My Work - TurboToby

[Vicky&Beenie]

Saving a thread for my work. I'm working through it now

[Vicky&Beenie]

ASSIGNMENT ONE

1. What is an essential oil? Write a definition in a short sentance.

An essential oil is a liquid that is extracted from many different types of plants. It is considered the 'essence' of the plant. The many types of essential oils are said to have curative effects.

2. Who was Rene Gattefosse and what did he do that is significant in modern Aromatherapy?

Rene Gattefosse was a french cosmetic chemist who discovered the effects of aromatherapy whilst working in the laboratory of his family's cosmetic firm. He accidentally burnt his hand and used the nearest liquid available which was lavender oil. The effect that this had on his hand was subsequently better then expected. From this he decided to look in more detail about the effects of the oils.

3. Write a shor description of one method of extracting the Essential Oils from?

Steam Distillation: The plant material is put into a Still where the steam is forced over the material. This forces the pockets of the plant, in which the liquid is kept, open. This cannot be too hot, making sure not to burn the plant itself. The molecules from the oils then evaporate into the steam, this is then put through a cooling system, which seperates the liquid and water, producing the oil.



4. What factors would you take into consideration when choosing a supplier to buy essential oils from?

The purity of the oil needs to be taken into account. 'Fragrence oil' or 'perfume oil' does not mean you are buying the pure essential oil. Perfume vendors use the fragrance in their products but not the curative effects. It is a cheap way to sell their products as something they are not, to make a profit.

The environment they are made stored in: Pure essential oils may be extracted from poor quality crops, or have been stored away for years, which would inhibit the effects of the oils. Avoid oils that are sold in clear glass bottles as the light can have a negative effect on the oil. Also avoid plastic bottles because the plastic can contaminate the oil (also avoid bottles with a rubber eyedropper bulb for the same reason.) Not forgetting to consider the method of extraction.

There are many varieties of one certain plant so make sure you are choosing the correct variety (indicated by the Latin name which should be given by the vendor).

Companies that test out their products by supplying samples are very good, so you can try before you buy.

[Dragonmaster]

Excellent work toby. I love the diagram of the still you have found. I might steal that one for when I do workshops!

[Vicky&Beenie]

ASSIGNMENT TWO

1. What method(s) of suing oils would you use for ...
a) a cold

I would use inhalation because you can put a few drops of oil in a tissue and inhale whenever to clear the airways. Tea tree would kill the germs about.

b) sore muscles after hard work

I would use absorption, probably in a bath. This is because it is very therapeutic and relaxing for tired muscles. The body absorbs the oil through the skin with can cause a calming effect.
Massage would also be a good way of absorbing it because whilst the oils are working the muscles are being manipulated and relaxed.
You could possible use lavender because it is relaxing, and maybe frankincense.

c) a small cut or burn

I would use absorption once again, but be careful which oil you use. Antiseptic cream would help possibly with lavender.

d) feeling stressed and on the edge

I would use inhalation because the scent can evoke different moods. Because the nose is directly linked to the part of the brain that deals with emotions, so some oils can cause a relaxing effect. You could put a few drops in a handkerchief or use an oil burner.
Both frankincense and lavender have a relaxing effect.

e) back ache

I would use absorption, by massage. You can apply diluted oil to the exact point in which you have back ache and gently massage.
You could use lavender or marjoram is it's the muscles hurting or lavender and ginger/black pepper if you are suffering from stiffness or arthritis.

2. Explain why an aroma has an effect on our emotions.

The nose contains the olfactory organ which is responsible for our ability to smell. This organ is directly linked to two parts in the brain; the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. These two structures are important in controlling emotions and are responsible for the release of hormones in the blood. So therefore an aroma causes an affect.

3. How would you use essential oils to help a baby/young child to get to sleep? What oil(s) would you use?

You can use both inhalation and absorption. Absorption can be applied within a bath before bedtime, lavender and frankincense are good, because they have relaxing properties. Inhalation would be appropriate, perhaps a very small amount in a tissue to calm them down, using the same relaxing oils suggested.