Aromatherapy Aromatherapy is the art of using oils to promote healing of the body and mind. Each of the essentials oils used in aromatherapy can applied either alone or in combination with others so that the properties of the oils create the desired effect. Essential oils have an immediate impact on our sense of smell, known as "olfaction". When essential oils are inhaled, olfactory receptor cells are stimulated and the impulse is transmitted to the emotional center of the brain, or "limbic system". The limbic system is connected to areas of the brain linked to memory, breathing, and blood circulation, as well as the endocrine glands which regulate hormone levels in the body. The properties of the oil, the fragrance and its effects, determine how these systems are stimulated. Properties of Essential Oils Treatments for which essential oils are useful: Lemongrass : give energy; stay relaxed and fresh Lavender : relax the senses; anti-stress; against headaches and wounds; mild anti-depressant Orange : relax the senses and tensions; for healthy skin; against insomnia Sandalwood : against insomnia, calmer concentration and makes senses, against for dry, cracked or chapped skin Rosemary : against physical and mental fatigue; forgetfulness; rheumatic aches and pains; tiredness Eucalyptus : anti-stress; refreshant; anti-germ disinfectant in the breath system; coughs and colds Peppermint : to energize the senses and fresh the body; relieve tiredness Jasmine : to relieve premenstrual mood swings and pains, labor pains; soften dry skin Ylang-Ylang : anti-stress; anxiety; relax the senses; suitable for oily skin Geranium : for cuts, sores fungal infections; as an insect repellant; for soothing skin problems Tea tree : against acne and dandruff; energize senses; refreshant Ginger : anti-stress; relax muscles; warmth Prai : Thai-herb which helps nourish the skin leaving it smooth and fair; to give a more relaxed and fresh feeling Patchouli : anti-stress; calmness; skin antiseptic; moisturize the skin Properties of Base Oils Jojoba Oil – This is a natural wax rather than an oil. It has a fine consistency (similar to collagen) which penetrates the skin effectively. Sweet Almond Oil – This aromatic oil is gentle and rich in proteins and vitamins. It is nourishing, light and softening for dry hands, eczema and irritated skin. Rice Bain Oil - High in vitamin E. Properties of Herbs • Lemongrass A signature ingredient in Thai cuisine. As a medical herb, It was traditionally used to cure skin ailments and headaches, was burnt to kill germs and repel insects. • Prai This is a rhzome of the ginger family and has been used for centuries as a herbal ingredient in hot compresses, applied to relieve muscular aches and pains • Tumarind In Thai, this is called "Makham". This Incredibly sour tamarind fruit is eaten in a variety of ways in Thai cuisine. Tamarind was used as a beauty product: its high AHA content makes it an effective natural exfoliator and it was put on the face and body to brighten and smooth the skin. • Camphor Extracted and processed from the camphor tree, it is called "Kalaboon" in Thai. It a white powder-like substance with a cool, refreshingly minty smell used to ease and soothe respiration. The powder is used as an ingredient in Thai herbal baths and the leaves of the camphor tree are a vital ingredient in traditional herbal steam treatments. • Cucumber This crisp, refreshing vegetable has been used for hundreds of years as a face mask. It contains ingredients to help tone and moisturize the skin • Turmaric Named "Kamin" in Thai. Tumaric is one of the key ingredients in Thai healing concoctions. It is used in traditional cosmetics for skin care.