Heeng Oil (Asafoetida)

Posted on March 31, 2024 by AyurvedicOils

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Asafoetida is seen as an archaic remedy for flatulence, colic and other digestive disorders but the truth is that this ‘Food of Gods’ is still boasting its potent of treating various disorders from toothache to impotency for more than 5,000 years, where it’s use has been documented in Ashtanga Hridaya, which is one of the ancient text of the world’s oldest healing science known as Ayurveda.

Highly carped for its pungent aroma, Asafoetida has never failed in adding that extra spice to numerous traditional dishes in various countries including India, Europe, North Africa and the United States.

Known as Rāmaha, Badhika and Sahasravedhi in Sanskrit, Heeng and its essential oil has been prescribed in the Ayurvedic medicine for treating flatulence, whooping cough, painful menstruation, premature ejaculation, impotency, diabetes, asthma, intestinal worms and toothache.

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Historical importance of Heeng (Asafoetida):

Asafoetida is native to Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan. Botanically known as Ferula assa-foetida, it is a member of the Apiaceae plant family and the commercial part used is the oleo-gum resin extracted from the thickened roots and rhizomes. It is also known by other famous names like hing, narthex, heeng, food of Gods, devil’s dung, haltheeth, giant fennel, ting and stinking gum.

Ayurveda quotes “Asafoetida is a grounding herb that can therefore balance an overactive, over emotional, turbulent system“. It was one among the common herbs prescribed for the treatment of hysteria. It was used in 1918 to combat the Spanish influenza pandemic. It was also used as a topical remedy for relieving abdominal injuries.

Heeng is a popular spice all over the world and is used as a digestive aid, flavoring agent and as a condiment in food varieties and in pickles. It is used in daily food preparations in India especially by the followers of Vaishnavism, Jainism and by the merchant caste. Asafoetida was the most prevalent folk remedy for treating flatulence, colic and cold in children and as a contraceptive medicine.

The Arabian pharmacists and scientists like Avicenna, Fakhr al-Din al-Razi and Ibn al-Baitar have talked about the positive effects of Asafoetida on digestive system and the respiratory system. It is used in magic spells in the African-American Hoodoo tradition for its power to protect as well as to curse.

Asafoetida is also used in the Jamaican culture for protecting babies from evil spirits. The Jewish literatures like Mishneh Torah and Mishnah have also talked about this spice.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Heeng oil:

The remedial properties of Heeng essential oil are nervine, carminative, aphrodisiac, vermifuge, abortifacient, antispasmodic, stimulant, anti-flatulent, antimicrobial, analgesic, antiseptic, anti-epileptic, fertility enhancer, contraceptive, anthelmintic, expectorant, bronchodilator and emmenagogue. The major chemical constituents are phellandrenes, α-pinene, hendecyl-sulphonyl acetic acid, ferulic acid and ethers of sesquiterpenes with coumarines like farnesi feroles.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Heeng (Asafoetida) oil:

Asafoetida is a promising Ayurvedic remedy for treating digestive and respiratory disorders for thousands of years. Known as the oldest of all the healing systems on earth, Ayurveda is the mother of all medicinal practices in the world having its roots deeply vested with India, the world’s oldest historical tradition.

Ayurveda is considered as the only healing methodology that considers human body as a temple where the real soul dwells in. It also states that Mother Nature is made up of five vital elements namely fire, water, earth, air and ether. Being a part of Nature, human beings are also made up of these five fundamental elements that pair together and form the biological energies called as doshas.

Just like an individual’s fingerprints, each one of us on earth has a unique individual constitution that comprises of these three doshas namely vata, pitta and kapha. Vata is a representation of air and space and is responsible for respiration, nervous functions, circulation, excretion and creativity.

Pitta stands for fire and water and is accountable for digestion, absorption, metabolism and thinking capacity. Kapha represents water and earth and is in charge for structure, movement of fluids, sustenance and love.

Every individual has a dominance of any one of these doshas and it determines their characteristics, temperament and behavioral attributes. Balance between these doshas indicates health and imbalance causes illnesses. Ayurvedic remedies are prescribed in a such a manner to set right these doshic imbalances.

Heeng and its essential oil in Ayurveda is said to increase Pitta energy and balance vata and kapha dosha with its pungent taste and enormous healing properties. In the Ayurvedic text Ashtanga Hridaya Su Chapter l it is mentioned that “Asafoetida mitigates vata and kapha, relieves flatulence and colic pain. It is pungent taste and at the end of digestion. It aggravates pitta, enhances appetite, taste and digestion. It is easy to digest”.

The major Ayurvedic health benefits of Heeng oil are:

1. Benefits to the digestive system:

Just by hearing the word ‘Asafoetida’ anyone in India would just say that it is the best natural remedy for treating flatulence, colic and indigestion in children as well as elderly people. With its anti-flatulent, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Heeng essential oil aids in relieving from abdominal gas, stomach pain, intestinal gas and bloating.

It cleanses the intestinal flora and augments the digestive fire. By this way it eliminates all kinds of stagnation in the gastrointestinal tract, relieves cramping and drives out intestinal gas. The strong herbaceous aroma of this oil assists in soothing the lining of the stomach and intestines, reducing distention, treating spasms and increasing the appetite.

Gently massaging your tummy and abdomen with 2 drops of Asafoetida oil blended with 1 ml of sesame oil will be of great help in treating all types of stomachic and intestinal problems in a comforting manner.

You can also add 1 drop of Heeng oil to warm bathing water or to diffuser in the dining hall to stimulate the process of metabolism and for enhancing the stamina, as this oil is known to nurture the earth element that is responsible for strength and vigor.

Asafoetida is used as a traditional medicine for treating constipation and flatulence in 60% people of Jammu and Kashmir, India and this wonder herbal medicine lessens the development of indigenous microflora in the gut, thus helping in reducing flatulence. It has also been used in western medicinal system as a topical remedy for treating abdominal injuries since the 18^th century.

2. Benefits to the respiratory system:

Heeng and its essential oil is an ancient folk remedy for treating cold especially in children. This is mainly due to its antimicrobial and expectorant properties along with its ability to reduce kapha dosha, which is responsible for excess phlegm and mucous deposits causing cold and other respiratory problems.

Add 2 drops of Heeng oil to steam inhalation or to vapor rub and massage it on your chest, neck and back for expelling mucous and phlegm deposits in the bronchial, nasal and respiratory passages. Asafoetida has antimicrobial values that arrest the growth of infectious organisms that worsen cold and cough and pave way for chronic respiratory conditions.

It has been proven effective in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, chest congestion, whooping cough and other respiratory problems. There are numerous home remedies with Asafoetida for treating respiratory disorders and various other health conditions.

One popular home remedy with Heeng is mixing half teaspoon of asafoetida powder with fresh betel leaf juice and white onion juice along with honey every day for treating whooping cough, bronchitis and asthma.

A 2009 study on ‘Influenza A (H(1)N(1)) Antiviral and Cytotoxic Agents from Ferula assa-foetida’ have proved the effectiveness of Asafoetida in combating the harmful effects of H1N1 virus with its antiviral and cytotoxic elements. This study concluded that Asafoetida exhibited greater potency against influenza A virus and against HepG2, Hep3B, and MCF-7 cancer cell lines, correspondingly.

3. Benefits to the reproductive system:

Asafoetida addresses male and female reproductive problems in a natural way. It is known to cure impotency, premature ejaculation and spermatorrhoea in men by increasing the libido and it also acts as an effective aphrodisiac.

Mix 2 drops of Heeng oil with 1 ml of olive oil and gently massage on your lower abdomen or add 1 drop of this oil to your bathing tub before going to bed. Regular use of this therapy can show effective results as the therapeutic molecules present in this oil penetrate deeply into the system through the skin and stimulate the male reproductive system.

Heeng as a powerful herb and a strong essential oil has emmenagogue properties and has been in use as a natural contraceptive. It will be of great assistance in treating dysmennorhea or painful menstruation, excessive bleeding, irregular or delayed periods, leucorrhea, nausea, fatigue, anxiety and other symptoms associated with menses.

The best way to use Heeng oil for menstrual discomforts is by massaging your lower abdomen with 2 drops of this oil mixed with 1 ml sesame oil or add it in a hot compress for improved results.

As a contraceptive or abortifacient, Heeng oil can be used in treating unplanned abortion, sterility in women and premature labor. It is also effective in improving the quality and quantity of breast milk in nursing women. Using Asafoetida in post-pregnancy period is recommended for relieving colic, indigestion and other digestive difficulties in both the mother and the baby.

4. Benefits to oral health:

Human mouth has the highest possibilities of being affected by millions of micro-organisms that not only cause hazards to oral health but also to the entire body. Heeng essential oil has potent antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that aids in treating toothache, bleeding gums, bad breath or halitosis and harmful cavities.

Add 1 drop of Heeng oil in a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle for getting rid of various oral problems. You can also add 1 drop of this oil to a piece of cotton and dab it on your aching tooth for immediate relief.

5. Benefits to the entire system:

Asafoetida and its essential oil are beneficial to the entire system in a number of ways. It has been proven effective in stimulating the pancreatic cells to secrete more insulin as improved insulin levels are known to bring down the blood sugar levels to normal.

According to certain studies, the antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties of Asafoetida curbs the growth of malignant cells causing cancerous tumors. Since the ancient times, this condiment has been used as a powerful antidote for opium as it is identified to counter the effect of the ingested drug.

Asafoetida is defined as ‘Tamasic’ in Ayurveda for its properties of resistance, dullness, inertia and darkness on the mind and it can balance the over emotional, hyperactive and chaotic system.

This condiment is also used as a pesticide and insecticide for protecting crops from pests and for repelling mosquitoes and certain other insects.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for informational purpose and is not directed to diagnose or replace any prescribed medicines or professional medical advice. Never take essential oils internally and always dilute essential oils before using it topically. This is because organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and can cause allergic reactions if used in an undiluted manner.

Remember to consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the most suitable essential oil for your unique constitution and health condition. Avoid using Heeng oil if you are a pregnant woman as it has strong abortifacient properties.

Thought for the day:

Deep in their roots, all flowers keep the light. -Theodore Roethke

Suggested Reading:

Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
Ayurvedic Healing Cuisine by Harish Johari
Herbs: An Inside Look Into The World of Alfalfa, Basil, Asafoetida, Burdock, Catnip and More by Vanesa Payne
The Yoga of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine by David Frawley, Vasant Lad
Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide by Burton Goldberg Group

Reference Links:

Hyssop Oil

Posted on March 24, 2024 by AyurvedicOils

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Bible reveals the genuine use of Hyssop by saying “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean” in Psalm 51:7. Hyssop is held-high as a spiritual herb since the Biblical times for its potential to purify the mind, cleanse the soul and improve divinity and supports nourishment from within.

The name Hyssop is extracted from the Hebrew word ‘azob’ meaning ‘holy herb’ and was used in temples and other sacred places as a cleansing agent. The essential oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of this perennial plant and is botanically known as Hyssopus officinalis and is a part of the mint family, Lamiaceae.

It has been honored as one among the 12 main oils of the Scripture. Ayurveda recommends the use of Hyssop and its essential oil for treating respiratory problems like chronic catarrh, cold, cough, congestion and asthma. It was also used for regulating high blood pressure, treat flatulence and colic, reduce fever, release heavy emotions, support deep breathing and improve the immune power.

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Historical importance of Hyssop and its essential oil:

Hyssop is known as one among the oldest herb used by human beings. Hippocrates, the renowned physician prescribed Hyssop for treating bronchial problems, inflammation, chest congestion, throat infections and pleurisy.

The ancient Romans used Hyssop for protecting themselves from plague. They prepared a medicated wine using Hyssop leaves and flowers and valued it as a natural remedy for plague and certain other health disorders. Hyssop tea, infusion and tincture have been used in the treatment of dropsy and jaundice.

“Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. Not one of you shall go out the door of his house until morning.” Exodus 12:22, is another Biblical verse talking about the greatness and purifying abilities of Hyssop herb. Bible also records the use of Hyssop by influential Biblical leaders including Jesus, Moses, Solomon and David. There are about 126 verses in the Bible that talk about Hyssop. It was also used in cleaning and polishing sanctified places.

Persians used Hyssop oil in skin lotions to augment their complexion and enhance skin health. It was used by the Europeans as air freshener and the traditional Indians used Hyssop for healing wounds, treat bruises, lessen excess fluid content in the body and to alleviate muscular pain. Hyssop is also a popular ingredient of Chartreuse liquor.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Hyssop essential oil:

The most important chemical constituents of Hyssop essential oil are myrcene, a-pinene, limonene, camphene, isopinocamphene, b-pinene, 1,8-cineole, sabinene, y-terpineol, thujone and pinocamphone.

These components contribute to its remedial properties like expectorant, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, astringent, stimulant, antiseptic, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, vulnerary, carminative, sudorific, cicatrisant, nervine, digestive, vermifuge, febrifuge, tonic and hypertensive.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Hyssop essential oil:

Ayurveda is the wisdom of spiritual and holistic healing that has been in practice since 5,000 years. This ancient philosophy identifies disease as an opportunity to explore the actual cause lying behind an illness.

Identifying the root cause of an illness and treating it paves way for prevention of diseases in the future, leading a healthy life and progressing towards longevity. Whereas the contemporary medical system treats illnesses without analyzing its root cause, by this way the disease gets suppressed inside for the time being and grows as a major root for chronic disorders in the future.

Ayurvedic philosophy is based upon five major elements of nature, namely fire, water, earth, air and space. It is strongly believed that the universe is made up of these five elements and everything on this universe is made up of these elements including human beings. With a combination of these vital elements, every individual has a unique constitution that comprises of three biological energies known as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. These doshas are a combination of the five elements of nature. Vata represents air and space, pitta is combination of fire and water and kapha signifies water and earth.

Vata dosha is responsible for nervous functions, movement, circulation and respiration. Pitta energy governs digestion and metabolic functions. Kapha type controls the structure and sustenance of the body and the movement of fluids in the system. Every human being has a predominance of any one of these doshas that depicts their personality, behavior, physical and emotional attributes. Balance between these doshas symbolizes health and imbalance causes illnesses.

Ayurvedic remedies focus on regularizing dosha imbalances and include essential oils, herbs, meditation, yoga, physical exercises, prayers, Ayurvedic routine and a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet. Hyssop essential oil has been used in Ayurvedic healing for treating excess kapha along with pitta and vata deficit.

Let’s take a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Hyssop essential oil based on the suggested methods of usage.

1. In baths and Ayurvedic massage therapy:

Ayurveda trusts in healing humanity through the five major senses namely the sense of sight, sense of sound, sense of touch, sense of taste and the sense of smell. Using Ayurvedic essential oils in bath and in Abhyanga, the art of Ayurvedic massaging treats illnesses of the mind and body through the sense of touch and the sense of smell.

Skin is the largest organ of the body and is the fastest mode to transmit the therapeutic molecules of essential oils to penetrate deeply into the blood stream. When used in bathing water, the aroma of the essential oil passes through the nasal passages and passes onto the limbic system, which is the control center of the brain. By this way the remedial properties of the oil gets conveyed to other parts of the body in the form of control waves by the limbic system.

Add 2 drops of Hyssop essential oil in warm bathing water for relieving from fatigue, anxiety, menstrual pain, flatulence, viral infections, low blood pressure, respiratory infections, urinary problems, fever and skin infections. Taking bath in this medicated water before going to bed can assist in promoting peaceful sleep, mental clarity, relaxation of muscles and nerves. It also helps in eliminating excess fluids and toxic substances in the body through urine and sweat.

Blend 3 drops of Hyssop essential oil with 1.5 ml of sesame oil and gently massage it on your abdomen for treating dysmennorhea, promoting blocked or delayed menstruation, regularize the menstrual cycle and alleviate menopausal symptoms like stress, hot flashes and discharges with its emmenagogue, stimulant and tonic properties.

Massaging the painful area with this blend also helps in expelling excessive salts, fluids, sodium and other toxic substances in the body through urine. By this way it helps in reducing swelling, inflammation and rheumatic pain. A 2002 study on ‘The muscle relaxing activity of Hyssopus officinalis essential oil on isolated intestinal preparations’ have proved that Hyssop oil is effective in treating muscular pain by relaxing the muscles and reducing the amplitude of spontaneous movements.

Hyssop essential has the potential to increase pitta dosha, which is responsible for metabolic functions and digestive fire. Massaging your stomach and abdomen with 2 drops of Hyssop oil blended with 1 ml of olive oil can help in relieving from gas, flatulence, colic and indigestion. The carminative, digestive, vermifuge and stomachic properties of Hyssop oil aids in increasing the secretion of digestive acids and gastric juices that supports indigestion, colic, intestinal gas and spasms and kills intestinal worms.

Massaging your foot soles with 2 drop of Hyssop oil mixed with 1 ml of warm coconut oil can help in reducing your body temperature and treat fever effectively with its febrifuge properties. It promotes urination and supports to get rid of all infectious organisms causing fever through sweat and urine. A 2010 study published in the BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Hyssop essential oil has been proved to weaken the flu virus and weakens the ability of influenza to affect cells.

Massaging your body with 10 drops of Hyssop essential oil mixed with 5 ml of coconut oil can assist in relieving tension, mental fatigue, anxiety, sore muscles, microbial infections, pain, inflammation, headache, low blood pressure, flu, tonsillitis, dermatitis, eczema, sore throat and asthma.

This massage blend aids in stimulating your system by enhancing your immune powers and acts as a tonic to your digestive system, nervous system, endocrinal system, excretory system and circulatory system. Go for a Hyssop massage every weekend to revitalize your senses and your system for the week ahead.

2. In steam inhalation:

Excess of kapha dosha is responsible for respiratory problems like cold, cough, chest congestion, nasal congestion and breathing difficulties. Hyssop essential oil controls excess kapha and assists in relieving respiratory disorders including heavy catarrhal conditions. This oil also has expectorant, decongestant and diuretic properties that help in expelling excess of phlegm and mucus deposits in the chest, bronchial and nasal passages.

Hyssop is listed as an effective expectorant by the University of Maryland Medical Center that can support in eliminating mucus from lungs and in alleviating whooping cough. All you need to do to relieve from your respiratory problems is to add 2 drops of Hyssop essential oil in steam inhalation.

3. In burners or diffusers:

The sweet-camphoraceous, warm and powerful aroma of Hyssop oil assists in treating anxiety, mental fatigue, stress, negative feelings and other mental woes. Hyssop is used as an effective mental stimulant for calming the mind and soothing the nerves.

Add 2 to 3 drops of Hyssop essential oil to your diffuser, burner or aromatic lamp for relieving nervous tension, alleviate negative emotions and purify the mind. This oil is also known to grant mental clarity, augment creativity and assist meditation peacefully. On a spiritual perspective, Hyssop essential oil is recognized as a spiritual remedy to forgive sins and attain spiritual oneness.

4. In creams, lotions and rubs:

Hyssop essential oil has antiseptic, cicatrisant and vulnerary properties that make it the most ideal oil for treating skin problems. Being an antiseptic and vulnerary oil, Hyssop aids in protecting wounds, cuts and abrasions from being septic. It invades the presence of micro-organisms like bacteria and virus and protects the wound from microbial infections, paving way for quicker healing process.

The cicatrisant value of Hyssop essential oil assists in diminishing scars and prevents the skin from permanent scarring left by acne, boils, accidents, insect bites, pregnancy, pox and surgeries. Mix 2 drops of Hyssop essential oil to your regular skin care cream or daily lotion and apply it on wounds, infections, cuts, scars, marks, acne and insect bites for effective results.

Using this aromatic blend on your scars, stretch marks and other marks on the skin helps in promoting cellular regeneration and growth of new skin cells that assist in fading away existing scars and marks on the skin. Add 2 drops of Hyssop oil to your vapor rub and apply it gently on the chest, throat and back for effective relief from whooping cough, cold, headache and nasal congestion.

Disclaimer:

This is only for the purpose of information and is not intended for treatment or to substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Never take essential oils internally.

Ensure to use them in a diluted form as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances and can cause harm if used directly on the skin. Consult your Ayurvedic physician before choosing the right essential oils for your unique individual constitution and precise health condition. Be cautious before using essential oils if you are nursing or pregnant.

Thought for the day:

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. – David in Psalm 51:7

Suggested Reading:

The Hyssop Supplement: Alternative Medicine for a Healthy Body (Health Collection) by William Wagner
Beautiful Plants of the Bible from the Hyssop to the Mighty Cedar Trees by Dr. David Darom
A 21st Century Herb: Hyssop Superior Healing Power: By Willie Southall
Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless

Reference Links:

Balsam Peru Oil

Posted on February 8, 2024 by AyurvedicOils

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“The balsam is stimulant and tonic, and is of use in chronic coughs, whites, palsy and chronic rheumatism. As an external application, it is employed with advantage in cleansing and stimulating foul and indolent ulcers”, quotes the book Ayurvedic Materia Medica for domestic use by Thomas John Graham.

Also called as Peruvian balsam, the essential oil and the balsam as such are being used in the field of Complementary and Alternative medicine like Ayurveda and Homeopathy as well as in Modern medicinal practices.

With its decongestant, antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-rheumatic properties, Balsam Peru is prescribed in Ayurvedic medicine for treating bronchial asthma, whooping cough, bruises, bed sores, burns, eczema, respiratory infections, tuberculosis, headache, fever, diaper rashes, cold, scabies, ringworm and rheumatic conditions.

Purchase Balsam Peru Essential Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Balsam Peru essential oil and its other extracts: This tree is scientifically called as Balsamum tolutanum. Balsam of Peru is the resin extracted from the tall tree that grows in Peru, Bolivia, Columbia, Venezuela, Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina and France.

Balsam Peru is also called by other names like Balsamum Peruvianum, Surinam balsam, Balsam fir oleoresin, Quina quina, Balsam Tolu, Toluifera pereirae, Indian Balsam, China oil, Myroxylon Balsamum, Balsams Peru, Myrosperum pereira balsam etc.

Initially, Peru was the major and largest exporter of Balsam oil and it was for this reason, this Balsam was called as Balsam of Peru. In recent times, Balsam of Peru is exported by various other major Balsam growing countries. This tree has a natural potential of producing resin, which is sticky in nature. Balsam of Peru is collected from Balsam trees that are roughly 20 years old by tapping method.

Balsam of Peru has been a part of the traditional healing methodologies for centuries together. It was used as a natural remedy for treating digestive disorders, headache, cold, cough, respiratory infections and certain skin problems. The Native American populace used the powder extracted from this tree as a deodorant.

Balsam of Peru and its essential oil has been a trusted remedy of the Europeans and other Asian folks for healing skin diseases like bedsores, ringworm, scabies, eczema, diaper rashes, wounds and itches. It is also used as an important ingredient in the manufacturing of female hygiene sprays, shampoos, insect repellents, topical salves, soaps, mouthwash, surgical dressings, skin care lotions and certain other fragrant ingredients.

Chemical constituents and remedial properties of Balsam Peru essential oil:

Studies have proved that the resin extracted from the Peruvian balsam tree consists of about 80% of cinnamic acid along with the presence of cinnamein. This is the reason for its vanilla and cinnamon like aroma. It’s essential oil is said to contain various volatile oils and the major components are benzyl cinnamate, benzyl benzoate, and nerolidol.

These components contribute to its remedial properties like antiseptic, antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-parasitic, expectorant, decongestant, antifungal, diuretic, antioxidant, deodorant, cicatrisant, anti-stress and anti-dandruff.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Balsam Peru essential oil:

The word ‘Ayurveda’ simply means ‘the knowledge of life’, where ‘Ayur’ stands for life and ‘Veda’ means knowledge. This oldest remedial system states that illness occurs when there is disharmony between an individual and nature.

Ayurvedic healing considers every human being as a unique part of nature with a unique individual combination. According to this philosophy ‘no two individuals are given the same medicine, even for the same disease’. The first Ayurvedic consultation aims at analyzing the unique individual constitution of a person, which comprises of three biological energies known as doshas. They are vata (air and space), pitta (fire and water) and kapha (water and earth).

These Ayurvedic doshas are nothing but a combination of the five vital elements of nature called as Panchamahabutas, namely fire, water, earth, air and space. Ayurveda states that every person has a prakriti (individual constitution), which is a combination of these doshas in a unique proportion with a predominance of any one of them.

This prevalence determines the character, personality, uniqueness and behavioral attributes of a person. Based upon these fundamental qualities, the unique Ayurvedic treatment methodology and remedies are prescribed. Ayurvedic writings reveal that the absolute balance between these doshas indicates perfect health and harmony with nature, whereas doshic imbalances lead to sickness.

The most notable Ayurvedic remedies include Ayurvedic essential oils, herbs, yoga, meditation, Pranayama or the art of balanced breathing, prayers, simple physical exercises, Ayurvedic routine, Abhyanga, and Panchakarma. With these remedies, Ayurveda focuses on treating the root cause of an illness instead of diagnosing its symptoms.

With its stimulating and invigorating properties, Balsam Peru essential oil has been recommended in Ayurveda for augmenting pitta dosha and pacifying kapha and vata dosha.

Let’s look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Balsam Peru oil:

1. Controls dandruff and checks hair-fall:

The essential oil of Balsam Peru has been used as an important ingredient in many hair care products including shampoos and conditioners for its antifungal, anti-parasitic and anti-dandruff properties. These remedial values help in clearing away dandruff, killing head lice and treating dry and itchy scalp conditions.

Massaging your scalp with 3 drops of Balsam Peru oil, 2 drops of Lemon oil and 2 drops of Rosemary oil along with 5 ml of Coconut oil can be of great assistance in nourishing your scalp, clearing away the itchy flakes on the head, repairing your damaged hair and act as a hair tonic. You can also add 2 drops of Balsam Peru oil to your regular shampoo and enjoy the richness of your shining hair, free from dandruff and head lice.

2. Extremely beneficial to the skin:

Balsam Peru oil is a time-honored skin care remedy that has been employed in the treatment of numerous skin problems including ringworm, bedsores, skin ulcers, wounds and diaper rashes. The antiseptic, antifungal, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of this oil helps in quicker healing of wounds, combats the growth of microbes responsible for skin infections, and fights aging symptoms.

Blend 2 drops of Balsam Peru oil with 2 drops of Ylang Ylang oil and 2 drops of Lavender oil with 3 ml of Olive oil. Gently apply this blend on skin problems like eczema, scabies, wounds, ringworm, acne, athlete’s foot, chapped skin, rashes and wrinkles.

This natural skin tonic works like a wonder in treating fungal skin infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot with its anti-fungal properties; acne, rashes, wounds and eczema with its antimicrobial properties; wrinkles and dull lifeless skin with its antioxidant properties.

Bedsores generally occur in sick people who are bed-ridden. This includes especially the aged population with sensitive skin. Mixing 1 drop of Balsam Peru oil with 2 ml of Jojoba oil can reduce pain and help in promoting quicker healing of wounds. This blend can also be used externally on diaper rashes for babies as well as the aged.

3. Alleviates respiratory infections:

According to Ayurveda, amassing of toxic substances or ama in the system is a major cause for many illnesses including respiratory problems. It is a known fact that excess of kapha dosha (blend of water and earth elements) is responsible for diseases based on the surplus fluid deposits in the system causing respiratory infections, obesity, rheumatism, edema and other inflammatory conditions.

Balsam Peru oil has diuretic, expectorant and antimicrobial properties that aid in eliminating the excess fluid deposits in the system through urine and sweat, discarding phlegm and mucus secretions in the respiratory tract and arresting the growth of microbes that worsen respiratory problems. It has been used in the United States since 1800s as a respiratory aid and cough suppressant. Balsam of Peru was also used as an ingredient in cough syrups and lozenges.

2 drops of Balsam Peru oil along with 1 drop of Peppermint oil and 1 drop of Eucalyptus oil added to steam inhalation can help in relieving cold, sore throat, nasal congestion, headache, sinusitis, watery eyes, chronic cough, bronchitis, tuberculosis, asthma and inflammation of the pharynx.

Gently rubbing your throat, chest, back and forehead with 2 drops of Balsam oil along with 1 drop of Tea tree oil mixed with your vaporizing ointment can help in relieving sore throat, bronchial congestion, blocked nasal passages, chest congestion, headache, sinusitis and drowsiness due to cold and other respiratory infections.

4. Enhances the functions of the digestive system:

Indigestion is the key cause for building up of toxic substances in the body. This is due to improper metabolic functions, including digestion, absorption and elimination. Pitta dosha is responsible for ‘Agni’ or digestive fire in the system. Vitiation of pitta energy often ends up in sluggishness, nausea, constipation, flatulence, loss of appetite and other digestive disorders.

Balsam Peru oil has the ability to enhance pitta energy and can re-kindle the digestive fire. Inhaling the warm aroma of Balsam Peru oil by adding 2 drops of this oil to your vaporizer especially before your meals can help in enhancing your appetite, stimulating your bowel movements, treating constipation and promoting proper digestion. Massaging your abdomen with 2 drops of Balsam Peru oil and 2 drops of Nutmeg oil with 2 ml of sesame oil can support your digestive functions.

5. Improves blood circulation and treats rheumatic disorders:

Ayurvedic writings denote that rheumatism is an auto-immune disease that arises mostly due to the upsurge of ama or toxins in the system owing to the disparity of digestive fire. These harmful substances may even block the working of the essential organs in the body.

Basically, ama stored in the body reaches the kapha dominated parts like fingers, joints, stomach, brain, chest, toes and few other parts. Thus rheumatism is identified with the symptoms of inflammation, redness of joints, soreness of muscles, lack of energy, swelling of joints, irregular blood circulation, insomnia and fatigue.

With its diuretic, anti-rheumatic, antioxidant and analgesic properties, the essential oil of Balsam Peru has the potent to improve blood circulation, reduce pain, decrease swelling and inflammation by eliminating the toxic remains, excess water deposits, salt and uric acid through urine and soothe the joints and muscles.

Massaging the affected parts with 3 drops of Balsam Peru oil with 2 drops of Cardamom oil, 2 drops of Yarrow oil, 2 drops of Bay oil blended with 20 ml of coconut oil can help in alleviating pain, inflammation, swelling, soreness, stiff muscles, water retention, insomnia and other symptoms associated with rheumatism.

Ayurveda also recommends the practice of Pranayama or the art of balanced breathing in Ayurveda, through which the toxic remains in the system are discarded through exhalation. Along with this certain yogasanas can also help in treating rheumatic problems at ease and this has also been proved by various scientific studies.

Other health benefits:

With its mild, warm and soothing aroma, Balsam Peru oil acts like a marvel in treating depression, mood fluctuations and negative feelings. To attain this solace, 2 drops of Balsam Peru oil and 2 drops of Benzoin Res oil can be added to your burner, candle diffuser or vaporizer during the practice of yoga, meditation and Pranayama. This can also aid in enhancing self-confidence and positive thoughts.

Disclaimer: This information is meant only for the use of education and is not meant to diagnose or treat any health condition or replace any prescribed medications or professional medical advice. We are not healthcare practitioners and this info is shared only with the idea of highlighting the traditional wisdom of Ayurveda, the mother of all healing sciences.

Never take essential oils internally and do remember to dilute essential oils before using it on your skin, as pure and organic essential oils are extremely concentrated substances and may lead to allergic reactions when used on the body directly. Ensure that you seek advice from your Ayurvedic professional/healthcare expert before selecting the appropriate essential oil for your health condition and unique individual constitution. Avoid using Balsam Peru oil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it is regarded as a sensitizing oil that may cause allergic reactions.

Thought for the day:

The art of medicine consists in amusing the patient while nature cures the disease. -Voltaire

Suggested Reading:

10 Ways to Use Balsam Of Peru (Recipe Book) by Sam Enrico
The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless
Aromatherapy and Subtle Energy Techniques: Compassionate Healing with Essential Oils by Joni Loughran, Ruah Bull
Scabies Natural Home Treatment Solution by Alyson Rodgers
A Practical Treatise On Materia Medica And Therapeutics by Roberts Bartholow

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