St John’s Wort Essential Oil

What comes to your mind when I say ‘Amber Touch-and-heal’? Sounds like a magical spell right? But won’t you be surprised and delighted if I say that it’s the other popular name of St. John’s Wort herb? Absolutely yes! The star-shaped bright yellow flowers are the most mesmerizing part of St. John’s Wort herb.

St-john-bannerNature’s beauty meets healing quality through these flowers as the essential oil of St. John’s Wort is extracted by steam distillation from these flowers. St. John’s Wort herb is claimed as “one of the most commonly purchased herbal products in the United States”.

This herb is named after St. John, the Baptist mainly because the admirable flowers of this plant were said to bloom initially around 24th June when the birthday of St. John is celebrated. Scientifically known as Hypericum Perforatum L, this herb is a member of the Guttiferae plant family. Ayurvedic system of healing use this medicated oil as a traditional remedy for treating joint pains, skin problems, symptoms of aging, inflammation, trauma, cracking and irritation.

Purchase St Johns Wort Essential Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical Uses of St. John’s Wort:

St. John’s Wort herb and its essential oil have a long history and were used by Naturopaths and Physicians of all the predominant traditions in the world. This herb is indigenous to Europe, Western Asia and North Africa and is used for various therapeutic applications for more than 3,000 years. St. John’s Wort was popularly known as ‘Arnica of the nerves’ during the thirteenth century from the time it was used to treat psychiatric problems by the Swiss Physician Paracelsus.

The impeccable use of this herb starts from Greece, where the renowned Greek physicians like Hippocrates, Dioscorides, Theophrastus and Galen used this herb for treating numerous illnesses including neuralgic conditions, nervous disorders and wounds.

Native Americans used St. John’s Wort herb as a natural antiseptic and was also used for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties for treating pain, inflammation, spinal irritation and certain other health conditions. This herb was also used as a traditional abortifacient agent. St. John’s Wort is also an important part of many well-liked dietary supplements in various forms like oil infusion, aqueous infusion, capsules, powders, alcoholic tinctures etc, in the United States.

The American Physicians of the nineteenth century prescribed St. John’s Wort herb to treat nervous afflictions with depression and hysteria. This herb was also trusted to ward off evil spirits and helps in getting the blessings of St. John, the Baptist for another year. The anti-depressant properties of this herb are attributed to the presence of the active components hyperforin and hypericin.

Studies prove that this healing quality has made this herb vital in treating depression and it is demonstrated to have lesser side effects than many other over-the-counter antidepressants.

With all these historical importance, St. John’s Wort is regarded as an official herb in the national pharmacopeias of Russia, Czechoslovakia, Romania, France and Poland. It is also approved as a standardized medicine by the Commission E monographs and is listed in the German Drug Codex.

Ayurvedic health benefits of St. John’s Wort Essential Oil:

Ayurveda is a common sense science that aims at bringing perfect health and harmony through natural and practical methodologies. The ancient Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita talk about all kinds of illnesses and the simple Ayurvedic approaches to treat those health conditions.

In addition to this, these Ayurvedic encyclopedias also insist on following an Ayurvedic routine that helps us to follow a systematic living for healthy aging and longevity.

According to Ayurveda human body is made up of a combination of 3 energy elements known as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. Every individual has all the 3 doshas with the predominance of any 1 of these and this predominant Ayurvedic body type determines the characteristics and behavior of an individual. The imbalance of any one of these doshas causes illnesses indicating that the body is of out of balance with nature.

Before suggesting Ayurvedic remedies, every Ayurvedic physician will thoroughly examine your medical history, Ayurvedic body type, your preferences, dislikes and other factors affecting your physical, mental, social, environmental, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Herbs, yoga, essential oils, meditation, physical exercises, Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massage therapy and a balanced lifestyle are all the major pillars of an Ayurvedic treatment. St. John’s Wort herb and its oil according to Ayurveda is good for reducing the excess of pitta and kapha doshas and aids in supporting vata deficiency (P K- and V+).

Claimed as ‘The long-time favorite herb of Herbalists’, St. John’s Wort essential oil is said to have numerous health benefits and the most predominant ones among them are:

St-john-broucher1. Hemorrhoids:

Adding few drops of St. John’s Wort essential oil to soothing carrier oils like jojoba oil aids in treating the painful symptoms of hemorrhoids. The flavonoids and hypericin compounds in this oil assists in reducing the burning and itching sensation while alleviating inflammation.

You can also add few drops of this oil to any of your skin care creams or lotions and apply it directly on the affected area to treat both external and internal hemorrhoids. Few drops of this oil added to your warm bathing water can also grant relief from external hemorrhoids.

2. Rheumatism and arthritis:

Swollen and inflamed joints along with excruciating pain are the predominant symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis. Using St. John’s Wort essential oil for treating rheumatic conditions remains as a popular herbal remedy since the primordial times.

Applying few drops of this essential oil blended with mild carrier oils like coconut oil can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with rheumatism.

Ayurvedic texts say that rheumatoid arthritis occur due to excess of pitta, the fire element and kapha, the water element along with the deficit of vata, the air element. As St. John’s Wort oil has the potential to control the excess of pitta and kapha and normalize vata shortfall, using this oil as therapeutic massage oil, bath oil or in vapor therapy can help control the symptoms of rheumatism.

3. Pain and inflammation:

The anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiseptic properties of St. John’s Wort essential oil makes it an ideal remedy for treating muscular pains, bruises, sores, sprains, tennis elbow, nervous afflictions, stiff achy joints, varicose veins and burns.

You’ll be amazed to know that St. John’s Wort oil is prescribed to neuropathic patients and also for treating incision pain after surgery. Using this oil as massage oil or remedial oil for external application along with any of your skin creams and lotions can grant you relief and foster speedy recovery.

4. Wounds:

St. John’s Wort essential oil has astringent and antibacterial properties that help in killing microbes and other harmful foreign bodies that worsen wounds and other skin infections. This oil can be used as a tincture and topical application of this oil on the affected areas augments the epithelialization of wounds. The presence of flavonoids and tannins supports the protein precipitating action for quicker healing.

5. Fibrositis, menopause and PMS:

These 3 disorders looks like a chain of womanly problems that often cause sharp pain and interrupt the normal functioning of the body. Fibrositis or fibromyalgia means pain in the muscle and connective tissue.

Numerous research studies have proved the effectiveness of St. John’s Wort essential oil in treating physical pain and emotional disturbances of premenstrual syndrome along with cramps, nausea, breast tenderness etc., anxiety and mood fluctuations during menopause and the muscular and tissue pains associated with fibromyalgia.

Massaging with few drops of St. John’s Wort oil added to soothing carrier oils like sesame oil can grant you complete relief. You can also use it as a bath oil by adding 2 drops of this oil to warm bathing water for assisting your health in a refreshing manner.

6. Other health benefits:

Kurt Schnaubelt rightly quoted the aroma of St. John’s Wort essential oil as “The penetrating smell can be felt as a warm pleasant relaxed feeling, travelling from the nose to the brain”.

The cooling and moisturizing energies of this oil aids in treating anxiety, social phobia, Obsessive compulsive disorder, stomach inflammation, smoking cessation, nervous pain, insomnia, sciatica, dysentery, pulmonary complaints, elimination of toxins in the body, bed-wetting, peptic ulcers and many other health disorders. ‘The Aromatherapy Book’ by Jeanne Rose states the use of this oil in the treatment of AIDS.

Disclaimer:

This is only for information purpose and is not recommended to replace any prescribed medicines or the consultation of your medical professional. Do not use essential oils directly on your skin or take it internally without the advice of your Ayurvedic Practitioner as it may cause negative effects.  Essential oils are highly concentrated so keep it away from children.

Thought for the day:

Earth laughs in flowers.    –Ralph Waldo Emerson

Suggested Reading:

  1. St. John’s Wort: The Herbal Way to Feeling Good by Norman Rosenthal
  2. St. John’s Wort: The Premier Herb for Relieving Depression, Healing Wounds and Easing Nerve Pain (Keats Good Herb Guide Series) by Roy Upton
  3. Natural Care Library St. John’s Wort: Safe and Effective Self-Care for Anxiety, Inflammation and Pain Relief by Stephanie Pedersen

Reference Links:

  1. St. John’s Wort by American Botanical Council
  2. St. John’s Wort by University of Maryland Medical Center
  3. St. John’s Wort by American Family Physician

Nagarmotha Essential Oil

How can the ‘world’s worst weed’ embrace innumerable health benefits to mankind!!? That’s the magnitude and immaculate love of ‘Mother Nature’. Besides being regarded as the most invasive weed in the world, Nagarmotha has its name etched in the Ayurvedic encyclopedia, Charaka Samhita (ca. 100 CE) as an excellent natural remedy for treating digestive disorders, fevers, dysmennorhea and certain other health conditions. This herb has also been an incredible part of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) where it is highly regarded as the primary qi (prana or life force) regulating herbal medicine.

The essential oil steam distilled from the rhizomes of this plant has been documented for treating numerous health conditions ranging from Hepatitis B to stress related degenerative diseases. Nagarmotha is the Hindi name of the plant and it is also known as ‘Nut Grass and Cypriol in English, Musta or Mustak in Sanskrit, Shacao in Chinese and Motha in Gujarati.

Purchase Nagarmotha Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical importance Nagarmotha: Indigenous to India, it has been said that Nagarmotha essential oil is extracted from the roots of Cyperus scariosus or Cyperus rotundus plant. Nagarmotha is given 8th rank among 250 potential anti-fertility plants in China. It is also said that this herb has been recorded in the ancient Chinese medicinal book around 500 A.D.

Popularly known as a qi-in-blood medicine in China, Nagarmotha is trusted to penetrate the blood stream and treat irregular menstruation, dysmennorhea or menstrual pain, overdue periods and depression in women mainly during menstruation. Numerous Islamic and Western herbalists like Avicenna, Serapion, Dioscorides, Rhazes, Galen, Charles Alston and Paulus Aegineta have denoted Nagarmotha as deobstruent, stomachic and emmenagogue.

The decoction extracted from the tuber of this plant is used in India for washing hair mainly for its hair strengthening and scalp rejuvenating properties. The ethnic communities of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, India use the rhizome of this herb as an antidote to venomous snake bites. It was also used as a home remedy in treating gastroenteritis and fever.

Nagarmotha essential oil is a part of the ancient art of Vashikarana, where it is trusted that the person who applies this oil on their forehead is certain to enjoy the privilege of a long-lasting string of thriving love affairs. This oil is famous even today in many parts of India as a renowned perfume for scenting saris and other traditional outfits. It has been in use in the production of perfumes, attars, incense sticks, soaps, compounds, hair treatments and in flavoring tobacco products.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties: Nagarmotha essential oil contains about 27 chemical constituents that make it extremely effective in treating numerous health disorders. The major chemical constituents are cyperine, pinene, cyperol, cyperone and isocyperol and sesquiterpenes like patchouleneone, rotundene, cyperotundene, kobusone, a-cyperone, isokobusone, sugeonol and b-selinene. The remedial properties of this oil are analgesic, anti-inflammatory, carminative, antipyretic, diuretic, astringent, decongestant, anthelmintic, emmenagogue, antimicrobial, stimulant, tonic, stomachic, hypotensive, diaphoretic and cordial.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Nagarmotha essential oil: The essential oil of Nagarmotha is illustrated in Ayurveda as a natural enhancer of the biological fire and is an effective digestive aid.  This ancient natural healing system trusts that every human being is unique and their illnesses should also be treated in a unique manner according to their individual constitution. According to Ayurveda, every individual is made up of three energy elements known as vata, pitta and kapha. Predominance of any one of these doshas determines the personality, traits and characteristic features of a person and dosha imbalances cause sickness.

Ayurvedic therapies mainly focus on treating the pathogenesis or the root cause of the illness rather than just treating the disease for the time being like the contemporary medical practices. The root cause for many illnesses including autoimmune disorders according to Ayurvedic texts is the invasion or the deposits of the toxic substances in the body known as ‘ama’. Ayurveda illustrates Nagarmotha as a detoxifying herb and as the best ama-pachaka (eliminator of endo-toxins).

Nagarmotha essential oil is known to pacify pitta and kapha energies. Let’s take a look at the prominent Ayurvedic health benefits of Nagarmotha oil in accordance to their usage.

1. As an Ayurvedic massage oil: Abhyanga or the art of Ayurvedic massaging grants numerous benefits to the mind, body and the spirit. Massaging is known as the best technique to transform the energies of the essential oils extracted from the herbs to the human body and soul. This is because the therapeutic properties of the oil deeply penetrate through the skin and enter the bloodstream. Maneuvering the affected parts of the body with 3 drops of Nagarmotha essential oil blended with coconut oil assist in treating numerous health disorders.

As an effective carminative and stomachic oil, Nagarmotha when massaged on to the abdomen aids in promoting the process of digestion by augmenting digestive fire, kills intestinal worms, binds stool, controls nausea, treats dysurea, irritation of the bowel and soothes upset stomach. The diuretic properties of this oil also help in eliminating the toxic substances from the body through sweat and urine, making it useful in reducing inflammation as well. Gently massaging the painful areas can help in treating dysmennorhea and rheumatoid arthritis.

The decoction of the rhizomes has been in use for hundreds of years as a natural hair wash. Massaging your scalp with this nourishing blend aids in opening the small capillaries on the scalp, work efficaciously on the sebaceous glands and fortify the hair from the roots by stimulating its strength naturally.

2. In vaporizers and burners: The spicy, earthy, woody, lingering, smoky and camphoraceous aroma of Nagarmotha oil acts as a tonic for the nervous system and influences the regular functioning of the body. Adding 2 drops of this oil in steaming water and inhaling this medicated steam helps in reducing respiratory congestion, cough, bronco-pulmonary congestion, bronchitis, loosening the mucus and phlegm deposits and comforts the digestive system.

The magical aroma of this oil aids in alleviating stress, relieve tension, tone the system and regain your lost energy especially after a long day in the sun. Inhaling the aroma of this oil by adding 2 drops to your burners or diffusers will assist in building up the nervous system and treating digestive disorders like stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.

3. In baths and compress: Using 4 drops of Nagarmotha essential oil in warm bathing water helps in calming down a nervous stomach, check weight gain, discard toxins from the body, relieves menstrual pain and discomfort, reduces rheumatic pain and treats inflammation and anorexia.

A 2007 research on ‘Administration of Cyperus rotundus tubers extract prevents weight gain in obese Zucker rats’ state “Cyperus rotundus tubers extract prove to be a new herbal supplement for controlling body weight preferentially in beta3-AR sensitive species”. This oil can also be used in hot or cold compresses for treating stomach pain, fibromyalgia, muscular aches, kidney stones, abdominal pain, fever and colitis.

4. In cream and lotions: Nagarmotha essential has natural tonifying properties that make its use inevitable in many skin care formulations. 2 to 3 drops of this oil added to your mild skin care cream or lotion can help in curtailing the growth of harmful microbes that affect the skin health. Gently applying this blend on the inflamed parts will help in reducing inflammation and augment blood circulation. Add 4 to 5 drops of Nagarmotha essential oil to unscented cream to lessen skin irritability and other discomforts due to heat.

The research on ‘In Vitro Antioxidant activity and Total Polyphenolic Content of Cyperus rotundus Rhizomes’ by the Department of Siddha Medicine, Tamil University, India have proved that the rhizome extracts of “Cyperus rotundus show free radical scavenging, reducing power and metal chelating activity” with its polyphenolic content and other phytochemicals constituents contributing to its antioxidant properties, which aid in preventing age related oxidative stress associated degenerative diseases.

A 2006 study on ‘Natural composition for curing hepatitis-B, methods for making the same and pharmaceutical formulations thereof’ have proved that a natural antiviral composition with extracts of Cyperus rotundus or Cyperus scariosus and pharmaceutically acceptable carrier aids in treating disorders related to chronic and acute hepatitis B and certain other viral diseases of the liver. This is mainly due to the herb’s positive effect on the liver, easing its detoxification and healing.

Other benefits: Nagarmotha essential oil is said to add a distinguishing and appealing aroma to masculine perfumes. Tom For Men is known as the first perfume to use this herbal formula, followed by other perfumes like Eau d’Issey pour Homme, Xeryus and numerous other popular brands in the market for men. It is also used in making soaps, potpourri, air fresheners, scented candles and certain other aromatherapy products.

Disclaimer: Do not take essential oils internally. Always remember to dilute essential oils in suitable carrier oils before using it topically as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids. Avoid using Nagarmotha essential oil on children, epileptics, pregnant or nursing women. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using any essential oil to check whether it would suit your present health condition and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.              -John Burroughs

Suggested Reading:

  1. The Natural Remedy Bible by John Lust, Michael Tierra
  2. The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless
  3. Greco-Arab and Islamic Herbal Medicine: Traditional System, Ethics, Safety, Efficacy, and Regulatory Issues by Bashar Saad, Omar Said

Reference Links:

  1. Nagarmotha: A detoxifying herb by Dr. R. Vatsyayan, Ayurvedacharya published in The Tribune
  2. Nagarmotha by Planet Ayurveda
  3. Cyperus scariosus or Cyperus rotundus, an old famous Sedge from ancient Egypt and China published in MDidea
  4. In Vitro Antioxidant activity and Total Polyphenolic Content of Cyperus rotundus Rhizomes by Nagulendran, Velavan, Hazeena Begum and Mahesh from the Department of Siddha Medicine, Tamil University, India published in e-Journals.net

Jojoba Oil

Peek-a-boo!!! It’s Jojoba this time and it is here to reveal your natural beauty, hidden in the rear of your pimples, wrinkles, blackheads, sunburns, scars, microbial infections, skin pigmentation, psoriasis, cellular damages, dandruff, rough hair, chapped lips, and the list that never ends as you know.Jojoba-bannerThis is mainly due to the fact, “Jojoba oil is similar in structure to our natural sebum and such wonder plants used in natural cosmetics actually mimic the skin’s own functions,” quotes the book, ‘The New Age Herbalist – How to use herbs for healing, nutrition, body care and relaxation’ by Richard Mabey and Anne McIntyre.

Trust me; Nature is extraordinarily miraculous in bestowing spectacular souvenirs like Jojoba, which is a woody evergreen shrub that grows in drought and scorching desert conditions. Bearing all the blistering heat around, Jojoba oil still enriches us with its enormous moisturizing and cooling attributes.

Pronounced as ho-ho-ba, Jojoba oil is indeed a fluid plant wax that has replaced animal wax or whale oil since 1971 in the United States and across the world in the production of soaps, skin care creams, moisturizers, shampoos and an extensive range of cosmetics.

Jojoba is used in various Complementary and Alternative Medicinal Practices including Ayurveda, especially in Abhyanga or the art of Ayurvedic massaging for ultimate relief and comfort from various ailments. Jojoba oil has the potent to balance vata, pitta and kapha doshas and is helpful in treating dry skin complaints, acne-prone skin problems and inflammatory conditions.

Purchase Jojoba Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

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Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Jojoba oil:

Jojoba oil has fatty acids including ferulic acid, docosenoic acid, 11-Eicosenoic acid, oleic acid, docosdienoic acid, palmitoleic acid, erucic acid and 9-Godoelic acid.

It has a rich presence of skin-nourishing nutrients like Vitamin E, copper, selenium, zinc, chromium, silicon, B-complex and iodine (82 per cent of this magical ingredient grants Jojoba the power to cure).

The superior emollient quality of Jojoba oil is attributed by the two inherent properties in Jojoba oil, namely “unbranched liquid wax esters formed from unbranched Omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acids and unbranched Omega-9 monounsaturated fatty alcohol,” says Dr. Nadim A. Shaath, in his study ‘The Wonders of Jojoba.’

Remedial values that make Jojoba the best among all the enriching massage oils are anti-inflammatory, emollient, moisturizing, cicatrisant, antioxidant, anti-degenerative, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, moisturizing, anti-acne, anti-dandruff and anti-aging.

Historical uses and importance of Jojoba oil:

Simmondsia chinensis is the botanical name of Jojoba, a dry perennial shrub indigenous to the Sonoran desert of Northwestern Mexico and in Southern California and Arizona. It is also grown commercially in Peru, Argentina, Australia, Chile, Israel and Egypt.

“Jojoba is the only known botanical wax, which is liquid at room temperature and an estimated 5,000 tons of Jojoba is used in personal care products manufactured around the world,” says the International Jojoba Export Council (IJEC).

Jojoba is an excellent alternative to commercial whaling and this wonder plant save the whales from being killed for ‘whale oil and spermaceti.’ IJEC says that Jojoba oil is chemically similar to whale oil and both are pure, long-chain wax esters.

The rich Jojoba oil is extracted from the crushed seeds of this shrub. Jojoba and its oil have also been in use as a promising skin conditioner, hair restorative, appetite suppressant and as a natural moisturizer.

The founder of 21 California Missions, Father Junipero Serra quotes that the Native American populace have used Jojoba for a longer period in the treatment of burns, bruises, sores, wounds, sunburn, dandruff, hair fall and inflammatory scalp conditions.

Not many people except the resident Americans along with the traditional masses of the Sonoran desert were aware about the many healing benefits of Jojoba oil. This oil was popularly known and has been used as a reliable source of antioxidant emulsions.

The first International Conference on Jojoba and its uses held at the University of Arizona in 1986 was a turning point and an eye-opener to the Jojoba revolution thereafter.

The ban on Whale oil paved way for the boom of Jojoba wax, which also contains wax esters like spermaceti oils. Being a polyunsaturated wax, the structure of Jojoba oil is completely contradictory from that of other vegetable oils.

“Approximately 50 per cent of the Jojoba seed is lipid, not a fat, but a liquid wax. Jojoba is the only known plant in the world to produce such a substance,” quotes Wade C and Edward F Haase. Sherbrooke in their study (University of Arizona) ‘Jojoba: A Wax – Producing Shrub of the Sonoran Desert’.

Jojoba is preferred in the skin care and cosmetic industry than other oils because natural waxes do not respond to rancidification, which is “the chemical decomposition of fats, oils and other lipids by which oils get undesirable odors and flavors and is one of the reasons why Jojoba wax is odorless.”

Ayurvedic health benefits of Jojoba oil:

Ayurveda is the pioneer and the oldest of all healing systems on earth including Homeopathy, Siddha, Unani, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Aromatherapy, Chiropractic and Acupressure.

Many think that Ayurveda is a complicated medicinal practice. Believe me; no medicinal sciences on earth can be as simple as an Ayurvedic remedy.

Ayurveda is not a rocket science but is just a common sense healing methodology. The word ‘Ayur (Life) + Veda (knowledge)’ means the knowledge of life. Self-realization is the ultimate mission of Ayurvedic healing for attaining the vision of longevity and oneness with the Divine.

Ayurvedic philosophy states that health is a combination of physical, emotional and spiritual heartiness of a person.

Charaka, the most celebrated Ayurvedic philosopher and the author of Charaka Samhita, one among the three Ayurvedic encyclopedia states The three – body, psyche, and soul – act as a tripod. The world stands upon them, and within them, the world abides.”

Ayurveda never treats an illness or its symptoms, whereas it addresses every individual in a distinct manner and not just their health condition.

This is due to the fact that Ayurveda regards every person as a unique creation with a unique individual constitution known as doshas. Every human being is made up of three doshas, namely vata, pitta and kapha.

These biological energies are an arrangement of the five vital elements of Nature (Panchamahabhutas – earth, water, fire, space and air). All human beings have a combination of three doshas in a specific composition with the dominance of any one dosha.

The predominant doshic energy determines the character, physique, behavioral attributes and spiritual enlightenment of an individual.

Ayurvedic philosophy trusts that everything in this universe is a part of nature and retaining absolute balance with Nature paves way for health and disparity leads to sickness.

Ayurveda recommends herbs, Ayurvedic essential oils, Pranayama or balanced breathing, Abhyanga or the art of Ayurvedic massaging, yoga, Panchakarma or the Ayurvedic detoxification technique, simple physical exercises, Dinacharya or the Ayurvedic routine, meditation and prayers for treating doshic imbalances.

Jojoba is a pacifier and neutralizer of all the three doshas. It is many times prescribed for Abhyanga (massaging in Ayurveda), which is maneuvering of muscles and nerves with Ayurvedic oils using palms, fingers, foot, elbows and certain other conventional massaging equipments.

The body of one who uses oil massage regularly does not become affected much even if subjected to accidental injuries, or strenuous work. By using oil massage daily, a person is endowed with pleasant touch, trimmed body parts and becomes strong, charming and least affected by old age.”

Charaka Samhita Vol. 1, V: 88-89.

Yes! The wait is over.

Come let’s discover the many healing benefits of Jojoba oil for mankind.

Jojoba-broucher1. God of gorgeous skin: Supports skin health and called as Twachya.

The heading might sound ‘BIG’ but is not a mere exaggeration, as pure Jojoba oil has admirable and commanding qualities that protect your skin health and prevent it from various infections.

Jojoba has supernatural powers and its unique biochemical components make this oil ‘the best’ among various skin care formulations.

For its skin supporting attributes, Jojoba is beckoned as Twachya in Ayurveda.

Jojoba can be ‘everything’ to your skin and hair. It can be a promising conditioner, cleanser, moisturizer, cosmetic, softener, anti-microbial agent, anti-aging serum, softener, lip balm, sunscreen lotion, shaving gel, body lotion, safe makeup remover, detangling cream, cuticle cream, anti-acne cream, anti-dandruff lotion, hair vitalizing serum, cracked foot cream, stretch mark reducer, scar treatment, wound healer, hair thickener and much more.

Ayurveda denotes that Jojoba oil has mild, moist, cooling, light and hydrating properties that are extremely beneficial in the treatment of dry, inflamed and acne-prone skin conditions.

Jojoba oil pacifies all the three doshas and is enormously helpful for vata and pitta skin types. With its light and moisture-enhancing abilities, it is safe for kapha dosha also.

It can work as a brilliant massage oil that can assist in supporting your overall health condition. Just blend 1 ounce of Jojoba oil with 1 ounce of Coconut oil, ¼ ounce of Olive oil and ¼ ounce of Almond oil.

Your magical massage oil is ready for granting you the mesmerizing beauty from within.

Ayurvedic expert, Dr. Meghna Dixit says, “A massage helps in the lymphatic drainage. It leads the toxins and the waste products from the blood and the serum from the lymph nodes to the kidney and through it throws it out of the body. Thus the blood and the body overall is purified.”

She further adds, “It also increases the basic metabolism rate, and activates the cells to perform the best, and thus give a boost to one’s immunity.”

“People who go for massage experience measurable changes in their body’s immune and endocrine response and experienced significant changes in lymphocyte numbers and percentages white blood cells that play a large role in defending the body from disease,” say researchers of Cedars-Sinai’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences.

Applying Jojoba oil leaves the positive impression in such a way that the homeostatic regulatory system of the human body recognizes that sufficient oil has been produced by itself.

2. Mother of sebaceous glands:

Wonderful moisturizer that feeds sebum secretion:

Sebaceous glands are minuscule glands in our skin surface that secretes a wax-like or an oil-like substance called as sebum.

The consistency of sebum is much similar to Jojoba oil. The proper secretion of sebum by our sebaceous glands determines the optimal health of skin surface.

Age, lifestyle changes, diet and other environmental factors affect the normal functions of sebaceous glands. Decreased secretion of sebum leads to dandruff, hair fall, itchy scalp, dry hair, dry skin, cracked and thick skin surface.

According to the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, the British Journal of Dermatology and Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, “Jojoba oil and similar other components are considered natural moisturizing factors that prevent individual skin cells from losing water and create the appearance of smooth and healthy skin, all major benefits.”

Mothers are created on earth as God cannot be present everywhere’ is a divine adage.

Why is Jojoba oil beckoned as the ‘Mother of sebaceous glands’?

Jojoba oil is an emollient with rich natural wax esters that assist in the secretion of sebum by the sebaceous glands, thus helping in maintaining balanced level of oil in the skin, retaining the natural moisture, enabling the skin to look young and hydrated and leaving the skin soft and supple.

Dry skin is a result of lack of moisture or water in the epidermis or the upper layer of the skin surface. Jojoba oil penetrates through the epidermis and keeps it moist and hydrated all through the day.

The oil of Jojoba has the potent to enable sebum secretion during shortage and dissolves sticky remains in times of excess sebum secretion.

Massaging your skin with 2 ounce of Jojoba oil blended with 5 drops of Lavender oil, 5 drops of Argan oil and 5 drops of Ylang Ylang oil will moisturize your hair and skin and gift you the most spongy skin and bouncy locks like never before.

3. Father of hair follicles:

Keshya – Encourages hair growth and strengthens your hair follicles:

Every problem has a destined root cause. Nothing happens overnight. Thus, treating the symptoms of a specific health condition can grant only a temporary solution.

Treating the real root cause paves way for treating it initially and preventing it in the future. This is the secret behind the healing acumen of Ayurvedic medication.

A Father provides the foundation of strength, wisdom and hope. So that his children may build their dreams upon it,” is a celebrated father quote.

That is why I personally call Jojoba oil as the father of hair follicles, for its ability to strengthen the roots of the hair, enrich the scalp, clear away dandruff, control frizz, treat alopecia and promote hair growth.

Gwyneth Paltrow said, “My father, he was like the rock, the guy you went to with every problem.” In a much similar way, Jojoba oil is a father to your hair follicles as every hair problem begins from its roots and this natural wax treats it better than most other hair care products in the market.

Massaging your scalp and hair with 2 ounce of Jojoba oil blended with 3 drops of Rosemary oil, 2 drops of Thyme oil, 2 drops of Lemon oil can assist in controlling frizzy hair problems, controls dandruff and itchy scalp conditions, balances the level of natural oils and sebum in the scalp and persuade hair growth.

Unlike other liquids, Jojoba does not evaporate quickly and it amasses and penetrates into the roots of your hair. This aids in conditioning the roots and preventing your hair from turning dull and fragile.

Excess secretion of sebum in the scalp might lead to sticky hair, itchy scalp, and invasion of microbes along with dirty and blocked pores that restrict the growth of healthy hair.

Massaging your scalp and hair in alternative days with 2 ounce of Jojoba oil blended with 5 drops of Rosemary oil, 5 drops of Clary Sage oil, 5 drops of Cedarwood oil and 5 drops of Almond oil is an excellent homemade blend for augmenting the volume, shine, texture, thickness of your hair and prevent hair loss significantly.

Jojoba oil spreads evenly on the scalp, dissolves and confiscates excess sebum deposits, thereby leaves the scalp and hair clean and strong.

4. Sister of acne-free clear skin:

Excellent care for treating and preventing acne.

Acne is the most chronic condition in a teenager’s life, mostly during the peak period, when the young ladies and the gentlemen turn beauty conscious.

It is not only a universal adolescent problem but is found in many people even after their teenage years.

Acne includes pimples, blackheads and whiteheads in the initial stages, whereas severe acne might lead to inflammation and larger spots on the skin. If not treated in the initial stages, this condition might turn worse by leaving behind acne marks and difficult to remove scars on the skin.

The major causes behind acne-prone skin conditions are blocked sebaceous glands with excess sebum, dirt, dead cells, keratin and oils. It paves way for the formation of comedone that looks like a whitehead or blackhead.

Blocked sebaceous glands invite bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes that worsen acne and end up in inflammation and spots filled with pus, witnessed by redness and pain.

The extremely shocking fact is that numerous studies have correlated the relation between acne, anxiety and depression that might even lead to suicide in teenagers.

Can a dermatological disorder like acne end up in suicide?

A 2010 study on ‘Clinical implications of lipid peroxidation in acne vulgaris’ by Whitney P Bowe, Department of Dermatology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, New York and Alan C Logan, Integrative Care Centre of Toronto, Canada published a detailed study on the impact of acne frequently associated with depression, anxiety and other psychological sequelae and the oxidative stress involved in the pathophysiology of acne.

This study states “inflamed and damaged sebaceous glands negatively influence neuronal communication at the same time and set the stage for higher rates of depression and anxiety in acne.”

How can Jojoba oil be an effective natural remedy for acne?

My answers are here:

WOW!!!! Is your response now? Am I right?

Yes!! Only a sister can be a caring friend as well as your second mother.

With so many caring features packed in, nothing else than Jojoba can be your ‘LOVING SISTER’ for acne-free clear and spotless skin.

A German based 2012 study, published in the Swiss Journal Research in Complementary Medicine proved the effectiveness of Jojoba oil in the treatment of acne, where facial clay mask blended with jojoba oil dabbed 2-3 times every week for 6 consecutive weeks lead to about 59 per cent diminution of lesions in people with mild acne vulgaris.

Mix 10 drops of Jojoba oil with 1 drop of Turmeric oil and 1 drop of Tea tree oil and dab it on your acne and leave it for 30 minutes. Wash your face with a mild skin cleanser with 2 drops of Jojoba oil diluted in it.

Follow this regimen in alternative days for about a month, visible results are sure to knock your door. Practice Pranayama every day, where 70 per cent of toxic remains in your system are flushed out through conscious exhalation.

5. Brother to ‘The beautiful You’:

Rasayana – Rejuvenates and restores skin health:

‘Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a SuperHero’ – Marc Brown.

Your Super Hero brother would always love to keep you beautiful as you are his lovely little princess/prince.

Jojoba oil is rich in Vitamin E that contributes to its antioxidant properties. This aids in combating against the free radicals that are responsible for aging symptoms like wrinkles, fine lines, saggy and dull skin.

With its exceptional hydrating quality and highly penetrating ability, Jojoba oil protects the skin from the harmful UV rays, aids in treating sunburns, fine lines and wrinkles.

Gently massaging your skin with 5 drops of Jojoba oil and 2 drops of Apricot oil and 1 drop of Cucumber oil can help in rejuvenating and restoring your skin health, leaving it look young and beautiful.

6. Friend for fair complexion:

‘A friend in need is a friend indeed’ is a lovely friendship proverb and indeed Jojoba is that true friend for you in possessing a blemish-free, clear and fair skin complexion.

Jojoba oil controls the production of melanin and aids in treating skin pigmentation. Massaging your face, neck and hands with 15 drops of Jojoba oil, 3 drops of Sandalwood oil and 2 drops of Rose Geranium oil everyday can help in improving your complexion by lightening the skin color.

What next? Bright, clear, acne-free, spotless and extremely fairer skin that would make you proud and your rivals to stay envious on you is all yours.

7. Enemy to microbes and foreign bodies:

Kustaghna – Supports skin health and treats various skin problems.

Jojoba  oil is undoubtedly tough on microbes and smooth on your skin.

It is a great warrior in fighting against bacteria, fungi, other microbes and foreign bodies. These micro-organisms would otherwise barricade the functions of the healthy cellular structure of the skin.

Microbes invade wounds, boils, burns, acne and other skin eruptions and worsen its conditions. Bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus enable the wounds to turn septic and delay its healing.

Jojoba oil has anti-microbial, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that curb the growth of microbes and help in the treatment of related skin conditions like eczema, candida, ringworm, dermatitis and psoriasis.

It also promotes quicker healing of wounds, burns, itching, allergies and inflammatory skin conditions.

How will Jojoba do all these things? Is that the next question striking your thoughts? Then, here’s the answer.

Jojoba oil is one among the most light and easily-spreading natural wax that penetrates deep into the skin surface.

First, it arrests the functions of microbes and further curtails its growth. Followed by its ‘repairing mission’ where Jojoba oil promotes the natural ability of the damaged or inflamed skin to turn to its normal cellular arrangement with its rich nutrients and chemical constituents.

Jojoba oil further normalizes the secretion of sebum by the sebaceous glands, the ultimate secret behind your skin in the pink.

All you need to do is to dab the affected areas with 5 drops of Jojoba oil blended with 1 drop of Argan oil to return to your healthy skin regimen.

Other health benefits:

Apart from these amazing benefits, Jojoba oil is also used as a vital ingredient in moisturizing creams, conditioners, shampoos, sunscreen lotions, baby care products, nail and cuticle products, pharmaceutical products, lubrication industry, natural cleansers and an extensive array of cosmetics.

  • Adhere to a wholesome and balanced diet.
  • Simple physical exercises on a daily basis might sound easy but you never know the massive health benefits on your fitness regimen.
  • Linking with the ultimate Divine Force through meditation or prayer for about 15 to 20 minutes a day can help in colossal positive effects on your brain and body, leading you to realize yourself, earn self-esteem and an optimistic outlook of life.
  • Be positive and fulfill your duties or karma for everlasting contentment.
  • Deepen your thoughts with positive thinking and determine to bring a smile in at least one person every day.
  • Fuel your system by drinking plentiful water and juices.
  • Keep smiling; you must have known that ‘Smile is a curve that sets everything straight’ :).

Ok… It’s up to you now, to turn that new leaf in your life this New Year 2016 🙂 and every New Day in the years ahead 🙂

Wishing you all a blessed and blissful New Year 2016, from my heart 🙂

Keep up that great smile 🙂 You look awesome 🙂 while smiling 🙂

Disclaimer:

This article is destined only for informational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, prevent or treat any kind of health conditions. It is not for replacing any prescription medicines or the consultation of a certified general practitioner. We, at Essential Depot are not doctors of medicine or healthcare practitioners and this piece of information is shared only for spreading the miraculous curing of Ayurveda, the mother of all healing systems on earth.

All essential oils are suggested only for topical application and not for internal use. Blend it with suitable carrier oils before use. This is mainly because 100 per cent untainted and organic essential oils are concentrated liquids and may cause allergic reactions if used on the skin without dilution.

Care should be taken in using essential oils on children, pregnant or nursing women. Speak with your Ayurvedic expert or medical professional before selecting the appropriate oils for your unique individual constitution (Prakriti) and the state of health (Vikruti). Do a patch test on your skin before enjoying the enormous benefits of essential oils.

Thought for the day:

If you truly love Nature, you’ll find beauty everywhere.

-Van Gogh

Suggested Reading:

  1. Carrier Oils: For Aromatherapy and Massage by Len Price, Shirley Price
  2. American Indian Healing Arts: Herbs, Rituals, and Remedies for Every Season of Life by E. Barrie Kavasch, Karen Baar
  3. Jojoba (Carrier Oils Book 10) by Miriam Kinai
  4. [(Jojoba: New Crop for Arid Lands, New Raw Material for Industry)] [Author: National Research Council] [Jun-2002] by National Research Council
  5. Making Soap From Scratch: How to Make Handmade Soap – A Beginners Guide and Beyond by Gregory Lee White

Reference Links:

  1. The Wonders of Jojoba by Dr. Nadim A. Shaath, Alpha Research and Development Ltd
  2. Jojoba oil by Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine
  3. Anti-inflammatory effects of Jojoba liquid Wax in experimental models by Habashy RR, Abdel-Naim AB, Khalifa AE, Al-Azizi MM. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, published in PubMed
  4. Jojoba oil by Wikipedia
  5. Jojoba: A Wax – Producing Shrub of the Sonoran Desert; Literature Review and Annotated Bibliography by Wade C and Edward F Haase. Sherbrooke published in the University of Arizona Campus Repository