Welcome to Spikenard and Myrrh!

No matter where we may be in our health management, there is always something that can be done to enhance and contribute to our overall health. ! The desire is to foremost share, learn, make available and to revive the connection of self-responsibility to our overall health. We welcome you to visit the blog from time to time to expand on you already pre-existing knowledge of health management, to read interesting historical information, stories, testimonies of people’ s personal experiences with essential oils and adjunct body therapies as well as to leave your very own footprint of knowledge on the blog.

Monday, February 17, 2014

Spearmint Essential Oil


Spearmint plants have been used since ancient times for digestive conditions, headaches and scabs.
 It was also thrown on the floor to promote good health and deter rodents.
It is also a natural home remedy for nausea and the gall bladder.
 It increases metabolism it may assist with burning fats and toxins in the body as well.
Reap the benefits of spearmint plants by using spearmint therapeutic grade essential oil.
 You can use it for cooking as well.
 Just place a drop in your water or tea. 

In the Middle Ages Spearmint was scattered on the floor to get rid of rodents and encourage good health.
 The Spearmint plants get their common name from the pointed leaf tips which resemble "spears". The Genus derivative comes from a Latin word "mente" meaning "thought".
 The fresh and herbaceous aroma is uplifting.
 The energies of spearmint oil open and release emotional blocks in the etheric level which helps to bring balance to the body.
It also helps people establish safe boundaries and feel protected when releasing old beliefs. 
It brings about more self-trust which is important in moving forward and overcoming negative emotions.

Spearmint plants were macerated and added to milk to lengthen the shelf life of milk.
Spearmint helped to keep the milk from curdling and the milk was used for stomach upsets and colic.
Wrigley’s Spearmint chewing gum was launched in 1893 and contains spearmint essential oils from the spearmint plants.
This oil may be used on pets however always consult the vet.
 
Genus Species:
  Mentha spicata CT Carvone

There are not many different species of Spearmint and hybrids.
 The species also produces chemotypes.

A chemotype (CT) is a designation that tells you that the species has different chemical constituents
This usually occurs because the plant is grown in a different area under a distinct climate that alters the chemistry.
The same rule of thumb goes for hybrids.
 It always is a good idea to purchase your essential oils by Common Name and Genus Species.
 
 
Part Used: 
Spearmint leaves

ORAC Value:
  540 µTE/100g

Properties:
  Antibacterial
 anti-catarrhal
 anti-fungal
anti-inflammatory
antiseptic
 antispasmodic
 digestive aid
 gallbladder stimulant
hormone-like
 insecticidal
 metabolism (increase)
mucolytic
 stimulant


Uses and Benefits:
  Abdominal discomfort and spasms
 appetite (stimulates)
 bronchitis
 Candida
 cystitis
 childbirth (promotes easier labor)
constipation
 depression
 diarrhea
 digestion
dry skin
 eczema
 headaches
 hepatitis
 intestinal spasms
kidney stones
 menstrual irregularities
 nausea
 sore gums
 stomach (relaxes muscles),
vaginitis
weight reduction (stimulates metabolism)

How to use:
Use diluted - (one part essential oil: two part of vegetable oil). 
Then,
  • Apply several drops (2-4) on location, abdomen and temples
  • Apply to vitaflex points
  • Directly inhale
  • Diffuse, or
  • May be used as a dietary supplement




Saturday, February 15, 2014

Spearmint Tisanes


Botanical: Mentha viridis (LINN.)

Family: N.O. Labiatae


 Garden Mint
 Mentha Spicata
Mackerel Mint
 Our Lady's Mint
 Green Mint
 Spire Mint
 Sage of Bethlehem
 Fish Mint
 Menthe de Notre Dame
 Erba Santa Maria
 Frauen Munze
 Lamb Mint



Uses:
  • Gas (flatulence).
  • Indigestion.
  • Nausea.
  • Sore throat.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Colds.
  • Headaches.
  • Toothaches.
  • Cramps.
  • Cancer.
  • Arthritis.
  • Muscle pain.
  • Skin conditions.
  • Other conditions

Side effects and Safety:

Spearmint seems to be safe when taken by mouth in food or medicinal amounts or when applied to the skin.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of spearmint during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
 
 


Recipe:

1 tsp of dried Spearmint
8 oz hot water
- let steep and drink 
 

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Rosemary Essential Oil


Rosemary is contained in Hildegard’s Medicine Book.
Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) was known as the first herbalist and naturopath of the middle ages. Her book documented over 12,000 remedies for symptoms and diseases.

What is the Genus Species:
Rosmarinus officinalis CT cineol

Why is this information important:
There are several different chemotypes of Rosemary.
A chemotype (CT) is a designation that tells you that the species has different chemical constituents. This usually occurs because the plant is grown in a different area under a distinct climate that alters the chemistry.

This is extremely important information. 
Remember, even though they may share some similar properties they are not at all the same.
 And they are used for different purposes.


Rosemary Chemotypes -

Rosmarinus officinalis CT camphor – This plant is extremely high in camphor. Is considered a powerful energy stimulant. Grown in Spain and Croatia.

Rosmarinus officinalis CT 1, 8 cineol - This plant is stimulating and is the subject of this website. Grown in Morocco and Tunisia.

Rosmarinus officinalis CT verbenon – This is considered the most gentle of the chemotypes. It is used for skin care because of its dominant regenerative properties. Grown in Corsica.
Where is the name derived from? Rosemary comes from a latin word "ros marinus" meaning "rose or dew of the sea."

What Part of the Plant is Used:
Leaves

What is the ORAC Value:
330 µTE/100g

Why know about this number:
ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. 
It tells you the antioxidant capacity of a food item. 
Antioxidants have shown to reduce the risk of age related conditions and cancer! 
This was developed by the USDA researchers. 
For instance: Blueberries = 2,400; Clove = 1,078,700. 

What are the Plant Properties:
antitumoral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, liver protecting, cardiotonic, digestive, detoxicant.

What are the Documented Uses for Rosemary:
Hair loss, alopecia areta, infectious disease, impaired memory, Alzheimers, gout, skin conditions, throat and lung infections, liver conditions, hepatitis, muscle soreness, kidney (cleansing).

What is the Aromatic Affect on the Mind:
 Keeps the mind alert and focused. Strong aromatic scent of herbs and wood.

What is the Spiritual Influence:
Walking in your truth by being faithful to your self and your own destiny or purpose.

Even the Greeks and Romans used it to understand loyalty. 
Loyalty to self before others. 
When we are more loving and loyal to others rather than to ourselves our energy becomes stagnant and cloudy (resulting in poor circulation and/or concentration). 
This is why this oil is connected to our heart energy.
Promotes circulation of Qi energy and blood.

How do I use it:

Use diluted - 50:50 dilution in grapeseed oil,
 then, apply several drops (2-4) on location, ankles and wrists
Apply to reflex points
Directly inhale
Diffuse, or
May be used as a dietary supplement.
Good oil for the First Aid Kit:
 No

Can this Oil be used for Pets:
Yes, stimulates hair growth and helps produce shiny coats.

Note about Animal Use: 
Certain oils can be very toxic to cats. 
Citrus products and oils in particular. Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

What are the Safety Precautions:
First, only use therapeutic grade essential oils! Rosemary essential oil is Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS).

However, those with high blood pressure or prone to seizures should avoid using this oil. Additionally, children under 4, pregnant women or women who are breast feeding should NOT use this oil.






Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Geranium Essential Oil


Geranium Essential Oil has a sweet, floral fragrance that calms and relaxes the body and mind.
 It has been used back to the times of the Egyptians for promoting beautiful, radiant skin amongst other things.
The untrained nose usually identifies Geranium Essential Oil for Rose Essential Oil.
 Geranium oil has a rose like scent.
 In fact Geranium oil is used to adulterate Rose essential oil for this reason. 
Also, pure Rose essential oil is about five to six times the cost of Geranium essential oil.
European gardeners in the 1600s planted geraniums to protect themselves from evil spirits.Geranium looks like a stork's bill.
The French Chemist Recluz was the first to distil the leaves of geranium in 1819.


What is the Genus Species:
Pelargonium graveolens

Why is this information important:
 There are over 200 different species of Geranium. 
The graveolens species is known to produce one of the highest quality oils available and grows in the Reunion Islands.

Remember, some companies may try to substitute a species within the family and try to sell it for therapeutic use. 
So make sure you know your source and you are purchasing the right species.

Where is the name derived from:
 Pelargonium is a Greek word derived from Palargos meaning "stork."

What Part of the Plant is Used:
 Flowers and leaves


What are the Plant Properties:
 Anti-inflammatory, antitumoral, antibacterial, antifungal, antispasmodic, antiseptic, astringent, antidepressant, sedative, homeostatic (stops bleeding), diuretic, liver and pancreas stimulant, detoxification, dilates bile ducts for liver detoxification, insect repellent.

What are the Documented Uses for Geranium:
 Hepatitis and fatty liver, fungal infections (ringworm), fungal infections (ringworm), circulatory problems, diabetes, skin conditions (acne, cleanses oily skin, revitalizes skin cells, psoriasis, hair, eczema, itchy skin), viral (herpes, shingles), gallbladder, hormone balancing, menstrual problems (PMS, cramps and minimizing heavy flow), digestion, insomnia.

What is the Aromatic Affect on the Mind:
 Lifts the spirit and eases nervous tension. 
May release negative emotions and memories.

What is the Spiritual Influence:
 Geranium oil can help diminish fears of abandonment, love and commitment. 
It asks that one be more accepting and thus more loving of self. 
As we love ourselves more, than we can fully commit to loving others.

How do I use it:

Dilute 50:50 i grapeseed oil and then,

Apply several drops (2-4) on location, abdomen and temples
Apply to reflex points
Directly inhale
Diffuse, or
May be used as a dietary supplement.

Good oil for the First Aid Kit:
Yes

Can this Oil be used for Pets:
 Yes, it is documented to treat fungal ear infections in animals. 
For dogs, it can be used to deter ticks and flies.
Because Geranium helps balance hormones and calms, it has been suggested that mares benefit greatly from use of this oil.

Note about Animal Use: 
Certain oils can be very toxic to cats. 
Pine and citrus products and oils in particular that are not of therapeutic grade. 
Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

What are the Safety Precautions:
First, only use therapeutic grade essential oils.
 Geranium essential oil has no known contraindications. 
It is Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS). 
It is approved by the FDA for use as a Food Additive (FA).

Children younger than 6 years of age should not use Geranium oil as a dietary supplement.


Sunday, December 29, 2013

Orange Essential Oil


Orange uses were first discovered by the Chinese centuries ago and since have remained as a vital part of Chinese medicine. 
They used orange to relieve spasm and stimulate digestion, and bring good luck! 
In Europe orange became famous for assisting with colic, asthma, nervous disorders and heart problems.
Brazil is the largest producer of orange oil with the United States in second place. 
The white part of the rind contains the highest amount of Vitamin C in the orange.
 So pare your orange and eat the white part too!

Today, we still use orange as the Ancient Chinese did, and we use the essential oil to combat tumors, stop blood from clotting and relieve depression.
In Japan a study led by Mei University found that using orange oil can reduce the dosage of anti-depressants necessary for those being treated with depression? 
The study also indicated that orange uses included bringing back the immune and endocrine function to normal!
Orange can reduce the effects of anxiety in high stress places.
 Two studies were done in dentist offices.

 Orange Essential Oil contains 85-95% limonene? 
It has the highest level of d-limonene next to grapefruit oil.


What is Limonene:

Animal studies show that limonene (d-limonene) protects against pancreatic, stomach, colon, skin, and liver cancers. 
D-limonene is contained in the peels of citrus fruits such as grapefruit, tangerine and lemon. 
And it is also a constituent in many of the essential oils that are distilled from trees such as Palo Santo and White Fir.

The simplest way to benefit from Orange is to use Orange Essential Oil. 
Orange oil is always available and it is simple to use.
Just add a drop to your favorite meal, drink or water. 
Or diffuse for an emotional lift.

Orange Essential Oil (Sweet Orange Essential Oil)

What is the Genus Species:
Citrus sinensis. 
Technically this is Sweet Orange. 
Orange is of the species Citrus aurantium.

By the way, extraction from the flowers of the orange is considered Neroli. 
Neroli is an absolute named such according to the extraction method, as with Jasmine!


Why is this information important:
It’s always important to know your genus species of your oil. 
Just the common name on the bottle doesn’t really tell you exactly what you’re getting, so please know both!

Where did the name come from:
It is thought the name is derived from Sanskrit meaning “orange tree”.

What Part of the Plant is Used:
Cold pressed from the rind.

What is the ORAC Value:
1,890 µTE/100g

Why know about this number:
ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. 
It tells you the antioxidant capacity of a food item. 
Antioxidants have shown to reduce the risk of age related conditions and cancer.
 This was developed by the USDA researchers. 
For instance: Oranges = 750; Clove = 1,078,700.

Most Interesting Historical Reference:
 Portuguese explorers brought oranges to Europe in 1520.
 They brought it as they were returning from southern China.

What are the Plant Properties:
Antitumoral, antiseptic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, digestive, circulatory stimulant, sedative and tonic.

What are the Documented Orange Uses and Benefits:
Arteriosclerosis, angina (false), depression, cardiac spasm, cancer, complexion (dull and oily), wrinkles, hypertension, digestion (constipation and diarrhea), dyspepsia, insomnia, menopause, palpitation and water retention.

What is the Aromatic Affect on the Mind:
Its fresh and citrus aroma is very uplifting to the body and mind.

What is the Spiritual Influence:
Orange uses include the spiritual and emotional realm as well. 
Orange releases self judgment, obsessions and fears so the emotional body can be restored and balanced. 
When we release these negative and highly charged emotions we can see clearly again and make better choices for our life.

It will lend support by uplifting and promoting a positive attitude while calming our spirit. 
This oil will help those who tend to overwork, strive for perfection, but get aggravated quickly by intolerances or mistakes.

How do I use it:

Use diluted - 50:50 dilution in grapeseed oil then:

Apply several drops (2-4) on location
Apply to reflex points
Directly inhale
Diffuse, or
May be used as a dietary supplement.

Good oil for the First Aid Kit:
No

Can this Oil be used for Pets:
Yes, orange uses include our pets.
 Great to add to your shampoos for fragrance and your stress relieving blends!

Note about Animal Use: 
Certain oils can be very toxic to cats. 
Citrus and pine oils in particular which contain non therapeutic grade oil! 
Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

What are the Safety Precautions:
Only therapeutic grade essential oils should be used for healing results. 
Because it is approved as a Food Additive (FA) by the FDA, Orange Oil is readily available on the market in many different qualities.

There are many orange uses because it is Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS). 
Although it may be used as a dietary supplement, it is advised not to use it in this manner for children under 6 years of age.

Photosensitive – avoid direct sunlight for up to 12 hours after use.





Friday, December 27, 2013

Lemon Essential Oil


 It takes 3,000 lemons to make 1 kilo or oil.
A Japanese study found that when they diffused lemon it reduced errors by 54 percent. 
In that same study, Jasmine and Lavender reduced errors by 33 and 20 percent respectively.
Most Interesting Historical Reference?
The Romans used the lemon rind to ward off insects and freshen clothes.
Also, the lemon and its oil were symbolized by the Roman goddess of youth, Juventas.

What is the Genus Species:
Citrus lemon

Where did the name come from;
We believe that lemons were native to Asia. 
The Romans called the lemon "median apple".

What Part of the Plant is Used;
The rind.

What is the ORAC Value:
660 µTE/100g

Why know about this number:
ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. 
It tells you the antioxidant capacity of a food item. 
Antioxidants have shown to reduce the risk of age related conditions and cancer! 
This was developed by the USDA researchers. 
For instance: Oranges = 750; Clove = 1,078,700. 


What are the Plant Properties:
Antitumoral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, astringent, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulant, diuretic, digestive, expectorant, calming.

What are the Documented Uses and Benefits of Lemon:
Hair, acne, seborroea, skin conditions, infectious disease, impaired memory, gout, liver and kidney (cleansing), urinary tract infections, parasites, varicose veins, anxiety, insomnia.

What is the Aromatic Affect on the Mind:
 It is very uplifting to the body and mind. 
Very light and improves concentration.

What is the Spiritual Influence:
Because it is cleansing to spiritual bodies as well as the liver and kidney, it will release patterning and open the heart centers. 
The result is joy and hopefulness with clear thought.


How do I use it:

Use diluted - 50:50 dilution in graoeseed oil, then

Apply several drops (2-4) on location

Apply to reflex points
Directly inhale
Diffuse, or
May be used as a dietary supplement.
Good oil for the First Aid Kit:
Yes

Can this Oil be used for Pets:
Yes, great to discourage fleas and flies on your dogs and horses. 
This oil is photo sensitive. 
As with humans, do not expose the skin to direct sunlight for 24-78 hours after application.

Note about Animal Use: 
Certain oils can be very toxic to cats especially oils that are not of therapeutic quality.
 Citrus and pine products and oils in particular. 
Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

What are the Safety Precautions:
 First, only use therapeutic grade essential oils!
Lemon essential oil is Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS).

However, this oil is very photo sensitive. 
Do not expose the skin to direct sunlight for 24-78 hours after application. 
May cause skin irritation, therefore, it is recommended that lemon oil be diluted.

Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Grapefruit Essential Oil


It is famous for its ability to clean toxins from the any part of the body; detox the lymphatic system, eliminate excess fluids, burn fat and protect against cancer.
Grapefruit Essential Oil is also mentally uplifting and can ease stress and anxiety.

In Barbados it was originally called "forbidden fruit."
 But now, they consider it one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados."
Grapefruit was brought to the United States in 1823 by Count Odette Philippe.
 He brought it to the Tampa area (city known today as Safety Harbor)

Grapefruit contains 88-95% limonene.

What is Limonene:

Animal studies show that limonene (d-limonene) protects against pancreatic, stomach, colon, skin, and liver cancers. 
D-limonene is contained in the peels of citrus fruits such as grapefruit, orange and lemon. (and the essential oils)
 It is also a constituent in many of the essential oils that are distilled from trees such as Palo Santo and White Fir essential oils.

The benefits of grapefruit have been studied by over 50 universities and hospitals worldwide. 
Small concentrations of grapefruit essential oil showed an 80.5% cell inhibition value for skin cancer cells in a study done by Brigham Young University.
Purdue University reported that limonene helps 80% of carcinomas in breast cancer to regress with little toxicity!


Besides that because of grapefruits astringent properties it is also useful for acne, oily skin and hair.
The simplest way to reap the benefits of Grapefruit is to use Grapefruit Essential Oil. 
Grapefruit oil is always available and the oil doesn’t go bad when you don’t use it right away.
Place a drop of grapefruit oil in your water or white wine and drink the benefits of grapefruit all day and night!

Grapefruit is thought to be a hybrid between pomelo (citrus maximus) and the sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) Captain Shaddock cultivated the pomelo and sweet orange seeds in Jamaica (18th century) which soon led to its hybridization.
Grapefruit was first bred in Jamaica by Captain Shaddock; therefore, it was called “shaddock” or “shattuck” until the 1800s.
 Then it was given the name grapefruit because it looks like clusters of grapes on the tree.

What is the Genus Species:
 Citrus paradisi

What Part of the Plant is Used:
cold pressed from the rind.


What is the ORAC Value:
22,600 µTE/100g

Why know about this number:
ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity.
 It tells you the antioxidant capacity of a food item.
 Antioxidants have shown to reduce the risk of age related conditions and cancer.
This was developed by the USDA researchers. 
For instance: Oranges = 750; Clove = 1,078,700.

What are the Plant Properties:
 Antitumoral, antiseptic, antidepressant, disinfectant, detoxifying, diuretic, metabolic stimulant, cleansing (kidneys, lymphatic and vascular system), fat dissolving, stimulant and tonic.

What are the Documented Uses and Benefits of Grapefruit:
 Alzheimer's, anxiety, depression, cellulite, digestion, dyspepsia, hair, liver disorders, lymphatic decongestant, cleansing (kidneys and lymph), obesity and water retention.

What is the Aromatic Affect on the Mind:
Its fresh and citrus aroma is very uplifting to the body and mind.

What is the Spiritual Influence:
The benefits of grapefruit include the spiritual realm as well.

Grapefruit is cleansing to the aura and mental body which helps release depression, confusion and mental chatter. 
Once this is cleared we can be more receptive to our inner voice and intuitive powers. 
So ultimately grapefruit helps us restore our own power and claim our own spiritual purpose.

How do I use it:

Use diluted - 50:50 dilution in grapeseed oil, then

Apply several drops (2-4) on location
Apply to reflex points
Directly inhale
Diffuse, or
May be used as a dietary supplement.

Good oil for the First Aid Kit:
 No

Can this Oil be used for Pets:
Yes, great to discourage fleas and flies on your dogs and horses! 
Also use for cleansing or detoxification. 
Not advised for cats.

Note about Animal Use: 
Certain oils can be very toxic to cats. 
Citrus and pine products and oils in particular. 
Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

What are the Safety Precautions:
Only therapeutic grade essential oils should be used for healing results. 
Because it is approved as a Food Additive (FA) by the FDA, Grapefruit Oil is readily available on the market in many different qualities.

It is Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS). 
Although it may be used as a dietary supplement, it is advised not to use it in this manner for children under 6 years of age.

Grapefruit is not photosensitive as with other citrus oils.