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A Fragrant Way to Detox

posted by Melissa Breyer Apr 23, 2008 2:00 pm
A Fragrant Way to Detox
8 comments

Adapted from The Purification Plan: Clear Your Body of the Toxins That Contribute to Weight Gain, Fatigue, and Chronic Illness, from the editors of Rodale Health Books (Rodale, 2005).

Aromatherapy has been used to increase physical and emotional well-being at least since the time of the ancient Egyptians. While this therapy has a wide variety of uses, including relieving pain, nausea, colds, skin problems and other conditions, its stress-relieving qualities are also used in detoxification.

Aromatherapy uses plants’ essential oils, which have been chemically extracted from aromatic flowers, herbs and, even, woods. Each essential oil has its own characteristic aroma and therapeutic effect. There are oils to soothe, to invigorate and to relieve negative emotions, such as depression, stress and anxiety. Still other essential oils are believed to battle bacteria and fungi and reduce inflammation.

Essential oils are used in many different ways, including massage, inhalation, aromatic baths, compresses and vaporization. Some of the oils commonly used for detoxification purposes include angelica root, fennel, grapefruit and juniper berry.

Essential oils are very concentrated, so never apply them directly to your skin. Before you use them, you must dilute them in a pure, natural “carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, apricot oil or grape seed oil. Aromatherapy isn’t for everyone. Avoid it if you have asthma, high blood pressure, cancer, sensitive skin, allergies, or if you are pregnant. Also, avoid using essential oils on babies and children.

More on Alternative Therapies (47 articles available)
More from Melissa Breyer (277 articles available)

8 comments

8 comments

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8 Comments       add a comment »
Caralien S.

I tried the kinoki foot patches and all I got were stinky feet (once the patches are opened, a mild hotdog smell appears; after 8 hours, it's a sticky glue that stinks terribly which could only be removed with a good soak in a mineral bath heavily laced with EO Peppermint; the adhesive is also terribly sticky and needs to be scrubbed off with a nail brush). As an experiment, we stuck one onto a screen and spritzed it with distilled water throughout the day; the same dark brown, smelly, gooey substance appeared (apparently, even distilled water is toxic?).

Anita Lasanowski

To Janet S.--I was wondering if the Kinoki foot patches really worked and if they were worth trying.Can you you explain the difference they made for you? I would be interested in learning. thanks

Shellie Enteen

You go Rachel! And what is even stranger is that the last paragraph above warns about dilution but they never changed that recipe for face blend to get the original recipe carrier oil on there, no matter who many times I tried contacting on comments and trying to contact Annie personally. Apparently they don't pay attention to what is said on their site. Anyway, Shane could avail himself of a good education (find approved educators via www.naha.org) and find out about sensitivity and toxicity. Not all companies bother to give that info and claim to be educating.
Thanks again Rachel!!
Shellie

Rachel Markel

One more thing Shane, the brand you are selling is way over priced! $23.95 for a 10ml vial of Lavender is abusive!

Rachel Markel

Dear Shane....it's great that you advocate for your multi-level business but please use extreme caution in what you are promoting. You and I both know that there are alot of claims being made and alot of crap is being sold in the "Aromatherapy Market."

As such, the general public needs to proceed with caution. You are mentioning serious clinical conditions that are usually overseen by a medical doctor. Self treatment with Aromatherapy may not be the best protocol for some. While your intentions may be in the right place, essential oils have never been tested on an unborn fetus. I have not seen any research to validate your statement regarding pregnancy.

Janet S.

Another great way to detox is by using those foot patches known as Kinoki (bamboo vinegar, etc.) They really work.

Sasha Friestad

Aromatherapy is one of the best ways to even you out and help you feel more in control of your overall health and feelings. Think about it, if you have a stuffy nose use vicks. If you want more energy the smell of orange can help make that happen. When your sad and worked into something lush flowers and fresh fruits can help mind you that love still exists and live is still moving forward.

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