Juniper Leaf Oil

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Juniper is not ‘just another’ plant in the Jungle; more than that, it owns myriad health benefits and the most astonishing remedial use is its power to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in breast cancer cells. It is also celebrated as the most common therapeutic plants used by the native North Americans.

Beckoned as Hapusha in Sanskrit, Juniperus communis or the Common Juniper is also called as Aaraar in Hindi, Havusha in Bengali, Gin plant, Alpine Juniper, Horse savin and Fairy circle in English. Juniper has been a part of the Ayurvedic remedy of leucorrhoea, asthma, urino-genital infections, dropsy, gout, bronchitis, bladder and kidney stones, sluggish digestion, rhinitis, rheumatism and certain other water-retention disorders.

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History and importance of Juniper leaf and its essential oil:

Juniperus communis is an evergreen coniferous shrub in the Juniperus genus and belongs to the Cypress family, Cupressaceae. There are about 67 Juniper species spread across the world. Juniper has scale-like or needle-shaped leaves. The most soaring Juniper forest is located at an altitude of 4,900 meters in the Northern Himalayas and the South-eastern Tibet and is one of the tallest tree-lines on this planet.

Nicholas Culpeper, the most renowned herbalist and physician of the 17th century prescribed the use of Juniper berries for treating sciatica, asthma and for speeding up childbirth. Juniper was used in folklore medicine for curing snakebites and poisonous stings.

The Seminole Indians in Florida used Juniper for treating headache, swollen joints, diarrhea, stiff neck and common cold. Native Americans also used the berries as a female contraceptive agent.

The indigenous Europeans burned the berries during the last three days of April as a ceremony for cleaning and guarding against sorcery. Juniper leaves were hung near the main door for preventing the entry of witches. Juniper was trusted to bring in good luck in love life and was burnt as incense for keeping away from insects, ghosts and evil spirits.

Juniper is quoted in the Bible as the tree where Prophet Elijah hid. The leaves and berries of this plant have been used by the Tibetans for medicinal and spiritual uses. They believed that the burning of Juniper helped in breaking spiritual barriers, curses, hexes and protect from snakes and other venomous bites. It was used in Tibet for both religious and medicinal purposes.

Herbal tea prepared with Juniper berry and leaves is been taken especially after meals for helping with digestion and for preventing bladder problems. Herbalists recommend drinking this tea in alternative days or as a part of your daily routine as an aid in flushing out the toxic remains in the system, support normal metabolic functions and aid in your weight-loss regimen by discarding the fluid withholding in the system.

Chemical constituents and remedial attributes of Juniper leaf oil:

The essential oil of Juniper has rubefacient, astringent, antiseptic, carminative, analgesic, stimulant, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, expectorant, anti-catarrhal, antispasmodic, neurotonic and sudorific properties.

The major chemical constituents contributing to its healing values are about 90 percent of various monoterpenes, where as Juniper berry essential oil contains only 50-60 percent of it. Juniper leaf oil also has esters, terpinene-4-ol, antiviral and anti-cancerous compound known as DTP- deoxypodophyllotoxin.

Ayurvedic uses of Juniper leaf and its essential oil:

Ayurveda is a common sense science that simply goes with the saying “There is no smoke without fire”. In a much similar manner, Ayurveda states that every illness has a root cause behind. Identifying it and treating the root cause of a disease instead of its symptoms, is the secret behind the success of Ayurvedic healing in the treatment, prevention and voyage towards longevity.

None of us can deny being a part of nature and that is the mantra of Ayurveda. It firmly indicates that all things in the universe are a component of Nature and everything is made up of the five fundamental energies known as Panchamahabhutas. They are space, earth, water, fire and air.

Every person has a unique identity, which is an outcome of his/her unique individual constitution known as Prakriti. It is a combination of the three biological energies known as doshas (vata, kapha and pitta), which are an arrangement of Panchamahabhutas.

Pitta (fire + water = metabolism, body temperature, leadership traits); vata (air + space = circulation, respiration, creative abilities); kapha (earth + water = reproductive functions, physique, sustenance, trust and love).

Every individual has a distinct combination of these doshas with a predominance of any one dosha and it determines one’s physical set up, mental makeup, character, behavior/attitude and the depths of their spiritual being.

Leading a well-organized life helps in retaining absolute balance with nature, whereas irregular eating habits, junk and ready-to-eat food items, sedentary lifestyle, climatic conditions, change in sleeping patterns, lack of physical exercise, work pressure, stress and certain other factors can pave way for imbalance of your system with nature. This leads to imbalance between doshas and thus, sickness steps in.

Ayurveda is a holistic healing practice that prescribes natural remedies for striking balance with nature. It prescribes unique remedies for every person based upon their unique individual constitution, even for the same illness as it appreciates individual differences and trusts that every individual has a different mechanism that reacts to variations in their own way.

Ayurvedic medications for the mind, body and the soul include herbs, plant essential oils, yoga, Ayurvedic routine, meditation, Panchakarma or the Ayurvedic detoxification technique, Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massaging and many other Ayurvedic therapies for complete cure and prevention of illnesses.

Juniper leaf essential oil is recommended for pacifying kapha and vata dosha and for enhancing pitta dosha for trouble-free metabolic functions.

Let’s take a look at the uses of Juniper leaf oil according to the methods of usage:

Juniper-leaf-broucher1. Juniper leaf oil in steam inhalation:

Steam inhalation is an ancient treatment for instant relief from blocked nasal passages, sinusitis pain, headache and for attracting hidden toxins and excess oil in the skin surface.

Steam inhalation with therapeutic herbs and medicated oils as per the medical condition and Prakriti of a person is one among the Ayurvedic detoxification technique known as Panchakarma. Swedhana or promoting sweat is the most suitable treatment for people with Kapha imbalances.

Fluid retention is one among the kapha vitiations, which paves way for the buildup of ama or toxic remains. This slows down the normal functioning of the body and gradually weakens the immune power. When your body’s immunity reduces, the entry of micro-organisms like bacteria, virus and fungi becomes much easier.

This paves way for cold, flu, chest and bronchial congestion and few other respiratory infections. 2 drops of Juniper leaf oil with 1 drop of Eucalyptus oil and 1 drop of Clove bud oil can help in loosening the phlegm and mucous deposits, open up the blocked nasal passages, alleviate pain and lets out the toxic remains by promoting sweat with its sudorific and diaphoretic properties.

A refreshing steam inhalation blend for energizing the skin, especially the facial skin includes 2 drops of Juniper leaf oil with 1 drop of Rose Geranium oil, 1 drop of Palmarosa oil and 1 drop of Lime oil can work wonders on your skin.

The antiseptic properties of this blend can help in soothing wounds or infections caused by acne. This treatment also helps in opening the clogged pores, removing dirt, dead skin cells and excess oil in the sebaceous glands, controlling the secretion of sebum and enhancing the circulation of blood in the skin with its rubefacient properties, allowing the skin to look supple and healthy.

2. Juniper leaf oil in massage blends, baths and compress:

Rheumatism, obesity, edema, gout, renal calculi, bladder stones, congestion, inflammation, swelling and respiratory infections are kapha imbalances.

Ayurveda recommends hot compress, Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massaging and warm bath diluted with therapeutic essential oils for treating water retention or kapha vitiations. Abhyanga is the primordial art of maneuvering the muscles, nerves and joints with the help of palms, foot, elbows and certain Ayurvedic techniques.

Using Ayurvedic essential oils in massage, compress and medicated baths is the easy way for passing on the therapeutic values of essential oils to the bloodstream.

Skin is by far the largest and prominent part of the human body just like the outer rind of bananas. Massaging your body with 10 drops of Juniper leaf oil, 5 drops of Ginger oil, 5 drops of Marjoram oil, 5 drops of Wormwood oil along with 3 ounce of sesame oil can work effectively in eliminating the surplus fluid deposits, toxic remains, salt, fat deposits and uric acid by influencing the frequency and mass of urine and sweat with its diuretic, sudorific, diaphoretic and detoxifying properties.

This assists in reducing swelling, inflammation, redness, soreness, pain and muscular tension associated with arthritis, rheumatism and edema. The tendency to pacify vata imbalance along with the circulatory or the rubefacient properties of Juniper leaf oil helps in treating cellulites, pain, swelling and muscular stiffness related to varicose veins.

It’s pitta augmenting properties help in stimulating the functions of liver and pancreas (normalizes the level of insulin) thus fostering secretion of bile, gastric juices and other digestive acids for relieving flatulence, colic pain and trouble-free digestion.

An invigorating bath with 5 drops of Juniper leaf oil, 2 drops of Geranium oil, 2 drops of Orange bitter oil and 2 drops of Petitgrain oil can help in controlling the free radicals, relaxing the nerves, soothing the muscles, tranquilizing the mind and stimulating positive effects on the brain.

This is an excellent remedy for treating cancer (especially in preventing the spread of free radicals, apoptosis or cellular death and cellular damage), alleviating stress, fatigue, anxiety and negative feelings. Taking this bath before bedtime can support you in sleeping tight and recharge your system for a new-fangled day ahead.

A 2015 study published in PubMed on ‘Deoxypodophyllotoxin isolated from Juniperus communis induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells’ by Benzina S, Harquail J, Jean S, Beauregard AP, Colquhoun CD, Carroll M, Bos A, Gray CA, Robichaud GA, Universite de Moncton, Canada have concluded that they “identified the diterpene isocupressic acid and the aryltetralin lignan deoxypodophyllotoxin (DPT) as potent inducers of caspase-dependent programmed cell death (apoptosis) in malignant MB231 breast cancer cells.”

3. Juniper leaf oil in mild creams, lotions and topical applications:

Adding 2 drops of Juniper leaf oil with 1 drop of Lavender oil and 1 drop of Jojoba oil in gentle skin care creams and lotions for topical use on athlete’s foot, pimples, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions can foster quicker healing with its antiseptic and antibacterial properties.

4. Juniper leaf oil in diffusers, burners and aromatic candles:

Juniper leaf oil has been used since the traditional times for spiritual and remedial uses. It’s restoring, supportive, fresh, sweet-woody and balsamic fragrance implants absolute peace and feelings of oneness with the universe and the divine.

Adding 3 drops of Juniper leaf oil with 1 drop of Clary Sage oil, 1 drop of Vetiver oil and 1 drop of Sandalwood oil in your diffuser, burner, aromatic candle or vaporizer during prayers, meditation and other sacred ceremonies can uplift your mind, nourish your spirit, open up the mind for newness, instill positive feelings and nurture the soul, helping it to identify its purpose on earth.

Disclaimer:

This is only for educational purposes and is not meant for diagnosing any medical condition or for substituting any prescription medicines or expert advice of a medical professional. We are not healthcare experts and this article is shared only with the idea of widening the knowledge of Ayurvedic healing, the pioneer of all medical systems.

Juniper leaf essential oil is non-irritant and non-toxic but is still recommended for topical use only. This is because pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause allergic reactions if used directly on the skin. Do not take essential oils internally.

The essential oil of Juniper leaf should not be used by people with chronic kidney disorders, pregnant and nursing women as it has the potent to cause uterine contractions, making it a traditional medicine for inducing labor. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.

Thought for the day:

A weed is a plant whose virtue is not yet known. –By Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Suggested Reading:

  1. Aromatherapy: A Practical Guide (The Healing series) by Marion Wayman
  2. Clinical Botanical Medicine by Eric Yarnell, Kathy Abascal, Carol G. Hooper
  3. Junipers of the World: The genus Juniperus: 3rd Edition by Robert P. Adams
  4. Evidence-based Essential Oil Therapy: The Ultimate Guide to the Therapeutic and Clinical Application of Essential Oils by Dr. Scott A Johnson
  5. Medicinal Plants of North America: A Field Guide (Falcon Guide)
    by Jim Meuninck

Reference Links:

  1. Juniper by Wikipedia
  2. Health benefits of Juniper essential oil by Organic Facts
  3. Deoxypodophyllotoxin isolated from Juniperus communis induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells by Benzina S, Harquail J, Jean S, Beauregard AP, Colquhoun CD, Carroll M, Bos A, Gray CA, Robichaud GA, Universite de Moncton, Canada published in PubMed
  4. Ayurvedic drug plants by Anil Kumar Dhiman
  5. Junipers by Eat the Weeds

Juniper Berry Oil

June and moon pair perfectly to bring in the ideal romance with warm days and clear nights, just like Juniper and its essential oil, known as ‘the mover of fluids’ work wholly to get rid of the toxic remains and excess fluid in your system, so that you fall in love with yourself again and again.

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Boasted as the best diuretics in Western Herbal Medicine and in Traditional Herbalism, Juniper berries and its essential oil are looked upon for treating various fluid retention diseases like congestion, sciatica, rheumatism, edema, swollen joints, urinary tract infections, lumbago, cystitis, obesity and respiratory conditions.

Hapusha is the Ayurvedic name of Juniper and is scientifically known as Juniperus communis. Juniper is held high in Ayurveda as one among the best detoxifying natural agent with its diuretic and diaphoretic properties for eliminating excess water deposits, toxic remains, uric acid, salt and fat deposits by promoting the frequency and quantity of sweating and urination.

Purchase Juniper Berry Essential Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Purchase Juniper Berry Essential Oil – Retail – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and significance of Juniper berry and its essential oil:

Juniper berries are not real berries but are the female seed cones produced by many species of Junipers. It is an evergreen shrub that is found growing in the wild and can grow up to a height of 30 feet. Juniper is a native of the European Province, Asian subcontinent and few North American countries including Oregon and Texas.

Juniper was the notable symbol of Ashera, the Goddess of Fertility of the Canaanites. The mystical fragrance of Juniper was used as incense by the Scottish and Tibetans to keep away from demons and evil spirits. The first historical use of Juniper berries dates back to the Egyptian Papyrus from 1500 B.C.

The berries of the Juniperus communis species are used as a popular spice in the European cuisine for its unique flavor. It has been used in the treatment of leucorrhoea, scrofula and chest conditions in the traditional French medicine.

It was in ancient Greek medicine, Juniper berries were recorded for their medicinal uses before being stated as a culinary item. The aboriginal Americans used these berries for suppressing the appetite when they were hungry. Certain tribal populace used Juniper berries as female contraceptive agents.

Juniper berries were used as a substitute for long pepper and black pepper varieties by the primordial Romans. It was believed that Juniper berries enhanced physical endurance and vigor in athletes, for which it was used during many of the Olympic events by the people of Greece.

For its power to prevent infections and its antiseptic values, Juniper berries were used as a precautionary medicine during the Bubonic plague. These spicy little berries were used as a folklore remedy for treating urinary infection, chest congestion, stomach upset and warts. Juniper berries are also used as a flavoring agent in gin and other traditional food items.

Remedial properties and chemical constituents of Juniper berry oil:

The notable therapeutic properties of Juniper berry oil are diuretic, energizer, disinfectant, antiseptic, analgesic, carminative, diaphoretic, antibacterial, astringent, anti-rheumatic, antispasmodic, depurative, sudorific, vulnerary, tonic, rubefacient, calmative and stimulant.

The chemical components contributing to its varied remedial values are sabinene, a-pinene, b-pinene, camphene, myrcene, a-terpinene, a-phellandrene, y-terpinene, b-phellandrene, 1,4-cineole, p-cymene, bornyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, caryophyllene along with a hint of borneol, limonene, linalool, nerol, linalyl acetate and camphor.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Juniper berry essential oil:

Ayurveda is unquestionably the Master and the Mother of the world of medicine and has given birth to various remedial sciences including Siddha, Unani, The Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Allopathic, Chiropractic, Acupressure and much more.

The secret behind its majestic stand for about 5000 years is its holistic healing approach that aims in tracing and treating the root cause of an illness rather than its occasional symptoms. Ayurveda completely relies on natural remedies and Ayurvedic techniques for the treatment and the prevention of diseases to pave way for longevity.

The Indian mythology records the birth of Ayurveda as gift of Lord Brahma, the God of Creation to Acharya Dhanvantari, the Lord of Ayurvedic medicine and he was also adored as the Physician of Gods. Ayurveda is a prominent part of Atharvaveda, one of the 4 sacred books of the Hindu tradition of India.

Acharya Charaka and Sushruta added glory to Ayurveda with their greatest works namely Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, the renowned Ayurvedic encyclopedias. These noble books cover every medical practice from a C-section delivery to Plastic surgery. Everything aims at attaining holistic health, which is a combination of physical, psychological and spiritual wellness.

Ayurveda recommends a disciplined life for retaining absolute balance with nature. Ayurvedic philosophy states that everything in this universe is made up of five elements of nature viz., earth, water, air, fire and space.

Water represents blood and other fluids in the system, earth denotes bones and the muscular built up, air assists in the breathing mechanism, space is the soul/the spirit that dwells in and fire is in charge for body temperature and all other metabolic functions.

All the individuals on earth are created in a distinctive manner with a unique physical, mental and spiritual setup, determined by the individual constitution known as doshas. These dynamic energies are an array of the five fundamental elements of nature.

Vata dosha (air and space) is responsible for the functions of the nervous system, respiratory system and the circulatory system. Pitta dosha (fire and water) takes care of body temperature and metabolism. Kapha dosha (water and earth) and is in charge of the physique, reproductive health and sustenance.

Every person has a prevalence of any one dosha that determines one’s persona, traits and behavioral patterns. Absolute balance between these doshas as per the Law of nature indicates health and imbalance of doshas leads to sickness.

Ayurveda recommends natural remedies including plant essential oils, herbal medications, yogasanas, meditation, prayers, simple physical exercises, Ayurvedic routine, Pranayama (yogic breathing practice), Panchakarma (five detoxification therapies), and certain other Ayurvedic treatments for nurturing natural balance between doshas.

Juniper berry oil helps in pacifying kapha imbalances like rheumatism, urinary infections, congestion and bronchitis; vata imbalances including stress, dysmennorhea and skin problems and enhances pitta energy and supports in the treatment of flatulence, indigestion, abdominal pain, high blood pressure etc.,

It’s time to take a look at the varied health benefits of Juniper berry oil in terms of physical, emotional and spiritual attributes.

  1. Physical benefits:
  • Juniper berry oil to the skin:
  • Juniper berry oil to the joints and kidneys:
  • Juniper berry oil to the digestive system and liver:
  1. Emotional benefits:
  • Alleviates stress:
  • Relieves tension:
  • Widens your creative power:
  1. Spiritual benefits:
  • Instills deep divinity:
  • Augments the power of concentration and inner consciousness:
  • Helps release negative feelings:
  1. Physical benefits: ‘Face is the index of the mind’ is a popular saying. In a much similar way, the human body showcases the sickness of the mind and the soul. Traditional healthcare experts say that every illness has certain underlying emotional and hereditary (tarpana) reasons behind to deal with. Talking with the patient about everything including their medical history, family, daily routine, lifestyle practices, behavioral patterns and every little thing that has an impact in their daily lives, can help in identifying the root cause of their sickness and in bringing a permanent solution to their health problem.
  • Juniper berry oil to the skin: Human skin is the highly structured security mechanism that guards us from the harmful effects of virus, bacteria, fungi and many other harmful micro-organisms. Treating it with ordinary alkaline soaps might spoil the protective layer of the skin formed by sebum (oily and acidic mantel produced by the sebaceous glands).

Ayurveda prescribes Abhyanga or the art of Ayurvedic massaging with the use of essential oils aiding in toning the muscles, relieving muscular tension, protecting the skin and for creating a natural barrier that can protect the skin from the outside forces.

Juniper berry oil has excellent moisturizing properties that help in treating various skin problems like acne, dermatitis and eczema. Skin problems are often associated with the vitiation of vata dosha. Juniper berry oil has the power to pacify excess of vata dosha and helps in the treatment of dandruff and psoriasis.

Three drops of Juniper berry oil blended with 2 drops of Lavender oil, 2 drops of Grapefruit oil added to your mild skin care creams and lotions can help in controlling the excess secretion of sebum, responsible for pimples, blackheads and redness of the skin cells.

A 2003 study on “Antibacterial and Antifungal activity of Juniper berry oil and its selected components” published in Phytotherapy research concludes that Juniper berry oil possesses antibacterial and antifungal activity.

A 2010 study published in “Pharmacognosy Research” by the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Iran, has confirmed that juniper berries’ essential oil contains excellent antioxidant effects and the capacity to combat destructive free radicals.

Juniper berry oil also has circulatory and tonic properties that nourish the skin cells from within. Massaging the affected parts with 2 drops of Juniper berry oil, 2 drops of Rosemary oil and 2 drops of Geranium oil along with 3 ml of Sweet Almond oil can assist in the treatment of scaly, itchy scalp in dandruff, psoriasis, eczema and inflammatory skin conditions.

You can compliment this massaging with a warm compress for letting the remedial properties of the essential oils to penetrate the skin deeply.

  • Juniper berry oil to the joints, kidneys, digestive system and liver: Stagnation of water deposits, uric acid, salt and toxic remains in the system lead to chronic health conditions like rheumatism, arthritis, edema, swollen joints, dropsy, cystitis, renal calculi or kidney stones and urinary infections.

People with kapha imbalance can benefit highly from Swedhana (Panchakarma treatment for elimination of toxic remains through sweat). Massaging the affected region, especially the knees and joints in case of arthritis and rheumatism with 5 drops of Juniper berry oil, 4 drops of Cinnamon oil, 5 drops of Rose Geranium oil, 5 drops of Eucalyptus oil and 5 drops of Orange oil with 4 ounces of Sesame oil can help in promoting blood circulation in the painful area, reduces pain by causing numbness.

You can reduce inflammation, swelling, redness and soreness of the muscles by using a hot compress. This aids in discarding the toxic remains in the system through sweat and urine by enhancing its quantity and frequency.

Light Miller, in her book “Ayurvedic Remedies: For The Whole Family” has mentioned Juniper berry in numerous healing blends. The most significant among them are listed below for your reference.

  • Obesity or Weight loss blend: Massaging with 10 drops of Juniper berries oil, 10 drops of Grapefruit oil, 10 drops of Orange oil, 5 drops of Birch oil, 5 drops of Black pepper oil, 5 drops of Ginger oil with 4 ounces of Almond oil can assist in treating obesity by eliminating the excess fluids, toxic remains and fat deposits in the system by promoting frequent urination and sweating.
  • Gout: Gently massaging your abdomen with 5 drops of Juniper berry oil, 5 drops of Thyme oil, 5 drops of Cypress oil, 5 drops of Lemon oil, 5 drops of Basil oil, 5 drops of Myrtle oil along with 4 ounces of Coconut oil can help significantly in the treatment of renal calculi, cystitis, and gout.
  • Varicose veins: Varicose vein is a vata disorder caused due to lack of blood circulation, prolonged standing and sedentary lifestyle. Massaging with 5 drops of Juniper berry oil, 5 drops of Cypress oil, 5 drops of Lemon Grass oil and 2 ounce of Olive oil can help in stimulating blood circulation, relaxing the nerves, soothing the tensed muscles and alleviating pain associated with varicose vein condition, lumbago and sciatica.
  • Supports the digestive functions: Juniper berry oil has pitta or digestive fire enhancing attributes with its carminative, stomachic and warming properties. 5 drops of Juniper berry oil along with 2 drops of Ginger oil and 1 drop of Fennel oil to warm bathing water can assist in stimulating the secretion of bile, hydrochloric acid and digestive acids for treating sluggish digestion, relieving intestinal gas and colic pain.
  1. Emotional benefits: Emotions play a vital role in all our lives, without which thoughts are of, nil value. These emotions are often the sound of the soul. The therapeutic and soothing aroma of Ayurvedic essential oils fortifies your energy centers and protects one from being deviated from your life’s purpose.

Juniper berry essential oil has warm, appeasing, woody, earthy, engaging, sweet and energizing fragrance that pacifies the mind and sows the seeds of optimism in the limbic system of the brain. It is the brain’s center of control and is in charge of transmitting commands to the entire body on thoughts, emotions and behavioral patterns.

Juniper berry oil offers various emotional benefits and the most prominent among them are:

  • Alleviates stress:
  • Relieves tension:
  • Widens your creative power:

Mental mayhems are often an output of stressful conditions. Stress can at times work quicker than cyanide in killing the potential of the mind and the brain. It occurs when the mind is occupied or forced with loads of chores than its bearing capacity. As a result, one’s true efficiency and the normal functioning of the brain get disrupted.

Rage, resentment, fear, fatigue, anxiety, tension, lack of concentration and memory loss are few branches of the stress tree.

Inhaling the magical aroma of Juniper berry essential oil by adding 3 drops of Juniper berry oil with 2 drops of Neroli oil to your air freshener or diffuser, especially during the feeling of loneliness or before going to bed or during meditation, can help in bringing back the energy of self-confidence by augmenting your self-esteem.

This blend can also heighten the quality of your thoughts by boosting your creative quotient. 5 drops of Juniper berry oil and 2 drops of Bergamot oil added to your warm bathing water before your bedtime can relax your nervous system, soothe your muscles and induce peaceful sleep at night. Then, what else would stop you from starting a fresh and prolific day?!

  1. Spiritual benefits:
  • Instills the deep divinity:
  • Augments the power of concentration and inner consciousness:
  • Helps release negative feelings:

Juniper berry oil has a pleasant and elevating aroma that instills a feeling of absolute peace and tranquility. Inhaling the sacred aroma of this oil helps in discharging the negative feelings, loneliness, suppressive thoughts and assist in developing intense inner consciousness.

The essential oil of Juniper berry affects the crown chakra, root chakra and the solar plexus chakra. The book “Ayurvedic Remedies: For the Whole Family” by Light Miller quotes “Meditation offers us an opportunity to reach a higher potential by fine tuning our minds. Meditation creates an opening to live a life free of fears, blame, attachments, judgements, stress, negativity and illusions.”

2 drops of Juniper berry oil with 1 drop of Sandalwood oil, 1 drop of Vetiver oil and 1drop of Patchouli oil added to your vaporizer, diffuser, aromatic candles or room freshener during meditation and prayers can be a great soulful remedy.

It can help one to quit addiction, vent out negative feelings, disregard the pain of being abused, alleviate the trepidation of being neglected, deepen your level of thinking, build your bonding with the divine power and augment the connectivity of your soul with the universe.

Disclaimer: This article is meant only for educational purposes and is not recommended to treat or prevent any health condition or to replace any prescription medicines or the medical advice of your healthcare practitioner. We are not healthcare professionals and this information is shared only with the genuine thought of spreading the fragrance of Ayurvedic healing, world’s oldest and the pioneer of all medical sciences on earth.

Use essential oils only for topical application in a diluted form, as organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances and may cause allergic reactions, if used directly on the skin. Never ingest essential oils. Keep out of reach of children.

Juniper berry oil is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it has the potent to induce menstruation. Care should be taken in using this oil under the supervision of a healthcare expert, if you have inflammatory kidney disorders.

Thought for the day:

The trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit. – By Moliere

Suggested Reading:

  1. Vibrational Healing: Revealing the Essence of Nature through Aromatherapy and Essential Oils by Deborah Eidson
  2. Ayurvedic Remedies- For the Whole Family by Light Miller
  3. Essential Oils for Weight Loss: Easy Ways to Supercharge your Weight Loss Success with Essential Oils by Isla Burroughs
  4. Herbs for Detoxification by C.J. Puotinen

Reference Links:

  1. Juniper Berry by Wikipedia
  2. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of juniper berry oil and its selected components by Natalia Filipowicz, Marcin Kamiński, Julianna Kurlenda, Monika Asztemborska and J. Renata Ochocka, published in Phytotherapy research
  3. Health benefits of Juniper essential oil by Organic Facts
  4. Ayurvedic Remedies: For The Whole Family, by Light Miller

 


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Garlic Oil

Garlic-bannerKick cancer out of the world with nature’s best chemotherapy agent, sweetly known as Garlic. It is fêted as an ‘herb of passion’ for its power of influencing fortitude and natural energy levels and is celebrated as the most hopeful natural remedy for preventing cancer.

Besides being called as the stinking rose with its pungent and not so pleasing aroma, Garlic has a long medicinal  history in various traditions across the world and is also known as ‘cure-all’ for its ability to treat illnesses of the nervous system, circulatory system, digestive system, reproductive system and the respiratory system.

Botanically called as Allium sativa, Garlic has its origin in India and its essential oil is extracted from the bulbs through steam distillation method. Known by the name Rasona, Lahsoon and Yavanesta in Sanskrit, Garlic and its essential oil are used in Ayurveda for the treatment of cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, cold, rheumatism, high blood pressure, parasites, impotency, skin disorders, digestive problems, mental disturbances, fluid retention and joint problems.

Purchase Garlic Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Garlic:

Garlic is perceptibly a spectacular herb/vegetable with the human use of more than 7,000 years and is a member of the onion family, Allium. Indigenous to the central parts of Asia, Garlic is by far the most promising herbal remedy with the longest historical use. Its uses have been mentioned in various herbal guides by celebrated herbalists and physicians like Dioscorides, Galen, Hippocrates and Pliny the Elder, especially for treating digestive disorders, respiratory problems, wounds and low immune power.

The ancient Hindu mythology states that Garlic is a sacred herb grown from the drop of nectar (Amirtham – Elixir of life) spilled on earth when Lord Garuda took away the pot of nectar from Lord Indra to save his mother from evil powers. It is still believed that because of the divine qualities of the nectar, Garlic has innumerable healing properties and was named as Rason, meaning King of Rasas (It is also said that Garlic has 5 out of 6 prominent tastes in Ayurveda).

Another interesting historical reference is that Garlic was grown in the hanging gardens of Babylon and it was considered as an herb of empowerment for which it was given to Roman soldiers before the battle. The traditional European fishermen used to wear garlands made with Garlic cloves to guard themselves from sickness and evil spirits.

Garlic was the most primitive herb used as a ‘performance uplifting’ agent and was given to the Olympic athletes in primordial Greece. It is also said that Garlic was used during the construction of the Giza pyramids before 5,800 years. It was also used in Nepal, Middle East and eastern parts of Asia for treating tuberculosis, bronchitis, rheumatism, fever, flatulence, colic, liver problems, intestinal worms, hypertension and digestive problems.

It is a part of most of the delicious cuisines all over the world as a spice, condiment or seasoning for its strong aroma and the flavor it adds to any dish especially the non-vegetarian food varieties. Garlic bread, garlic chicken, crostini, garlic toast and many other Asian and Mediterranean cuisines are crowned with the rich flavor of this wonder herb.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Garlic essential oil:

Garlic oil is known for its carminative, antibacterial, aphrodisiac, antioxidant, immune-booster, anticancer, antibiotic, expectorant, antispasmodic, disinfectant, anti-carcinogenic, antithrombotic, stimulant, anti-arthritic, antiviral, rejuvenative, anti-hyperlipidaemic and alterative properties.

The major chemical components that contribute to the healing values of Garlic oil are selenium, allicin, alliin, phytoncide, S-allylcysteine thiacremonone, ajoene and diallyl polysulphides.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Garlic essential oil:

Disease, aging and death are the three major causes of concern for mankind and have been attracting the attention of medical researchers, philosophers and heath care experts from all over the world since ages.

Ayurveda, the holistic healing methodology aging about 5,000 years aims at attaining longevity through healthy aging and prevention of illnesses. This ancient remedial science strongly states that absolute health is a medley of physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

This Vedic system strongly considers human body as a temple and relates the divine power with the soul that rests within. According to this philosophy all things on earth are a part of nature and are made up of the five vital elements of nature, namely earth, water, air, fire and ether.

Every person is a unique creation with a unique individual constitution that embraces three vital biological energies called as doshas. These energies are just a meaningful representation of the elements of nature.

Kapha dosha symbolizes earth and water and is in charge of the physical structure and sustenance of the body, the imbalance of which leads to obesity and respiratory problems. Vata dosha is a combination of air and ether and is responsible for circulation, movement and respiration and vata vitiation causes neurological disorders, nervous problems, breathing difficulties and menstrual difficulties.

Fire and water combine together and represent Pitta dosha, which is responsible for body temperature, digestion and other metabolic functions. Lack or excess of pitta dosha might end up in fever, indigestion, constipation, heartburn, ulcer and other digestive disorders. Balance between these three doshas contributes to healthiness and imbalance of any one or all the three doshas cause illness.

Ayurvedic remedies aim at treating the doshic imbalances with the help of herbs, plant essential oils, yoga, meditation, Ayurvedic routine, prayers and simple physical exercises. These remedies vary from individual to individual based upon their unique individual constitution and state of health.

Garlic is one among the ancient Ayurvedic remedies for treating various health conditions and have been a vital part of numerous Ayurvedic preparations. The book on ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ by Bryan Miller and Light Miller quotes Garlic as a highly rejuvenative oil, especially for the nerve tissue. Garlic oil is good for increasing pitta dosha and lessening excess of vata and kapha energies.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Garlic oil are:

Garlic-broucher1. Excellent aid to digestive disorders:

From Stone Age to this contemporary era, Garlic is a promising home remedy for assisting problems associated with digestion. 2 to 3 cloves of Garlic boiled in a cup of water can be a sure shot remedy for treating indigestion, sluggishness, diarrhea, nausea and gastric troubles. It is regarded as a great natural medicine for supporting digestion by stimulating the appetite and enhancing the process of metabolism.

Imbalance or vitiation of pitta dosha is the major reason for digestive disorders. Garlic has the ability to increase pitta energy and regularizes Agni or the digestive fire and other metabolic functions.

Adding 1 drop of Garlic oil to your handkerchief or tissue and inhaling this strong aroma or mixing 2 drops of this oil with 1 ml of coconut oil can help in fighting against intestinal parasites, inflammation in the stomach and intestines, treat colitis, infectious diseases, stomach upset, dysentery and food poisoning.

This oil works effectively against food poisoning by combating harmful bacteria like Salmonella enteritidis and E.coli, which are responsible for food poisoning and other stomach infections. It acts by penetrating through the skin cells and entering the blood stream, where it passes on its remedial properties to the system.

2. Fights against cancerous cells:

Garlic oil has anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, antithrombotic and anti-cancer properties, which help in preventing the growth of new cancerous cells in the body and curtailing the growth of existing cancer cells in the body. Numerous researches and studies have proved the potent of Garlic and its extracts in treating various types of cancer ranging from brain cancer to prostate cancer.

Garlic is first on the list of potential cancer-preventative foods by the American National Cancer Institute and the American Journal of Nutrition issued on October 2000 had published numerous epidemiologic studies stating that the people who used Garlic and its extracts regularly had only a lesser amount (1/3rd) of risk of colorectal cancer and not as much of risk of stomach cancer when compared to people who took little or no Garlic or its extracts.

The presence of numerous (30+) powerful anti-cancer and antioxidant compounds in Garlic oil including ajoene, diallyl sulphide, quercetin and alliin have the power to wedge cancer creating agents like aflatoxin and nitrosamine associated with liver, lung and stomach cancer. These components work like a natural chemotherapy agent and have been proved in various studies for impeding the growth of malignant cancer cells.

A 2008 study on the ‘Anticancer effects of diallyl trisulphide derived from Garlic’ suggest “diallyl trisulfide is responsible, at least in part, for the epidemiologically proven anticancer effect for garlic eaters.” It is also said that the diallyl sulphide in Garlic is known to curb the conversion of PhIP, which is a kind heterocyclic amine that has been related with the increased cause of breast cancer in women.

A report on Garlic and Cancer prevention published in the National Cancer Institute website states five strong reasons for using Garlic to prevent cancer. They are “Protective effects from garlic may arise from its antibacterial properties or from its ability to block the formation of cancer-causing substances, halt the activation of cancer-causing substances, enhance DNA repair, reduce cell proliferation, or induce cell death.”

The best ways to use Garlic for cancer prevention is to add 2 to 3 cloves of raw or cooked Garlic in your diet along with a soothing massage with 2 drops of Garlic oil blended with 1 ml of virgin olive oil for promising results.

3. Controls hypertension and protects the heart:

Garlic is a rich source of allicin and it controls the function of angiotensin II, which is a protein that aids the contracting of blood vessels thus increasing the blood pressure gradually. Along with this, the red blood cells in our body convert the polysulphides in Garlic into hydrogen sulphide, which expands the blood vessels and assists in controlling high blood pressure.

Garlic oil acts as a protective shield for the heart by protecting it from hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart attacks and certain other cardiovascular problems. The sulfur-based compounds present in Garlic controls the blood vessels from being blocked and support the functioning of arteries that gradually lose its potent with age. This oil also guards the heart from the harmful damage of free radicals with its antioxidant properties.

By this way, regular use of Garlic oil and Garlic cloves help in slowing down atherosclerosis (thickening of the arteries). This oil reduces platelet aggregation and relaxes the walls of the blood vessels by stimulating the production of nitric oxide.

It is also a potent anti-clotting agent with the presence of ajoene that curbs the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry says, “Garlic oil possesses significant potential for protecting hearts from diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy.

Inhaling the aroma of Garlic oil with 1 drop of this oil added to tissue or massaging your chest with 2 drops of Garlic oil blended with 1 ml of olive oil can assist in treating atherosclerosis, blocks in the blood vessels, heart attacks, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular disorders along with the strengthening of cardiac muscles.

4. Keeps respiratory infections at bay:

Cold, flu, cough and other respiratory infections are mainly due to the excess of kapha dosha. Garlic oil has the natural warmth in its essence and it lessens the excess of kapha energy. This oil also has antibiotic, expectorant, decongestant, antiviral and antibacterial properties that work together to curtail the growth of harmful micro-organisms that worsen respiratory infections.

Add 2 drops of Garlic oil in steam inhalation and inhaling this healing aroma and massaging your chest with 1 drop of Garlic oil mixed with vaporub or ointments can be of great aid in treating and preventing common cold, whooping cough, asthma, chronic bronchitis and breathing difficulties.

5. Reduces cholesterol and checks obesity:

LDL (bad cholesterol) and lower serum triglycerides are the worst enemies of the human body. Garlic oil aids in maintaining HDL or the good healthy cholesterol and decreasing the level of bad cholesterol thus it lessens total cholesterol levels in the body, blood triglycerides and decreases the formation of arterial plaque.

Along with this, Garlic oil also assists in controlling the formation of fat cells and helps in eliminating the excess deposits of water, salts, fat and other toxic substances contributing to obesity. It prevents weight gain with its anti-inflammatory property mainly due to the presence of 1, 2-DT (1, 2-vinyldithiin) in Garlic.

Massaging your body with 5 drops of Garlic oil mixed with 3 ml of sesame oil aids in dissolving fat cells and discharging excess water and toxic deposits from the body by promoting frequent urination and sweating. This massaging can also be useful in reducing inflammation in case of arthritis and rheumatism.

6. Strengthens your immune system:

Garlic oil is an effective immune booster with the presence of various nutrients like vitamin C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B9 along with magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, sodium, protein, potassium and carbohydrates, all of which make Garlic a potent powerhouse. The antioxidant property of this oil fights against aging symptoms and protects the body from the hazardous effects of free radicals.

As a powerful antiviral, antifungal, antibiotic and antibacterial oil, Garlic has a positive effect on the immune system by acting as a police force that fights against destructive microbes and infectious diseases spread by them. Inhaling the spicy aroma of Garlic oil by adding 1 drop of this oil to your diffuser can help in activating the white blood cells and the immune system, through which it increases the body’s resisting capacity against various diseases.

7. Stimulates your system:

Ayurveda classifies food into three major categories namely rajasic (fiery), sattvic (fresh and pure) and tamasic (flawed).  Amadea Morningstar says “Energetically, rajasic foods stimulate more fire, aggression, passion. They are good foods for stirring up trouble or spurring on the dragons within.”

Garlic is a rajasic food that awakens, influences and stimulates the inner power and passion. It is said to bring consciousness and awareness in the body. It is for this property, Garlic and its essential oil is said to treat sexual disorders like impotency and other reproductive problems. Add 1 drop of Garlic oil in vaporizer or aromatic candles and inhale the aroma for enhancing the natural levels of energy in the body and to rekindle your spirit.

Other health benefits:

Garlic oil is also an excellent remedy for treating pimples, blackheads, acne, athlete’s foot and wrinkles. It is also said to prevent scurvy, due to its high content of Vitamin C and beriberi with its power to enhance thiamin absorbing capacity in the body and reduce the level of blood sugar in diabetes mellitus patients.

Disclaimer:

This information is only for the purpose of education and is not intended to diagnose or substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Never take essential oils internally and always remember using essential oils topically in a diluted form only, as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances and may cause harmful effects if used directly on the skin. Seek advice from an Ayurvedic professional before selecting the right essential oil for your state of health and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

Let the gentle bush dig its root deep and spread upward to split the boulder.
-Carl Sandburg

Suggested Reading:

  1. Garlic, Garlic, Garlic: More than 200 Exceptional Recipes for the World’s Most Indispensable Ingredient by Linda Griffith, Fred Griffith
  2. Garlic: Nature’s Original Remedy by Stephen Fulder, John Blackwood
  3. Garlic: The Mighty Bulb by Natasha Edwards
  4. The Complete Book of Garlic: A Guide for Gardeners, Growers, and Serious Cooks by Ted Jordan Meredith
  5. Garlic and Other Alliums: The Lore and The Science by Eric Block

Reference Links:

  1. Garlic by Wikipedia
  2. Garlic and Cancer Prevention by National Cancer Institute
  3. What are the benefits of Garlic? by Medical News Today
  4. All About Garlic by MAS Ayurveda
  5. Anticancer effects of diallyl trisulfide derived from garlic by Seki T, Hosono T, Hosono-Fukao T, Inada K, Tanaka R, Ogihara J, Ariga T, Department of Applied Life Sciences, Nihon University Graduate School of Bioresource Sciences, Fujisawa, Japan published in PubMed