Jasmine Grandiflora Oil

Shil il ham’, I’m just wishing you happiness, delights, hope and good spirits as this Arabic phrase means “smell the scent of Jasmine and forget your troubles”.

jasmine-bannerAdmired for its absolute elegance and transfixing fragrance, Jasmine is always the sweetest and the most valuable flower in the garden of nature. Scientifically known as Jasminum Grandiflorum, this royal Jasmine variety blooms during the day and transforms its fragrant essence throughout the daylight hours.

Jasmine Grandiflora is known as Jati in Sanskrit and is used in Ayurveda for numerous centuries in the treatment of cancer, ulcer, dysmennorhea, labor pain, migraine, wounds, skin infections, odontalgia, paralysis, depression, flatulence, venomous bites, insomnia and reproductive problems.

Jasmine essential oil is extracted by solvent extraction method from the flowers and is also known to the world by other popular names like Royal Jasmine, Spanish Jasmine, Catalonian Jasmine and Pichcha.

Purchase Jasmine Grandiflora Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical importance of Jasmine Grandiflora:

Jasmine symbolizes a variety of exuberant thoughts in various parts of the world. It is a sign of divine hope in India and the sweetness of women in China. Jasmine and its essential oil have been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac all over the world. Since the ancient Arabic and Hindu traditional systems, it is admired as the ‘perfume of pure love’ and thus the expression “no perfume without Jasmine.

In the traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the decoction extracted from the leaves of Jasmine Grandiflora plant is used in treating toothache, poisonous insect stings and venomous snake bites. The cold infusion of the flower buds is used as a natural eye wash for relieving irritation and burning sensation in the eyes. Jasmine has been used in the Traditional Chinese Medicine as an effective aphrodisiac and as a natural aid for treating depression and promoting relaxation.

The flowers, leaves and roots of Jasmine Grandiflora has been used a popular substitute to standard western medicine in the treatment of bone cancer, breast cancer, malignant tumors in the lymph nodes, anxiety, stress and depression. It is also used in treating respiratory problems, skin diseases and as an assistance during child birth and menstrual difficulties.

Fresh Jasmine blossoms are used in making ornamental wreaths for hair, garlands and as religious offerings to God and Goddesses in the Hindu religion. These aromatic flowers are also used in making perfumes, attars and aromatic hair oils to maintain hair health and retain its natural fragrance.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil:

Jasmine essential oil has emmenagogue, diuretic, anticancer, stimulant, vermifuge, astringent, deobstruent, tonic, emollient, aphrodisiac, thermogenic, depurative, anthelmintic, suppurative, anodyne, antidepressant, neurasthenia and dentifrice properties.

It takes about 7.6 million Jasmine flowers to extract 1 kg Jasmine essential oil. The major chemical constituents of Jasmine essential oil are methyl jasmonate, benzyl acetate, jasmone, linalyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, linalool, indol and phenylacetic acid.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil:

Jasmine is held-high as a sattvic flower in Ayurveda as it is trusted to open the heart chakra that is responsible for love for self and for others. This ancient philosophy aims at complete wellness encompassing physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Thus the primordial Ayurvedic encyclopedia, Charaka Samhita states “The three – body, psyche, and soul – act as a tripod. The world stands upon them, and within them, the world abides.”

Ayurveda aims at longevity through healthy aging and prevention of illnesses by living a modest life with disciplined lifestyle by practicing an Ayurvedic routine, yoga, simple physical exercises, meditation, prayers and the use of herbs and essential oils in case of ill health. Ayurveda believes that everything is a part of nature and illnesses occur when human beings are against the rhythm of nature.

Every individual is regarded as a unique part of nature and should be treated in a unique manner even for the same disease according to Ayurveda. Just like our thumb impression, each one of us has a distinct individual constitution that is made up of three biological energies known as doshas. They are vata, pitta and kapha.

Every human being is embraced of these three doshas in different forms with the predominance of any one of these biological energies. Health according to Ayurveda is a perfect balance between these doshas and dosha imbalances cause sickness.

Ayurvedic remedies work in a physical, psychosomatic and spiritual perspective and aim at striking balance between these doshas. Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil is said to treat vitiated vata conditions and pacify pitta and kapha doshas. This oil has bitter, astringent, cool, light and dry properties that act on the reproductive, bone, plasma and nerve tissues through the circulatory, nervous and reproductive channels.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil are:

1. Benefits for the skin:

Jasmine Grandiflora is a skin-friendly essential oil that aids in healing wounds, moistening dry skin, clearing skin impurities, help diminishing scars, reducing acne, treating eczema, dermatitis and encouraging healthy scalp. The antiseptic and moisturizing properties of Jasmine Grandiflora oil assists in killing micro-organisms that cause acne, dermatitis, psoriasis and make the wounds and cuts septic

Gently applying 2 drops of Jasmine oil blended with 1 ml Olive oil helps in balancing the secretion of sebum in the skin, support sensitive skin, and heal inflamed and aggravated skin.

The cicatrisant property of this oil promotes the growth of new cells and shore up cellular regeneration. By this way this aromatic blend helps in diminishing scars, stretch marks, blemishes and marks left by pimples and boils. Adding 1 drop of Jasmine oil to your bathing water is a great idea to nourish and protect your skin health everyday.

A 2010 study on ‘Wound Healing Activity of the Aqueous Alcoholic Extract of Jasminum Grandiflorum Linn Leaves’ by Shanti Bhushan Mishra, Alok Mukerjee, M. Vijayakumar, United Institute of Pharmacy has proved the effectiveness of the extracts of Jasmine leaves in repairing wounds and says “Jasminum grandiflorum leaf extract has a reproducible wound healing potential and thereby justifies its use in folklore medicine in India.”

2. Benefits for the respiratory system:

2 drops of Jasmine Grandiflora oil added to steam inhalation or vaporizer or warm bathing water aids in eliminating excess phlegm and mucus deposits in the lungs, chest and the nasal passages. Being an expectorant, Jasmine essential oil assists in treating cold, cough, sore throat, laryngitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, chest congestion, hoarse throats and nasal congestion.

3. Benefits to feminine problems:

Every woman passes through a number of complex stages in her life cycle and the most important among them are menstrual problems like dysmennorhea, amenorrhea and blocked menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum blues and menopausal syndromes. This is mainly attributed to its affinity to the blood and reproductive tissues that move towards the uterus.

Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil acts as one among the best natural remedies for supporting womanly problems. This oil acts as an effective emmenagogue that helps in relieving dysmennorhea or menstrual pain, promote blocked or delayed menstruation and reduce other discomforts like nausea, fatigue, loss of temper etc, by pacifying the nerves and soothing the system. Blend 2 drops of Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil with 1 ml of sesame oil and massage it on your lower abdomen for immediate relief.

Being a uterine tonic as well as a parturient, Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil augments contractions, promote relaxation and lessen the severity of pain during labor. Massaging the lower abdomen and back with 4 drops of Jasmine oil mixed with 2 ml of Jojoba oil before childbirth can help in passing through a peaceful delivery as well as a painless post-natal recovery.

With its calming, cooling, soothing and anti-depressant properties, Jasmine essential oil can work wonders in treating postpartum depression and marks left behind by pregnancy including stretch marks. You can use it as a massage blend or in your diffuser or bath (2 drops of Jasmine oil) for overcoming post-delivery blues.

4. Benefits to the mind:

Jasmine Grandiflora is marked as an outstanding essential oil for treating depression and other emotional difficulties. With its anti-depressant, tonic, relaxant, sedative and aphrodisiac properties, this essential oil is said to work by generating positive reactions in the human brain through the limbic system, which is in charge for feelings, emotions and behaviors and is known as the control center of the brain.

“The fragrance diminishes fear; it is helpful in enhancing self confidence and defeating pessimism. No other oil is quite as capable of changing our mood so intensely. It offers little choice other than optimism,” says Susanne Fischer-Rizzi about Jasmine essential oil.

3 to 4 drops of Jasmine Grandiflora oil added to warm bath before going to bed can help in alleviating emotional strains, mental depression, fatigue, fear, lack of self confidence and negative feelings. Associated directly to the heart chakra, the caressing aroma of Jasmine oil acts a savior from the defensive feelings of life. It boosts confidence, soothes the nerves, balances feelings, restores positive energy and spreads the magic of selfless love all around.

The soothing and cooling effects of this oil suits enormously well for kapha and pitta based depression. Adding 2 drops of Jasmine oil to burner, diffuser or aromatic candles can help in treating insomnia, dreadful dreams, restlessness and feelings of insecurity.

5. Benefits to the digestive system:

Jasmine Grandiflora essential oil is a tremendous digestive aid that helps in treating flatulence, constipation, stomatitis, ulcers, ulcerative stomatitis and certain other digestive disorders. The ability to treat vitiated pitta helps control the secret of gastric acids and digestive juices in the stomach.

The cooling and wound-healing properties of this oil assist in healing the ulcerous wounds in the lining of the stomach and intestines. Mix 2 drops of Jasmine oil with 1 ml of sesame oil and massage it gently on the stomach and abdomen for stimulating bowel movements and assisting other digestive problems.

A study on the “Evaluation of Anti-Ulcer Potential of Leaves of Jasminum Grandiflorum L by the SGSPS Institute of Pharmacy, India have proved that Jasmine leaves have anti-ulcer effect that helps in treating peptic ulcer, wounds, ulcerative stomatitis, corns, ulcers etc. This study also insists on the use of Jasmine leaves in folk medicine for treating various ulcers and similar stomachic conditions.

A 2007 study on “Antiulcer and in vitro antioxidant activities of Jasminum grandiflorum leaves L.” concluded that the leaves of Jasmine Grandiflora plant possess free-radical scavenging abilities and anti-ulcer activities that make it a promising traditional medicine for treating acute gastric ulcer, ulcerative stomatitis and certain other health conditions.

Other health benefits:

Jasminum Grandiflora essential oil is also used in treating leprosy, corns, ottorrhoea, rectal bleeding, uterine problems, urinary infections, paralysis, mental debility, giddiness, cirrhosis, hepatitis and many other health problems.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of information and is not directed to diagnose or substitute any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Never take essential oils internally and always remember to use them in a diluted form as pure and organic essential oils are concentrated liquids and may cause harm if used directly on skin. Keep out of reach of children and be cautious if you are pregnant as Jasmine essential oil has emmenagogue properties that promote menstruation. Consult your Ayurvedic Practitioner before using the suitable essential oils for your unique individual constitution and state of health.

Thought for the day:

Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul.   -Luther Burbank

Suggested Reading:

  1. Addiction-Free–Naturally: Liberating Yourself from Tobacco, Caffeine, Sugar, Alcohol, Prescription Drugs by Brigitte Mars
  2. The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils In Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health, and Well Being by Julia Lawless
  3. Holistic Pregnancy and Childbirth by James Marti
  4. ON T LIFE HISTORY OF A REMARKABLE UREDINE OF JASMINUM GRANDIFLORUM, L. by A. BARCLAY
  5. Jasmines by Harshita Joshi

Reference Links:

  1. Jasminum Grandiflorum by Wikipedia
  2. Evaluation of Anti-Ulcer Potential of Leaves of Jasminum Grandiflorum by Mahajan Nilesh, Sanghai Dhirendra, Dr. Sakarkar Dinesh International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science
  3. Jasmine: Its Story in Aromatherapy by Tim Noonan Consulting
  4. Wound Healing Activity of the Aqueous Alcoholic Extract of Jasminum Grandiflorum Linn Leaves by Shanti Bhushan Mishra, Alok Mukerjee, M. Vijayakumar, United Institute of Pharmacy published in Pharmacology Online
  5. Antiulcer and in vitro antioxidant activities of Jasminum grandiflorum leaves L by Umamaheswari M, Asokkumar K, Rathidevi R, Sivashanmugam AT, Subhadradevi V, Ravi TK published in PubMed

Kappor Katcheri Oil

Kapoor-katcheri-bannerKnown as Shati in Ayurveda, Kappor Katcheri herb and the essential oil extracted from the rhizomes of this plant through steam distillation process has been in use traditionally for treating respiratory problems (like bronchitis and asthma), wounds, fever, ulcers, cough, indigestion, hiccough, inflammation and certain other eye problems.

Kappor Katcheri is a Hindi name and is scientifically called as Hedychium spicatum. It is a limb of the Ginger family Zingiberaceae. It is a small hardy ginger with bright and large white and orange flowers and is indigenous to the subtropical Himalayan regions in India at an altitude of 1000 to 3000 m.

Purchase Kappor Katcheri Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

Purchase Kappor Katcheri Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses of Kappor Katcheri:

The aromatic and herbaceous rhizomes of Kappor Katcheri herb has been used in various traditions for treating numerous health conditions. The Ayurvedic healing system use this herb for curing respiratory problems, poor blood circulation, indigestion, wounds and inflammation. It was used as a natural remedy for treating diarrhea, vomiting, snake bite, fever and inflammation in the Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Kappor Katcheri was used in the Tibetan medicine for its heating potency and acrid taste and was also used as an effective insect repellant. Known as Sanna in Japan, the rhizomes of this plant are also used in preparing Attar Ekangi in India.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Kappor Katcheri oil:

The major chemical constituents present in Kappor Katcheri essential oil are limonene, cineole, terpinene, linalool, p-cymene, terpeneol and phellandrene. These components contribute to its remedial properties like antioxidant, antifungal, hypoglycemic, in vitro pediculicidal, spasmolytic, cytotoxic, tranquilizer, CNS depressant, febrifuge, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, analgesic, antispasmodic, hypotensive, vasodilator and antimicrobial.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Kappor Katcheri oil:

Ayurveda is the oldest of all healing methodologies on earth dating back to more than 5,000 years. This ancient science aims at educating humanity about the natural remedies in treating illnesses, ways to prevent sickness and pass towards healthy aging.

The Ayurvedic Physicians like Charaka, known as the Father of Medicine and Sushruta called as the Father of Surgery have enlisted almost all the possible natural remedies for a wide range of illnesses in the Ayurvedic encyclopedias well-known as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita respectively.

These ancient treasures talk about all types of healing herbs on earth and their effectiveness in curing various illnesses. According to these books, Kappor Katcheri is an excellent remedy for treating respiratory illnesses like asthma and bronchitis.

Along with herbs, Ayurvedic treatments include the use of essential oils, practicing healthy and balanced diet, Ayurvedic routine, meditation, physical exercises and yoga. Every human being is a unique part of nature according to Ayurveda and it suggests that the treatment should also be unique according to an individual’s constitution even for the same illness.

This constitution is made up of three vital bio-energies known as doshas that is vata, pitta and kapha. Every one of us will have a predominance of any one of these doshas that determines our health, personality and behavioral attributes.

Balance between these doshas indicates good health and imbalance between these doshas symbolize illness. Ayurvedic medications are prescribed in such a way that it treats dosha imbalances. Kappor Katcheri essential oil lessens pitta and kapha dosha and aggravates vata dosha.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Kappor Katcheri oil are:

Kappor-katcheri-broucher1. Excellent support for respiratory problems:

The powdered rhizomes of Hedychium spicatum has been used clinically and in the traditional healing system for treating respiratory problems like respiratory inflammatory conditions including asthma, bronchospasms and bronchitis. It has also been proved effective in treating cough, cold, headache, fever, sinusitis and certain other breathing difficulties.

A 2012 study on ‘Pharmacological evaluation of extracts of Hedychium spicatum (Ham-ex-Smith) rhizome by Shivani Ghildiyal, Manish K. Gautam,Vinod K. Joshi, and Raj K. Goel’ states that the rhizomes of Hedychium spicatum has been reported to contain antiasthmatic, anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, hypotensive, spasmolytic and hypoglycemic properties.

Based upon various animal studies on mouse and Guinea pigs, this study concluded that the rhizomes of H. spicatum has anti-histaminic, bronchodilator, analgesic, anti-inflammatory activities that are essential to soothe pain, inflammation, asthma, bronchoconstriction and other respiratory problems.

Heat 2 drops of Kappor Katcheri oil with 1 ml of coconut oil and apply it on the throat, chest and back or add 2 drops of this oil in steam inhalation for relieving from congestion, bronchial spasms, asthma, cough and breathing difficulties.

The spicy and camphoraceous aroma of this oil along with its chemical constituents like terpinene and cineole have been proved as powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents that assist in treating respiratory problems since the ancient times.

2. Natural antimicrobial aid:

The rhizomes and the essential oil of Kappor Katcheri herb are said to exhibit inhibitory activity against numerous Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus and against few other fungal cultures according to a 2006 study on ‘Antimicrobial activity of Hedychium spicatum.’

Bacteria, fungi and certain other micro organisms are responsible for numerous health problems. These organisms damage the cells and weaken the immune system while making the body susceptible for diseases.

As a natural antimicrobial agent, Kappor Katcheri essential oil comes to your rescue when there’s a need to keep micro organisms at bay. Add 2 drops of this oil in warm bathing water to prevent and protect you from microbes. You can add 1 drop of Kappor Katcheri oil with 10 drops of coconut oil and apply it on wounds, ringworm, acne, cuts, athlete’s foot, nail infections and other skin allergies for visible results.

3. Scavenges free radicals:

Kappor Katcheri oil has antioxidant properties that assist in scavenging free radicals, which are known as reactive molecules engaged in numerous physiological processes and human illnesses like arthritis, cancer, ischemia, alcoholism, ageing, liver injuries and certain other toxin induced reactions.

A 2011 study on the ‘Antioxidant activity of Hedychium spicatum Buch.- Ham. Rhizomes’ by T Sravani and Padmaa M Paarakh, Department of Pharmacognosy, The Oxford College of Pharmacy, India published in the Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources demonstrated that the rhizomes of Hedychium spicatum plant possess strong antioxidant activity.

You can use the essential oil extracted from these rhizomes as bath oil by adding 2 drops of Kappor Katcheri oil to your bath tub or by using it in massage by blending 4 drops of Kappor Katcheri oil with 2 ml of sesame oil for combating the effects of free radicals.

4. Alleviates pain and inflammation:

Kappor Katcheri oil possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic and tranquilizer effects that aid in treating pain, inflammation, arthritis and rheumatic problems. Blend 2 drops of Kappor Katcheri oil with 1 ml of sesame oil and massage on the affected area or add it in hot or cold compress to relieve pain, inflammation, spasms and irritation. When applied to the painful parts this blend will cause numbness and reduce your pain gradually.

5. Guards the entire system:

Apart from these major uses, Kappor Katcheri oil is known for its effectiveness in treating gastric ulcer, fever, intestinal infections, abdominal pain, blood purification, eye diseases and hypertension.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for the purpose of education and is not meant to replace any prescription medicine or professional advice of a medical expert. Do not use essential oils internally. Always use essential oils in a diluted form as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and can cause harm if used directly on skin.

It is advisable to do a patch test on your skin before using essential oils to test its suitability to your skin condition. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner regarding the use of best essential oils for your unique health condition and individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

Every flower is a soul blossoming in nature. -Gerard De Nerval

Suggested Reading:

  1. Identification of Chemical Constituents of Plant Hedychium Spicatum: Methods for Phytochemical analysis and standardization by Alok Pratap Singh
  2. Evaluation of CNS potential of Hedychium spicatum: Rhizome Extract by Versha Parcha, Vichitra Kaushik, Arun Kumar
  3. Hardy Gingers: Including Hedychium, Roscoea, and Zingiber by T. M. E. Branney
  4. Paradise Found: Growing Tropicals in Your Own Backyard by Norman Winter

Reference Links:

  1. Pharmacological evaluation of extracts of Hedychium spicatum (Ham-ex-Smith) rhizome by Shivani Ghildiyal, Manish K. Gautam,Vinod K. Joshi, and Raj K. Goel published in PubMed
  2. Antioxidant activity of Hedychium spicatum Buch.- Ham. Rhizomes by T Sravani and Padmaa M Paarakh, Department of Pharmacognosy, The Oxford College of Pharmacy, India published in the Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources
  3. Hedychium spicatum – Buch.-Ham by Plants for a Future
  4. Antimicrobial activity of Hedychium spicatum by G.S. Bhist, A.K. Awasthi, T.N. Dhole, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India published in ScienceDirect

Avocado Oil

Avocado-bannerHappiness is a fresh, seasonal Avocado’, is the most stirring quote that made me rapt in the recent times. What is all in an Avocado that brings so much joy to humanity?

Avocado is nature’s souvenir that has been trusted and taken for treating cardiovascular problems, psoriasis, periodontal conditions, obesity, diabetes, wrinkles, halitosis, hair loss and numerous other medical conditions.

“Avocado is sweet and warm, excellent for the liver, high in vitamin E, is a skin moisturizer, and is good for weak tissues”, quotes Light Miller and Bryan Miller in their book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy.

Called as Neerabijh (Sanskrit) or Makhanphal (Hindi) in Ayurveda, Avocado is employed in Ayurvedic healing as a skin tonic and for reducing bad cholesterol and chronic constipation; boosting libido, regulating insulin secretion, fighting against free radicals, enhancing ojas (strength, endurance and brilliance); and for treating alopecia, insomnia and joint pain.

Purchase Avocado Oil – Retail – 1 Quart – CLICK HERE

Purchase Avocado Oil – Wholesale – 1 Gallon – CLICK HERE

Remedial properties and chemical constituents of Avocado oil:

Avocado is nature’s source of power with vitamins, including vitamin A, C, E, B-6 and K1 along with riboflavin, folate, niacin, choline, dietary fiber, proteins, pantothenic acid, magnesium, potassium, zeaxanthin/lutein,  PFA (polyunsaturated fatty acid), (fatty acids namely Linoleic, Palmitoleic, Palmitic, Oleic, Stearic acid) MUFA(Monounsaturated fatty acid) and SFA (Saturated fatty acid).

Avocado oil contains remedial phytosterols like campesterol, beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol and bio-active phytochemicals including terpenoids, glutathione, carotenoids, phenols, tannins, lecithin, sterolin, D-mannoheptulose and persenone A and B.

Botanically called as Persea Americana, Avocado oil has anti-carcinogenic, demulcent, laxative, emollient, antiparasitic, carminative, astringent, regenerative, diuretic, cardiovascular, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-aging and anti-arthritic properties.

Historical uses and significance of Avocado oil:

Avocado is said to have been born in Mexico in the state of Puebla, though various substantiations from fossil testing states that it might have originated in California. It is recorded as one of the most primitive fruits consumed by the Mesoamerican populace, including the Maya, Olmec and the Mokaya of the Soconusco.

The ancient proof of Avocado’s presence in Mexico dates back to 10,000 BC. The leading producers of Avocado are Mexico with 500,000 tons per year, followed by California with 200,000 tons and Florida with 35,000 tons.

Avocados have been used by the Maya populace of Guatemala for diagnosing diarrhea, warding off intestinal worms and parasites and for enhancing the growth of healthy hair.

The Mexican iconography portrays Avocado and the Nahuatl term for avocado is ahuacatl, which means testicle in English. In accordance to the Mexican mythology, the fruit of avocado grants enormous energy.

Gutierrez and Villanueva, the popular Chroniclers of Spain denote Avocado as, “a fruit’s form contributes to its properties: the outer form is a result of inner forces. The avocado is shaped like a testicle, and it can therefore transfer that strength to whoever eats it.” Sounds great! Isn’t it???

It’s time to relate the effectiveness of Avocado as an immune stimulant and a sexual booster and one among the best natural alternative for delaying the aging process.

From the prehistoric times till today, Avocado and its cold-pressed magnificent oil is used in the manufacturing of soaps, shampoos, conditioners, serums, moisturizing creams, lotions, massage blends and an extensive array of cosmetic products.

Avocado is a familiar cooking oil with manifold benefits in it. It is a vital part of the popular Mexican dip, Guacamole and in corn tortillas. Salads, soups, desserts, savory dishes, snacks, sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers and a long-drawn-out list has Avocado as a main ingredient for its creamy taste and bulky benefits.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Avocado oil:

Avocado is an excellent remedial bliss in disguise, just like a Jackfruit that is rough on the outside and extremely sweet and smooth in the inside.

Ayurveda states that the fruit of Avocado and the oil extracted from its pulp is extremely beneficial in the treatment of vata dosha vitiations like scaly skin, psoriasis, constipation, rough and aged-skin, muscular stiffness, dry hair, joint pain, insomnia, improper blood circulation and wrinkles.

Avocado is also a promising remedy in the treatment of Pitta imbalances like poor metabolism, ulcer, tension, heartburn and inflammatory conditions.

Avocado is used in massage since the traditional times, especially for its enormous benefits to the skin.

Ayurveda denotes that all things in this universe is made up of five vital elements namely fire, earth, water, air and space and these are together known as Panchamahabhutas or the building blocks of life.

 “Earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind and intellect and also ego-sense; these are the eight-fold division of my nature. This is inferior. Know my mother nature, the higher, Oh Mighty-Armed, the life-element by which the universe is upheld”. (7:4-5)  – Bhagavad Gita

Earth consists of all the natural nutrients like vitamins, minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium) and phytochemicals within it. Every single plant that grows on earth observes these natural nutrients based upon its temperament and the environment in which it grows.

Since human body is also a combination of these 5 vital elements and it also contains such vital nutrients and these are responsible for the well-being of various parts of the body. Deficiency or excess of any of these natural nutrients leads to illness.

Thus treating such insufficiency with natural alternatives aids in diagnosing the illness initially and thus prevent it in the future as well.

For example, deficiency of vitamin A might end up in night blindness and other ocular effects, dry and scaly skin, respiratory infections, follicular thickening of the skin surface, low immunity and growth retardation problems in children.

Intake of natural foods that are rich in Vitamin A like carrots, sweet potato, lettuce, melon, tropical fruits and other green leafy vegetables can assist in treating the symptoms and diagnosing Vitamin A deficiency disorders.

Bright colored vegetables and fruits acquire vitamins from the earth and thus vitamin deficiencies are treated naturally by ingesting such food varieties.

In a much similar way, Avocado is rich in Vitamins C, E, B and K, potassium and monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid. Eating fresh Avocados and using Avocado oil for dermal use might assist in balancing such deficiencies in the system.

The most momentous Ayurvedic benefits of Avocado and its nourishing oil are as follows:

avocado-broucher1. Assists in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism:

The presence of phytochemicals in Avocado is a healthy reason for its effectiveness in the treatment of osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions. It is for this reason, Avocado along with the blend of Soybean oil is recommended by Denmark as a food supplement for treating inflammation and influencing the repair and growth of cartilage.

France has determined this duo oil as prescription medicine. This is further substantiated by various research analyses published in the journal ‘Ugeschrift for laeger’ that have proved the usefulness of this blend in the healing of osteoarthritis in the knee and hip area.

Avocado oil inhibited a pro-inflammatory cytokine molecule” states the research report published in the 2006 Journal Periodontal Disease issue, where human bone cells and periodontal ligaments were studied, thus demonstrating that Avocado oil with its anti-inflammatory values aids in reducing inflammation and preventing certain other symptoms of periodontal disease like erosion of bone.

The anti-inflammatory attribute of Avocado oil is endorsed to its rich presence of phytonutrients like polyphenols and flavonoids.

A 2007 study ‘Metabolic Effects of Avocado/Soy Unsaponifiables on Articular Chondrocytes’ published in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine and PubMed concludes “there is substantial evidence that ASU (Avocado/Soy Unsaponifiables) containing sterols are anti-inflammatory and provide protection against cartilage degeneration.”

It further adds “The major components of ASU by weight are the phytosterols beta-sitosterol, campesterol and stigmasterol. Phytosterols in general, and beta-sitosterol in particular, are now considered potent anti-inflammatory agents with antioxidant and analgesic activity.”

Massaging the painful parts with 2 ounce of Avocado oil blended with 1 ounce of Soybean oil can be of immense help in fighting against free radicals, reducing pain, inflammation, muscular stiffness and cartilage damages and in enhancing blood circulation in the affected area.

Pranayama or conscious breathing assists in the treatment of rheumatism, atherosclerosis, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions that mainly occur due to the stagnation of toxic remains in the system, where ama or toxic substances in the body are flushed out through slow and steady exhalation.

2. Supports healthy heart functions by condensing cholesterol levels:

The presence of beta-sitosterol makes Avocado and its oil as the friendliest oil for supporting the healthy functions of your heart. This is a type of phytosterol, which is structurally alike to body’s cholesterol.

They are often termed as ‘heart healthy nutrients’ because of their efficacy in converting low healthy fats into substances that will be comparatively less detrimental to the cells and are more exploitable.

Avocado with its phytosterol components does enormous goodness to the system as its anti-inflammatory properties due to phytosterol compounds help in reducing the risk of heart diseases mainly due to deposits of plaque or other mass substances.

Avocado and its oil help in trimming down excess inflammation and clog in the arteries and thwart the arterial walls from all kinds of damages and aid in maintaining normal levels of blood pressure.

Research study on the effects of increased ingestion of Avocado has witnessed considerable decrease of cholesterol levels in blood. This analysis sustained for about 7 days with diet rich in Avocados, where patients with slight hypercholesterolemia evidenced a 17 percent drop off in the levels of total serum cholesterols.

It also evidenced about 11 percent increase in HDL (good cholesterol) and 22 percent decrease in the levels of triglyceride and LDL (bad cholesterol), thus Avocados have also been proven to support healthier lipid profiles.

Eating Avocados in salad or as whole is a great way to relay its immense benefits to your system but Avocado oil is of great significance as it exists in a more concentrated form.

Blend 4 ounce of Avocado oil with 5 drops of Ginger oil and 5 drops of Spearmint oil and rejuvenate your system with a warm massage on your weekends. Indeed it is one among the comfy way to get rid of excess cholesterol and toxic remains in your system.

3. ‘Pick-me-up’ oil for most of your skin problems:

Pick up the most capacious oil of Avocado with your eyes closed just for the treatment of most of your skin conditions.

Avocado and its nourishing pulpy oil is known for repairing the damaged skin cells, supporting the growth of new cells, moisturizing the skin, augmenting the production of collagen and for treating wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s foot and certain other symptoms of aging.

The significant factors behind the skin nourishing attribute of Avocado oil is the presence of enormous nutrients including potassium, vitamins A, D and E (act as antioxidants), sterolin, lecithin, proteins and high presence of unsaturated fatty acids including omega-3 fatty acids.

Blend 2 ounce of Avocado oil with 10 drops of Evening Primrose oil and 10 drops of Jojoba oil. Relish your skin and your senses with this rich massage blend for about twice in a week. Leave it to rest for about half an hour. Follow this massage with a cool bath and feel the difference of your skin in less than 2 months.

The presence of sterolin, unsaturated fatty acids, proteins and antioxidant vitamins in Avocado oil assists deeper penetration into the skin surface and the bloodstream.

This in turn softens, moisturizes, repairs, rejuvenates and backs up healthy skin from within. Aging spots, psoriasis, eczema, dry skin, mature skin conditions and sun damage can be treated effectively with this wholesome oil.

A 12 week study listed in the Journal of Dermatology on the effectiveness of Avocado oil and Vitamin B12 on Psoriasis evidenced regular progress in the participants suffering from psoriasis.

4. Enhances digestive power and aids in weight management:

Avocado and its oil are known to increase the efficacy and the normal functioning of the digestive tract.

The oil of Avocado has soothing effects on the intestine, stomach and the digestive system as a whole. Being a mild and gentle oil, Avocado can assist in the treatment of ulcer, heartburn, improper metabolic functions and inflammation in the stomach and intestines.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) like omega-3 fatty acid support in improving your metabolism and boost your appetite, thus granting you a feeling of fullness with its enormous nutrient content.

A balanced and healthy diet with regular exercise, healthy lifestyle practices, proper utilization of your physical and emotional energies, meditation and supporting techniques including massage with Ayurvedic oils like Avocado and detoxification for eliminating the toxic remains in your system, is more than enough to shed your extra pounds and live fit forever.

Massaging your abdomen with 10 drops of Avocado oil mixed with 1 drop of Lemon oil and 1 drop of Peppermint oil, especially before your meals is an excellent way to nurture your appetite and soothe the lining of the stomach and intestines.

A 2014 study on the ‘Effect of Dietary Intake of Avocado Oil and Olive Oil on Biochemical Markers of Liver Function in Sucrose-Fed Rats’ published in the BioMed Research International states that the intake of sucrose affects the total levels of bilirubin and proteins, which affects the function of liver and other metabolic mayhems.

Avocado oil administration revealed the beginning of a regeneration of liver function and Avocado oil exhibits effects similar to those of olive oil,” concludes this study.

5. Fights against cancerous attacks:

Avocado oil is powered with enormous antioxidants including carotenoids, polyphenols, tocopherols and proanthocyanidins. These antioxidants help in fighting against the free radicals responsible for cellular degeneration and the development of tumors in cancerous attacks.

The anti-cancer or anti-carcinogenic properties of Avocado is attributed to the presence of bioactive chemical components like terpenoids, carotenoids, D-mannoheptulose, phenols, persenone A and B, and glutathione, where glutathione is a tripeptide that consists of three amino acids namely glycine, glutamic acid and cysteine.

The National Cancer Institute found that Avocado’s glutathione levels of 8.4 mg per 30 g or 19 mg per one-half fruit is several fold higher than that of other fruits,” quotes the study Dietary glutathione intake and the risk of oral and pharyngeal cancer by the Emory University School of Public Health, GA.

A 2013 study on ‘Dietary avocado oil supplementation attenuates the alterations induced by type I diabetes and oxidative stress in electron transfer at the complex II-complex III segment of the electron transport chain in rat kidney mitochondria’ published in PubMed states “a protective effect of avocado oil against lipid peroxidation was observed consistently only in control mitochondria.”

This study concludes that the defensive outcome of Avocado oil is attributed to the antioxidant effects of carotenoids and glutathione that penetrates through the blood stream and reaches mitochondria (vital part of the cellular structure), where energy production and respiration happens.

Other benefits:

The other popular health benefits of Avocado oil are its effectiveness in the treatment of cracked heels, sunburn, insect stings, dandruff, wounds, loss of libido, blisters, bad breath, rashes, insomnia, periodontal diseases and more.

Disclaimer:

This piece of information is only for educational purposes and is not in any way meant to be used for diagnosis or as a substitute for any prescribed medications or the professional advice of your Doctor. We, at Essential Depot are not healthcare experts and this article is written only with the intention of sharing the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda.

Essential oils are meant for topical use only and not for ingestion, as pure and organic essential oils are the life force of plants and are highly concentrated substances. Seek the advice of your Ayurvedic expert or healthcare professional before choosing the appropriate essential oils for your state of health and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

The Avocado is a food without rival among the fruits, the veritable fruit of paradise.

– David Fairchild

Suggested Reading:

  1. The Avocado: Botany, Production and Uses from Brand: CABI
  2. AVOCADO & HONEY FACIAL MASK – FOR NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL & HEALTHY SKIN (Essential Oil Spa) by KG Stiles
  3. Avocado Oil: The miracle health benefits, fat loss facts & kitchen tips (Avocado recipes, Avocado Oil for weight loss) by Margaret Horton
  4. Avocado 55 Success Secrets – 55 Most Asked Questions On Avocado – What You Need To Know by Teresa Kramer
  5. Absolutely Avocados by Gaby Dalkin

Reference Links:

  1. Avocado by Wikipedia
  2. Hass Avocado Composition and Potential Health Effects by Mark L. Dreher and Adrienne J. Davenport, published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition and PubMed
  3. Domestication and Significance of Persea Americana, the Avocado, in Mesoamerica by Amanda J. Landon published in Digital Commons, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  4. Metabolic Effects of Avocado/Soy Unsaponifiables on Articular Chondrocytes by Louis Lippiello, Joseph V. Nardo, Robert Harlan, and Tiffany Chiou, published in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
  5. Effect of Dietary Intake of Avocado Oil and Olive Oil on Biochemical Markers of Liver Function in Sucrose-Fed Rats’ published in the BioMed Research International