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 Holiday Health Tips
Judy Addington, LMT, NCTMB, CR
With the holidays upon us and the winter season well on its way, many people begin to think of it as the sneezing, coughing, sore throat, and aching time of year. I would like to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that way. All we need to do is to approach things differently and use products that encourage health and wellness. I have discovered therapeutic-grade essential oils and associated products that are good for the body without negative side effects. If you have not tried these essential oils, now is the time.
For a sore throat Thieves oil blend works wonders. Put one drop in the palm of your hand and rub on your throat. You can then inhale what is left in your hand. This remedy not only smells great but brings relief in less than a minute. Doing this morning, evening, and perhaps mid-day can enhance the whole body. It can also be applied to the bottom of the feet. However, due to possible skin sensitivity do not expose skin to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light for 72 hours after application. You may dilute the Thieves oil with extra virgin olive oil or organic vegetable oil in a 50/50 mixture. For use on children dilute one part essential oil to four parts vegetable oil. Diluting will slow the absorption a little but will still provide relief.
Thieves oil has an interesting background that is based on research from the 15th century pertaining to a group of thieves who protected themselves during the plague while they robbed the dead and dying. They used a combination of herbs, spices, and oils including clove (Syzgium aromaticum), lemon (Citrus limon), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiate), and rosemary (Rosmainus officinalis CT cineol). These oils are known to be antiviral, antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-infectious. In studies done, it was found that Thieves oil had killing power against airborne microorganisms when diffused into the air. It also supports the immune system. Diffuse for 15-30 minutes every three to four hours.
To disinfect and clean around the house or when traveling you can use Thieves Household Cleaner, a concentrated solution you dilute for use. Thieves Spray comes in a compact travel size and the wipes are handy to keep in your vehicle, purse, or suitcase when traveling.
Two other oils that are especially helpful to use this time of year are Raven and R.C. blends. Raven can be used for respiratory disease and infections and is antiviral and antiseptic. R.C is good for colds and coughs, sore throats, bronchitis, sinusitis, and respiratory congestion. It helps to open sinuses, combat lung infections, and relieve allergy symptoms. To use: dilute 1 part essential oil to 1 part vegetable oil and apply on chest, neck, throat, or sinus area. It can also be used in a hot compress. Either of these oil blends work well for sinus and lung congestion by adding 1 drop to a bowl of hot, steaming water and inhaling the steam with a towel over your head. If you alternate combining R.C. with Raven and Thieves, morning and evening, the effects are enhanced. Raven and R.C also have possible skin/sun sensitivity so be careful of sun exposure for 72 hours after applying to the skin.
It is highly important that the oils you use be therapeutic-grade essential oils for the desired effects to be achieved. Most oils on the market, even those you find in health food stores are often food or perfume grade oils. So be sure you know what you are buying. There is a BIG difference!
May you have a healthy and happy holiday season!
- Judy Addington, LMT, NCTMB, CR
Massage, Reflexology, & Raindrop Facilitator
The above mentioned therapeutic-grade essential oils can be purchased through Integrated Health Concepts. Visit our office resource center at 1927 Highway 11W in Bristol, TN
(This article is from our 4th Qtr 2006 Newsletter)
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