Aromatherapy for Valentine's Day: How to Create a Romantic Atmosphere

The combination of scent and touch is a powerful mood enhancer.

This Valentine’s Day, create a romantic atmosphere with aromatic essential oils.

Traditional "romance" oils like jasmine, rose, and ylang ylang work well in blends with neroli, but for a little extra spice, you may also want to try adding essential oils like black pepper, bergamot, patchouli, and vetiver.

To create a sensual atmosphere, you can:

• Create a private space.
• Fill your space with your favorite colors and fabrics, including pillows and/or blankets.
• Minimize outside noise.
• Details: relaxing music, aromatherapy candles, and fresh flowers.

To enhance romantic massage you can:

• Diffuse the essential oil of your choice into the room (essential oils can also be added directly into massage oils and bath water; see the recipe included below).
• Focus on comfort and intent.
• Communicate through all of your senses; don’t focus on conversation only.
• Play. Laugh. Enjoy yourself.

To get started, try this basic aromatic massage recipe, and augment with your favorite essential oils. For massage, essential oils are best added into a carrier oil like jojoba, almond, or avocado.

Basic Aromatic Massage Oil

• Sweet almond oil: 4 oz
• Rose Rosa damascena oil: 1-2 drops
• Jasmine Jasmine grandiflorum: 1-2 drops

For more aromatherapy recipes and tips, visit the free downloads section of the Apothecary Shoppe College Store website online here.

To learn more about the health benefits of aromatherapy for personal and professional use, check out ACHS's aromatherapy training programs and aromatherapy classes online here: http://www.achs.edu/academics/aromatherapy/courses

Herb Spotlight: Plai ( Zingiber cassumunar) may be a useful support for pain relief

BY Allen Akiu, ACHS Diploma in Aromatherapy Student

Pharmaceutical companies have long sought a solution for the millions of Americans suffering from pain and inflammation, arthritis in particular. Cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) inhibitors bought the needed relief for the masses with acute and chronic pain. Celebrex is the only remaining Cox-2 inhibiting drug available in the U.S. Vioxx and Bextra were pulled off the market by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for their high risks of stroke, heart attack, and to a lesser extent, gastrointestinal bleeding (from ulcers) [1]. Celebrex still carries the same but lower risks and is significantly weaker in strength. Because of supply and demand, the cost is high.

The essential oil of plai (Zingiber cassumunar, Roxburgh) is known for its superior analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions[2]. It is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) but differs from its kin because of the presence of two constituents, (E)-1-(3,4 dimethoxyphenyl) but-1-ene and (E)-1-(3,4 dimethoxyphenyl) butadiene (DMPBD). In addition, plai has a cooling effect, rather than warming.

This powerful natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent has limited studies confirming the inhibition of inflammatory pathways without any side effects.

Its warm, green, peppery aroma has a hint of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) and can be mixed with other essential oils for increased synergies and enhanced aromas.

Plai also contains cassumunarin, which is a powerful antioxidant[3]. It has antiviral, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties as well[4]. It balances the digestive, respiratory, and immune systems nicely and should definitely be the subject of extensive research.

References
1. Solomon, D.H., MD, MPH. (2011, Nov 2). Patient information: Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). UpToDate.com. Retrieved from http://www.uptodate.com/contents/patient-information-nonsteroidal-antiinflammatory-drugs-nsaids
2. Ozaki Y, Kawahara N, Harada M. (1991). Anti-inflammatory effect of Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. and its active principles. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo), 39(9):2353-6. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1804548
3. Nakatani N.(2000). Phenolic antioxidants from herbs and spices. Biofactors, 13(1-4):141-6. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11237173
4. Pithayanukul P, Tubprasert J, Wuthi-Udomlert M. (2007). In vitro antimicrobial activity of Zingiber cassumunar (Plai) oil and a 5% Plai oil gel. Phytother Res., 21(2):164-9. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17128430

*Note the ideas and opinions expressed have been provided for educational purposes only and do not necessarily express the ideas and/or opinions of the American College of Healthcare Sciences. This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. For further information, consult with a Registered Aromatherapist (RA).

An Herbal Approach to Winter Wellness

This time of year, there are a lot of germs on the loose. To support your immune system naturally, there are several herbs that are beneficial as part of your herbal medicine cabinet.

In addition to their flavorful and nutritious contributions to daily meals, herbs like garlic, ginger, parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme contain essential oils, which have some antibacterial and antiviral activity.

For example, garlic (Allium sativum) can be a useful support for infections and colds, while parsely (Petroselinum crispum) can be a useful support for healthy digestion; it also can be used as an expectorant. Expectorant herbs help loosen chest congestion.

Here are some simple, do-it-yourself herbal recipes you can use to help keep you and your family healthy all winter long.

Garlic Syrup Sore Throat Support

• 4 cloves garlic (Allium sativum)
• 4-T honey

Directions: Crush the garlic. Soak the crushed cloves in honey for 2-4 hours. Sip on this honey mixture every 1/2-hour. This is a useful remedy for children who may find the taste of garlic unpleasant.

Ginger Infusion

• ½-oz ginger (Zingiber officinale) root, cut
• 1-pt boiling water

Directions: Steep the ginger in the boiling water for 15 to 30 minutes. Lemon and honey can be added. Strain. Use 4-6-T three times a day. Store the infusion in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

>> To learn more about herbal medicine classes from the American College of Healthcare Sciences, visit http://www.achs.edu/course.aspx?id=2

>>Which herbs are an essential part of your herbal medicine cabinet? Why? We'd love to hear more about your favorite herbs and feel free to post recipes, too!

Image by Steven Foster. Reproduced under license.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information has been provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. You should always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health routine. For more information about how to use herbs safely, consult with your primary care physician, naturopathic doctor, or Registered Herbalist. In an emergency, call 911.

Meet Dean Vanderslice, Owner of edits!, and Learn to Harness the Clean Power of Essential Oils

ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy Graduate Dean Vanderslice has found a unique way to combine her passions. Dean, owner of edits!, offers her clients more than one-day redesigns—she provides a fresh start.

“Our goal is to introduce a new beauty and function creating a new energy for living a more inspired life…naturally,” Dean says.

Edits! specializes in transforming homes and offices into stylish spaces by reusing, repurposing, and restyling things clients already own. While moving through a client’s space, edits! cleans, nourishes, and refreshes hard and soft surfaces with a line of non-toxic essential oil products Dean created.

“My confidence and passion for using essential oils in this way came from desperation, as most change does,” Dean says.

Six years ago, Dean’s husband underwent a stem cell transplant for a diagnosis of cancer. His doctor wanted him to live at home through the process because his body would already be used to bacteria, fungus, etc., living in the home verses a new environment, like the hospital. However, through the yearlong process, preventing exposure to new and seasonal “bugs” was critical.

“I was daunted by the task of keeping our home with two young children, two dogs, and lots of activity free of new germs,” Dean says. “I knew in my gut that Clorox and Lysol were not the answer for someone whose system was already being flooded with toxins. Thanks to my discovery of essential oils, we all survived and even thrived.”

Dean continued using essential oils to clean and disinfect her home, and soon began experimenting with using natural ingredients boosted by essential oils to counteract her husband’s chemo-dried skin. She also experimented with recipes for her daughters if they had sore muscles or started to get stuffy noses.

“I realized that since the use of essential oils, we had never been healthier. And I had to know more,” Dean says. “I found ACHS and was drawn to it because it was as serious as I was about utilizing the value of these amazing, therapeutic oils. I didn’t want fluff; I wanted real scientific information on why these oils worked and how to utilize them to their full potential. I got that and more. It was my first online study and although the coursework could be quite challenging, the process was simple. I enjoyed all my classes and was amazed and grateful that such acclaimed instructors took such time to develop us, not only as future aromatherapists, but business people as well.”

“As a mother of two teenage daughters, a wife to a husband who is a cancer survivor, and a business owner, I endorse a life that is simply free from artificial chemicals,” Dean says. “From what we eat, to what we put on our body, to what we clean our homes with—nature provides.”

For more information about edits! and Dean’s chemical-free products and philosophy, visit edits! online at http://www.editsinteriors.com/ or email Dean at dean@editsinteriors.com

For more information about the ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy, visit ACHS online at http://www.achs.edu/course-desc.aspx?pid=10&id=1

3 Essential Oils for Summer

Summer is here and you know what that means … fun and sun, bumps and bugs. To help stay in tip-top shape all summer long, here are three essential oils to keep on hand.

Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, has a characteristic aroma frequently used in room sprays and cosmetic products to help relive stress and support relaxation. The essential oil also has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which can be very handy with minor bumps and scrapes. To make your own lavender ointment, warm 2-oz sweet almond oil over a double boiler and add 1/4-oz grated beeswax. Stir until the wax is dissolved then add 25 drops lavender Lavandula angustifolia oil, 10 drops bergamot Citrus aurantium var. bergamia oil, and 5 drops thyme Thymus vulgaris oil. Cool before placing in jars and leave it to completely cool before putting on the lid to avoid condensation.

Neroli, Citrus aurantium var. amara, has a decadent, light floral aroma reminiscent of a stroll through the garden. It is the quintessential aroma for summer ambiance. To support relaxation and to refresh the air, diffuse around your home (especially if you plan to staycation this summer!).

Sweet basil, Ocimum basilicum, is a pale-colored oil with a slightly spice aroma; it is reminiscent of cloves and camphor. Medicinally, the essential oil has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which make it a useful ingredient in blends or when diluted in a carrier oil. In addition, basil’s essential oil is an effective natural insect repellent[1] and a good alternative to citronella essential oil if you do not like citronella’s strong scent; diffuse the essential oil at your outdoor events for a fresh aroma and some added insurance against those pesky mosquitoes.

Which essential oil is essential for you? Post a comment and tell us which essential oil is a summer must ... be sure to include your favorite blend and recipes!!

Interested in learning more about aromatherapy essential oils? Visit ACHS.edu for more information about aromatherapy classes, community wellness events, and summer study abroad programs with the American College of Healthcare Sciences.We look forward to hearing from you!

[1] Dube, S., Upadhyay, P.D., Tripathi, S.C. (1989). Canadian Journal of Botany, 67:2085-2087.

Important Dos for Educating the Aromatherapy Novice in Business

BY Rose Chard, ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy Graduate, Owner Your Body Needs, LLc

Aromatherapy is a term that gets tossed around in the commercial market with little credibility to the fundamental science behind it. For the aromatherapy student who may look forward to a future in the industry, this is a frustrating issue because it becomes more of a challenge attempting to reach out to those who stand to gain a tremendous amount of benefit from the practice. If you are planning on starting a career in aromatherapy, here are some important factors to educating your customers.

1. Understand you are an educator—If you are a Registered Aromatherapist (RA) you must recognize that achievement. Your education gives you a vast amount of knowledge in the industry which the average person does not have. Provided you remain in your scope of practice and within ethical guidelines, you have quite a powerhouse of information to help improve clients’ quality of life. You earned that right through your education. Wasn’t it valuable to you the first time you heard it?

2. Have a business plan—Aromatherapy study is broad. There are hundreds of essential oils and many applications of using them. Having a strategic business plan will allow you to focus on how to get your message across. Determine which area of aromatherapy business you want to focus on and in which platform you will be communicating: leased site, website, colleges or other? As soon as you have a solid idea of your plan, you will be able to develop well-suited ideas that will best fit your business model. Having a clear, well-thought-out direction will enable you to make smarter choices and lead to fewer frustrations. Do not be afraid to start small; you do not have to deliver the entire message all at once. You might decide that you want to concentrate your efforts on a branch of aromatherapy that appeals to you, and from there you could expand that into a business model.

To read the full text article with three additional suggestions, download the June 2011 edition of the ACHS eNewsletter, The Reporter, online here: http://www.achs.edu/newsletter.aspx?id=7

Don't forget to leave a comment! We want to hear from you!

Join ACHS for Our 2011 HerbDay Celebration April 27 at Our Portland, Oregon Campus

Join ACHS for a series of presentations that will celebrate the use of herbs and the tradition of herbal medicine and leave with some new ideas about how you can use herbs in your everyday life.

HerbDay celebrates the importance of herbs and herbalism by raising awareness about the significance of herbs in our everyday lives and the ways herbs can be used safely and creatively for health, beauty care, and culinary enjoyment. Through awareness of, and familiarity with herbs, we increase informed use of herbal products and public support for maintaining personal choice in the use of botanicals.

Presentation topics include: DIY Quick and Easy Sprouting at Home with ACHS President Dorene Petersen; Herbs and Essential Oils for Spring Seasonal Balance with ACHS Graduate Amanda Lattin; Muscle Testing: A key to healing the body with Dr. Robert Ciprian; and more!

Space is limited; RSVP early to (503) 244-0726 or email admissions@achs.edu. April 27, 11 am-2 pm. American College of Healthcare Sciences, 5940 SW Hood Ave., Portland OR 97239.

Essential Oil Profile: Grapefruit Essential Oil a Fresh and Tangy Aroma

Grapefruit essential oil Citrus paradisi is a hybrid brought about by cultivation of C. maxima and C. sinensis.

The essential oil, pressed or distilled from the fresh peel of the fruit, is a yellowish to pale-green oil with a fresh, bright, and tangy aroma. It feels thin and watery. Like many citrus oils, grapefruit will deteriorate quickly if exposed to moisture, air, or light and should be used within six months.

Traditionally, grapefruit essential oils has been used for its antibacterial, antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, digestive, and stimulant properties. In perfumery, it blends well with bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, ginger, geranium, lavender, and rosemary.

Note, grapefruit's photosensitive effect is a current topic of research. Until there is definitive clinical testing, avoid citrus oils if there is a chance of being exposed to the sun after an aromatherapy treatment. A skin patch test is also recommended as the oil may cause skin irritation.

Winter Pick Me Up Blend

Grapefruit Citrus paradisi oil: 6-drops
Bergamot Citrus aurantium var. bergamia oil: 6-drops
Lime Citrus aurantifolia oil: 6-drops
Ginger Zingiber officinale oil: 4-drops
Sandalwood Santalum album oil: 2-drops

Blend all the oils and use in a diffuser or atomizer. It can also be added to the bath water; add 5-6-drops maximum.

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. You should always consult with your primary care physician before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.

Meet Althea Smith, ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy Grad

“You are the change you’ve always wanted,” says Althea Smith, ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy graduate and owner of Theapeutic Massage Therapy.

“It’s important to be aware of your family history,” Althea says. “When there is awareness of family history, you can make wise health choices, such as being aware of changes in your body, reducing stress, exercising regularly, eating properly, and choosing complementary alternative medicine.”

Althea credits her childhood with the early inspiration to pursue a career in wellness. As a young girl growing up in Detroit, Michigan, her “getaway” was the local recreation center where she would swim, play basketball, and take advantage of the planned activities. This instilled in her a sincere enjoyment of physical fitness and proper nutrition.

As an adult, Althea still enjoys physical fitness and sharing information about the benefits of proper nutrition. In addition to massage and aromatherapy, Theapeutic Massage Therapy offers a weekly walking group called Talk and Tennies and the facility’s reading area is stocked with health and wellness books for clients to enjoy.

“My family health history has diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension,” Althea says. “Since I know I am predisposed to these illnesses, I follow a healthy lifestyle of exercising regularly and watching my food intake.”

Althea was attracted to the online curriculum ACHS offers because she believes there are several benefits to integrating use of essential oils with her massage practice.

“It has changed my business,” Althea says. “I use essential oils for tight muscles, relaxation and cold congestion, and clients are asking to purchase different kinds of blends.”

> Read the full-length article in the March 2011 edition of the ACHS monthly holistic health eNewsletter, The Reporter, online here.

ACHS Learning Vacations in Greece Offer Hands-On Art, Aromatherapy, and Herbalism Education in Relaxing Mediterranean Locale

American College of Healthcare Sciences is proud to announce its 2011 study abroad summer programs in Greece. Week-long expert-led study abroad programs include Watercolor Journaling in Greece (May 27-June 2) and Mediterranean Herbs and Essential Oils in Greece (June 4-9, 2011).

ACHS study abroad programs are scheduled to coincide with the flowering and harvest time of a variety of Mediterranean plants. Each program emphasizes the health benefits of the Mediterranean lifestyle, including the Mediterranean-style diet, the health promoting properties of local plants and herbs, and the importance of relaxation. Programs include two meals per day prepared from fresh, local, nutritious herbs and produce. Programs are limited to 20 students.

“Immersing yourself in the fragrant aromas of Mediterranean plants while learning about holistic approaches to health and wellness,” says ACHS President and program leader Dorene Petersen, “is a fantastic way to study aromatherapy, herbalism, and art with a focus on total health.”

ACHS Watercolor Journaling in Greece with Jacqueline Newbold runs May 27-June 2, 2011 in Syros, Greece. This dynamic class will motivate artists of all skill levels to record their journeys in a creative and unique way using watercolor and mixed media. Students will explore ways to make their watercolor travel journal interesting and reflective of their experiences through painting the Greek landscape and the essence of the Greek lifestyle. Open to students, faculty, alumni, and the general public. Registration deadline is April 1! For more information and to register, visit http://www.achs.edu/course-desc.aspx?pid=207&id=61

ACHS Mediterranean Herbs and Essential Oils in Greece runs June 4-9, 2011 in Syros, Greece. Led by ACHS President and Wellness Expert Dorene Petersen, Guerilla Distiller Robert Seidel and Aromatherapist Mindy Green, this program provides hands-on experience working with Mediterranean herbs and essential oils for therapeutic use, including: making preparations, harvesting cultivated and wildcrafted botanicals, essential oil distillation, and therapeutic blending of essential oils. Open to students, faculty, alumni, and the general public. Registration deadline is April 1! For more information and to register, visit http://www.achs.edu/course-desc.aspx?pid=208&id=61

How to Use Essential Oils to Help Reduce Risk of Viral Infection

Essential oils can be used in the home as antiviral cleaning products. A diffuser used with essential oils like eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus, lemon balm Melissa officinalis, peppermint Mentha piperita var. vulgaris, or thyme Thymus vulgaris may reduce the airborne viruses in a room.

Essential oils can also be added to hand creams to help reduce the spread of viruses by contact. Of course, these should be used in addition to the common sense CDC recommendations to wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth and nose with your arm when you sneeze, and to stay home if you are sick.

Winter can be a challenging time because there is the potential for many people to be sick with a cold or flu at the same time, but we can use natural support options, such as essential oils, to keep us healthy.

To read the full-length article "The Antiviral Activity of Essential Oils", click HERE.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, heal, or prevent disease. Always consult with your primary care provider for a proper diagnosis if you think you may have the seasonal flu or the H1N1 flu, and follow their recommendations.

6 Tips for Selecting Essential Oils for Clinical Use

Just like wine, a number of factors affect the quality of an essential oil, including:

• Where the plant was grown.
• What part of the plant was used.
• How it was grown.
• What the climate was like.
• How it was harvested.
• When it was harvested.
• How it was produced.
• How it was stored following production.

The quality of the finished product may be compromised if any one of these steps is not carried out optimally for that particular plant. So, how can we ensure that the essential oils we buy are of a quality suitable for clinical aromatherapy?

1. Know your supplier. Start by developing a relationship with a supplier you can trust. Try to deal with suppliers either who distill their own material or who deal directly with reputable distillers. Suppliers usually will provide a small sample of the oil for you to check before purchasing larger quantities.

2. Use the Latin names. Order by the Latin name, and always check labels for the correct botanical name.

3. Perform your own tests. Make sure the oil is pure and not extended or diluted by using the organoleptic testing techniques we have learned so far. Educate your olfactory senses: Smell, taste, feel, and look at oils from many different samples and sources to gain experience.

4. Do not rely on price as an indicator of quality. Be aware that a higher price does not necessarily mean a higher quality. It is important to check all oils thoroughly regardless of the price. Note that a price that is very low comparatively may indicate that an oil is not as labeled, is diluted in a base oil, or is otherwise adulterated. Many expensive oils, such as rose and neroli, are sold diluted in a base oil such as sweet almond.

5. Gas chromatographs. Gas chromatography (GC), mass spectrometry (MS), and similar additive-revealing techniques can analyze oils. This can be particularly helpful when purchasing large quantities. However, chemical analysis does not always reveal the presence of adulterants and an experienced technician must carry out the analysis of the MS. In addition, a GC must be conducted for each batch, so the cost can be very prohibitive for small distillers. A GC is not always a guarantee of quality. One test does not replace another. It is best to use all available tests in combination.

6. Organoleptic testing is still the ultimate test. Build your experience. The very best way to gain experience and familiarity with pure essential oils is to sample as many pure oils and synthetic oils as possible and document the differences.

Essential Oils for Winter

As winter unfolds its many surprises--cold temperatures and short, gray days among them--it's a great time to enjoy adding warming and uplifting essential oils into your seasonal blends. Warming essential oils like cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum and ginger Zingiber officinale have fresh, spicy aromas that blend well with citrus oils like grapefruit. Citrus oils are pleasant to use during the winter season because their fresh, uplifting scents can help support healthy emotional well-being.

Air Purification Formula with Cinnamon Essential Oil

• Clove Syzygium aromaticum oil: 3-drops
• Cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum oil: 3-drops
• Lavender Lavandula angustifolia oil: 3-drops
• Peppermint Mentha piperita oil: 3-drops
• Pine Pinus sylvestris oil: 3-drops
• Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis oil: 3-drops
• Thyme Thymus vulgaris oil: 3-drops
• Water (distilled): ½-oz
• Alcohol: ½-oz

Directions: Mix the essential oils with the distilled water and ethyl alcohol in a 1-oz amber bottle. Place in a pump-action atomizer or blend 5-10-drops of each of the oils, and place in a vaporizer.

More information about cinnamon, ginger, and grapefruit essential oils to come!

*This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, heal, or prevent disease. You should always consult with your primary care physician, a naturopathic doctor, or a Registered Aromatherapist before making any significant changes in your health and wellness routine.

Study Abroad with ACHS: Mediterranean Herbs and Essential oils in Greece June 4-9, 2011

If you've always wanted to learn more about Mediterranean herbs and essential oils, this program is a must for you! Led by ACHS President and Wellness Expert Dorene Petersen, Guerilla Distiller Robert Seidel and Guest Lecturer Aromatherapist & ACHS Governing Advisory Board Member Mindy Green, this program provides hands-on experience working with Mediterranean herbs and essential oils for therapeutic use including: making preparations, harvesting cultivated and wildcrafted botanicals for distillation, essential oil distillation, and therapeutic blending of essential oils.

This program is held on the beautiful island of Syros, Greece, in the heart of the Cyclades, amongst wild thyme and other aromatic Mediterranean botanicals. Enjoy the relaxing, healthy lifestyle of a Greek island amidst a wide variety of Mediterranean plants and herbs. Greece is the birthplace of the “father of medicine” Hippocrates, who believed the body should be treated as a whole and that food should be our medicine. This program is an opportunity to immerse yourself in this ancient land. Syros is close to Mykonos and Santorini and not too far from the island of Cos where Hippocrates founded a medical school and began teaching his ideas. Syros is an enchanting location for this residential session.

For more information about travel and lodging, course curriculum, and how to get started, view complete information on the ACHS website here: http://www.achs.edu/course-desc.aspx?pid=208&id=61

For more information about Watercolor Journaling in Greece with Jacqueline Newbold and Chios, Greece Summer Session in Greece, CLICK HERE.

2011 DETC Outstanding Graduates and Famous Alumni Book Available Online

The DETC 2011 Outstanding Graduates and Famous Alumni book is now available online. We'd like to congratulate the 43 people selected by their schools! A special congratulations to Robin Barnette from ACHS, Certificate in Aromatherapy program graduate (Robin's profile appears on page 6).

The DETC is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) as an accrediting body, and conducts the “Outstanding Graduate” program annually. Students are selected for their academic record, and the level and quality of their contribution to society and their chosen profession(s).

Robin is the owner of Aromachick, Healing Botanicals for the Body, Mind, and Sprit. She also offers Aroma-Yoga for Healing workshops in Calabasas, California, where she combines the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy with the healing benefits of yoga.

“Earning my Certificate in Aromatherapy from ACHS was a life changing experience,” Robin says. “ACHS helped me find my passion and follow my dreams!”

To connect with Robin, post a message for her on ACHS Facebook HERE: http://facebook.com/ACHSedu

You can also catch Robin on YouTube! Watch her video about ACHS HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00mVvjvvA2E&feature=email

Compresses an Effective Way to Use Essential Oils

Did you know compresses are a very effective way to use essential oils?

Typically made from gauze or a similar soft material, a compress can be applied with pressure to specific parts of the body to help control hemorrhage, help relieve pain-related symptoms, or support the body's natural defenses against infection. For example, cold compresses are traditionally used with sprains, localized swelling, blisters, insect bites, stings, bruises, and headaches; hot compresses are traditionally used with abscesses, boils, cystitis, and dysmenorrhea.

A simple method for using essential oils with compresses is to:

• Add 6 drops of essential oil to 9 oz of water. (Use ice water for cold compresses and boiling water for hot ones.) First pour the water into a bowl, and then add the oil.
• Saturate a clean piece of unbleached muslin (or similar cloth, such as clean cotton) in the mixture, wring out, and apply.

For use with a cold compress, here are some example essential oils you may want to investigate further:

• With sprains: Peppermint, chamomile, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, pine, rose, and rosemary
• With bruises: Eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, lavender, and peppermint
• With localized swelling: Ginger, rose, and rosemary

For use with hot compresses, here are some example essential oils you may want to investigate further:

• With abscesses and boils: Bergamot, eucalyptus, rose, manuka, and tea tree Australia
• With menstrual pain: Chamomile, clary sage, lavender, peppermint, rose, and rosemary

For more information about using essential oils with compresses, download our free ACHS holistic health Wellness Guide HERE. In the guide, you'll also find several pages of information about using aromatherapy essential oils in the home and as a tool to support optimal health and wellness.

* This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, heal, or prescribe. A primary care physician, naturopathic physician, or Registered Aromatherapist should be consulted before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.

Re-Coloring Black Friday with Aromatherapy

BY Keoi Magill, ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy Graduate

On Black Friday, we have less than a month until the presents will be unwrapped. With all the gifts to be purchased, parties to plan, cards to write and holiday cooking, we just don’t seem to have time to spend taking care of ourselves. You can dial down your holiday stress and achieve balance with aromatherapy. Here are a few simple and easy ways to sail through the holiday season.

Before you go out shopping put a few drops of lavender oil Lavendula angustifolia, on a cotton ball. Just breathe in the calming aroma whenever you need it. Another way is to add the lavender to 4 oz of distilled water and spray yourself with a fine mist. It will help reduce your stress and alleviate irritability.

Add a drop or two of peppermint oil Mentha piperita, to your favorite body lotion and rub it into your feet. It will help invigorate and refresh your tired feet and help with exhaustion.

Make a blend of bergamot Citrus bergamia, peppermint Mentha piperita, and cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum, and diffuse on a lamp ring or ceramic diffuser throughout your home before a party. Not only will it help reduce your anxiety and nervousness, it smells festive and inviting.

When you are wrapping presents or writing out your holiday cards, diffuse or use a cotton ball with a few drops of rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis and neroli Citrus aurantium var. amara. These two oils are great together for mental clarity and to help ward off depression.

The holiday season doesn’t have to be black when you can open your crayon box of essential oils and in minutes color yourself balanced.

To learn more about aromatherapy and essential oils, download your free copy of "History of Aromatherapy" HERE.

*This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, prescribe, or cure. See you primary care physician before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.

Meet Robin Barnette, ACHS 2011 DETC Outstanding Graduate

Robin Barnette, ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy program graduate, has been named a 2011 Outstanding Graduate by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). The DETC is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) as an accrediting body, and conducts the “Outstanding Graduate” program annually. Students are selected for their academic record, and the level and quality of their contribution to society and their chosen profession(s).

Robin says, “Find your passion, follow your dreams.” She had experienced the healing benefits of essential oils first-hand, so pursuing a Certificate in Aromatherapy from ACHS was a natural extension of her passion to share the healing benefits of essential oils with others.

As an aromatherapist, Robin is now successfully educating clients one-on-one and in workshops about how to achieve optimal health naturally by incorporating good lifestyle choices and essential oils. She also regularly publishes articles dedicated to educating and sharing the wonderful healing benefits of therapeutic essential oils.

Robin is the owner of Aromachick, Healing Botanicals for the Body, Mind, and Sprit. She also offers Aroma-Yoga for Healing workshops in Calabasas, California, where she combines the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy with the healing benefits of yoga.

“Earning my Certificate in Aromatherapy from ACHS was a life changing experience,” Robin says. “ACHS helped me find my passion and follow my dreams!”

To connect with Robin, post a message for her on ACHS Facebook HERE: http://facebook.com/ACHSedu

You can also catch Robin on YouTube! Watch her video about ACHS HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00mVvjvvA2E&feature=email

Study-Abroad Programs and Travel Dates for Summer School in Greece 2011

We're excited to announce our study-abroad programs and travel dates for summer school in Greece 2011 and would like to invite you to join us!

May 27 to June 2, 2011: Watercolor Journaling in Greece with Jacqueline Newbold. Read more about Jacqueline and her watercolor journaling online at: http://newboldart.com/Travels.htm

Jacqueline is a successful artist and teacher who leads successful study abroad programs to Provence. I am thrilled that Jacqueline will be offering her wonderful class for the first time in Greece. We will learn how to journal our Mediterranean Herb and Essential oils, and our Aromatic Journey to Chios programs.

June 4 to 9, 2011: Mediterranean Herbs and Essential oils in Greece with ACHS President and Wellness Expert Dorene Petersen, Guerilla Distiller Robert Seidel and guest lecturer Aromatherapist Mindy Green (Also an ACHS Advisory Board Member). We are privileged to have Robert Seidel and Mindy Green join us for this program.

June 11 to 16, 2011: Aromatic Journey to Chios--Explore Mastic Production with
Dorene Petersen and Robert Seidel. If you enjoy adventure, history and are fascinated in the potential of mastic essential oil don't miss this one!

Invest in yourself and stay for all three! Program details will be announced shortly. For priority enrollment, please contact ACHS admissions to be placed on the waiting list. We had many students contact us about doing summer school in 2011, so these programs will fill quickly! Call (800) 487-8839 or email admissions@achs.edu

5 Essential Oils in 5 Minutes or Less: Our Top 5 Picks for Fall

If you could only pick five essential oils to use for the rest of your life, which would they be? Don’t worry … we can’t answer that question either! But we can recommend five of our favorite essential oils to keep on hand this fall. Here’s a snapshot introduction to our top five picks.

1. Cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum has a spicy aroma and is considered a base to middle note. It blends well with frankincense, orange, and peppermint, forming a lovely seasonal scent. Medicinally, cinnamon has antiseptic, antispasmodic, and bactericidal qualities, making it an effective air purifier. Blend cinnamon with some of our other favorites (like clove, lavender, and peppermint) to create a room spray that’s both seasonal and germicidal.

2. Clove Syzygium aromaticum was an important commodity for the Greeks and Romans and was heavily traded. Clove bud oil has been shown to inhibit the production of free radicals and to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Recent studies have highlighted its use especially for oral hygiene. Another good oil for travel! You can add 2 drops of the essential oil to 1 cup of water to make an on-hand mouthwash. For aromatherapeutic blends, clove imparts a fresh top note and blends well with bergamot, lavender, vanilla, and ylang ylang.

Read about our other picks--eucalyptus, tea tree Australia, and vetiver--in the October issue of our enewsletter, The Reporter. Download The Reporter HERE.

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*This information is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.