that's low in saturated fat will reduce your risk of developing heart disease and lower blood pressure. As a staple part of the Japanese diet, soy products are great at helping keep down cholesterol and are a useful addition to a healthy diet.
Yogurt
Many yoghurts include a high volume of 'good' bacteria that help maintain gut health and diminish the incidence of age-related intestinal illness. Yogurt is also rich in calcium, which can help stave off osteoporosis.
Red wine
A glass of red wine tots up a good dose of anti-aging elements including polyphenol antioxidants, minerals, and resveratrol. Resveratrol which helps to increase 'good cholesterol' levels in the body and prevents blood clotting and a healthy circulatory system. Resveratrol found in red wine may also be beneficial for women during the menopause by reducing the risk for conditions for example breast cancer and osteoporosis that result from reduced oestrogen levels.  A standard glass every day is recommended.  It is little known but Marguerite Maury's researches also included research on the benefical effects of red wine.
Water
No one drinks sufficient water, and side effects of even slight dehydration include headaches, fatigue and low concentration levels. Increasing fluid intake can increase energy levels, aid digestion, give skin a boost. Concentrate on drinking little and often throughout the day.  water can be made more palatable by keeping a jug in the fridge.

Essentia

Distance Learning Module One

Order all four modules for $1500

Classic aromatherapy muscles mix

Professional athletes use arnica preparations with essential oils for warmup and after sporting effort for easing numb muscles and joints by boosting subcutaneous blood circulation. Cycling in particular makes great demands on the muscles. With constant training schedules professional athletes need to recover quickly.

What is an aromatherapy mix for this purpose before and after sport or simply for home use? Lets first consider the base oils. We are making a 100ml mix with Arnica infused in Sunflower oil mixed with sesame oil (cold pressed and untoasted sesame oil should be golden yellow). This is not a cheap base but very helpful in its own right. Sesame is a relatively cheap oil. 100ml will cost £5 while Arnica in sunflower will cost £18 so mix according to budget but be generous with the Arnica oil both for effect and to ensure the sesame oil does not dominate the aroma. A gel base is more convenient to apply but for maximum effect the organic oil massaged into the muscles is preferred.Arnica montana has a single bright yellow flower. Arnica does not grow in England and this infusion comes from Spain.

Alternatively grapeseed can be used with 10% wheatgerm oil as the base carrier or if you prefer almond oil.

Now we come to the essential oils. The Shirley Price Care For Muscle Ease contains Essential oils of Eucalyptus, Juniper, Lemon, Rosemary and Marjoram. Basil can be included also for its effect as a competitive nerve tonic although a tea made with Basil leaves is effective. This blend is ideal for tired and stiff muscles. It is an effective mix for use before and after sport, helping to prevent cramp and induce relaxation as well as for everyday aches and pains. Mix with the base oil and massage into tired and stiff muscles helping to revive and restore energy. You can also put a few drops in the bath.

An alternative essential oil mix is Lemon Eucalyptus , Wintergreen, Basil, Rosemary, Ylang-ylang and Laurel.  ref D. Baudoux

Cautions: avoid in pregnancy and do not apply to broken skin.

Local Sports Injury and perfomance practicioner:  Jamie Capes at ReSportsInjury  191 Outlands Drive, Hinckley
191 Outlands Drive
Hinckl

The Handbook of Essential Oils

2010 has seen another important publication for those researching essential oils. With 949 pages and 22 distinguished contributors The Handbook of Essential oils is another invaluable reference. View contents, index and introduction here. Editors K. Husnu Can Baser, Gerhard Buchbauer

Shirley Prices Aromatherapy Workbook

Len Price's carrier oils

Len Price's Hydrolats

Shirley Price, Len Price Aromatherapy for Health Professionals

Dominique Baudoux Aromatherapie

Elaine Zimmermann Aromatherapie

Elaine Zimmermann's blog     Marguerite maury


Salvatore Battaglia, Complete Guide

Jane Buckle, Clinical Aromatherapy

Ian Brealey, Everyday Aromatherapy (japanese edition) 

Where Shirley Price Aromatherapy find conventional oil which is cheaper than organic oil this is also listed but for most oils we are able to buy organic for the same price because our suppliers have gone organic.  Organic certification is very valuable to us.  In particular it helps identify farmer/distillers who are committed to sustainable agriculture.

Aromatherapy treatments

Shirley Price aromatherapy combines aromatherapy, swiss reflex and body massage. Not all aromatherapy involves massage. Some clients simply dont like it. A full aromatherapy body massage is however indicated where stress or depression have led to a health imbalance.

An excellent description of an aromatherapy treatment can be found in Shirley Price's workbook as well a description of the concept of medicine involved in complementary health. ref Pages 174-6. The company's records contain over a hundred similar treatments.

Shirley Price's aromatherapy workbook can be opened at random and contains on every page both inspiration and information. That is why Shirley Price's aromatherapy workbook remains an international bestseller.

The oils used in the consultation described are Thyme,Sweet and Bergamot, Sandalwood and Juniper. Basil.

It is a question which fascinates Doctors. Why do doctors treat sick people day in and day out and not fall ill? There is clearly more to illness and medicine than an invasion by bacteria and prescription of antibiotics. The question doctors dont have time to dwell on and holistic therapists do is the question not 'how am I ill?' but 'why am I ill?'. Environmental factors and stress in relation to that environment clearly play a considerable part and holistic therapists are trained to offer diet and lifestyle advice as well as treatments for specific care issues.

Shirley price's books contain many reference to the work of Franchomme and Dr Penoel. Their work L'aromatherapie exactement contains a description of a interesting study comparing the electrical charge of differant essential oil components. Negatively charged esters are for example relatively cooling and relaxing while positively charged plant alcohols are stimulating and warming.

Armed with a knowledge of the chemical composition of essential oils and their effects it is possible for aromatherapists to choose an appropriate mix of oils for their clients needs and bear in mind the safety issues.

Chemical constituents: Acids, Alcohols (mono), Alcohols (sesqui), Aldehydes, Coumarins, Esters, Ethers, Ketones, Lactones, Oxides, Phenols, Terpenes (mono), Terpenes (sesqui).

Their effects: Abortificient, Analgesic, Air Antiseptic, Antiseptic, Anticoagulent, Antifungal, Anti-infectious, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Antiviral, Bectericidal, Balancing, Cicatrisant, Decongestant, Digestive, Diuretic, Expectorant, Hepatic, Hypertensive, Immune system balancer, Lipolytic, Mucolytic, Neurotoxic, Phototoxic, Relaxant, Sedative, Skin irritant, Skin sensitising, Stimulant, Temerature reducing, Tonic (nerve) uplifting, Tonic (general), Vasoconstrictive ref Shirley Price's Aromatherapy Workbook p53-55.

As ever complex concepts are explained in an accessible way leaving the student wanting to find out more rather than feeling overwhelmed.

Pictured are Farfalla's training rooms in Zurich where modules 2,3 and 4 of the Shirley Price Aromatherapy international diploma are held as well as in the UK.  Module one is delivered in country.

Essentia

Shirley Price Aromatherapy

Even our competitors acknowledge there is something unique and valuable about Shirley Price Aromatherapy. This is of course down to the loyal Shirley Price staff. They see all the comings and goings and everyday ensure customers and tutors receive the finest aromatherapy products and backup. When the customers dont order the staff cut back their hours and when a large order comes in they all set to and ensure the work is not held back.

Over the years older employees have welcomed and ensured younger employees can take things on and above all have their commitment to quality and the company. Standards are clear and work does not leave the factory that is not a credit to the company. Training is not given that is second rate. This culture of excellence gives me a great deal of freedom to travel and improve my knowledge and bring this back to the factory.

This month I am travelling with a staffer from one of the most respected names in sourcing essential oils and vegetable oils. Next week its off to the IFPA conference in Worcester on 2nd October. This conference is very well supported by essential oil companies old and new. In fact this time I think there are near as many essential oil company staff as delegates!

Essentia