Petitgrain Essential Oil

Born with the celebrated siblings Neroli and Bitter Orange, Petitgrain is known to the world as emotionally harmonizing oil. The essential oil of Petitgrain is extracted from the leaves and twigs, where Neroli oil is extracted from the flowers and Bitter Orange oil is extracted from the rind of the fruits of the Bitter Orange tree. Trusted for attaining clarity of mind and mental wellness, Petitgrain essential oil has been used in Ayurveda as an excellent massage oil for treating inflamed tissues, muscular spasms and lymphatic damage.

Light Miller and Bryan Miller’s book on ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ quotes that Petitgrain essential oil has enhanced strength and freshness than the oil extracted from the fruit as it is distilled from the leaves and stems of the plant with an enhanced aura.

Purchase Petitgrain Essential Oil – Retail – CLICK HERE

Purchase Petitgrain Essential Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses of Petitgrain essential oil: The French name Petitgrain means ‘little grains’ or ‘little seeds’. It acquired this name because Petitgrain essential oil was initially extracted from unripe oranges that were just in the size of cherries. It is said that this oil is extracted from the leaves and twigs of a variety of Citrus species namely Citrus sinensis, Citrus aurantium, Citrus bigardia or Petitgrain bigarade and Citrus reticulata. Bitter orange tree is indigenous to tropical regions of Asia and eastern parts of Africa. Since the primordial times, this oil has been an important ingredient of the classic ‘Eau-de-Cologne’ and many other perfumes and cosmetics.

Numerous Complementary and Alternative Medical systems have recorded the traditional use of this oil for treating problems associated with digestion, nervous exhaustion and skin disorders. English herbalist Gerard suggests bitter juices of Citrus fruits for treating venomous bites, stings and worms. Theophrastus, the antique book talks about the use of oranges for scenting fabrics and warding off moths.

Therapeutic properties and chemical components: The chemical components of Petitgrain oil include linalool, geraniol, myrcene, neryl acetate, nerol, limonene, α-terpineol, trans-ocimene, geranyl acetate and linalyl acetate. The remedial properties of Petitgrain essential oil are antiseptic, deodorant, antibacterial, anti-spasmodic, nervine, relaxant, immune-stimulant, anti-infectious, clarifying, sedative, tonic and anti-depressant.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Petitgrain essential oil: Ayurveda is a systematic practice dealing with holistic healing as its base along with prevention of diseases, healthy aging and longevity. Ailment according to Ayurveda is a sharp signal that the human body is not in harmonization with nature. A systematic Ayurvedic treatment starts with a thorough examination where you should wear your heart on your sleeve and help yourselves know the most important things that contribute to your health and illness.

After an Ayurvedic consultation you will know the significant things of your health regime like the energy elements (doshas) contributing to your individual constitution (resembles your personality, attributes and nature), root cause of your illness, self-realization, detailed plan of a healthy diet that would suit you the best, Ayurvedic medications including essential oils, herbs, meditation, physical exercises, yogasanas and an organized Ayurvedic routine for an emotionally and physically fit living. Perfect balance of all the three doshas is a determining factor of your complete well-being. Dosha imbalances can be treated with the suitable Ayurvedic remedies. The Ayurvedic health benefits of Petitgrain essential oil are:

1. Health benefits as a massage oil or bath oil: Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massage is the ultimate therapy for relaxing the mind and comforting the body with the use of Ayurvedic essential oils. Skin is the best channel that aids the blood passage to absorb the therapeutic properties present in such essential oils and pass it on to the entire body and the psyche. A classic Ayurvedic massage is known to augment blood circulation, calm the mind, promote mental energy and enlighten the soul.

For a perfect massage blend, add 2 drops of Petitgrain oil with warm carrier oil like Almond oil to alleviate stress, control anger, lessen fear, treat nervous exhaustion, relax muscular spasms, calm stressed muscles, reduce menstrual pain and reduce rapid heartbeat. As a nervous stimulant and nerve tonic, this remedial oil aids in treating nervous afflictions, wear and tear of nerves due to prolonged stress and fortifies them. Adding 3 to 4 drops of  Petitgrain essential oil in warm bathing water helps you vent out stress, tension, fear, anxiety, anger, pain, irritability and other negative feelings.

2. Benefits to the system when added to vaporizers or diffusers: Fragrance, scent, aroma, smell or odor, whatever form it may be has a strong impact on your sensory receptors and limbic system followed by the entire behavioral and emotional set-up. Adding 2 drops of Petitgrain essential oil to your air freshener, diffuser, vaporizer or burner will help you in attaining greater heights as it boosts the intellectual power, helps restore emotions, instills self- acceptance and self-love, promotes clarity of mind and augments the concentration power especially during prayers and meditation which empower the mind.

Petitgrain is an exemplary essential oil for those who are on the road to recovery after a trauma or an illness, either mental or physical. The stimulant, tonic and anti-depressant properties of this oil assists in quicker recovery by relaxing the mind, conquering addictions, clearing off mental depression and insecurity due to the memories of the painful moments, strengthening the nervous system and promoting peaceful sleep as many people during the process of recovery suffer from insomnia and other sleeping problems.

3. Nourishes your skin as a trusted topical application: Petitgrain essential oil is lighter and refreshing than Neroli or Bitter Orange oil, making it more suitable for skin problems when 3 to 4 drops of this oil are added to skin care creams and lotions. The natural antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-infectious properties of Petitgrain oil assists in fighting bacteria and other microbes that worsen wounds, cause septic, and give birth to acne and other skin infections.

Petitgrain oil plays a vital role in skin care as it helps clear skin blemishes, acne and oily skin. When used after a bath it keeps your skin moisturized all through the day. Cuts, wounds, burns, lesions and skin ulcers are also treated with this oil.

Other health benefits: Petitgrain essential oil is also regarded as an effective aphrodisiac. A study on ‘Antioxidant and anticancer activities of Citrus reticulate (Petitgrain Mandarin) and Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) essential oils’ proved that  there are about twenty-five components present in Citrus reticulate (Petitgrain mandarin) oil and this oil possessed antioxidant and anticancer activities. It is also used in the perfume industry for making fragrances for both men and women.

Disclaimer: Pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids so never take them internally or use them directly on the skin. Always ensure that you dilute essential oils before any topical or aromatherapy uses. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner about the suitability of any essential oil for your specific body type and health condition.

Thought for the day:

Green is the prime color of the world, and that from which its loveliness arises.
-Pedro Calderon de la Barca

Suggested Reading:

  1. Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
  2. The Essential Guide to Natural Skin Care: Choosing Botanicals, Oils & Extracts for Simple & Healthy Beauty by Hélène Berton
  3. Daily Aromatherapy: Transforming the Seasons of Your Life with Essential Oils by Joni Keim, Ruah Bull

Reference Links:

  1. Petitgrain Essential Oil by Yoga Wiz.com
  2. How to use Neroli and Petitgrain by Yahoo Voices!
  3. Antioxidant and anticancer activities of Citrus reticulate (Petitgrain Mandarin) and Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) essential oils published in Research Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences
  4. Bitter Orange by National Center For Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)

Pimento Berry Essential Oil

Won’t it be a heavenly feeling after opening a box full of all the spices put together? Undoubtedly ‘Yes! ‘is the answer that I can read from your face. Known as ‘ALLSPICE’, Pimento berry and its steam distilled essential oil from the leaves and dried berries smell like seventh heaven as its power-packed spicy aroma reminds you of warm spices like clove, pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg.

pimento-berry-bannerBotanically acknowledged as Pimenta officinalis and Pimenta dioica, this herb is also nurtured with other common names like Jamaica pepper, clove pepper, new spice, bay rum berry and pimento. Known as seetful and kabab cheene in Ayurveda, Pimento berry has been used conventionally for relieving toothache and treating bad breath.

Purchase Pimento Berry Essential Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses of Pimento berry:

Indigenous to Central America, Caribbean Islands and Jamaica, this herb has been in use in the folklore medicine of Mexico during the Pre-Hispanic period and the traditional Jamaicans used this remedial herb in tea and as a tonic for healing menstrual cramps, stomach problems and cold. The Haitian inhabitants in Cuba used Allspice in herbal preparations for treating digestive disorders and toning the stomach.

Allspice herb and its oil have been historically used for curing gastrointestinal problems, cramps, rheumatic pain and toothache.

Pimento leaves were used in the Dominican Republic in tea for reducing vomiting and the Western herbal medicine makes use of Allspice extracts in making plasters for treating rheumatic and neuralgic pains. Allspice water and Allspice oil were recognized by the British Pharmacopeia in 1898. This herb was also trusted to help quitting bad habits, breaking magical spells and guarding against evil powers.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Pimento berry oil:

Pimento berry essential oil has stimulant, tonic, depurative, carminative, astringent, deodorant, stomachic, antidepressant, purgative, diuretic and antiseptic properties. The chemical constituents that contribute to the remedial values of this oil are eugenol (about 75%), sesquiterpene caryophyllene, β-caryophyllene, methyl eugenol and 1, 8-cineole.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Pimento berry essential oil:

Universally known as the mother of all healing sciences, Ayurveda is the oldest of all medicinal systems in the world. Ayurvedic texts have recorded brilliant remedial measures right from common cold till plastic surgery methods that was carried out by the Ayurvedic physician, Sushruta during 6th century BC in India and he is celebrated as the father of plastic surgery.

According to this magnificent methodology, human beings are a vital part of nature and every action whether physical, emotional, spiritual, psychological or environmental are linked with natural energies. Illness, according to Ayurveda just indicates that the human body is out of balance with nature.

Ayurveda precisely classifies that human beings are made up of three energy elements known as doshas in Sanskrit (vata, pitta and kapha), where vata represents air, pitta symbolizes fire and kapha stands for water. All these three doshas should strike perfect balance for an individual to be healthy and sickness indicates either increase or decrease of any of these or all the 3 doshas.

Ayurvedic remedies consist of herbs, essential oils, Ayurvedic massage, meditation, yoga and physical exercises along with spiritual ideals that help one to understand the purpose of life. Allspice essential oil in Ayurveda is said to treat pitta deficiency along with surplus of vata and kapha.

The key Ayurvedic health benefits of Pimento berry essential oil are:

pimento-berrry-broucher1. Treats respiratory problems:

The major cause for respiratory problems like sinus, cough, severe cold, chest congestion, difficulty in breathing due to excess mucous and phlegm deposits on the lungs etc., is due to the water based energy element kapha. Increase in kapha dosha due to climatic conditions or irregular food habits increase water content in the body and further infections cause cold and other respiratory problems.

Allspice essential oil reduces kapha and aids in treating respiratory infections like bronchitis, cough, chills and congestion. For instant relief, you can add 2 drops of Pimento oil in boiling water for steam inhalation.

2. Helps cure digestive disorders:

Widely used as a carminative, Allspice oil has stomachic and tonic properties that aids in assisting problems with digestion, flatulence, nausea, gastrointestinal tract disorders, loss of appetite, colic and dyspepsia. Herbal tea prepared with Allspice powder or a gentle massage with 3 to 4 drops of Allspice essential oil with coconut oil can help in alleviating digestive disorders.

3. Relieves rheumatic and muscular pain:

As known before, excess of kapha causes water retention or fluid retention paving way for rheumatic problems as the toxic substances stagnate in the body, hindering its regular functioning.

Pimento berry essential oil with its warm, diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects helps in relieving rheumatism, reducing inflammation, muscular aches and arthritic pain when used as a massage oil with 2 drops of Pimento berry oil blended with warm carrier oils like sesame oil can grant relief. You can also add 3 to 4 drops of Allspice oil in warm bathing water for utilizing the stimulating rubefacient effect of this oil in treating neuralgia, stiff muscles and rheumatic pain.

4. Positive effects on degenerative and cancerous diseases:

A 2011 research on ‘Composition and antioxidant activity of essential oil of Pimento from Jamaica’ tested the “antioxidant properties of this essential oil in terms of its free-radical scavenging activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical cation and superoxide anion”.

This study witnessed that Pimento berry essential oil possess very high radical fighting activities compared to that of pure eugenol and also recommended its use as a natural antioxidant along with good flavor and enormous health benefits, including cancerous and degenerative diseases due to the effect of free radicals.

5. Calms the mind and body:

The comforting, warming, encouraging, uplifting and fostering aroma of Pimento Berry essential oil renders a sense of personal touch, self-confidence and freshness on the mind and body.  As a proven tonic for the central nervous system, this oil supports in treating neuralgia, nervous exhaustion, convulsions, hysterical paroxysms, depression, fatigue and stressful conditions.

Enriching your potpourri, diffuser, burner, vaporizer or bathing water with 3 drops of Allspice essential oil can grant you ultimate solace after a long tiring day and can also kick start your confidence for a promising dawn. It is for this strong purpose, Pimento berry essential oil has been a part of men’s perfume ranges.

Other health benefits:

Allspice essential oil is also known to be used in food industry for flavoring frozen food items. Its potent antioxidant effects have made its use compelling in meat preservation. Dentists use eugenol as a trusted antiseptic and local anesthetic for treating problems with gum and teeth. Pimento berry essential oil contains rich eugenol content that makes it a promising agent for treating halitosis and other dental problems.

Disclaimer:

Always use essential oils after diluting it in carrier oils. Never take essential oils internally as it may cause harm. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using specific essential oils for your unique constitution and the quantity of oils to be used. Use Allspice essential oil in low dilutions as it has a high content of eugenol and may cause skin irritation.

Thought for the day:

Let your life lightly dance on the edges of Time like dew on the tip of a leaf.
-Rabindranath Tagore

Suggested Reading:

  1. Vibrational Healing: Revealing the Essence of Nature through Aromatherapy and Essential Oils by Deborah Eidson
  2. Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
  3. The Complete Herbal Guide: A Natural Approach to Healing the Body by Stacey Chillemi

Reference Links:

  1. Traditional Uses of Allspice by Natural Standard The Authority on Integrative Medicine
  2. Composition and antioxidant activity of essential oil of pimento (Pimenta dioica (L) Merr.) from Jamaica published in PubMed
  3. Pimento/Allspice by herbwisdom.com
  4. What Are The Health Benefits of Allspice Leaf? By Livestrong.com

Fennel Seed Oil

Fennel-seed-bannerEvery lactating mother should have this oil at hand because it helps with milk production and eases colic. It is useful during pregnancy to prevent morning sickness, and is excellent for the traveler, helping to reduce sea sickness and jet lag”, says Light Miller and Bryan Miller in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy.

Fennel is one remarkable herb with bunch of culinary and remedial benefits that embraces your food with its innate aroma and rich flavor blended with numerous healing attributes.

Owing its origin to the coastal Mediterranean region Fennel is botanically called as Foeniculum vulgare. It has been accepted and cultivated worldwide for its enormous benefits that some countries like India, Pakistan and China hold Fennel seeds and its essential oil as an important ingredient of their traditional cooking.

With the whole plant serving humanity with its unique qualities, Fennel fruits usually entitled as seeds when dried contributes to the extraction of Fennel seed oil by the process of steam distillation. Bearing anethole as the predominant flavoring substance, Fennel seed oil serves as an aid for various purposes.

Fennel is called in Ayurveda as Shatapushpa, which means hundred flowers. It has a long historical use in this ancient healing methodology in the treatment of cold, indigestion, gas, flatulence, PMS, low agni, abscesses, overindulgence in nicotine or alcohol, cramps, colic in children and menstrual problems.

Purchase Fennel Seed Oil – Retail – 4oz – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Fennel and its essential oil:

Numerous sources state that the Romans, English, Greek and Asians were well known of the extensive healing values of this aromatic herb. With its name engraved in the nine herbs charm practiced in the 10th century, Fennel along with other herbs was intended to treat poisonous infections and other diseases.

The sweet, strong and pleasing aroma of this herb earned global importance and the poetic scholar Milton had mentioned the quality of Fennel in one of his works that says:

‘A savoury odour blown,

Grateful to appetite, more pleased my sense

Than smell of sweetest Fennel.’

Referred to as the herb of sight by the ancient Romans, Fennel herb was employed to improve the eyesight of humans and animals. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author and natural philosopher had mentioned in his book ‘The Natural History’ that the serpents would rub against the Fennel herb at the time of shedding off their skin to improve their sight.    

Fennel herb aids in shedding off the excess fat, the reason for which the Greeks called this herb as Marathon, derived from the word ‘Mariano’ which means ‘to grow thin’. It is interesting to know that the Marathon event conducted in memory of the Greek soldier Pheidippides literally means ‘Land of Fennels’. It possesses excellent appetite suppressing properties that was widely used by soldiers during long journey and by common men while holding religious fasts.

Fennel herb was considered to bear the potential of protecting one from witchcraft and driving away the evil forces for which it was hung in the entrance of every home. Since it bears the attribute of strengthening oneself, athletes commonly use fennel seeds as a supplement to provide instant energy and strength.

Fennel seed has been used since ages that it has been mentioned in one of the works of Hildegard of Bingen who belonged to the middle ages but was recently crowned as the Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XVI for her renowned works in the field of medicine.

Fennel seeds and leaves are used in culinary as an aromatic and flavoring element. The Fennel bulbs are used as a vegetable that can be taken raw as well as cooked. It also helps in alleviating womanly health issues and is efficient in boosting up the mental sturdiness thus making one emotionally strong. Fennel seed oil is widely used for its stomachic properties as it aids in digestion thus healing a variety of digestive disorders.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Fennel Seed oil:

Fennel seed oil comprises of numerous chemical constituents of which the majority is anethole. The other components include α-Pinene, Camphene, Sabinene, β-Pinene, Myrcene, phellandrene, o-Cymene, Limonene, Eucalyptol, Terpinene, Fenchone, Linalool, Camphor, Estragole, Fenchyl acetate, Cumic aldehyde and p-Anisaldehyde.

Fennel seed oil serves as an excellent source of various healing attributes such as carminative, digestive, stomachic, diuretic, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, antiseptic, depurative, expectorant, galactogogue, anti-diabetic, analgesic, estrogenic, anti-toxic and tonic.

Ayurvedic Health Benefits of Fennel Seed Oil:

Ayurveda is a noble child of the ancient Indian tradition, the country with the world’s oldest historical references. This ancient healing methodology is more than 5,000 years old and is said have mentioned in Atharvaveda, one among the 4 prominent Vedic texts of India. Ayurveda is known as the science of holistic healing that aims at longevity and healthy aging through the use of natural medications and healthy lifestyle.

Ayurveda trusts that everything on earth is a part of nature and is made up of the five vital elements of nature namely fire, water, earth, air and space.

Leading a harmonious or balanced living with nature supports absolute health and imbalance causes illnesses. Every human being, according to Ayurveda is made up of an unique individual constitution that consists three biological energies known as doshas.

Doshas or Ayurvedic body types are nothing but a representation or a combination of the five vital elements. Vata dosha stands for air and space, pitta symbolizes fire and water and kapha represents water and earth.

Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas and this predominance determines their personality, attributes and behavior. Balance between these biological energies support hale and heartiness and imbalance between these doshas pave way for diseases.

Ayurvedic remedies like essential oils, herbs, yoga, meditation, physical exercises, Ayurvedic routine, balanced lifestyle and prayers aim at striking perfect balance between these doshas. Fennel seed oil is said to have equal effects on all the three doshas.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Fennel Seed oil are:

Fennel-seed-broucher1. Alleviates digestive disorders:

Fennel seeds and its essential oil have been proved as amazing natural remedies for all kinds of digestive disorders. It is one of the best accepted carminative oil that assists in expelling gas accumulated in the intestines and prevents the formation of gas thus protecting one from bloating and abdominal cramps due to gas. It is for this reason Fennel seeds are traditionally used in the preparation of gripe water to treat colic in infants and to prevent ulcer and acidity in adults.

A 2003 study on the effect of Fennel seed oil emulsion in infantile colic concludes that the use of Fennel oil considerably comforted the infants from colic with no side effects when compared to those who were treated with placebo.

Blend 2 drops of Fennel seed oil with 1 ml of sesame oil and massage it on your stomach and abdomen.  As a natural stimulant, Fennel oil massage can help in stimulating the secretion of gastric juices and digestive enzymes such as bile and promotes the process of digestion.

It also regulates the peristaltic movement of the intestines thus aiding irregular bowel movements and constipation. Moreover, it possesses anti- fungal and anti microbial properties that can effectively kill infectious micro organisms in the intestines.

Fennel seed oil has antispasmodic properties that relax the smooth muscles of the intestines and results in quick recovery from pains and abdominal discomfort caused due to indigestion, heartburn, bloating etc.

Unlike the other spices, Fennel seed oil has a unique cooling effect that pacifies the intestines and muscles of the stomach and helps in curing stomach ulcer. Thus Fennel essential oil is used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for treating indigestion, gastroenteritis, stomach upset, flatulence and hernias.

Rich in anethole, Fennel seeds are used as a trusted mouth freshener in Indian restaurants and homes. Popularly known as Mukhwas meaning mouth freshener, the sweet coated Fennel seeds are used as an after-meal snack.

It is for this reason Fennel is often employed in the preparation of toothpaste, liquors, desserts, culinary and mouth fresheners. Add 1 drop of Fennel oil in a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle after meals to keep away from microbes and fight against bad odor or halitosis.

2. Treats respiratory tract infections:

Fennel seed oil serves as an excellent respiratory aid with its spicy, peppery and slightly earthy aroma and expectorant properties. Chewing Fennel seeds refreshes your breath and its essential oil assists in treating respiratory tract infections effectively.

Fennel seed oil has anti-microbial and expectorant properties that help in fighting against harmful bacteria and viruses that cling to your respiratory tract, resulting in heavy deposits of mucus and phlegm.

Adding 2 drops of Fennel oil in steam inhalation or warm bathing water can work wonders in alleviating your respiratory infections as it acts as a natural expectorant, helping in loosening huge deposits of mucus, thus relieving you from all respiratory tract infections such as whooping cough, cold, bronchitis, allergies and breathing difficulties etc.

3. Heals womanly health concerns:

Fennel seed oil possesses female reproductive hormones, which are known to stimulate and regulate the secretion of estrogen in women. Bryan Miller and Light Miller have said in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy that Fennel oil is very useful in treating menopause and PMS with its rich content of phyto-estrogens, for which this oil is used frequently in the manufacturing breast tightening and enlarging creams.

Gently massage your lower abdomen with 3 drops of Fennel oil blended with 1.5 ml of sweet almond oil for treating irregularities in the menstrual cycle, problems associated with menopause, mood swings, dysmennorhea, blocked menstruation, nervousness and abdominal pain. This massage can also be helpful in facilitating child birth.

Fennel seed oil is used after child birth in India mainly to facilitate the removal of toxins from the uterus, support natural contraction of the uterus and also to increase the quantity and quality of the breast milk in lactating mothers. A study on estrogenic property of Fennel seed oil has proved that an acetone extract from fennel seeds had estrogenic effects on the genital organs of male and female rats.

4. Detoxifies the body and promotes weight loss:

Obesity or overweight is one vast roof that can encompass one with a cluster of diseases.  Fennel seed oil is an excellent cleansing agent that naturally detoxifies your body by excreting the toxins, excess fluids or water deposits, salt, harmful fats, bad cholesterol and uric acid deposits.

Being a diuretic, Fennel oil increases the quantity and regularity of urinating and helps in attenuation of hypertension, treatment of burning or difficult urination and inflammation due to water retention in the body.

The sweet and refreshing aroma of this oil suppresses the appetite, thus largely decreasing the longing for food. Add 2 to 3 drops of Fennel oil to your hankie, tissues or air fresheners for decreasing your appetite and granting you a feeling of fullness for a longer duration.

Fennel seed oil when added to a massage blend, consisting of 2 drops of this oil with 1 ml of sesame oil works effectively in the filtering toxins from the blood, thus protecting the liver from detrimental toxic substances. Fennel oil has been marked as a useful essential oil in toning the body with its diuretic property and be useful in dealing with obesity.

Along with detoxifying, Fennel seed oil also assists in boosting the process of metabolism and suppressing the appetite. This oil also has melatonin, which has the ability of relaxing the muscles, smoothing the nerves and resulting in a sound, peaceful sleep that may help one to control from gaining extra weight and protects from some serious disorders like cardiovascular diseases that results due to obesity.

5. Strengthens you emotionally:

Fennel seed oil helps in relaxing the mind, calming the nerves and pacifying the nervous system. Adding 2 drops of this oil in diffuser or vaporizer aids in getting rid of emotional stress, anxiety and fear. Inhaling this invigorating aroma helps in building up self confidence, enhancing the power of self-acceptance and influencing the qualities of innate love for self and others as well.

Along with its ability to help maintain a healthy physique, Fennel seed oil also boosts up your inner spirit and motivates you from within. It is for this dignified cause, athletes often use Fennel seeds as a supplementary for nourishing positive energy and affirmative thoughts.

6. Fights against free radicals:

Numerous studies have proved that Fennel seed oil possesses strong anti-oxidant properties that help in the treatment of pharmacological ailments. This property assists in fighting effectively against the free radicals that result in causing aging symptoms and paving way for the growth of cancerous or malignant tumors.

As an anti-oxidant, Fennel oil tones the skin by strengthening the connective tissues and efficiently treats wrinkles and the other signs of aging, thus making you to feel younger from within and glow with natural beauty. This attribute is also implemented in oral care for supporting strong teeth and gums. It fights against infections and helps in treating acne, pimples and other skin disorders.

Mix 2 drops of Fennel oil with 1 ml of virgin olive oil or jojoba oil and gently massage on wrinkles, dark spots, acne, marks, dull and lifeless skin. This enhances good blood circulation and promotes cellular regeneration.

7. Effective in relieving you from inflammation, spasms and aids in quick wound healing:

Fennel seed oil is an effective antiseptic, which helps in killing harmful microbes, promotes quick healing of wounds and prevents it from becoming septic. By this way, Fennel oil thwarts the onset of Tetanus, for which it is often used in many ointments and is also used in poultices to treat poisonous bites.

It is an excellent source of anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. Massaging the affected part with 2 drops of Fennel oil blended with 1 ml of warm sesame oil helps in alleviating inflammation, relieving pain and reducing swelling and promoting blood circulation. This massage also helps in supporting proper functioning of the circulatory system. It is for all these reasons Fennel oil has been used as an effective traditional remedy for rheumatism, arthritis and muscular cramps.

Using 3 drops of Fennel oil in hot compress can assist in quicker recovery of spasms and muscle contractions that occur due to hiccups, chronic coughs and epilepsies. Mix 1 drop of Fennel oil with 10 drops of coconut oil and apply it gently on wounds and infections for quicker healing.

Other health benefits of Fennel Seed Oil:

Fennel seed oil is used to improve eyesight and treat cloudy eyes since ancient times. Even though a 2008 article published in PubMed states that fennel extract is found to be effective in treating rabbits with glaucoma, further research is yet to be done in its application for human beings.

Fennel has the power of driving away fleas and its powder is used in kennels and stables. It is used as a preservative in pickles and also in the preservation of fruits and vegetables mainly because of its anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. It is also used in the manufacture of soaps, disinfectant cleaners and dental products for its antiseptic and aromatic properties.

Disclaimer:

This information is only for the purpose of education and is not intended to diagnose or substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Do not use essential oils internally and always use essential oils topically in a diluted form, as organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances. Always consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the suitable essential oil for your unique individual constitution and health condition.

Thought for the day:

Nothing is more memorable than a smell. One scent can be unexpected, momentary and fleeting, yet conjure up a childhood summer beside a lake in the mountains.    -Diane Ackerman

Suggested Reading:

  1. Fennel Greats: Delicious Fennel Recipes, The Top 79 Fennel Recipes by Jo Franks
  2. Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
  3. Natural Solutions to PCOS: How to Eliminate Your Symptoms and Boost Your Fertility by Dr. Marilyn Glenville PhD
  4. Do You Want to Have a Baby? Natural Fertility Solutions and Pregnancy Care by Sarah Abernathy
  5. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: The Definitive Home Reference Guide to 550 Key Herbs with all their Uses as Remedies for Common Ailments by Andrew Chevallier

Reference Links:

  1. Fennel by Wikipedia
  2. The Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oils from Organically Cultivated Fennel Cultivars published in Molecules.
  3. A study on the effect of fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare) seed oil emulsion in infantile colic: a randomized, placebo-controlled study published in PubMed.
  4. Fennel published in Drugs.Com- An online drug information site.