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It is estimated that around 43 percent of the population in the UK are taking some form of prescription drug (1). A study by the Mayo Clinic in the USA estimated 70 percent of Americans are prescribed at least one medication (2). Antibiotics, antidepressants, and opioids for pain relief are the most commonly prescribed medication (2). Similarly, in Asia, the numbers are rising fast as we become more and more dependent on ‘pill popping’ to solve our health issues. These statistics are for the prescriptions medicines which are easily traced; however, the statistics for pharmaceutical drug use are much higher when we take into account the easily available over-the-counter medication for pain relief, coughs and colds and fevers. The occasional Ibuprofen won’t do much harm; however, long-term use of these drugs can cause kidney and liver damage, bleeding in the stomach and bowels, as well as increased risk of heart attack (3).There is no question that pharmaceutical drugs play an important role in addressing issues such as psychosis and diabetes where the absence of drugs would result in death. Medications such as adrenaline for anaphylactic shock and salbutamol inhalers for asthma attacks are considered life-saving drugs. And where would we be without anaesthetic drugs for surgery? But what about addressing everyday issues such as headaches, the common cold, aches and pains and mild depression and anxiety? Can essential oils play a role here?Essential oils have been used for centuries, long before modern medicine existed, to treat and alleviate chronic and acute health conditions with great success. During the Indo-China war, a French army surgical assistant, Dr Jean Valnet. ran out of conventional antiseptic medical supplies, and so he began using essential oils to treat wounds and gangrene. In his book, ThePractice of Aromatherapy, published in 1980 as a culmination of his research and clinical observations, he wrote, “Normal preventive medicine, which consists in giving healthy people drugs and injections of products whose future effects are unpredictable, is an aberration.  Bringing about change by non-toxic means is the only efficacious course, among which aromatic plants and their essences have been, are, and will remain in the front rank.”  Dr. Valnet was the first to record the specific properties, indications, and dosages of essential oils useful in medical practice.  Natural alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs do exist and when used correctly work as effectively with potentially fewer side effects. One of the most effective essential oils for pain relief is Copaiba oil. Copaiba essential oil is derived from the resin or sap of the tree genus called Copaifera officinalis. This powerful oil from South America has been used for hundreds of years to treat many serious health conditions and is one of the most potent anti-inflammatory essential oils in the world. So, the next time you pull a muscle or encounter any aches or pains, try rubbing on some copaiba oil.Apart from pain relief, another common reason for pill-popping is to alleviate the symptoms of the common cough and cold. Though it is all too tempting to reach for the cough suppressants such as Triaminic or an antihistamine to dry up a runny nose, it is important to remember that these drugs do not treat the cough or cold, they simply alleviate the symptoms and can actually prolong the illness. For example, coughing and mucus-production are the body’s way of getting rid of unwanted microbes and bugs. By suppressing this natural healing action, the virus or bacteria will linger in the body, prolonging the illness. Eucalyptus essential oil is very well known for its ability to unblock the nasal passageway and clear the sinuses. Put a drop or two of eucalyptus in a steaming bowl of water and drape a towel over your head. Essential oils such as tea tree oil and thyme essential oil are potent antibacterials and have been found to be as effective as antibiotics. An Italian study found that a combination of thyme and clove essential oils was just as effective in treating bacterial vaginosis as the usual antibiotic treatment (4). Dr. Jean Valent coined the term “aromatogramme” to describe a method using essential oils to test antimicrobial susceptibility.  Valnet foresaw the dangers of overusing antibiotics which we are now experiencing. Antibiotic resistant bacteria such as MRSA are just the tip of the iceberg.Dr. Nicole M. Parrish, associate professor of pathology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and associate director of medical mycobacteriology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, says the situation is urgent: When she and her colleagues perform testing to determine the appropriate medication for a patient, they often find that there are no longer any effective antibiotics in existence to treat the bacteria in question. She says that essential oils contain some of the most potent antimicrobial compounds available, and that furthering our understanding of them may lead to the development of entirely new classes of drugs (5). She has co-authored a recent review (6) on the potential use of essential oils as alternatives or supplements to antibiotics.The use of essential oils to complement and in some cases replace pharmaceutical drugs should not be any stretch of the imagination. Many drugs have been formulated using an active ingredient originating from plants. For example, aspirin is derived from willow bark, quinine, which is used to treat malaria, is from the fever-tree bark (Cinchona officianalis), and morphine is derived from the poppy plant. So, the next time you think of reaching for a pill, try looking for a more natural alternative in the form of an essential oil or even the herb itself. Effective, natural and pure, these gifts of nature should not be overlooked in favour of synthetically-produced chemicals with oftentimes dire side effects. Ref 1. https://digital.nhs.uk/catalogue/PUB16076/HSE2013-Ch5-pres-meds.pdf2. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196%2813%2900357-1/abstract#secd9431247e26373. Upfal J. (2006) The Australian drug guide (7th Ed.) Melbourne: Black Inc.4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21428248/5. https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/01/the-new-antibiotics-might-be-essential-oils/384247/6. https://www.longdom.org/open-access/essential-oils-and-future-antibiotics-new-weapons-against-emerging-superbugs-2329-8731.1000105.pdf 

Essential oils aren’t just for women, and masculinity shouldn’t be challenged by bubble baths, skincare or even essential oils. The latter is a particularly easy self-care practice to pick up that promises worthwhile benefits like waking you up without a countless cups of espresso, easing stress, and aiding digestion. There is such an aversion to the use of oils, by men, that the majority of them tend to dismiss essential oils as a possible health and wellness alternative. Getting a man to try an essential oil can be a downright Herculean task. This myth about oils being for women is just not true. The history has a little something to say about men using essential oils.  Essential oils were used by the officers of the Roman army. On the eve of a battle, the officers were massaged with a special blend of essential oils that included Black Spruce, Blue Tansy, Rosewood, and Frankincense.  The aroma of the oils would calm their nerves and help them to focus their thoughts as they prepared for their military campaigns.  You can’t get much manlier than that! Essential Oils are wonderful ways for men to boost confidence, support their body after a rough workout, relax their senses and even help to support their immune, respiratory, digestive and circulatory systems. Essential oils help to promote a level of well being – which has been long lost in our society today. Most people are after a cheap fix – whether that be food, body care or their own health.  While some may dismiss essential oils as hippie oils, or snake oils, those of us who know and use them regularly can tell you that they DO work wonderfully to help keep our bodies above the wellness line. Let’s take a look at a few essential oils that can benefit men and highlight their health benefits. You might be surprised to find these powerful plant extractions can be essential for men’s health.   Essential Oils for Stress Men often struggle with their mental health. Anxiety and depression are quite common in men, and adult men are far less likely to seek advice or help for their symptoms than women are. Essential oils are not a substitute for professional advice when it comes to anxiety and depression, but they can be helpful in a lot of ways. Using essential oils can help you relax and unwind and can also help to balance emotions and reduce feelings of low-grade stress. Prolonged stress can actually produce physical changes, which can result in anxiety disorders and other issues. Because of this, finding ways to cope with stress productively can be invaluable. Two of the top essential oils for reducing stress include Lavender and Bergamot. Lavender Essential Oil Clinical trials into aromatherapy with lavender have found that it can help to reduce stress and anxiety in certain circumstances, according to a study looking at individuals undergoing MRI procedures. Studies also show that aromatherapy with oils such as lavender can help regulate moods and behavior. Bergamot Essential Oil This is another great essential oil that can help with low moods and boost feelings of well-being. One recent study worked with a group of hospice patients and found that treatment with a blend of lavender, bergamot, and frankincense helped to improve well-being and improve mood. Essential Oils for Skin & Hair Men are quite lucky in that shaving the face can be good for the skin. Shaving helps slough off dead skin, being a simple and effective form of exfoliation. However, in some cases, it can irritate the skin and leave you with a feeling of dryness and itchiness. Using essential oils on the skin can help reduce that feeling, and the oils can also serve as a natural antibacterial agent. Melaleuca (also known as tea tree oil) is an antimicrobial and antibacterial agent that many men will already be familiar with because it is popular among wrestlers and other athletes. Tea tree oil is frequently recommended by high school coaches as a way to ward off ringworm and other infections and with good reason. Studies show that the terpenes in tea tree oil are effective at fighting many kinds of bacteria, including various forms of streptococcus, as well as lactobacillus and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, men who struggle with male pattern baldness sometimes turn to essential oils to help them. Unfortunately, not all forms of baldness can be remedied, and even ones that can be treated require different treatments because there are many things that can interfere with hair growth. If you are suffering from a form of baldness that is caused by scalp irritation, then it could be that using mild essential oil solutions topically could help you. Note that essential oils must be mixed into a carrier oil before being applied directly to the skin to ensure that they do not cause irritation. Cedarwood, Lavender, and Rosemary are all oils which can soothe irritated skin. Essential Oils for The Mind Many modern jobs require a lot of concentration, focus, and motivation. The jobs that people do today are rather different than the jobs from a few decades ago. People spend more time sitting in front of a computer or hunched over a desk and far less time walking, running, or enjoying nature. It is all too easy to turn to pre-workouts, stimulants, and junk food to stay focused, alleviate boredom, and keep the minds sharp. If you’re stuck in an office all day, then diffusing essential oils into your workspace could be the answer to your mind-fog problems. It’s no substitute for getting out there and going for a walk in a real forest, but it can help to take away some of the fatigue. Useful essential oils for improving your concentration include rosemary and peppermint. Rosemary Essential Oil Studies show that rosemary essential oil can help boost memory, recall, and concentration in children.7 Researchers at Northumbria University in Newcastle, England found that adults can enjoy similar benefits from breathing the essential oil.8 The idea of using rosemary to improve memory is nothing new. In fact, ancient Greek students would wear garlands of rosemary when taking examinations, and in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the character Ophelia comments that rosemary is used for remembrance. Our forefathers may not have known exactly how the herb worked, but they did have an understanding that it had beneficial effects. Peppermint Essential Oil  Another essential oil which has been found to improve memory and cognition is peppermint. Studies show that it can help enhance memory and improve calmness, as well as combat cravings as well, which may be useful if you are struggling with a desire to snack while at work. Essential Oils for Sleep Many men do not get enough sleep or get very poor quality of sleep. Sleep disturbances can be a serious threat to physical, emotional and mental health and our overall well-being. A lot of men simply do not realize that they are not getting enough sleep. When you are sleep deprived for a long time, the chronic tiredness that you feel can become your new normal. Common symptoms of sleep deprivation include: • Feeling tired and lacking energy during day-to-day activities • Having your mind wander during meetings • Struggling to get motivated at work or in leisure activities • Needing to use an alarm clock to wake up each day • Feeling irritable and grouchy • Struggling to stay awake when driving Most people have to stick to a timetable set by college or a workplace, which means getting up at a certain time, staying awake during the day, and then going to bed suitably early. Many people find that because they loaded up on stimulants during the day, they are unable to fall asleep at night. This leaves them tired and irritable the following day, so they must fall back on stimulants again to get through that day, creating a destructive cycle. Essential oils can help with sleep issues. Lavender has been found to be particularly effective in improving the quality and duration of both light sleep and REM sleep in men and women. It is a simple, non-invasive option that is generally well-tolerated and that could help those who are struggling with sleep quality to enjoy more refreshing rest. Check out the specially formulated essential oil blends for sleep: Silent Night Essential Oils for Hormones Balancing Just as men and women have vastly different hormonal needs, they require a very different set of Essential Oils to address them. When it comes to hormonal imbalances in men, most often they wish to boost their testosterone. While both men and women can use these essential oils, they provide different effects and benefits dependent upon their sex. Cypress and Sandalwood These Essential Oils are both excellent examples of testosterone boosters. Sandalwood in particular can help balance the thyroid and endocrine system when mixed with Frankincense. Cypress can also help boost fertility. While cypress is meant more to balance low levels of testosterone, sandalwood is geared more toward erectile dysfunction. Other than these single notes, there are also specially formulated essential oil blends to enhance male hormones: Tru-Breed A powerful blend of essential oils that enhances male hormones and stimulates neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, effectively reducing stress and anxiety. Turn setbacks into gains and fuel your confidence with the constant support of Tru-Breed. Tru-Grit Stimulates hormones such as dopamine and serotonin which increase confidence and courage therefore making every day an epic day. Spray around the room for positive emotions. Use a cologne with carrier oil and apply it on pulse points and around your neck to promote optimism and self-assurance. Having a proper balance of estrogen and testosterone is necessary for good health in women and men respectively. Thankfully, Essential Oils can help everyone achieve this equilibrium in a natural way. Sources: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/men-and-depression/index.shtml  https://www.jscimedcentral.com/Psychiatry/psychiatry-5-1091.pdf https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01809067 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19125379?dopt=Abstract https://info.achs.edu/blog/depression-and-anxiety-can-essential-oils-help https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1360273/ https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00207450601042094 https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sleep-and-tiredness/why-lack-of-sleep-is-bad-for-your-health/ https://www.uclahealth.org/sleepcenter/sleep-and-men https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16298774

Sometimes, all we need to combat life’s biggest challenges are the right tools. And when it comes to stress and anxiety, our toolkit is filled to the brim with essential oils.   Cultures around the world have used essential oils for generations. And now, modern research continues to reinforce the fact that these age-old tools can help elevate mood and manage the symptoms of stress.   Aromatherapy is a valuable resource for calming or reducing stress and anxiety. Cultures around the world have used essential oils for generations. And now, modern research continues to reinforce that these age-old tools can help elevate mood and manage our mental, emotional and physical well-being.   We have gathered a list of some of our favorite essential oils for calming, stress or anxiety, and formulated soothing blends that can help you find your balance.   Diffusing and inhaling essential oils can help you find relief from a racing mind and a flurry of negative thoughts. Below is a compiled list of essential oils and formulated soothing blends that can help you find your balance. Essential Oils for Calming & Reducing Stress Citrus – Bergamot,Grapefruit,Orange   Floral – ChamomileRoman, ClarySage, Geranium,Lavender,Rose,YlangYlang, Calm TheStorm, Ease TheStorm.   Leafy – Marjoram,Peppermint   Earthy – Frankincense,Patchouli,Rosewood,Sandalwood,Vetiver How can these essential oils help relieve stress? It all comes down to our olfactorysystem—our primordial sense of smell—which, in part, indicates whether ourenvironment is safe or not. Certain essential oils contain chemicalconstituents that elicit relaxation, particularly the ester groups (lavender, bergamot,clary sage, etc). When we breathe in the chemical constituents, they gostraight to the limbic system, signalling cellular mechanisms inside theamygdala and hippocampus which activate the parasympathetic nervous system.   Essential oils can be used forin-the-moment stress relief when you feel yourself getting worked up, or youcan use them more preventatively to stay calm and collected throughout the day.Here are a few tips for working them into your routine. 1. Diffuse in anultrasonic diffuser. 2. Apply pre-dilutedroll on to pulse points during tense times. 3. Take a whiff fromthe bottle before meditation. 4. Drop a few dropsinto Epsom salt for a relaxing bath.     Related products

Whether you suffer from acute pain or chronic pain, joint pain, sore muscles, sprains, back pain, chronic inflammation, or rheumatoid arthritis essential oils might be the next thing you want to add to your pain management arsenal. Essential oils (EOs) are highly concentrated plant extracts that come from tree bark or resin, roots, stems, leaves, flowers, nuts, seeds, and fruit. The therapeutic application of EOs is referred to as aromatherapy. The active compounds in EOs are known to have many powerful medicinal properties and have been shown to help: • Reduce pain • Lower inflammation • Boost immunity • Soothe the nervous system • Reduce anxiety • Improve emotional well-being • Improve sleep • Alleviate headaches • Treat allergy symptoms When used as part of a holistic and natural pain management regimen EOs may offer relief from muscle aches and soreness without the harmful side effects often associated with over the counter pain medications.     How EOs Work To Relieve Pain   Essential oils contain hundreds of active compounds many of which are known for their medicinal and therapeutic properties. These compounds interact with the various systems of the body in many ways. Here are four things you want in an EO for pain relief:  • Analgesic properties – to provide pain relief • Anti-inflammatory effects – to reduce inflammation, which often causes pain • Antispasmodic properties – to prevent painful muscle spasms • Anesthetic capacity – many EOs act like local anesthetics These are the ten best essential oils for pain and discomfort: • Peppermint • Eucalyptus • Rosemary • Chamomile Roman • Ginger • Lavender • Frankincense • Clary sage • Clove Bud • Lemongrass 1. Peppermint  • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic • Anesthetic Menthol, an active compound in peppermint essential oil, is a well-known pain reliever and anesthetic agent. Peppermint essential oil is used to treat headaches, menstrual cramps, and even digestive pain and discomfort. Contraindications: children under 6 years old, high blood pressure, pregnant and breast-feeding women 2. Eucalyptus • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic Eucalyptus essential oil is rich in 1.8 cineole, an active compound known to help relieve pain and fight joint inflammation. (1) A 2013 randomized clinical trial on knee replacement surgery patients described that inhaling eucalyptus every 30 minutes resulted in a resulted in perceived pain reduction and decreased blood pressure markers. (2) Contraindications: Those with high blood pressure, epilepsy, pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 6 years old 3. Rosemary • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic A 2015 study found that rosemary essential oil may be a good adjunct to other analgesic drugs. (3) A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of the American Society of Pain Management Nurses found that 30 minutes of aromatherapy massage using an EO blend containing rosemary led to RA (rheumatoid arthritis) patients reporting less pain after 2 weeks. (4) Contraindications: Pregnant women, epilepsy, high blood pressure, can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. 4. Chamomile Roman • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic Chamomile essential oil can relieve pain from menstrual cramps and it fights inflammation. A review published on Molecular Medicine Reports found chamomile to be a medicinal herb capable of treating rheumatic pain, ulcers, inflammatory pain, and burns. (5) It also helps increase inner calm and promotes restful sleep, which can sometimes be difficult if you’re experiencing pain. Contraindications: None known 5. Ginger • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic Ginger oil is well-known for fighting inflammation-induced pain. A 2016 animal study found lowered rheumatoid arthritis-related inflammation rates in female rats after exposure to ginger essential oil. (6) Another study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that when used in aromatherapy massage ginger oil significantly reduced pain intensity in chronic low back pain patients. (7) Contraindications: Might cause skin irritation if directly applied to the skin, use a carrier oil, and perform a patch test. 6. Lavender • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic This well-known oil offers several healing benefits and according to a 2015 review article, it’s particularly effective for muscle pain and headaches. (8) A placebo-controlled clinical trial found that inhalation of lavender essential oil resulted in a significant reduction in headache symptoms. The study concluded that lavender may be an effective and safe treatment for migraine headaches. (9) Contraindications: Spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia) should be avoided during pregnancy 7. Frankincense • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic Thanks to Frankincense’s potent anti-inflammatory properties, the Arthritis Foundation suggests supplementing with Frankincense (Boswellia) to treat inflammation pain symptoms. (10) Contraindications: none are known 8. Clary Sage • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic Clary sage is rich in linalool and linalyl acetate which are well-known analgesics. Clary sage may be helpful with menstrual cramp pain and uterus issues. (11) A 2012 randomized, double-blind clinical trial found that an EO blend containing clary sage, lavender, and marjoram helped to reduce intensity and continuation of period pain and cramping following a daily massage with topical application of the oils to the lower abdomen. (12) Contraindications: Don’t use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Don’t use it while consuming alcohol. 9. Clove Bud • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic • Anesthetic Clove bud is known for its strong pain-relieving effects and when applied topically it can also serve as a local anesthetic. (13) (14) This is really useful if you’re experiencing a particularly painful sore, rash, cut, or scrape. Contraindications: Not intended for long-term use. Don’t use it directly on the skin without a carrier oil. Avoid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have sensitive skin perform a patch test before using. 10. Lemongrass • Analgesic • Anti-inflammatory • Antispasmodic Lemongrass is considered both a potent anti-inflammatory and an anti-fungal. (15) Contraindications: Don’t use if pregnant. May cause skin irritation when applied topically. Other oils that are known to be analgesics and/or anesthetics: • Fir Balsam • Birch • Helichrysum • Bergamot • Coriander The Pros And Cons Of EOs For Pain   The Pros: • EOs are potent – a little goes a long way. Just a few drops can offer multiple active compounds that can help manage pain, inflammation, and other discomforts. • High-quality EOs should be 100% natural, undiluted, and certified organic. This is their most potent and effective form. • If used with care and mindfulness EOs are relatively low-risk and offer little to no side-effects when compared to most conventional prescription or over-the-counter medication. You can mix and blend various EOs to enhance and amplify their pain-relieving effects. The Cons: • EOs are potent – unnecessarily high concentrations or misuse cause irritation and adverse reactions. • Unfortunately, there are many impure EO products out in the market that feature misleading claims and labels. It’s estimated that more than 75% of all EOs on the market are either diluted or contaminated with synthetic material. (16) • EOs aren’t cure-alls, especially if you’re experiencing severe pain. (If you’re dealing with a persistent or unusually painful condition or outbreak please consult with your physician or medical provider prior to using them.) How To Use Essential Oils For Pain Management  • Always, always dilute EOs with a carrier oil when applying topically as the oils are highly concentrated and potent and may cause skin irritation if applied neatly to the skin. • Common carrier oil options are MCT, Jojoba, Grapeseed, Moringa, Tamanu, etc. Ready-made blends for Pain Relief Find out more about Super Pan Reliv Blend

While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil. Alternative medicine has become a popular option in today’s healthcare world, and with it comes the use of essential oils. These oils can be used for a variety of reasons, from aromatherapy to prevention of illness. If you don’t use a lot of an oil, you may wonder if they expire. The answer is yes, they do! We’ll take a look at why essential oils expire, and we’ll review the average shelf life of specific essential oils, as some last longer than others. Read on. Why do essential oils expire? As soon as you open a new bottle or container of essential oils and it comes into contact with oxygen, a process called oxidation begins. The oxidation process involves the changes of oxygen bonds between cells into carbon bonds. Does this mean that essential oils spoil or “go bad?” Dssential oils don’t spoil like food does, but they do change over time. Because it’s hard to determine what the oils have changed into, it’s also hard to determine whether or not they’re safe to use. The bottom line is, don’t inhale expired essential oils or use them on your skin after they have expired. What's the approximate shelf life of essential oils? Most essential oils have a shelf life, but this shelf life can vary according to the type of oil. These tables show the average shelf life of specific oils. Citrus family: max 3 years Floral family: 3-5 years Leafy family: 3-5 years Rooty family: 3-5 years - Among many, essential oils that can be kept 5 years or more are: a) Black Pepper b) Cedarwood c) Clove Bud d) Copaiba e) Frankincense f) Ginger g) Patchouli h) Rosewood i) Turmeric j) Rose k) Sandalwood l) Vetiver Can you extend the shelf life of essential oils?  Here are some tips for how to extend the shelf life of your essential oils. Reduce exposure to oxygen To prevent your essential oils from expiring early and to ensure they stay potent, minimize the amount of time the cap is off the bottle. The longer the bottle is uncapped, the more the oil is exposed to the oxygen in the air. Also, be sure to place the cap back tightly on the bottle. If it’s not screwed on tightly, oxygen may still get into the bottle and begin the oxidation process. Keep away from light and heat The best place to store your essential oils is in a cool, dry place like a kitchen cabinet or your bathroom medicine cabinet. Keep your oils away from direct sunlight or any other direct heat and light sources. It’s also best to buy or use dark-colored glass containers for your oils. The more opaque the glass, the more protection it offers against oxidation. Use smaller containers to store your oils Smaller containers will prevent oxygen from being trapped in the bottle when it’s opened. This will prevent oxidation from happening earlier than it should and will extend the life of your oils. How to tell if your essential oil is expired? Once you’ve opened a bottle of an oil, you should keep track of how long you’ve had it. A handy way to do this is to take a marker and write the date that you opened it on the label. Use the charts above for a quick reference for shelf life, and throw out the oil once it hits its expiration date. If your oil isn’t dated, here are some other indications that it might be time to toss it: • the smell of the oil has changed since you first opened the bottle • the color has changed, or it has become cloudy • the consistency is thicker or thinner than it was when you opened it What’s the Risk of Using Expired Essential Oils? Even if you think your essential oil has gone bad, you may be wondering whether there’s any actual risk in using it. When the chemical composition of essential oils are oxidized, it’s not just the aroma that changes. In certain cases, spoiled essential oils can cause skin irritation, rashes, burns and other adverse effects. Tea tree oil and lavender oil, for instance, are known to cause irritation once they undergo oxidation.  So how long do essential oils last? The answer is different for different oils, because they all have different chemical compositions. Most will last at least two years before starting to degrade, unless they contain one of the unstable carrier oils mentioned earlier. And some can last for as long as 15 years without losing their effectiveness. Many experts advise replacing essential oils every three years to be safe. The exceptions are patchouli, ylang ylang, vetiver and sandalwood because they actually improve as they age. But three years is on the short end of the lifespan scale for some other essentials. Here’s a categorized list of the essential oil shelf life you can expect, as long as they’re treated and stored properly. Resource: Healthline

You’ve perhaps heard by now that essential oils are unsafe to topically apply to the skin by themselves, and that they first need to be diluted in a carrier oil. But what exactly is a carrier oil, and how is it different from an essential oil? CARRIER OILS & THEIR ORIGINS Unlike essential oils, which are the pure essence of a plant, carrier oils do not contain therapeutic properties. However, their value to aromatherapy cannot be understated. If you use essential oils, it is absolutely vital that you keep a few different carrier oils in your arsenal. Carrier oils can be thought of as neutral oils; they have no smell or a neutral smell, and thus do not provide aromatherapy benefits by themselves. They are generally made from vegetarian sources, and unlike essential oils, they are not volatile. This means they are ideal to use as a vehicle for diluting essential oils in order to apply essential oils to the skin. HOW TO USE CARRIER OILS CORRECTLY Because of the purity and high level of concentration of essential oils, they carry the natural smell of whichever plant they are made from and are volatile, evaporating rapidly when exposed to air. They are too strong to be applied topically by themselves. Since carrier oils are not volatile and have neutral, mild smells, they are great for diluting most essential oils. Carrier oils help reduce the concentration of an essential oil without removing the oil’s therapeutic properties – the entire reason you’d be using an essential oil in the first place! You also have control over how much carrier oil you can use, meaning you can dilute an essential oil to your preference. Do note that not all fatty kitchen ingredients should be used to dilute essential oils. While some carrier oils can be found in your pantry, like olive oil, other fats like margarine, butter, or even vegetable shortening should not be applied to your skin. Petroleum jelly and other mineral oils should also not be used as carrier oils. LIFESPAN OF CARRIER OILS Carrier oils are organic materials that are high in fat, so they will not last forever sitting on the shelf. Make sure your carrier oils have not gone bad before you use them. Some go bad within six months, while others can last for up to a year. Make sure to label your oils with the dates you procured them, and store them correctly: in a dark, cool place, sealed in their original, air-tight containers. Essential oils should be stored in a dark, cool place, as well. If you want to combine properties of different carrier oils, feel free to mix and match them – it won’t disrupt the essential oil properties you’re looking for! BEST CARRIER OILS FOR AROMATHERAPY Here are some of the carrier oils to use with your favorite essential oils: MCT (Medium Chain Triglycerides): MCT oils are derived from coconut oil which is light, clear and scent-free.It has antimicrobial properties, which makes it a great carrier oil in fighting off bacteria. Rich in Vitamins K and E, MCT is easily absorbed intothe skin, leaving skin feeling smooth and silky. MCT Oil is produced via a heating process which allows the oil to retain the same moisturising effect as coconut oil. Grapeseed: Grapeseed oil is a silky oil that is high in essential fatty acids and Vitamin E. It is naturally gentle on the skin and is a common ingredientin premium skincare products. Grapeseed Oil isalso non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. In fact, its astringent qualities make it an amazing carrier oil foracne prone and oily skin. Jojoba: Jojoba oil is suitable for all skin types. With its highly-penetrative liquid wax, it closely resembles our skin sebum and absorbs quickly into the skin leaving a satiny smooth finish without any oily residue. Due to its high Vitamin E content, Jojoba Carrier Oil is popular for its ability to moisturise skin and hair. Jojoba carrier oil is cold-pressed from the beans of the Jojoba plant to produce a 100% pure natural oil with no additives. Jojoba Carrier Oil is also an antioxidant and can extend the life of other essential oils.  Moringa: Moringa Oil is deeply nourishing for our skin and hair. It contains oleic acid and fatty acids, which assists our skin’s ability in retaining moisture, and penetrates deeply into our skin cells. Moringa Oil is also rich in antioxidants and plant hormones called cytokinins, which encourage cell growth and boosts collagen for youthful-looking skin. Moringa Oil is derived from its seeds which is known for its nutrient-dense medicinal qualities. It has a thin consistency, so it absorbs into our skin very quickly. Tamanu: Tamanu oil is a must-have carrier oil for skin issues. This glistening greenish-brown oil is rich and thick and absorbs into our skin slowly leaving a luxurious sheen. Tamanu Oil is gentle and promotes restoration of healthy skin, leaving skin soft and rejuvenated. It also helps to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks caused by weight-gain or pregnancy. Tamanu has UV protectant properties, making it an excellent natural sun-screen, which is also soothing and healing on sunburns.Pressed from the seeds of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, it is best used with othercarrier oils because of its viscosity. Source: Anjaca health and wellness

Essential oils are much more than just pleasant scents. Their healing properties range from healing cuts and wounds, soothing headaches, treating digestive issues and boosting the immune system. The ability to keep our immune systems healthy is especially important given the current global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Eighty percent of your immune system is located within the gut, which makes gut health an important part of overall immune health. As a general rule, the immune system gains strength in adulthood as, by this time, we have been exposed to more pathogens and developed more immunity. A healthy immune system is able detect invaders such as bacteria, parasites and viruses as soon as they enter the body. The white blood cells (leukocytes and phagocytes) are responsible for detecting invaders and raising the alarm which results in multiplication of the white blood cells. These white blood cells launch an attack on the invaders by gobbling them up and also creating antibodies. Once an antibody has been produced, a copy remains in the body so that if the same antigen appears again, it can be dealt with more quickly. There are many ways in which essential oils can boost the immune system. Carrasco et. al (2009) showed the increase of white blood cell activity in mice using clove essential oils. Duarte et. al. showed that eucalyptus essential increases phagocytic activity. And in another study by Mikail et.al. in 2003, Frankincense essential oil proved to be an immunostimulant. Citrus oils help to restore the balance to the immune systems and rosemary reduces inflammatory markers. There are many essential oils that are in themselves antibacterial and antivirals and have the ability to kill off bacteria and viruses. For example tea tree oil, cinnamon, thyme and lemon essential oil. Apart from using essential oils to boost the immune system directly and as antibacterials and antivirals, essential oils can also aid on other areas that together contribute to a healthy immune system. For example, using lavender for better sleep, camomile to treat anxiety, ginger and peppermint for digestion and geranium to help balance our hormones. Article by: Dr. Carolyn GohIntegrated Health Consultant, BEng., MSc., PhD (DIC)., MBBS

Hormones are chemicals that are produced by glands in the endocrine system. They are released into the bloodstream to target the necessary organs when needed. A hormonal imbalance occurs when there is too much or too little of a certain hormone. Hormones are responsible for regulating many different processes in the body, including sleep and reproductive cycles, metabolic and sexual function, body temperature and even mood. It is no surprise then that even the slightest imbalance may have a noticeable effect on your health and wellbeing. The levels of hormones fluctuate during various life stages, such as during puberty and the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause. Changes in hormonal balance can also be affected by lifestyle, diet and health conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Some of the most common signs of hormonal imbalance are mood swings, insomnia and poor sleep quality, low libido, heavy or painful periods, fertility issues, weight gain and skin problems. If you are experiencing signs of hormonal imbalance in whatever stage of your life you may be at, essential oils are a very useful and effective natural remedy to ease the path of this bumpy journey. Essential Oils that can help to balance hormones Clary Sage Clary sage essential oil is well known for its use in women’s health issues such as menstrual pain and menopause. A study on menstrual pain showed that women found more relief with clary sage essential oil as compared to the drug acetaminophen (1). Another study on women with dysmenorrhea also found relief using clary sage (2). During menopause, clary sage helps in reducing cortisol levels and also exhibits an antidepressant-like effect (3).   Geranium Geranium essential oil is derived by steam distillation of the leaves of Pelargonium graveolens, a plant species native to South Africa. This oil has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. A study on 120 female students diagnosed with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) using geranium essential oil in aromatherapy massage showed a decrease in both physical and mental PMS symptoms (4). Another study (5) found that aromatherapy with geranium essential oil was beneficial at stimulating secretion of salivary oestrogen showing that geranium essential oil might be of value for women experiencing reduced oestrogen and health-related symptoms caused by menopause and perimenopause. Lavender The well-known lavender essential oil promotes emotional balance during these tumultuous times, and reduces stress, depression, and anxiety. It is also used to promote restful sleep, which aids in hormone rebalancing. Lavender lowers the amount of cortisol released by the adrenal glands and one study (6) demonstrates that inhaling lavender can soothe symptoms of depression and the mood swings that come with PMS. Lavender oil is an adaptogenic oil, meaning it can adapt to the specific needs of the body and help rebalance and level out hormones.  Rose Rose essential oil has long been known as an aphrodisiac and balances testosterone levels in the body, which is of great importance for both men and women. A study in 2009 (8) showed that rose essential oil promoted greater feelings of calm and relaxation, which can help in balancing cortisol and supporting the adrenal glands. It also demonstrated an ability to decrease blood pressure and breathing rate, improve serotonin levels and other neuropeptides, further promoting a sense of calm (8). Sandalwood Sandalwood essential oil, also known as an aphrodisiac and hormone balancer, is often used to increase libido, reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. It is also very effective at balancing testosterone levels in both men and women.  Ylang Ylang Ylang ylang essential oil calms and uplifts the mind and body while relieving stress and reducing anxiety and depression. A study (7) published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed evidence of positive anti-anxiety effects due to influencing processes in the hippocampus region of the brain and serotonin system. It also known to address issues of insomnia and low libido during menopause. Essential oils are brilliant companions that can help you sail through the different phases in your life and help you enjoy your life to the fullest. Don’t let your hormones get the better of you! References: 1. https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/8b80/b95b8ae477944b60539e4ef2d9eb66b09d58.pdf 2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22435409/ 3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24802524/ 4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6238350/. 5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28326753/ 6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23724853/ 7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29545208/ 8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19370942/ Article by: Dr. Carolyn GohIntegrated Health Consultant, BEng., MSc., PhD (DIC)., MBBS Related products

Essential oils have been used for centuries to treat common ailments, soothe symptoms and even to heal wounds. The use of essential oils and herbs as medicines were often the domain of sages, magis and herbalists. In recent times, the popularity of essential oils for self treating or self help has grown exponentially. The uses of essential oils are commonly based on what the plant is used for traditionally by native communities. The science behind the use of essential oils is still playing catch up. One of the difficulties in using evidence based scientific trials to assess a naturally occurring substance is the variability of the substance in nature. It would be much easier for example to compare studies done using an isolate of lavender or a chemical compound rather than a pure lavender essential oil as the chemical composition of lavender in nature varies.  It is also tricky to pin down the result of a study to one chemical constituent in the lavender essential oil as the therapeutic benefit of the oil is not down to one chemical component. However, despite the difficulties, there are numerous studies that have proven significant benefit through the use of essential oils to relieve stress, reduce inflammation, heal wounds and as antibacterials and antifungals. Take Peppermint oil for example, which has been used for centuries to treat gastrointestinal problems. Reviews of studies have found that taking peppermint oil capsules may ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (1). A small pilot study also found that peppermint oil helped ease discomfort in these patients, likely because the compounds helped to relax smooth muscles in the lower oesophagus (2). Another common essential oil, tea tree oil is purported to have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties and is an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne (3). The indigenous Bundjalung people of eastern Australia are believed to have used tea trees as a traditional medicine for many years in a variety of ways including inhaling the oil from the crushed leaves to treat coughs and colds, applying the leaves on wounds as a poultice as well as brewing an infusion of the leaves to make a tea for treatment of sore throats or applying on the skin for minor wounds, abrasions and insect bites. Another study (4) found tea tree oil was better than placebos, and just as effective as benzoyl peroxide in treating pimples. Other studies (5) suggest tea tree oil may be helpful for fungus such as athletes foot and nail fungal growth. So, how do essential oils work and how does the body utilise these oils? Essential oils are most commonly inhaled or used topically. The proposed mechanism of action of inhalation begins with the absorption of these volatile molecules through the nasal mucosa. These scent molecules are then transformed into chemical signals, which travel to the olfactory bulb and then other parts of the limbic system of the brain and the cerebral cortex and the olfactory sensory centre at the base of the brain. They then interact with the neuropsychological framework to produce characteristic physiological and psychological effects on target tissues (6). Gerhard Buchbauer, a professor of pharmaceutical chemistry at the University of Vienna in Austria, who has researched and written about the chemical compounds used in aromatherapy says that when inhaled, "the absorption of essential oils by the nose is as fast as an intravenous injection. In comparison, the absorption of essential oils through the skin is slower, because some of their chemical compounds need to pass through the fat layers under the skin and may even get stored there ". Many studies have demonstrated the health benefits of essential both in animals and humans. These studies have consistently shown that essential oils can produce specific effects on human neuropsychological and autonomic function, suggesting that essential oils have therapeutic effects on human health. Whilst we wait for science to catch up, let’s not put aside these wonderful gifts of nature and instead use them respectfully and responsibly to aid us in our quest for wellness. Article by: Dr. Carolyn GohIntegrated Health Consultant, BEng., MSc., PhD (DIC)., MBBS Reference:1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6337770/ 2. https://journals.lww.com/ajg/Fulltext/2017/10001/Peppermint_Oil_Relieves_Dysphagia_and_Non_cardiac.386.aspx 3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/ 4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1360273/  5. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11046-013-9622-7 6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3659644/#B2

Essential oils are gaining popularity in skin care products as well as haircare from shampoos to face creams, serums and body creams and body wash. The combination of a pleasant fragrance as well as having therapeutic benefits makes essential oils an ingredient of choice for many skincare products. However, with its amazing therapeutic benefits also comes its dangers in the form of potency and toxicity. The most important factors to consider when using essential oils in skincare, is the quality of the oils used, the dilution rate and type of oil used, the other contents in the formulation and last but not least, the health of the individual. Essential oils of low quality will not have the same beneficial effects that pure essential oils have and are much more likely to produce negative side effects. Many synthetic oils are made up of chemicals such as phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors, and benzene derivatives, aldehydes, and toluene, which are known carcinogens. It is important to use products that utilize good quality, pure essential oils and have no added chemicals such as parabens and sulfates. The dilution rate of the oils used in skin care products is also very important as these are highly concentrated potent oils and care must be taken when added to products. The essential oil in a bottle is 50-100 times more concentrated than in the plant, and safety issues apply to essential oils that may not apply to the whole plant or herbal extract. Dilution rates vary for each oil. The dilution rate for facial cosmetics is between 0.2-1.5% and for bath and body products 1-4%. Some essential oils, such as lemongrass, clove or cinnamon bark, are more likely to cause skin reactions than others so it is safer to go for very low dilutions when using these oils. It is also important to consider what other oils are in the formulation and what the overall dilution rate of all these oils are when mixed together. For example when mixing two oils, if you need 8 drops to achieve a 1% dilution you would use 4 drops of one oil and 4 drops of the other. The total should not exceed 8 drops. This can be tricky when formulating products which contain many essential oils and is one to look out for. Another very factor to consider is the synergistic action between the oils and the components in the formulation. If for example a product contains a mix of oils and other ingredients that have a high transdermal absorption rate, you are going to be increasing this effect and can be more likely to cause problems. It is important that formulations are balanced and the interactive action of each oil, herb and ingredients are known. The health of the individual also plays a huge role in how the skin will react. A healthy skin microbiome creates a good barrier against allergens and other components that can irritate the skin and cause sensitivities. If you suffer from dry, sensitive skin then your skin microbiome is probably suffering and you are more likely to have a reaction to these oils as you would to most things. The first step in this scenario is to repair the skin barrier. There are many oils that aid the repair of the skin barrier such as jojoba oil and sunflower oil (1). Differing ratios of essential fatty acids are major determinants of the barrier repair benefits of natural oils. Oils with a higher linoleic acid to oleic acid ratio have better barrier repair potential, whereas oils with higher amounts of irritating oleic acid may be detrimental to skin-barrier function. The likelihood of developing a negative reaction to essential oils and any substance depends on a combination of the health of the individual and susceptibility, the dilution, dosage and type as well as the frequency of exposure. Keeping all this in mind, the risk of unwanted reactions to essential oils in skincare products will be minimal if used and produced responsibly.   Ref: 1. Natural Oils for Skin-Barrier Repair: Ancient Compounds Now Backed by Modern Science Article by: Dr. Carolyn GohIntegrated Health Consultant, BEng., MSc., PhD (DIC)., MBBS

Morning sickness, tender breasts and lethargy are just some of the common signs of fluctuating hormones and can prevent you from enjoying this special time. On top of that, there aren’t many remedies that are deemed safe during pregnancy. Fortunately, there are essential oils that can be used safely during pregnancy and work brilliantly to combat pregnancy related ailments. The first trimester is the trickiest time during pregnancy and you would want to avoid using any medication or essential oil directly on your skin. However, diffusing oils in the home can be useful to ease some of the side effects relating to pregnancy. Before diffusing any essential oil, do check that they are suitable for use during pregnancy.  Ginger and peppermint essential oils work very well to ease morning sickness and nausea. Peppermint oil is believed to relax the gastric muscles and keeps them from cramping up or over-contracting. Ginger was found to reduce the occurrence and severity of nausea and is often taken as a tea or consumed. If you are going to be diffusing these oils in the first trimester, do be extra careful not to overdo it and limit the time the diffuser is on for no longer than 1 hour in every 24 hours. For emotional imbalances during pregnancy you can try diffusing or creating a dilution of (1%) of geranium and frankincense essential oils. Use a gentle carrier oil, like jojoba oil or coconut oil, to mix with more potent oils before applying to your skin. This will help you avoid burning or irritating your skin’s surface when you use essential oils topically.  Relaxing is a hormone that is produced during pregnancy and its main purpose is to relax the muscles and ligaments in the body allowing the uterus to grow as the baby develops and also to relax the muscles and ligaments around the pelvis in preparation for birth. Unfortunately, this hormone acts on all the joints in the body which can lead to various muscular aches and pains for example symphysis pubis dysfunction. This can cause severe pain in the hip and pelvic region and can greatly hinder walking and moving about. During the 3rd trimester, it is normal for the woman to develop pain in the lower back and hip region as the weight on the lower back increases with the growing baby. For aches and pains during pregnancy, Marjoram and peppermint essential oils can be used to relieve the pain.  Sleep and energy levels can also become disrupted as your pregnancy progresses. Some women find it hard to find a comfortable position to sleep in or their sleep is disrupted with having to use the bathroom frequently or being woken up at night due to the baby’s movement. Lavender and chamomile essential oil can greatly aid in getting a better quality of sleep when you do manage to catch a few winks. Diffuse these oils in the bedroom before you go to sleep or have a drop or two on a pillow in your bed.  So, don’t despair! Help is at hand in the form of these natural, therapeutic oils that not only smell amazing but are extremely effective. I wish you a wonderful, safe journey through your pregnancy! Article by: Dr. Carolyn GohIntegrated Health Consultant, BEng., MSc., PhD (DIC)., MBBS