Caraway Oil

Caraway-bannerWhich Ayurvedic oil ‘warms the kidneys’ and ‘moves the liver’? Ah! Wait! Wait! Don’t panic, it is Caraway essential oil that has the potent to cleanse the liver, detoxify the system and discharge toxins, salt, uric acid and excess fluid deposits in the system through urine.

Also known as Persian cumin, Meridian fennel and Shahi jeera, Caraway is one among the 3000 species of plants of the Umbelliferae family dispersed throughout the world. The essential oil is extracted from the dried seeds through steam distillation method.

The Sanskrit name of Caraway is karavi and it is one among the oldest culinary herb used in Ayurvedic healing since the Stone Age. Caraway and its essential oil is being used in Ayurveda for treating diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, morning sickness, colic, dyspeptic headache, bloating, cold, cough, rheumatism, inflammation, delayed menstruation, genitourinary problems, anemia, obesity and hormonal imbalances.

Purchase Caraway Essential Oil – 4oz – CLICK HERE 

Historical uses of Caraway and its essential oil:

Indigenous to Western Asia, Europe and Northern Africa, Caraway is botanically called as Carum carvi. The roots of the Caraway herb were mixed with milk and used in the preparation of Chara – the bread that was taken by Julius Caesar and his soldiers of Valerius.

Caraway has been carved in the ancient scriptures and gained esteem during the middle ages. The recent research from Arabic regional studies recommend “Carum carvi use as an endocrine function support agent, specifically related to thyroid disorders and auto immune disease.”

Parkinson mentions its healing attributes in one of his works which quotes Caraway ‘is much used to be put among baked fruit, or into bread, cakes, etc., to give them a relish. It is also made into comfits and taken for cold or wind in the body, which also are served to the table with fruit.’

It was a tradition to serve a saucer full of Caraway with roasted apple and is still kept in Trinity College, London. Caraway seeds were used as the best condiment in Greece, Rome, Russia, Norway and Sweden. Caraway essential oil is used as an active ingredient in the preparation of alcoholic liquors. It is also used in the Traditional Chinese Medicine for treating hiccups, hernia, lower back pain, lack of appetite and nausea.

The Ebers Papyrus of the African medicine, dated 1500 B.C. prescribe Caraway for treating gastrointestinal problems. People in the primeval period believed that the presence of Caraway in any object will be protected from theft. It was also used in love potions to keep the lovers away from wandering and was given to pigeons and other fowls to keep them away from straying.

Alleged to be first used by the ancient Arabs, Caraway seeds are used in Arabic medicine as a carminative for children and to treat psychological conditions such as hysteria. It is used as a diuretic to treat hypertension and diabetes in Moroccan traditional medicine. Caraway water is used as a medium for pediatric medicines and vapors obtained from Caraway seeds is trusted to alleviate rheumatism and lumbago.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Caraway essential oil:

Owing major similarities to the other members of the Apiaceae (also known as Umbelliferae) family, Caraway essential oil have carvone and limonene as its major components and the other constituents are carvacrol, α-pinene, γ-terpinene, linalool, furfurol, thujone, carvenone, and p-cymene.

Caraway also serves as a rich source of fatty acids, lignin, vitamins, amino acids, polysaccharides, triacylglycerols and numerous minerals such as copper, potassium, manganese, magnesium, calcium, selenium, zinc and iron.

Caraway essential oil has been in use since antiquity for its countless therapeutic properties like carminative, astringent, antispasmodic, eupeptic, antihistaminic, antiseptic, aperitif, antimicrobial, disinfectant, emmenagogue, expectorant, stimulant, stomachic, digestive, insecticide, diuretic, galactogogue, cardiac, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-ulcerogenic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-stress and vermifuge.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Caraway essential oil:

Ayurveda is the oldest healing sciences known to the world and is said to have been in practice for more than 5,000 years. The most notable thing about Ayurveda is that its healing practices are recorded systematically in the form of literature.

Among the 4 major sacred books of the Indian Mythology, Atharvana Veda records the Ayurvedic therapies and about 114 verses of this sacred book shares the symptoms and diagnostic techniques of numerous health disorders.

Ayurveda is a holistic healing methodolgy that treats the individual instead of the symptoms and traces the root cause of an illness. By this way, this ancient common sense science focuses on prevention of illnesses leading through healthy aging process to longevity.

Based on the Vedic references of Ayurveda, two ancient Ayurvedic texts were written by the legendary Ayurvedic physicians known as Charaka and Sushruta, who wrote Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.

These Ayurvedic encyclopedias states that everything is a part of nature and the human body is a combination of the five elements known as Panchamaha Bhoothas, namely fire, water, earth, air and space.

Every person is made up of a unique individual constitution that consists of three dynamic energies known as doshas (vata -air & space, pitta – fire & water and kapha -water & earth), which are a combination of the elemental forces of nature.

For a person to be hale and healthy, these doshas should always remain in a specific ratio as set by nature and any change in the functioning or the balance between these doshas cause illnesses. Imbalance of these biological energies mainly occurs due to food habits (mainly depending on the quality of the food taken), change in weather conditions and lifestyle changes.

Ayurvedic remedies like plant essential oils, herbs, yoga, meditation, prayers, Abhyanga or art of Ayurvedic massaging, Panchakarma or the detox technique and Ayurvedic routine are recommended based on the Prakriti or the unique individual constitution of a person and for correcting the imbalances of dosha.

Caraway essential oil has the potent to reduce kapha and vata doshas and increase pitta dosha, making its use inevitable in the treatment of respiratory problems, skin disorders, spasms, cramps, bloating and other digestive disorders.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Caraway essential oil are:caraway-broucher-info1. Combats the growth of free radicals:

Caraway essential oil serves as an effective antioxidant with its rich content of monoterpene alcohols, linalool, flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds. This helps in destroying and inhibiting the growth of free radicals, which are responsible for cellular oxidation.

Certain scientific studies conclude that the dietary supplementation of Caraway to rats induced with colon cancer suppressed the crypt foci development and decreased the level of fecal bile acids and alkaline phosphatase which affects the epithelial cells of the colon and the rectum if not kept under control. The presence of carvone and limonene helps in reducing the lipid peroxidation products of the intestines and the colon.

Moreover the chemical compounds such as anethofuran, carvone and limonene are potential cancer chemo-preventive agents that build a protective shield against various mutagens such as dimethylnitrosamine, nitrosodimethlyamine, methylazoxymethanol acetate and inhibit the development of stomach cancers in mice induced by diethylsitosamine.

The antioxidant property of Caraway essential oil also makes it an efficient anti-carcinogenic, apoptotic, anti-proliferative and anti-mutagenic agent. As an apoptotic, Caraway essential oil proves fruitful against human leukemia cells and it also anti-proliferates the tumor cells.

Massaging your body with 10 drops of Caraway oil blended with 5 ml of Coconut oil can help in controlling the growth of free radicals and enhance the immune power of the system to shield against the harmful effects of the cancerous cells.

2. Makes you free from toxins:

Caraway essential oil serves as an excellent detoxifier, which assists in promoting active metabolism and excretion of harmful toxins or ama in the body. A 2007 research on the diuretic effect of Caraway essential oil on normal rats states that it increased the frequency and quantity of urine in a 24 hour period. It increased the level of sodium and potassium in the urine while that of the plasma remained unchanged.

Adding 2 to 3 drops of Caraway oil in warm bathing water or in a massage blend with 10 drops of this oil mixed with 5 ml of olive oil helps in excreting the toxins, fats, uric acid, salt and excess fluid deposits with ease. By this way, Caraway oil aids in alleviating hypertension, promoting weight loss and treating inflammation caused due to water retention.

Ayurvedic texts adore Caraway seed oil as a liver-friendly oil that support in protecting the liver from the encountering of highly toxic substances. In addition to this, its antimicrobial attribute clears out urinary tract infections. Caraway essential oil is a great source of dietary fiber.

3. Aids in proper digestion:

Caraway essential oil has been in use since the prehistoric period for its pitta-enhancing properties that stimulates the Agni or digestive fire, secretion of gastric and digestive juices. This attribute is responsible for the carminative, digestive and stomachic properties of Caraway oil. Its flavonoids, fatty acids and triacylglycerols help in reducing inflammation in the intestines and relieving smooth muscle contractions induced by spasmogens.

With flavonoids and monoterpene alcohols acting as natural stimulants, Caraway essential oil regulates the secretion of the digestive enzymes and its rich mineral content aid in complete absorption of the dietary nutrients. It raises the temperature of the body and speed up the process of metabolism thus preventing constipation and it helps in regulating the bowel movements.

A 2011 study on the various healing attributes of Caraway essential oil proves the antibacterial activity of this oil against gram negative bacteria such as helicobacter pylori which is identified as the primary etiological factor associated with the onset of various gastrointestinal ailments such as gastric carcinoma, gastritis and peptic ulcer. It blends well with Peppermint oil in treating non-ulcer dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion and other gastrointestinal disorders.

Inhaling the refreshing aroma of Caraway oil by adding 2 drops of this oil in diffuser or burner along with massaging your abdomen with 5 drops of Caraway oil blended with 2.5 ml of sesame oil can effectively treat diarrhea, flatulence, vomiting, morning sickness, dyspepsia, heartburn due to indigestion, gastrointestinal disorders, stomachic ulcers, intestinal worms and parasites and colic.

Carvone which owes the credit of the anti-inflammatory attribute of Caraway essential oil actively reduces the production of prostaglandin and increases the production of leukotriene thus helping in alleviating colic for which reason Caraway seeds boiled in hot water was used in treating infants with colic. As an effective antimicrobial agent, Caraway oil destroys the harmful microbes in the stomach and inhibits the growth of intestinal pathogens.

4. Alleviates menstrual discomforts and other womanly problems: 

Caraway essential oil has reproductive and estrogenic parameters due to the presence of flavonoids and apigenin. It increases and regulates the secretion of estrogen. Moreover it’s rich iron, calcium and vitamin content stimulates the secretion of hemoglobin and regulates  blood flow to the uterus.

Massaging your lower abdomen, genital area and thighs with 5 drops of Caraway oil blended with 2.5 ml of Almond oil aids in opening up blocked menstruation and alleviates menstrual irregularities, dysmennorhea, menstrual cramps and associated mood swings. It relaxes the uterus and helps in its contraction facilitating the process of child birth before delivery.

Furthermore this oil possesses galactogogue properties, where the mammary glands are induced and the secretion of milk in lactating mothers is increased. Nursing mothers who use Caraway essential oil benefits their baby as well from colic and other stomachic discomforts.

5. Relieves common cold and other respiratory infections:

Common cold and certain other respiratory problems are often known as the most annoying ailments of mankind of all ages.

According to Ayurveda, excess of Kapha element in the body cause water retention, formation of mucus and phlegm deposits in the body. As a natural kapha reducing agent, Caraway essential oil can help in clearing off the phlegm and mucus secretion that often obstruct the nasal passages and block the respiratory tract.

Being a natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent, Caraway essential oil destroys all the harmful microbes that cling onto the respiratory tract resulting in infections and huge deposits of mucus and phlegm. Carvone, limonene and linalool play a major role in destroying the infectious microbes and hold antihistamine properties that calm down the muscles causing coughing spasms.

2 to 3 drops of Caraway oil added to steam inhalation along with the gentle massaging of your chest, throat and back with 2 drops of this oil mixed in your regular decongesting ointment or rub can help in loosening the deposits of mucus and phlegm, aid in its excretion and reduce the symptoms of bronchitis, laryngitis and sore throat.

6. Alleviates skin disorders:

Caraway essential oil is a powerful antiseptic that helps in treating acne, boils, scabies and itches. It is used in cleansing the wounds as it destroys the presence of micro-organisms and prevents it from spreading and becoming septic, thus protecting one from the onset of tetanus with its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.

Carvone and limonene components present in Caraway oil have enormous anti-oxidant properties that strengthen the connective tissues and confer potent effects on aging symptoms and clears out wrinkles, lessens the sagging of skin and aids in tissue regeneration. This oil is also used in the manufacturing of skin care lotions, creams and ointments for reducing wrinkles and acne.

Rich in vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, selenium and zinc, Caraway essential oil helps in regulating the growth and development of cells and aids in improved natural complexion of the skin. Mix 2 drops of Caraway oil with 1 ml of Coconut oil or your mild skin care cream or lotion and gently massage on your skin in circular movements for visible results.

7. Instills tranquility:

Caraway essential oil serves as a boon to mankind with its pleasing aroma and its therapeutic compounds that have a soothing effect on the mind and instills feelings of trust and harmony. It acts as a tonic for the nerves and encourages positive thoughts in a person and eases the mental strain while making one to feel full of life and energy.

The best way to use Caraway essential oil for emotional benefits is to add 2 drops of this oil in burner, vaporizer, diffuser, aromatic candles or your pillow cover for boosting up your system and revitalizing you from within.

Other health benefits of Caraway oil:

Caraway essential oil is also used in treating rheumatism, toothaches, eye infections and inflammations. It is used as a flavoring agent in mouth-wash, gargle preparations, toothpastes, soaps, lotions, perfumes and incense sticks. It also serves as an insecticide and a potential natural fumigant for stored products. With its strong yet pleasing aroma it refreshes your breath and hence used in the manufacturing of mouth fresheners, toothpastes and other oral care products.

Disclaimer:

This is only for educational use and is not meant to prevent or diagnose any health condition or substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. This information is shared only with the concern of highlighting the importance of Ayurvedic healing, the traditional wisdom of holistic remedy and we are not medical professionals. Do not use essential oils internally.

Ensure that you dilute essential oils in appropriate carrier oils before using it externally on the skin as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances. It is advisable to consult your Ayurvedic professional/ healthcare expert before choosing the appropriate essential oil for your state of health and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

Joy in looking and comprehending is nature’s most beautiful gift. -Albert Einstein

Suggested Reading:

  1. Caraway: The Genus Carum (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Industrial Profiles) from CRC Press
  2. Aromatherapy for the Soul: Healing the Spirit with Fragrance and Essential Oils by Valerie Ann Worwood
  3. The Nursing Mother’s Herbal (The Human Body Library) by Sheila Humphrey

Reference Links:

  1. Caraway by Wikipedia
  2. Essential oil content in Caraway species (Carum carvi) by J.Sedlakovai, B. Kicourkova, L. Lojkovai and V.Kubani of the Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry, Czech Republic
  3. Cuminum Cyminum and Carum carvi by R.K. Johri published in PubMed
  4. The effects of Carum carvi L. (Caraway) extract and essential oil on TNBS-induced colitis in rats published in PubMed

Clary Sage Oil

Clary-sage-banner‘Clear Eye, Eye of Christ and See Bright’ are the popular names of Clary Sage herb for its excellent remedial properties that aid in cleansing the eyes and brightening the vision.

With its rich content of natural phyto-estrogens, this herb and its essential oil steam distilled from the leaves and flowers of the perennial plant Salvia sclarea, have been used since the primordial times for alleviating female problems like dysmennorhea or pain during menses, menopausal difficulties and pain during pregnancy and delivery.

Clary Sage herb has been used in Ayurveda as a tonic for augmenting physical, psychological and emotional strength for thousands of years. The Ayurveda and Aromatherapy book by Bryan and Light Miller quotes Clary Sage oil as, “It is antidepressant, revitalizing, aphrodisiac and helps rejuvenate the female system.

Sage detoxifies, heats up the body, cleanses, balances and stimulates perspiration, especially during hot flashes. It is specific for water retention problems, depression and hormonal imbalance.”

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Historical uses and importance of Clary Sage:

The name Clary Sage is of Latin origin from the word ‘Clarus’ means clear and the tea prepared from the leaves, flowers and seeds of this plant was trusted to grant clear eyesight and mental clarity. Indigenous to the Northern Mediterranean region along with Central Asia and North Africa, Clary Sage is cultivated widely in Russia and France for the essential oil production.

Clary Sage was held high since the primeval period as a panacea for many illnesses and was believed to have the potential for gifting immortality to mankind. The remedial use of this plant dates back to the 4th century BC in the herbal writings of Theophrastus, Pliny The Elder and Dioscorides. It is said to shed light on one’s instinct and pave way for having a clear vision on the future.

The Jamaican folklore medicine used Clary Sage herb for cooling and cleansing the eyes, treating ulcers and inflammation. It was used in the Ayurvedic medicine for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), insomnia, menopausal problems, fear, anxiety and delayed menstruation. This oil has been used in Oriental medicine for strengthening and circulating the vital force of the body known as ‘Qi’ or ‘Chi’.

The seeds of this plant have a mucilaginous cover that was used in ancient herbal medicine for removing the foreign object in one’s eyes and it was Nicholas Culpeper, the renowned herbalist who named Clary Sage as ‘Clear Eye’ in his book Complete Herbal (1653).

Clary Sage is a key ingredient in many European products like the Elderflowers which still uses this herb as a prominent flavoring in Italian vermouth and Muscatel wine and liquer. It is also used as a favorite flavoring ingredient for cigarettes for R.K. Reynolds and certain other famous tobacco companies.

Chemical constituents or Gas Chromatography Report (GC) of Clary Sage oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Clary Sage oil constitutes of 15 chemical components that contribute to its fragrance, therapeutic attributes, consistency and quality of this oil. Of which, Linalyl acetate contributes to the highest proportion of Clary Sage oil constituents with about 46.7% of its total composition.

Just click on:

I believe that this must certainly help you in getting to know the exclusive information about these prime chemical constituents of Clary Sage oil.

The table crafted below clearly depicts the unique nature and contributions of these biochemical constituents to the healing magnificence of Clary Sage essential oil.

clary-sage

Therapeutic properties of Clary Sage essential oil:

The remedial properties of this oil are anti-inflammatory, relaxant, mental stimulant, carminative, nervine, deodorant, aphrodisiac, euphoric, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, antidepressant, antiseptic, hypotensive, anti-convulsive, nerve tonic, bactericidal, uterine, astringent and sedative.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Clary Sage essential oil:

Devotedly called as the ‘Mother of all healing sciences’, Ayurveda is a 5000 year old healing methodology and is known as the oldest of all healing systems on earth.

Being a pioneer to almost all the medicinal practices in the world, Ayurveda preaches the techniques for leading a ‘Disciplined life’ and this discipline indicates a systematic life with a synchronized lifestyle, balanced diet, simple physical exercises, meditation, yoga and prayers, all of which are a part of the Ayurvedic routine.

The elegance of Ayurveda lies in its respect and reception of Nature as the sole reason for the wellness of humanity. When our life is in harmony with nature, we are privileged to live a healthy and enhanced living with increased life span free of illnesses. Being a part of nature, human beings are also made up of the five vital elements of nature namely earth, water, fire, air and space.

Ayurveda trusts that every individual has a unique constitution made up of three dynamic energies of nature known as doshas. These are a representation of the five elements known as Panchaboothas.

Vata is the elemental force of air and space. Pitta is the fundamental energy of fire and water and Kapha is a basic force of earth and water. Ayurvedic philosophy states that the personality, behavior, physical, mental and emotional set up of a person is determined by the natural presence of these three doshas.

Balance between these doshas indicates health and harmony with nature and imbalances due to change in lifestyle and climatic conditions cause doshic imbalances leading to illness.

Ayurvedic remedies like herbs, essential oils, Ayurvedic massaging techniques, Ayurvedic routine, yoga and meditation practices treat diseases by correcting the imbalances of doshas after analyzing the individual constitution and root cause of a sickness. By this way it treats the disease initially and aims in preventing it in the future and focusing on healthy aging and longevity.

Vata is characterized by dry, quick, cold and irregular nature and is treated with essential oils and herbs of warming, sweet and grounding nature. Kapha is identified with heavy, slow and cool nature and is treated with cleansing, stimulating and warming remedies. Pitta is recognized with sharp, hot and forceful nature and is balanced with calming, soothing and cooling Ayurvedic remedies.

Clary Sage essential oil is an all-rounder that is known to treat all the three doshic imbalances and strike absolute balance when there is vitiation of vata, pitta and kapha energies.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Clary Sage essential oil are:

Clary-sage-broucher1. Mitigate menstrual, menopausal and certain other feminine problems:

Most of the problems associated with menstrual and menopausal conditions are caused due to hormonal imbalances, especially the female hormone estrogen. Certain studies indicate that presence of sclareol constituent in Clary Sage oil may provoke an ‘estrogen-like effect’ in the body that helps in treating womanly problems related to hormonal reactions.

Light Miller and Bryan Miller in their book Ayurveda and Aromatherapy say that Clary Sage essential oil is beneficial for all the three doshas and has rejuvenative and female-immune stimulating qualities that aids in building tissues in the uterus and helps in relieving uterine pain and cramps.

Massaging your lower abdomen, thighs and around your reproductive organs with 3 drops of Clary Sage oil mixed 2 ml of coconut oil can be of great assistance in relieving menstrual pain (dysmennorhea), irregular or blocked menstruation with its emmenagogue properties, treat hot flashes and mood swings associated with menopause.

You can mix 5 drops of this oil with 3 ml of virgin olive oil and massage it gently on the feet and palms of the pregnant women before childbirth for relaxing the stretched out muscles, granting mental strength, calming the tensed nerves and lessening the pain during labor.

A 2013 study on Differential Effects on Blood Pressure in Female Patients with Urinary Incontinence Undergoing Urodynamic Examination of Salvia sclarea or Lavandula angustifolia proved that “lavender oil inhalation may be inappropriate in lowering stress during urodynamic examinations, despite its antistress effects, while clary oil inhalation may be useful in inducing relaxation in female urinary incontinence patients undergoing urodynamic assessments.”

2. Pacifies the mind and body:

Clary Sage essential oil has a positive and reviving effect on the pituitary gland of the brain, which is responsible controlling stress, growth, blood pressure, pain relief and has an impact on the behavioral pattern as well.  Inhaling the warm, sweet and soothing aroma of Clary Sage oil added to a diffuser, burner or vaporizer helps in alleviating stress, mood swings, tension, anxiety, hopelessness, postpartum depression and uncertainty.

Adding 3 to 4 drops of Clary Sage oil in bath before going to bed can assist in relaxing the nerves and muscles helping in the treatment of fatigue, restlessness, nervous tension and grant peaceful sleep at night. 1 drop of Clary Sage oil added to your pillows or to a tissue placed near your pillow can help in putting an end to your horror dreams or feelings of insecurity by promoting farsighted dreams and presenting you with a euphoric state of mind.

3. Reinforces the reproductive mechanism:

The effect of Clary Sage oil on influencing the reproductive mechanism both in men and women is again related to its enhanced action on the pituitary gland, the pea sized endocrine gland in the brain. Pituitary gland secretes the hormones responsible for uterine contractions during childbirth (release of oxytocin hormones), functions of the sex organs in both male and female, metabolism (the process of converting food into energy), regulation of body temperature and breast milk production.

Massaging your body with 20 drops of Clary Sage oil mixed with 10 ml of jojoba oil along with adding 2 drops of Clary Sage oil to your bathing water and 3 drops in vaporizer or burner at night can help in numerous ways for activating the pituitary gland and stimulate the secretion of hormones responsible for reproductive problems like impotence, frigidity, infertility, loss of sexual interest, premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.

4. Gifts mental clarity and boosts confidence:

Only a relaxed and calm mind can help in progressive moves and visionary thinking. Clary Sage essential oil stimulates the root chakra and the sacral chakra responsible for endurance and confidence. 2 drops of Clary Sage oil added to your vaporizer, burner or handkerchief can assist in influencing positive thoughts, grant mental clarity, clear confusions and chaos, boost creativity and confidence and induce spiritual feelings naturally.

5. Relieves respiratory infections:

This oil have been used since the ancient times for treating asthma, bronchitis, sore throat, cough and certain other respiratory problems. The positive effects of Clary Sage oil on the respiratory system is mainly because of its mucilaginous produce. The working of this mechanism is that mucilages envelope the mucous membranes and thwarts the pain and irritation of the nerve endings.

Using 2 drops of Clary Sage oil in steam inhalation followed by 2 drops of this oil added to vaporizing ointment and massaged soothingly on your chest, back and throat can be of great assistance in treating spasmodic coughs, respiratory spasms, expelling the phlegm and mucous deposits in the bronchial and nasal passages and soothes the respiratory tract.

6. Treats digestive problems:

Clary Sage oil has carminative and stomachic properties that support in promoting proper digestion, expelling gas in the stomach and intestines, stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes, acids and gastric juices responsible for metabolic functions. This working can again be attributed to its encouraging effect on the pituitary gland, accountable for secretion of hormones responsible for metabolic functions.

Dilute 3 drops of Clary Sage oil in bath or massage your abdomen with 4 drops of this oil mixed with 2 ml of sesame oil for curing stomach pain, flatulence, spasmodic cholera, ulcer, cramping, abdominal discomfort, gastrointestinal problems and for regulating the bowel movements.

7. Heals wounds and other skin infections:

Clary Sage essential oil can be your best friend in maintaining youthful and adorable skin. This oil has excellent antiseptic and antibacterial properties that heal wounds speedily, eliminate toxic substances in the body causing acne and blemishes, discard bacteria and other destructive micro-organisms that ruin the skin health by affecting the healthy cellular structure.

Gently massaging your skin with 3 drops of Clary Sage oil mixed with 2 ml of almond oil can work wonders on your skin by retaining the natural moisture, purging the excess oil deposits in the skin, toning the skin, reducing wrinkles and skin inflammation (due to the presence of linalyl acetate) and nurturing its suppleness.

Also helpful in: Clay Sage essential oil is also an excellent natural remedy for treating hypertension, hysteria, nervous convulsions, body odor, uterine tumors and high cholesterol.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for educational purpose and is not meant to diagnose or replace any professional medical advice or prescribed medicines. Do not use essential oils internally without the guidance of your Ayurvedic practitioner, who can grant the best expert consultation in choosing the right essential oils for your medical condition and unique individual constitution.

Ensure that you always use essential oils for topical use only, in a diluted form as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances and a skin patch test is advisable if you are using essential oils for the first time. Do not use this oil in the first and second trimester of pregnancy.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Clary Sage oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and better usage.

Gas Chromatography Report (GC analysis) of Clary Sage oil.

Clary Sage Oil – Possible Skin Issues:

Greener Life Diamond – Bio-Healthy Score => 3 – Possible Skin Issues:

See => http://www.essentialdepot.com/GreenerLifeDiamond.html

The essential of oil of Clary Sage is expressed as non-toxic and exhibits mild skin irritation. Few studies have witnessed the moderate irritating effect of Clary Sage oil on rabbit skin. With a regulatory status of ‘Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)’authorized by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), Clary Sage oil is safe on skin when blended with appropriate carrier oils.

The safe level of dilution for Clary Sage oil is 0.25 % according to Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young in their book, Essential oil safety. In the rodent studies, it has been proved that Clary Sage oil has the greater effect of causing motor (cognitive function) impairment and sedation, thus the excess use of this oil might end up in dizziness, headache and lowering the level of concentration (especially during the use in Aromatherapy massage).

For this reason, it is recommended to avoid the use of Clary Sage oil while you’re taking alcohol or any other narcotic drugs. This oil also has the ability to potentially influence the Limbic system, especially the pituitary gland and thalamus.

Clary Sage is also said to contain hypotensive (decreasing blood pressure) properties and is advised to avoid the use of this oil if you have low blood pressure.

The most popular attribute of Clary sage oil is its estrogenic effect and is not an estrogen mimic. The presence of the sclareol, which has an estrogen-like structure is responsible for this effect and supports in the treatment of menstrual conditions. It binds with estrogen receptor sites, blocking the activity of the system’s own estrogens, ending up in the lessening of estrogenic action.

The use of Clary Sage oil, especially during the early stages of pregnancy is highly recommended as it may cause uterine contractions and stimulate menstrual flow. Clary Sage oil is also used by nursing mothers to stop lactation so do not use Clary Sage oil if you are breastfeeding as it has an anti-galactogogue property.

Never ingest essential oils and remember to dilute in suitable carrier oils before dermal application, as pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and might cause adverse effects in your system. This pertains only for products engaged in topical use and is not valid for wash-off products like soaps, shampoos and other bathing varieties.

Reference Links Substantiating the Possible Skin Issues of Clary Sage Oil:

  1. Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals By Robert Tisserand, Rodney Young
  2. Leung’s Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients, used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics by Ikhlas A. Khan and Ehab A. Abourashed.
  3. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook, Second Edition by Zoe Gardner, Michael McGuffin
  4. Is Clary Sage oil Estrogenic? by Robert Tisserand
  5. Clary Sage oil by Mercola.com
  6. Randomized controlled trial for Salvia sclarea or Lavandula angustifolia: differential effects on blood pressure in female patients with urinary incontinence undergoing urodynamic examination by the Department of Nursing Science, Korea University published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
  7. The role of essential oils in the treatment and management of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder by Heather Godfrey, published in the International Journal of Aromatherapy

Thought for the day:

Hope is the only bee that makes honey without flowers. -Robert Green Ingersoll

Suggested Reading:

  1. Clary Sage Essential Oil (Aromatherapy) by Miriam Kinai
  2. Mind Body Soul Aromatherapy by Rosa C Murphy M.Ed.
  3. How to Use Clary Sage Essential Oil (Aromatherapy) by Miriam Kinai
  4. Aromatherapy and Massage for Mother and Baby by Allison England R.N.
  5. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit: Restoring Emotional and Mental Balance with Essential Oils by Gabriel Mojay

Reference Links:

  1. Salvia sclarea by Wikipedia
  2. Clary Sage: Peaceful Rejuvenation by Vedic Society
  3. Ayurveda and Aromatherapy by Light Miller and Bryan Miller
  4. 38+ Benefits and Uses for Clary Sage Oil by Sustainable Baby Steps
  5. Randomized Controlled Trial for Salvia sclarea or Lavandula angustifolia: Differential Effects on Blood Pressure in Female Patients with Urinary Incontinence Undergoing Urodynamic Examination submitted to the Department of Basic Nursing Science, Korea University, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine


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Ginger Oil

Ginger-oil-bannerGinger oil is known as the “Oil of Empowerment” and is called in Ayurveda as Mahaushadha, meaning “universal medicine”, predominantly for its ability to heal the mind, body and soul, which are the three vital pillars of perfect health in Ayurveda.

Along with turmeric, galangal and cardamom, Ginger is yet another potent limb of the Zingiberaceae plant family. As a common culinary spice, Ginger is found in countless kitchens across the world and takes the pride of being used as a natural home remedy for addressing digestive and respiratory disorders.

Botanically named as Zingiber officinale, this powerful herb is called as Singara, Katubhadra and Srngaveram in Sanskrit. Ginger in any form, say fresh ginger, dried ginger or ginger extracts like juice, essential oil or powder has a bunch of absolute healing wisdom.

Ayurveda, the oldest healing system on earth prescribes Ginger as a remedy for indigestion, flatulence, nausea, loss of appetite, morning sickness, bronchitis, menstrual cramps, respiratory infections, arthritis, cancer and for enhancing the immune power. It is also recommended for treating fear, hopelessness, instability and for rekindling the inner fire for ultimatum.

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Historical importance of Ginger:

Ginger is one among the oldest of spices used for more than 4400 years across different cultures universally. With more than 1,200 species, Ginger has been proved scientifically for treating numerous health disorders. Its name is extracted from a Sanskrit word ‘srngaveram’, which means ‘horn root’.

According to the report by the University of Maryland Medical Center, “It has a long history of being used as medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic herbal traditions.” It has also been said that Ginger has been used in the Traditional Chinese Medicine for treating toothache, nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea and certain other digestive disorders.

Ginger and its other extracts have been a vital part of the ancient Ayurvedic remedies for obesity, poor metabolism, abdominal pain, motion sickness, impotence, weak memory, arthritis, flu, menstrual pain and as a heart tonic. It has its name etched in the most respected epic of India, Mahabharata.

This aromatic spice was recommended by King Henry VIII of England in the 16th century for fighting against the great plague. Greeks used Ginger as to combat the harmful effects of poison.

It is said that the West African women in Senegal knit belts of Ginger to restore their partner’s reproductive potency. Even today, Ginger is used in various dishes across the world for granting the finesse flavor and taste of this miraculous spice with mammoth health benefits.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Ginger essential oil:

The major chemical components of Ginger essential oil are camphene, a-pinene, b-pinene, zingiberene, geraniol, borneol, neral, geranyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, citral, b-bisabolene, linalool, nerol, geranial and y-terpineol.

These components contribute to its healing properties like carminative, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, analgesic, aphrodisiac, antioxidant, stimulant, antiseptic and emmenagogue.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Ginger essential oil:

Nothing is as astonishing as Mother Nature and the best wonder in the world is the human body that works like a magic to keep one going on and on. Ayurveda states that human beings are a part of nature and their illness and health depends upon their harmony with nature.

It further lights up this thought by stating that nature is made up of five vital elements, namely earth, water, fire, air and space and to our wonder, it’s also been said that a human being also has all these five elements.

Where earth is the muscles and bones, water is the blood, fire is the energy for various vital functions, air is our breath and space is the soul that co-ordinates all other functions and keeps us living.

The concept of healing in Ayurveda solely depends upon nature as it says that all the other things on earth are made for making mankind happy and healthy. For example, earth has 92 elements like calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron etc, and the human body also has all these 92 elements.

When a person lacks magnesium or calcium energy, he/she can take Ginger, which is rich in magnesium and calcium, whereas Ginger grows by absorbing the magnesium and calcium element from earth. How interesting it is, right?

Ayurveda regards every individual as a unique part of nature and suggests that the treatment should also be unique depending upon their individual constitution that is made up of three doshas namely vata, pitta and kapha.

Vata is a representation of air and ether, pitta stands for fire and water and kapha symbolizes earth and water. Vata controls respiratory and nervous functions, pitta takes care of metabolism and body temperature and kapha governs the structure, sustenance and movement of fluids in the body.

Balance between these three doshas indicates health, and imbalance due to unhealthy food habits and change in lifestyle symbolizes illness. Ayurvedic remedies aim at correcting these dosha imbalances with the help of herbs, essential oils, yoga, meditation, physical exercises, Ayurvedic routine, balanced diet and prayer.

Ginger essential oil is said to pacify kapha and vata dosha and aggravate pitta dosha with its warming, spicy, rich, woody and drying energy and aroma.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Ginger essential oil are:

Ginger-oil-broucher1. Benefits to the digestive system:

Ginger is popularly known as Adrak in India and is a quick natural remedy for relieving indigestion, bloating, flatulence, dyspepsia, vomiting, spasms, nausea, loss of appetite, piles and colic.

Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee, a renowned Ayurvedic Consultant says, “Ginger has many useful minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, copper, zinc and few others. It is a wonderful carminative, anti-flatulent and stimulant.”

Ginger essential oil has the potential to increase pitta energy that is responsible for the digestive fire. Add 2 drops of Ginger essential oil to your diffuser or air freshener before meals and let it stay there till you complete your food.

Inhaling the warming aroma of this oil enhances the appetite and improves the process of digestion, supports absorption of essential nutrients by the body and aids in alleviating the toxic substances with its hot potency, but for which the toxins or ama may otherwise cause serious illnesses.

You can also add 2 drops of Ginger oil to warm bathing water before going to bed or before starting a hectic day. This refreshing bath aids in promoting peaceful sleep, free from bloating, indigestion, gastric pain and other digestive disorders. If it is for the morning, Ginger has a handful of bright benefits like stimulating your nerves, rejuvenating your cells, improving your appetite and augmenting your mental power for facing your day to day challenges.

Ginger and its essential oil have been proven best for treating motion sickness even in children. Numerous studies have witnessed the effectiveness of Ginger is better than the effects of dimenhydrate, which is the most important ingredient in over-the-counter motion sickness and seasickness remedies like Dramamine.

It works by stimulating the flow of saliva and other digestive juices, pacifies the stomach, relieves pain due to gas and diarrhea, controls vomiting and supports easy discharge of stools. Mix 1 drop of Ginger essential oil with 10 drops of sesame oil and massage it gently on your stomach and abdomen for treating constipation and motion sickness.

2. Benefits to the mind:

Ginger essential oil is an effective natural remedy for treating emotional problems like fear, abandonment, and lack of self-confidence and of motivation. Using 2 drops of Ginger essential oil in diffuser, aromatic candles or in bath can help in improving memory power, treat mood swings, tendency to procrastinate, disconnectiveness, hopelessness, stress, anxiety, exhaustion, restlessness and depression.

Ginger oil is an excellent stimulant to the mind, body and soul. The encouraging aroma of this oil rekindles the inner fire and grants the power and confidence to step ahead and lead with courage and confidence.

Massaging your upper and lower abdomen (the root, sacral and solar plexus chakra) with 2 drops of Ginger oil with 1 ml of coconut oil aids in eliminating fear and mental blocks, enhancing the sense of trust, mental strength and enlightening the divine power rested within.

3. Benefits to the reproductive system:

Ginger is simply hot to support your intimacy with your partner as it has enormous aphrodisiac properties that have been assisting in the treatment of impotency, loss of libido, loss of sexual interest and premature ejaculation.

Gill Farrer-Halls in his book ‘The Aromatherapy Bible’ states that Ginger oil is an effective aphrodisiac and acts as a mild stimulant also. 2 drops of Ginger oil blended with 1 drop of Sandalwood oil and 1 drop of Rose oil added to your diffuser can drive in the positive energy required both physically and mentally for a complete “we time” together, by toning up the sexual organs and pacifying your mood.

Massaging your lower abdomen with 2 drops of Ginger oil blended with 1 ml of olive oil can be of great help in treating the problems of the female reproductive system by regularizing blocked or irregular menstruation, relieving menstrual pain and treating other problems associated with menstruation like nausea, dizziness, fatigue and mood fluctuations. Inhaling the reviving aroma of Ginger oil can aid in treating nausea and morning sickness during pregnancy.

4. Benefits to the respiratory system:

Ginger essential oil has the power to reduce kapha dosha. According to Ayurveda, excess of kapha energy is the main reason for respiratory problems like bronchitis, cold, sinusitis, asthma and congestion.

Ginger oil also has expectorant properties that aids in loosening the mucous and phlegm deposits and with its antiseptic properties, it assists in curbing the growth of microbes that spread respiratory infections.

Researchers of the Columbia University have proved that the components in Ginger root have properties that help asthma patients to breathe easily. The post-doctoral research fellow in the Columbia University Department of Anesthesiology, Elizabeth Townsend says, “In our study, we demonstrated that purified components of ginger can work synergistically with β-agonists to relax ASM.”

Adding 2 drops of Ginger essential oil in steam inhalation can assist in reducing cough, clear chest and nasal congestion, relieving sinusitis and helping in treating cold and flu symptoms. You can also rub your chest, back and throat with your regular Vapor rub mixed with 1 drop of Ginger oil for quick relief. Even today Ginger tea is a delicious and healthy way to keep away from cold, cough and flu in the Indian kitchens.

5. Benefits to the muscular system:

Muscular pain is a common illness that most of us experience in our day to day lives. Headache, back pain, knee pain and pain all over the body after a strenuous work are not a surprise to many of us.

What we all do is, rush to the pharmacy and grab pain relieving creams and sprays that grant relief. Most of us fail to realize that these over-the-counter remedies give temporary relief only and force us to use them again when the pain peeps out even worse the next time.

Ginger essential oil has anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic and analgesic properties that make it an exuberant natural aid for treating muscular pain, migraine pain, rheumatic pain, back pain, headache, joint pain, arthritis and weakness.

Excess of vata and kapha energy in the body lead to swelling, water stagnation, accumulation of toxic substances, inflammation, sore muscles, weakened nerves and muscular tension.

With its potent to reduce vata and kapha dosha and increase pitta or the fire energy, 3 drops of Ginger essential oil blended with 1 teaspoon of almond oil massaged gently on the painful area, spreads warmth in the body, reduces swelling and inflammation by eliminating toxic substances and water deposits from the body through urine and sweat and relieves pain by causing numbness in the painful parts.

6. Benefits to the entire system:

Ginger and its essential oil also act as a heart tonic and helps in improved circulation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, few studies have proved that ginger has the potential to prevent blood clotting, lower cholesterol, prevent blood vessels from getting blocked, which may otherwise lead to stroke or heart attack.

Ginger essential oil has antioxidant properties that have been proved efficacious in the prevention and treatment of cancerous cells.  A 2011 study on ‘Antioxidant activity of the volatile oils of Zingiber officinale (ginger)’ published in Spatula-DD, A peer reviewed journal on complementary medicine and drug discovery says “Ginger extracts have reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids levels, as well as cellular cholesterol accumulation, reduce DPPH absorption, scavenge free radicals and it has potential to improve the histopathological lesion occurring in different layers of the arterial tissue. In other word it is effective in attenuating of atherosclerosis development.”

This dominant herb has also been witnessed effective in the treatment of ovarian cancer. A 2006 study by the University Of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center presented in the annual meeting of the American association for Cancer Research stated that using Ginger solution (made with Ginger powder and water) on ovarian cancer cells ended up in their death. These cancerous cells died either due to autophagy (attacked/digested themselves) or due to apoptosis (committed suicide).

The book “A Complete Guide To Understanding and Using Aromatherapy For Vibrant Health and Beauty,” says that Ginger essential oil is effective in treating varicose veins and cellulites.

With rich vitamin C, Ginger oil can also help in treating scurvy. Mix 1 drop of Ginger oil with 10 drops of jojoba oil and apply it on the affected area for enhancing the skin health and reducing the symptoms of aging with its antioxidant properties.

Other health benefits:

Ginger essential oil can also assist in treating rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain, loss of libido, problems of the lymphatic system, sore throat, chills, disconnectiveness, improper blood circulation, increased blood sugar levels, back pain and mood swings.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of information and is not meant for treating or replacing any prescription drugs or professional medical advice. Always consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the right essential oil for your unique health condition and individual constitution.

Never use essential oils internally and always use essential oils in a diluted manner as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause allergic reactions if used directly on the skin. Care should be taken, if you are a pregnant or nursing woman.

Thought for the day:

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

Suggested Reading:

  1. Ginger: Common Spice and Wonder Drug by Paul Schulick
  2. A Spoonful of Ginger: Irresistible Health-Giving Recipes from Asian Kitchens by Nina Simonds
  3. The Chopra Center Herbal Handbook: Forty Natural Prescriptions for Perfect Health by David Simon M.D., Deepak Chopra M.D.
  4. Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
  5. Ginger Recipes: 33 Mouth-Watering Recipes Using Natures Super Spice for Weight Loss, Health, and Beauty. (The Simple Recipe Series) by Ready Recipe Books

Reference Links:

  1. Ginger by The University of Maryland Medical Center
  2. Ginger Beats Drugs in Defeating Cancer, Motion Sickness and Inflammation by Health Impact News Daily
  3. Ginger is a powerful aphrodisiac and increases sexual prowess by Namini Wijedasa published in infolanka.com
  4. What are the benefits of Ginger? By Medical News Today
  5. Ginger – Ayurveda’s Root To Good Health by Ayurveda Acharya