Neem Seed Oil

Neem is the ultimate pride of India and a divine gift of nature for its colossal remedial benefits including its power in treating tuberculosis, malaria, dandruff, fever, leprosy, acne, joint pain, plaque, intestinal worms, gastrointestinal disorders, chicken pox, diabetes and jaundice.

Neem-bannerAyurveda calls Neem as Sarva roga nivarani, means cure for all diseases and Arishtha, meaning one that alleviates all illnesses. Even today, Neem is a trusted solution for treating various health conditions in Indian villages for which it is called as ‘Village Dispensary.’

Neem and its varied extracts are prescribed in Ayurvedic medication for treating skin ulcers, diabetes, urinary infections, hair loss, psoriasis, constipation and digestive difficulties, scabies, asthma, whooping cough, wounds, pain, chicken pox and certain other infectious diseases.

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

Purchase Neem Seed Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Neem and its varied extracts:

‘The liberated tree of India’ is the direct meaning of its scientific name Azadirachta indica, where the word ‘Azad’ means freedom, ‘dirakht’ means tree, ‘i-Hind’, means of Indian origin.

Neem is the first medicinal plant indicated in Siddha medicine, one among the oldest healing systems on earth. The 4,500 years old Indus valley civilization including the discovery of the cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro talks about the medicinal uses of Neem tree.

Being an evergreen tree, Neem is often found in the front yard of most of the Indian homes for its phenomenal healing powers. WHO or the World Health Organization mentions that about 80 per cent of the developing countries’ populace bank upon natural or traditional medicines for treating various health conditions.

Among all those natural medications, Neem has found enormous medicinal attributes and therapeutic properties. Neem was called as the ‘Tree of the 21st Century’ by the United Nations Environment Programme.

The Siddha medications for treating blood pressure, diabetes, excess cholesterol, urinary tract infections, leprosy and gastro intestinal problems had Neem formulations in it.

In 1992, the National Academy of Science of the United Nations called Neem tree as “A tree for solving global problems.” The 350 years old Palm leaf manuscript preserved in the Centre for Traditional Medicine and Research emphasize on the remedial uses of Neem tree.

Every day many Indian families start their day with the use of Neem, where the Neem twigs are used as a natural toothbrush for combating oral problems.

The tea prepared with Neem leaves decoction, consumed in empty stomach in the morning is said to be a trusted remedy for flushing out toxic remains in the system, killing microbes in the body and increasing the immune power.

All the parts of the Neem tree including its leaves, bark, twigs, gum, fruits, flowers, seeds and the cold pressed Neem oil have enormous medicinal values for mankind.

The Neem leaves paste has been used in various folklore medicinal practices for treating pimples, chicken pox boils, viral infections, bed sores, psoriasis, eczema and wounds. Neem leaf decoction was also used for treating dandruff, hair fall and head lice.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Neem seed oil:

The primary chemical constituents of Neem oil are triterpenoid compounds like Azadirachtin and Nimbin along with triglycerides, sterols including stigmasterol, campesterol and beta-sitosterol. This oil also contains fatty acids, namely Omega-6, Omega-9, stearic acid and palmitic acid.

These components contribute to its remedial values like antimicrobial, antiviral, antiseptic, antifungal, antihistamine, febrifuge, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, analgesic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulant, antioxidant, emmenagogue, circulatory, vermifuge, anthelmintic, astringent, cicatrisant, spermicidal and nervine.

Ayurvedic uses of Neem seed oil:

Being a part of nature is the greatest acknowledgement one can ever receive. If you wander in search of solace through natural beauty either in the form of a lawn or a mountain, then it is just a symbol of your ignorance.

Beauty, especially the eternal beauty lies within you and your soul has everything that is in nature. Wanna try what I say??? Come lets experience the heaven in us..

Just sit in the most silent or tranquil zone in your home. Take a deep breath, relax and close your eyes. Want to be amid Niagara Falls now? PICTURIZE is all I have to say. Start hearing the roaring voice of the falls, feel touch of the drizzling water on your face and think that you are there and experience the joy of being there..

You’re done. Not more than 10 minutes, your brain would have certainly secreted the positive and the happy hormones and instill lot of optimism and superfluous inspiration that is more than enough to keep you charged for the rest of the day.

This is the power of thinking that nature has deeply vested within you. Your soul is the greatest encyclopedia of Nature and that this why your thoughts travel millions of kilometers in a jiffy.

Wondering what all these philosophical thoughts have to do with the Ayurvedic health benefits of Neem seed oil?

Here’s the catch. All I wanted to say is that Ayurveda is within you and there’s no need to wander in search of this miraculous science outside.

The word ‘Ayur + Veda’ just means the ‘the knowledge (Veda) of life (Ayur). Every remedial practice in this heavenly healing methodology aims at invigorating your prana or the life force.

Plant essential oils are nothing but the prana, essential life force or the vital energy of plants. It is for this reason Ayurvedic essential oils are very special and close in uplifting the life force of mankind with the life force of plants.

The supreme essence of Ayurveda is that it treats every individual and it never treats just their illnesses alone. This derivation starts from the Ayurvedic school of thought that says that every person is a unique part of nature with a distinct individual constitution known as doshas.

Vata, pitta and kapha are the three vital energies and all these combined together is known as Prakriti of a person. Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas, which decides their physical attributes, emotional stability, spiritual influence and behavioral patterns.

A disciplined life with healthy lifestyle practices for the mind, body and spirit paves way for absolute balance between doshas. Sedentary lifestyle, irregular food habits, change in climatic conditions and misconduct leads to imbalance of doshas, nature’s alarm for the onset of diseases.

Ayurveda trusts and depends upon nature for its medications. Herbs, essential oils, Pranayama or balanced breathing, yoga, Panchakarma or the detoxification technique, Ayurvedic routine, prayers and meditation are prescribed in order to restore the balance between doshas and to recuperate and prevent illnesses in the future as well.

Neem is indeed a blessing to mankind. The oil extracted from Neem seed has cooling, energizing and rejuvenating properties for the body, spirit and mind.

Neem seed oil has the power to boost vata (responsible for circulatory, nervous and respiratory functions along with sociability and creativity), pacify pitta (metabolic functions, decision-making skills, leadership qualities and body temperature) and kapha (responsible for physique, sustenance, trust and love).

Here we go!!! The Ayurvedic health benefits of Neem Seed Oil.

Neem-Seed-info-broucher1. Neem is the ‘Hero’ of all the fever remedies out there:

Pitta dosha is responsible for body temperature. With its power to pacify pitta energy, Neem oil has the ability to reduce the body temperature very quickly than any other medications.

It is called as Jwarahara, potent fever reducer with its antimicrobial, antiviral and febrifuge properties, contributed by the presence of nimbin and nimbidin.

As a Shramahara, Neem oil alleviates fatigue and lack of energy associated with fever.

Numerous research studies have proved the effectiveness of Neem oil in fighting against sensitive strain and choroquin-resistant malarial parasites.

Neem oil is also efficient in the treatment of viral fever with its potent to wrestle against chikungemya, vaccinia and measles virus.

‘Nila vembu’ or ‘Neem of the ground’ was the redeemer of thousands of people affected by Dengue, Chickungunya and the chronic viral fever with severe headache and body pain.

The ideal method of using Neem oil for reducing fever is massaging your palms and foot soles with 4 drops of Neem oil blended with 15 drops of Evening primrose oil. Wondering why on foot soles? Because foot soles are the home for all the nerve-endings in your system.

Essential oils penetrate deeply through the skin and pass on to the bloodstream quickly. By this way, it passes on the therapeutic values of Neem oil and helps in bringing down your body temperature considerably, granting you speedy relief.

2. Neem is nature’s lucky charm for your skin:

Neem can gift your skin with all the best things to make it glow and look younger. Neem has antimicrobial, antiseptic, cicatrisant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and circulatory properties that helps in combating microbes causing acne and other skin infections.

The cicatrisant values of Neem oil aid in healing wounds quickly and its antiseptic values arrest the growth of microbes and protect the wounds from turning septic.

The antimicrobial properties of Neem oil have been proved powerful against bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus faecalis.

Neem is called as Kushtahara for its ability to treat various skin conditions; Vranahara for cleansing and healing wounds firstly; Twachya for protecting and retaining the natural beauty of the skin.

Blend 2 drops of Neem oil with 10 drops of Linseed/Flaxseed oil and 1 drop of Lavender oil and apply it on pimples, blackheads, wounds, burns, cuts, sores, boils, eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, athletes’ foot, ringworm, wrinkles, inflammatory conditions and nail fungus, for revealing its magical healing powers.

Here’s your secret ingredient to clear acne marks and own supple, clear and soft skin. Mix 1 drop of Neem oil, 1 drop of Turmeric oil and 1 drop of Tea tree oil in your mild skin cleanser.

Gently massage your facial skin with this enriching blend daily or once in two days. Wash it with cold water, wipe off and apply rose water on your skin. This will certainly help you notice visible difference in alleviating marks and blemishes on your skin.

What next? Glowing, spotless and wrinkle-free skin is all yours!!! 🙂

3. Neem is your hair’s best comrade:

Long, lustrous and strong hair is the prized possession of every woman. Men often settle with dandruff-free, voluminous and healthy stuff on the scalp.

Thousands of hair-care products hit the market every week and leave us in bafflement in choosing the right remedy for our hair problems.

Natural remedies are often the safe hub to settle for and if you are looking to stick with natural solutions for your hair, then Neem is the best choice.

Neem is nature’s powerhouse of essential nutrients for moisturizing and nourishing your hair and scalp from within.

Linoleic, stearic and palmitic acid are few among those fatty acids that contribute to your bouncy locks.

Neem seed oil has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-dandruff and anti-parasitic properties that assist in killing microbial infections that cause split ends, itchy and infectious scalp conditions and keep away from dandruff and head lice.

Peek-a-boo! Nourishing Neem blend is here! Mix 4 drops of Neem oil with 3 ounce of Olive oil, 2 drops of Ylang Ylang oil and 2 drops of Rosemary oil.

Gently massage your scalp with this medicated oil and wrap a warm towel on your head and allow it to rest for about 30 minutes. This helps in penetrating the therapeutic values of these Ayurvedic oils deep into your scalp and hair follicles, just to nourish your hair from the roots.

Wash your hair with a mild shampoo with 1 drop of Neem oil and 2 drops of Lime oil for that glossy, thick, bouncy hair that is free from lice, dandruff and frizz.

4. Neem is the worst enemy for pests and insects:

Few first things that strike our mind, the moment we thick of Neem is its extremely bitter taste and pungent aroma.

This is indeed good for us and utterly atrocious for the pests and insects that are extremely harmful.

Being a natural insect repellent, 2 drops of Neem seed oil can be added to your burner or vaporizer to keep your family safe from mosquitoes, bed bugs and other insects.

You can also add 3 to 4 drops of Neem oil in your hand sprayer and protect the lovely plants in your garden from pests.

Are your cute little cat and bossy dog scratching all over? Then mix 1 drop of Neem oil in its shampoo and that’s it, fleas, ticks, mites and other insects are all gone with the Neem remedy.

5. Neem is the tranquilizer for your intestine and the killer of its worms:

Neem is called as Kriminut in Ayurveda for its ability to alleviate worms and infections in the stomach and intestines.

The antimicrobial attribute of Neem oil is attributed to the presence of Nimbin constituent.

Along with its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties (Sheeta), Neem and its other extracts help in tranquilizing the intestinal linings and stomach, combat intestinal worms, parasites and heal wounds and treat ulcerates.

Neem is called as Laghu for its support in digestion and better absorption of nutrients in the food. It is a Grahi herb as it absorbs excess moisture in the intestines, thus treating wounds and ulcer by cleansing the moisture in them and soothing irritation.

Massaging your abdomen with 2 drops of Neem seed oil mixed with 2 drops of Peppermint oil and 1 ounce of sesame oil might help in pacifying your intestines, reducing irritation and eradicating detrimental microbes and infections.

6. Neem is your redeemer from all oral infections:

Neem has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that assist in fighting against oral pathogens in treating oral problems.

A 2011 study on ‘Evaluation of Antibacterial and Anticandidal Efficacy of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) by the Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Center’, proved the inhibitory effects of Neem on Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans that are the basis for infectious diseases in the oral cavity.

Half drop of Neem oil blended with 1 cup of warm water as a gargle might be effective in getting rid of bacteria, fungi and other pathogens causing plaque, gingivitis, cavities and other oral problems.

Other health benefits:

Neem and its remedial oil is potent in treating tuberculosis, diarrhea, pneumonia, bronchitis, discard pathogens, alleviate muscular pain, control the secretion of insulin hormone, thus supporting in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Disclaimer:

This unique portion of information is predestined only for the use of education and is not suggested to make a diagnosis, thwart or to cure any kind of illnesses. It is not intended to substitute any prescription medicines or the consultation of a certified physician. We, at Essential Depot are not doctors of medicine and this info is shared only for spreading the magical healing of Ayurveda, the pioneer of all medicinal sciences.

Essential oils are recommended for topical use only and keep in mind to attenuate the effects of essential oils by mixing it with suitable carrier oils and never ingest essential oils. This is due to the fact that 100 per cent pure and organic essential oils are extremely concentrated substances and might cause allergic reactions if used on the skin without diluting it.

Take special care in using essential oils, if you are pregnant or nursing and while using it on children. Have a word with your Ayurvedic specialist or medical expert prior to choosing the best oils for your unique individual constitution and health conditions. A patch test on your skin before experiencing the many benefits of essential oils is recommended.

Thought for the day:

I am planting a Neem tree because it is a “Medicine Cabinet In a Tree!”

-Pledge No 1223 – Singapore.

Suggested Reading:

  1. Neem:: A Tree for Solving Global Problems by Report of an Ad Hoc Panel of the Board of Science and Technology for International Development, National Research Council, Policy and Global Affairs, Office of International Affairs
  2. Neem: The Ultimate Herb by John Conrick
  3. Neem: Neem and Its Miraculous Healing Powers: Neem for Digestive Disorders, Stress Relief, Immunity, Skin Problems, Hair Problems, Diabetes, Asthma, Arthritis, … – All Your Questions Answered Book 3) by Sukhmani Grove
  4. Neem: India’s Miraculous Healing Plant by Ellen Norten
  5. Neem: The Tree of Life by Sara Abraham, Ryder Management Inc.

Reference Links:

  1. Neem Oil by Wikipedia
  2. Evaluation of Antibacterial and Anticandidal Efficacy of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) by the Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Center, India, published in the International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy
  3. Neem (Azadirachta indica): Prehistory to contemporary medicinal uses to humankind by Venugopalan Santhosh Kumar and Visweswaran Navaratnam, published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine and PubMed.
  4. Therapeutic Potential of Neem (Azadirachta indica) by Amir Khan and Arvind Kumar Yadav, Dept. of Biotechnology & Biochemistry, Sardar Bhagwan Singh Post Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences & Research, India, published in Pharma Research Library

Balsam Tolu Oil

Balsam-tolu-banner

From being a promising remedy for skin ailments for the American and Mexican tribal population to a vital element in popular skin care liniments and cough formulas, Balsam Tolu extracts and its essential oil have traveled a long way in the history of natural medicine. With a unique and fresh vanilla-like aroma, Balsam Tolu is used as a natural fragrance in perfumes, creams, soaps, shampoos, hair tonics and diaper rashes creams.

History is always fascinating and Ayurvedic use of Balsam Tolu indeed owns an interesting history behind its scene. It was the Native Indians who identified the medicinal values of Balsam Tolu during their reign of Peru while they were residing in the South and Central American provinces, where Peru was recognized as the birthplace of the Balsam trees in the ancient period.

Being the traditional Indian medicine, Ayurvedic remedies prescribe Balsam Tolu and its essential oil for asthma, migraine, tuberculosis, abscesses, bronchitis, cough, ringworm, wounds, bed sores, scabies, sprains and certain venereal diseases.

Purchase Balsam Tolu Essential Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and significance of Balsam Tolu essential oil and its other extracts: Botanically known as Balsamum tolutanum, Balsam Tolu is the resin extracted from the Myroxylon tree. It is grown primarily in South America and Central America. This tree has a natural resin producing ability and this resinous Balsam is called by other alternate names including Balsam Peru, Peruvian Balsam, Toluifera pereirae, Myroxylon Balsamum, Indian Balsam, Quina and China oil.

The gummy resin tapped from this tall tree is then made into Balsam and the major exporters of Balsam of Tolu are Columbia, El Salvador and Venezuela. The tribal people from Central America and Mexico used the leaves and bark of the Balsam Tolu tree as a folklore remedy for arthritis, wounds, cold, flu and asthma. The name ‘Tolu’ denotes the tribal race ‘Tolues’ from Columbia and it is said that they used this tree as an ancient remedy for various conditions.

The tribal populace who were aboriginal to the rainforest area used various parts of this tree in the treatment of tuberculosis, wounds, headache, rheumatism, asthma, venereal diseases, abscesses, sprains, catarrh, sores and bronchitis.

Balsam Tolu was first documented in the German Pharmacopeia in the 17th century. The book on “The Essence of Herbs” by Chrissy Brownlyn says “some native Indians used the bark in a powdered form as an underarm deodorant while others found it best for lung and cold ailments”.

It further denotes that the credit of using this plant in pharmaceutical industry goes to the Europeans, especially the Germans who used Balsam of Tolu in treating skin problems like ringworm, scabies, diaper rashes, bedsores, wounds, head lice, dandruff and certain minor ulcerations, after identifying its anti-parasitic, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The mild and gentle vanilla and cinnamon like aroma of Balsam Tolu oil had supported its use as a flavoring agent in confectionaries, cough syrups, throat lozenges, chewing gums and soft drinks. The mesmerizing floral fragrance of this oil has been prescribed for use in relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga for soothing the mind and calming the senses.

Balsam Peru oil and Balsam tolu oil are extracted from the same tree but by different extraction methods. Even today, Tolu Balsam is used in anti-dandruff shampoos, conditioners, soaps, female hygiene sprays, perfumes, hair tonics, detergents, skin care creams, perfumes, topical salves, ointments, deodorants, surgical dressings, suntan lotions, cosmetics, colognes and certain other medical aids and equipments.

Chemical constituents and remedial properties of Balsam Tolu essential oil:

Among the 25 different chemical components, the major elements contributing to the therapeutic values of Balsam Tolu oil are cinnamic acid, cinnamein, benzyl benzoate, vanillin, nerolidol, cinnamyl cinnamate, benzoic acid, farnesol and other aldehydes. The most important therapeutic attributes of Balsam Tolu oil are antifungal, antiseptic, expectorant, anti-dandruff, anti-stress, analgesic and anti-parasitic.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Balsam Tolu essential oil:

From men in the Stone Age to this Digital Era, celebrate Ayurveda as a boon to mankind for its holistic and regimented approach towards health and harmony.

Ayurveda was gifted to humanity by Acharya Dhanvantari, the ancient God of medicine and is said to have its origin in India, the land of herbs and cultural heritage. This traditional remedy also holds the pride of being a part of Atharvaveda, one among the 4 sacred books of the Indian mythology.

When compared to the modern medicine, where personal care and attention to individuals becomes a question mark, Ayurveda is a divine science that regards and respects human body as a temple where the soul lives in. With this thought of nobility, Ayurveda recommends mankind to keep their mind, body and soul clean, happy and content.

The principles of Ayurveda rely on nature for everything as it strongly trusts that everything on earth is a vital part of nature. The visible proof behind this theory is that all things in nature are made up of five basic elements of nature, namely fire, water, earth, space and air.

Human body is also made up of these five elements, where earth is present in the form of bones and muscles; water represents blood and fluids in the system; air is vital for breathing; space is the soul that dwells in and fire is the essential energy for body temperature, metabolic functions and certain other vital activities of the system.

Ayurveda never goes by the fact that ‘one size fits all’, as it trusts that every human being is a distinctive part of nature composed with a unique individual constitution known as prakriti. It is a combination of three biological energies called as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha. Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas that acts as a deciding factor in determining the character, personality, attributes and behavioral patterns.

Absolute balance between these doshas as per the law of nature indicates health and doshic imbalances due to climatic conditions, lifestyle changes, irregular food habits and moral vitiations leads to illness.

Ayurvedic healing aims at treating the root cause of an illness instead of its symptoms alone. This aids in curing the disease initially and preventing it in the future as well. Ayurveda prescribes natural remedies that go well with the individual constitution of a person, even if a group of people are affected by the same medical condition.

The prime Ayurvedic remedies are plant essential oils, simple physical exercises, herbs, yoga, prayers, Pranayama (Ayurvedic breathing exercises), meditation, Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massaging, Panchakarma or Ayurvedic detoxification techniques and Ayurvedic routine.

Balsam Tolu essential oil is said to pacify kapha and vata doshas and increase pitta energy. It’s time to look into the Ayurvedic health benefits of Balsam Tolu essential oil. Ayurveda generally prescribes the use of essential oils in the following ways:

Balsam-Tolu-broucher1. As an invigorating massage oil:

Abhyanga or the art of massaging with Ayurvedic oils is an important Ayurvedic technique prescribed for healing numerous illnesses since the traditional times. Abhyanga is the traditional method through which the soft tissues of one’s body is maneuvered with the help of fingers, elbows, feet, forearms and other ancient massaging equipments.

Ayurvedic massaging has the potent to pass innumerable benefits to the human body and the key benefits among them are:

  • Relieving muscular tension.
  • Normalizing the breathing pattern.
  • Relaxing the nervous system.
  • Revitalizing the mind.
  • Alleviating pain and inflammation.
  • Improving blood circulation
  • Augmenting the natural glow and suppleness of skin.

Ayurvedic physicians generally prescribe the appropriate essential oil based on the prakriti and medical condition of a person. Balsam tolu oil is good to treat vata and kapha vitiations and pitta deficit.

Massaging your system or affected parts with 5 drops of Balsam tolu oil, 2 drops of Patchouli oil, 2 drops of Frankincense oil, 2 drops of Lavender oil, 2 drops of Cardamom oil, 2 drops of Petitgrain oil along with 50 ml of Coconut oil can assist in relieving pain, soreness and inflammation associated with rheumatism, alleviating muscular tension, relaxing the nerves, enhancing the skin texture, improving slow digestion, treating constipation, supporting urination through which the toxic remains in the body are eliminated and promoting peaceful sleep and positive feelings.

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and is the quickest transmitter of remedial properties to the bloodstream. Using Balsam Tolu oil in Ayurvedic massaging aids in passing away its healing values like antioxidant (helps in checking aging symptoms and discard the growth of free radicals in the body), antiseptic, cicatrisant and stimulating properties (supports in enhancing the skin health), diuretic, anti-rheumatic, analgesic values (aids in alleviating pain, eliminating toxic remains by promoting frequent urination, reducing inflammation, redness and stiff muscles) and anti-stress properties that help in relaxing the nerves, mind and induce good sleep.

2. In compress or bathing:

Balsam Tolu oil owns an exotic floral fragrance that makes it an excellent bathing oil that can help in leaving you fresh and energized all through the day.

Using 2 drops of Balsam oil along with 1 drop of Cinnamon oil and 1 drop of Ylang Ylang oil in your bathing water or in warm or cold compress is a great way to recharge your nerves, enchant your muscles, lessen muscular tension, alleviate tension headache, back pain and calm your senses and instill a complete feeling of newness.

A warm bath with this blend especially before going to bed is a great way to promote good sleep without any nightmares.

3. Topical application as creams or salves:

Balsam Tolu has been used as a promising remedy for myriad skin problems since the times of the tribal populace. 2 to 3 drops of Balsam Tolu oil along with 1 drop of Turmeric oil mixed with your mild skin care cream or with 2 ml of Jojoba oil can be applied on wounds, eczema, minor skin ulcerations, acne, scabies, rashes, ringworm, bedsores, diaper rashes and skin infections caused due to fungi and parasites.

The herbal blend of 2 drops of Balsam Tolu oil with 2 drops of Rosemary oil, 2 drops of Ylang Ylang oil and 2 drops of Basil oil along with 10 ml of sweet almond oil, applied on the scalp and hair, followed by a thorough rinse with your mild shampoo can assist in keeping away from dandruff, combat head lice, enrich the scalp and promote the growth of healthy hair naturally.

4. In burner, diffuser or vaporizer:

Ayurvedic texts recommend the use of aromatics or aromatherapy as a major means of natural healing and prevention of illnesses. Smell or aroma has an important effect in balancing and stimulating various functions of the body. This action is performed by the odor-bearing molecules that influence the receptors in the nose while breathing. They reach the olfactory bulb of the limbic system in the form of nerve impulses.

The aromatic molecules of Balsam tolu essential oil has expectorant, antifungal, anti-dandruff, antiseptic, anti-stress, anti-parasitic, analgesic, anti-rheumatic and stimulating properties. When inhaled by adding 2 drops of Balsam tolu oil in vaporizer, burner or diffuser, these molecules containing the therapeutic properties of this oil reach the limbic system.

Following this, the hypothalamus and other vital parts of the limbic system convey the corresponding commands to different parts of the body as per the remedial values. Inhaling the soothing aroma of Balsam tolu oil can assist in relaxing the system, lessening pain, reducing fatigue, treating insomnia, and alleviating stress and depression.

Ayurveda states that using Balsam tolu oil in diffuser or vaporizer specifically during meditation, yoga and Pranayama instills a sacred feeling as the mind is said to reach the most subtle and tranquil α (alpha) state during meditation.

5. In vaporizing ointments or steam inhalation:

Inhaling the medicated steam is a proven natural remedy for alleviating cold, cough, sore throat, headache, sinusitis, blocked nose, watery eyes and migraine pain. Steam inhalation works effectively as the steam aids in bringing out the toxic remains in the body through sweat and one can feel the relief instantly after a medicated steam inhalation.

Adding 2 drops of Balsam Tolu oil along with 1 drop of Peppermint oil and 1 drop of Eucalyptus oil in steam inhalation can aid in relieving headache, opening blocked sinus and nasal passages, soothing sore throat, discarding phlegm and mucus deposits and eliminating the microbes present in the system through sweat.

When added to your vaporizing ointment, this blend can also be helpful in treating bronchitis, tuberculosis, chest congestion, nasal congestion, whooping cough and certain other respiratory infections.

Certain test tube studies have revealed that Myroxylon plant has been effective in inhibiting H.pylori, the general ulcer-causing bacteria and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is responsible for lung diseases.

Disclaimer:

This article is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition or substitute any professional medical advice. It is only for educational purposes and we are not medical practitioners. This heath related information is shared only with the view of spreading the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, the oldest holistic healing system on earth.

Never use essential oils for internal purposes. Always remember to dilute essential oils before using it for topical uses, as organic and 100 percent pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances and may lead to allergies, if used without diluting them. Discuss with your healthcare expert/Ayurvedic physician before taking the right call on the most suitable essential oils for your health condition and unique individual constitution. Keep away from Balsam Tolu oil, if you are a nursing or pregnant mother, as it is regarded as a sensitizing oil and may have chances of causing allergic reactions.

Thought for the day:

In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they’re still beautiful. -Alice Walker

Suggested Reading:

  1. Prescription for Herbal Healing, 2nd Edition: An Easy-to-Use A-to-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies by Phyllis A. Balch CNC, Stacey Bell
  2. 10 Ways to Use Balsam Of Peru (Recipe Book) by Sam Enrico
  3. The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless
  4. Scabies Natural Home Treatment Solution by Alyson Rodgers
  5. Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices Of Herbal Medicine by David Hoffmann

Reference Links:

  1. Balsam of Peru by Wikipedia
  2. Balsam of Tolu from The Essence of Herbs by Chrissy Brownlyn
  3. Balsam of Tolu by Infostir.com
  4. Peruvian Balsam (Myroxylon pereirae syn. M. Balsamum) by Herbs2000.com

Cucumber Oil

Will you be delighted or dreary if someone beckons you, “As Cool as a Cucumber”? I would rather recommend you to take pride when somebody calls you with that phrase because it simply means the attitude of being calm, composed and in absolute control of your emotions, even if a particular situation demands your aggressiveness and anger.

Cucumber-bannerThis is because Cucumber is one among the coolest fruits as scientific facts state “the inside temperature of a Cucumber can be up to 20 degrees cooler than the outside air”, besides growing well in tropical conditions.

Called as Kantakiphalam, Svetakarahatakam, Mutralam and Sudhavasah in Sanskrit, Cucumber is commonly called as Kheera in the traditional healing methodology.

Proudly representing India as its Motherland, Cucumber has been a part of the ancient Ayurvedic regimen in the treatment of rheumatic conditions, constipation, urinary disorders, cholera, wrinkles, dandruff, arthritis, vaginal infections, loss of appetite, duodenal ulcer, erectile dysfunctions, high cholesterol, eczema and hyperacidity.

Purchase Cucumber Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

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Historical uses and importance of Cucumber and its essential oil:

Cucumber, as far as its history is known to the world is said to be a 3,000 years old fruit variety of the gourd family, cucurbitaceae. Besides its use in culinary, Cucumber has been preferred for raw eating, mainly for its cool, mild and enhancing flavor.

This cylindrical fruit is a powerhouse of various nutrients, for which it has been used in various civilizations across the world including the Rome, Israel, Greek, Egypt, The United Kingdom, France, China, and USA. The three famous varieties of this creeping vine are pickling, slicing and burpless cucumbers.

Cucumbers are absolutely edible and are found across the globe, all around the year but the high seasonal growth curtails to May – August. Pliny The Elder, the Roman philosopher quotes that Cucumber is the most favorite fruit of the Roman Emperor, Tiberius. His gardeners grew cucumbers using artificial methods, just to ensure that the king had cucumbers on his table every day.

It is being said that cucumbers were used in the primordial Roman province for treating more than 40 medical conditions, including scorpion stings, blurred vision, frigidity, high blood pressure and diabetes.

The Biblical reference of cucumber goes like this “We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely/the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic.” After which the Israelites started cultivating cucumbers by themselves.

Certain sources state that cucumbers were brought to Haiti in 1494 by Christopher Columbus and were cultivated by the early Spanish settlers. South and North Dakota boasts for owning the finest cucumber farmers of Native America.

These fresh and refreshing fruits are often used in making salads (Indian raita), sauces, pickles, cold soups, sausages, chutneys, lamb chops, relishes and dressings. Cucumber and its essential oil are also used in the manufacturing of soaps, moisturizing lotions, anti-dandruff shampoos, conditioners and skin care creams, especially anti-aging products, for its nourishing properties.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Cucumber oil:

The oil of Cucumber contains about 14 to 20% of oleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid and 60 to 68% of omega-3-linoleic acid. It also contains potassium, silicon, cucurbitacins, sulphur and certain fatty acids like 9, 12, 15-Octadecatrienoic acid and 9, 12-Octadecadienoic acid.

Cucumber oil has antioxidant, diuretic, anti-rheumatic, anti-ulcer, relaxing, antidote, rejuvenating, anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, tonic, anti-dandruff, and laxative properties. It is rich in Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and C along with magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, zinc, iron and folic acid.

Next time, when you are exhausted and drained out, stop sliding on toxic caffeine drinks, instead grab a Cucumber and bank upon it for all your nutritional requisites.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Cucumber oil:

Ayurveda and Cucumber share the mutual joy of being indigenous to India, the land of rich cultural heritage. This oldest healing science on the globe states that everything on earth is made up of the five vital elements of nature, namely fire, water, earth, space and air.

Among which the living things on this planet acquires prana, the vital energy of life and ojas, and the nutritive quintessence from Mother Earth. While animal and human beings utilize prana and ojas for vitality and livelihood, plants grab ojas and prana from the ground and renovate them as food, herbal medications and essential oils for the absolute well-being of all other organisms.

The greatest news about the nobility of plants and trees are that they capture enormous life force and spiritual energy straight from the space by constantly looking up to the sky. Thus, any source of food or medicines acquired from plants instills the purest form of energy directly to our soul. It is because of this reason; we call invigorating plant fragrances (especially from essential oils, the life essence of plants) as soulful aromatic substances.

Cucumber is a bundle of joy and instant coolant that refreshes everyone even on a bright sunny day. It bears all the heat in the atmosphere, yet remaining absolutely cool in the inside makes it a special fruit with enormous healing attributes and nutritional values. India, being a country of tropical climatic conditions, rests upon Cucumber to quench its thirst and no Indian summer is complete without Cucumbers on the street.

Being a complete traditional remedy, Ayurveda regards health as a combination of physical, emotional and spiritual wellness and this ideology is based upon its philosophy of considering the human system as a place of worship or temple.

Ayurveda believes that the soul vested within each of us connects with Divinity and this connection or synchronization is the rationale behind hale and heartiness.

Ayurveda says that every individual is made up of three distinct doshas (vata, pitta and kapha) or biological energies. The most predominant among the three doshas acts as a deciding factor for your personality, character and behavioral traits.

Imbalance of any one of these doshic elements end up in health problems signaling that the body is out of balance with nature.

Imbalance of vata dosha can end up in memory loss, lack of concentration, fear, insomnia, dry skin, restlessness and constipation. Pitta unevenness might lead to disgust, ulcer, anger, heartburn, high blood pressure, jealousy, fever and skin ulcers.

Fluid retention, toxic remains, congestion, sluggishness, delayed menstruation, uterine fibroids, obesity and procrastination are the results of Kapha vitiation.

Cucumber oil has pacifying effects on pitta and kapha dosha. The cooling and refreshing properties of this oil can help in treating high blood pressure, heartburn, ulcer, fluid retention, skin eruptions, constipation and stress.

Cucumber is absolutely a treat for the four senses of healing, whereas its lucid green color soothes the sense of sight, it’s refreshing taste energizes the sense of taste, its cooling properties penetrate deeply into the skin to transfer its therapeutic values through the sense of touch, it’s refreshing aroma reaches the limbic system in the form of aromatic molecules to control emotions.

The other significant Ayurvedic health benefits of Cucumber oil are:

Cucumber-oil1. Augments skin health and supports radiating complexion:

Cucumber oil has stupendous revitalizing and nourishing properties that help in treating dull, damaged or mature skin conditions. The presence of linoleic acid and oleic acid in cucumber makes it an excellent aid for skin problems including acne, blackheads, sunburns, psoriasis, eczema and certain other inflammatory skin conditions.

The antioxidant properties of cucumber oil are attributed to the significant existence of tocopherol and tocotrienol substance along with the three lignans including secoisolariciresinol, lariciresinol and pinoresinol. These elements make Cucumber oil powerful in fighting against the free radicals responsible for aging symptoms, skin damages and several types of cancer, including ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer and uterine cancer.

Massaging your skin with 10 drops of Cucumber oil blended with 2 drops of Orange oil and 4 ounce of coconut oil can help in retaining the natural moisture in the skin, repair dry and dull skin surface, treat eczema, psoriasis, rough, scaly and mature skin, reduce wrinkles, aging symptoms and skin eruptions.

A 2011 study on “Exploring Cucumber Extract For Skin Rejuvenation” by Naveed Akhtar, Arshad Mehmood, Barkat Ali Khan, Tariq Mahmood, Haji Muhammad Shoaib Khan and Tariq Saeed, Department of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur and the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Pakistan, Published in the African Journal of Biotechnology, states that cucumber extract has been proven extremely beneficial for the skin.

These experts also say that Cucumber extracts have passed the maximum number of dermatological tests including skin melanin test, skin erythema test (safety of cosmetics), pH tests, skin moisture content test, skin sebum content test, and trans epidermal water loss test.

This study concludes stating that this was a preliminary initiative in exploring the unknown effects of Cucumber as a topical cream for skin rejuvenation.

It also states that cucumber extracts aid in reducing the melanin content (responsible for skin pigmentation and complexion); has anti-acne effects with its potent to decrease the content of skin sebum.

This study also declares that these analyses have proved to be capable in the context of prospective topical applications of cucumber extract (with its varied skin care properties), as cosmetics, skin-care items and in the manufacturing of pharmaceutical preparations.

You can also add 2 drops of Cucumber oil in a cup of cool water and wash your face for locking the moisture and fight against acne causing micro-organisms.

2. Combats dandruff and explores the natural shine of your locks:

Bouncy, strong, silky and dandruff-free lustrous locks are the dream of many women out there. Men are not an exception though, in longing for healthy hair that is free from hair loss, dandruff and other scalp conditions.

Cucumber is one among those natures’s richest owner of the minerals like silica and sulphur, of which sulphur is known for promoting hair growth and silica fortifies the hair follicles and protect from breakage and loss of hair. Silica is an essential element for supporting the health of connective tissues like skin, muscles, ligaments and bones.

The moisturizing properties of Cucumber oil helps in hydrating the scalp and aids in reducing dryness, itchy and flaky scales on the scalp surface and nourishes the scalp and roots of the hair from within.

Massaging your scalp with 5 ounce of Cucumber oil mixed with 5 drops of Rosemary oil and 5 drops of Brahmi oil and leaving it for 1 hour by wrapping a warm towel (helps the medicated blend to penetrate deeply into your scalp) can assist in reducing dandruff, replenishing the scalp, enhancing the luster of your hair and prevent excessive hair fall. You can also add 5 drops of Cucumber oil in your mild shampoo for fastening the natural moisture in your hair for a longer duration.

This blend can be applied by the swimmers before their swimming voyage in the chlorinated and chemical filled water. This helps in preventing the hair damage naturally.

3. Helps control high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes:

Certain studies witness that the presence of sterols in Cucumbers may help in reducing the high level of cholesterol, while the presence of fiber, magnesium and potassium assists in treating high blood pressure. Cucumber also stimulates the secretion of insulin hormones in the pancreas, thus assisting in the treatment of diabetes.

Eating fresh cucumber daily along with adding 5 drops of Cucumber oil in your liquid soap can help in vitalizing your cells and augment your energy levels.

4. Soothes the digestive system, thus helps in treating ulcers and halitosis:

Cucumber oil has the power to soothe and pacify pitta dosha. The excess of which would end up in overindulgence of digestive fire leading to ulcer, high blood pressure, acidity, heartburn, acne, negative emotions, feelings of rage, insomnia, acne and certain other skin eruptions.

Massaging your abdomen and chest with 10 drops of Cucumber oil blended with 2 drops of Peppermint oil can help in cooling the digestive system (intemperance of digestive fire) by soothing the lining of the stomach and intestines. Using 2 drops of Cucumber oil in warm gargle can assist in fighting against bad breath with the presence of phytochemicals.

5. Flushes out toxins and aids in treating rheumatic and inflammatory conditions:

Cucumber has enormous amount of ascorbic acid, contributing to its diuretic properties. This moisture-rich oil helps in replenishing the system with its anti-rheumatic, antioxidant and diuretic properties by flushing out the excess fluid deposits, toxic remains, salt, uric acid, free radicals and fat deposits in the system, which is often responsible for inflammatory conditions like gout, rheumatism, arthritis, swelling, redness, obesity and puffy eyes.

Massaging the affected parts with 5 ounce of Cucumber oil with 5 ounce of Sweet Almond oil can help in promoting frequent urination, thus eliminating toxic remains, free radicals, salt, fat deposits and uric acid, which helps in reducing swelling, skin irritations, muscular soreness, pain, redness and muscular stiffness associated with rheumatism and arthritis.

Pranayama or the art of balanced breathing can help highly in expelling ama or excess toxic substances in the system, where all these toxins are discharged through exhalation.

Inhaling the refreshing fragrance of Cucumber by adding 2 drops of this oil in your air freshener, especially during Pranayama and meditation can grant quicker relief by releasing your mind and body from toxic emotional blocks and harmful toxins in the system.

Other health benefits:

Cucumber is also helpful in treating vaginal itching, erectile dysfunctions, heart problems, renal calculi, cancer therapy, dark circles, urinary infections, cholera, and cellulites.

Disclaimer:

This piece of information is meant only for the purpose of information and is not recommended to treat or prevent any kind of medical conditions. It is not meant to replace any prescription medicines or the advice of a medical professional. We, the team of Essential Depot are not experts in Remedial practices or Traditional medicine and these facts are shared only for spreading the greatness of Ayurveda in treating mankind.

Essential oils are recommended only for topical applications and do dilute essential oils in suitable carrier oils before using it on the skin. Never ingest essential oils as absolutely pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances and may cause allergic reactions, when used internally or on the skin without dilution.

Speak with your Ayurvedic expert or medical professional before choosing the right essential oils for your state of health and unique individual constitution. Performing a patch test on your skin before enjoying its complete benefits is an amicable advice.

Thought for the day:

Green is the prime color of the world, and that from which its loveliness arises.

– By Pedro Calderon de la Barca.

Suggested Reading:

  1. Cucumber Recipes by Jackie Swansen
  2. Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeial Plant Drugs: Expanded Therapeutics by C. P. Khare
  3. Dying to Look Good by Christine Hoza Farlow
  4. Asian Secrets of Health, Beauty and Relaxation by Sophie Benge, Luca Invernizzi Tettoni
  5. The Aromatherapy Encyclopedia: A Concise Guide to over 385 Plant Oils by Carol Schiller, David Schiller

Reference Links:

  1. Cucumber by Wikipedia
  2. Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) – Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics, published in Cosmetic Ingredient Review
  3. The anti-aging effects of Cucumbers by Dr. David Jockers, published in Natural News
  4. Exploring Cucumber Extract For Skin Rejuvenation by Naveed Akhtar, Arshad Mehmood, Barkat Ali Khan, Tariq Mahmood, Haji Muhammad Shoaib Khan and Tariq Saeed, Department of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur and the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Pakistan, Published in the African Journal of Biotechnology
  5. Phytochemical and therapeutic potential of cucumber by Mukherjee PK, Nema NK, Maity N, Sarkar BK, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, India, published in PubMed