I hope you all had a wonderful Mother’s Day! For this blog, I thought I would share a little bit of my story; a bit about me, Faye Boyd, and about how Celtic Sage Holistic Therapy came to be.

I am a mother and grandmother; mother of two beautiful daughters and grandmother to three amazing granddaughters. Yes! We are a family of girls and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

My journey began with an illness and rather than take prescription medication for the rest of my life, I decided that I would use the power of my brain to control the problem. It has been almost 30 years since then and I must say the illness has disappeared!

During the ensuing years, I worked on a degree in psychology at university, and then after fifteen years, decided to go into the corporate world. It was during my time there that I took a serious look at what I had accomplished with regards to healing the illness I had and started searching for alternative ways to becoming and staying healthy.

First I studied Reiki and achieved my Level 2 in Usi Reiki. Then I went on to study Hot Stone Massage, Celtic Reiki and then Aromatherapy Massage. It was in studying Aromatherapy that my interest piqued. It was amazing studying essential oils, their properties and history. It was fascinating to learn about research that has been done and is being done to show that essential oils have many healing properties and can be used in a number of ways as alternatives to prescribed medicine.  And so Celtic Sage Holistic Therapy came to be. I look forward to sharing more of my story with you in future blogs and delve a little more into each of these areas.

Did you know that Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular among those who are interested in alternative medicine? I would love the opportunity to show you all the ways it and essential oils can assist you to better health.

I will also be on a call-in Rogers TV Show “In the Know” at 6 p.m. on Wednesday May 15th, 2013. The program is only available to residents in York Region; the phone number is 1-877-222-5310.  Please watch and call in with any questions you may have! And then, send me your feedback.  Don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog too if you have one via the commentluv feature here on the site.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

Lemongrass is a very versatile plant. For example, its tea is widely employed in traditional medicine in several countries. This herb and essential oil is very popular in Mauritius, Malay Peninsula, Nigeria, Angola, India, Indonesia and in China. Like other volatile oils, externally it is stimulant and it may be used as an analgesic to relieve pain in myalgia and rheumatism (Hale-White W. MD 1901. Text book of Pharmacology and Therapeutics.) Here are 11 amazing uses for this essential oil.

1. Analgesic: The term Analgesic means something that reduces pain and inflammation. Lemongrass Essential Oil helps relieve pain in muscles, joints, toothache and headache resulting from viral infections like cough & cold, influenza, fever.
2. Antidepressant: Lemongrass Oil boosts self esteem, confidence, hope and mental strength, uplifts spirit and fights depression.
3. Antimicrobial and Antibacterial: Lemongrass has anti microbial properties which makes it inhibit microbial and bacterial growth in the body, internally or externally.
4. Antiseptic: The anti septic properties of Lemongrass Oil makes it a good application for external and internal wounds as well as an ingredient of the anti septic lotions and creams. The anti septic properties of this oil do not let the external and internal cuts and wounds go septic.
5. Astringent: An astringent helps stoppage of blood flow by contraction of blood vessels.
6. Deodorant: Lemongrass Oil is far better than those synthetic deodorants which weigh heavy on the pocketbook and the environment so it’s a far better choice as a deodorant from these points of view. In diluted form, it serves as an efficient deodorant without any side effects. The best thing about this, is that it is herbal!
7. Diuretic: Lemongrass Oil increases urination, both in frequency and in quantity. This may sound not that important but it can be very beneficial for health. With urine, fats are lost from the body to the extent of 4% of the volume of urine. So, it is obvious, the more you urinate, the more you lose fat. Urination also helps clean the kidneys.
8. Fungicidal: Lemongrass Oil has good fungicidal properties and may be used to cure fungal infections, both externally and internally.
9. Insecticidal: Lemongrass is quite popular as an insect repellent due to its insecticidal properties. It kills insects and also keeps them away.
10. Nervine: Lemongrass Essential Oil acts as a tonic for the nerves and the nervous system. It helps ease many nervous disorders such as shaking hands or limbs. It strengthens nerves and activates them.
11. Sedative: This is perhaps one of the most important and most appreciated medicinal properties of Lemongrass Oil. It is an excellent sedative. This feature can help patients with insomnia too.

Other Benefits: Helps cure cellulite, fungal infections and digestive problems and reduces excessive perspiration too.

Few Words of Caution: It can irritate the skin and produce other types of irritations too. Hence it should be avoided during pregnancy.

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular among those who are interested in alternative medicine. I invite you to contact me to discuss ways in which Aromatherapy and essential oils can assist you to better health.

Share your favourite use of Lemongrass! I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

Spearmint and other mint varieties have been used in traditional medicine and for culinary purposes since ancient times. The oil is universally used as flavouring for a wide range of foods, drinks, pharmaceuticals and dental toiletries. But did you know there are other health benefits from Spearmint Essential Oil?  Here are 5 great uses!

The various medicinal properties it possesses are as follows:

1. Antiseptic: This oil works well as an antiseptic for wounds and ulcers, protects them from septic and other infections and helps them heal faster.
2. Antispasmodic: Essential Oil of Spearmint comes from its component Menthol, which has a relaxing and cooling effect on the nerves and muscles, which helps relax contraction in case of spasms and thereby gives effective relief from spasmodic coughs, aches, pulling sensation and aches in abdominal region and intestines, muscle pulls or cramps, nervous convulsions and even spasmodic cholera.
3. Disinfectant: The antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties of Essential Oil of Spearmint make it a disinfectant. It can help get rid of internal infections and external infections. It is particularly effective in protecting internal wounds and ulcers, like those in stomach, food pipe, intestines etc. from infections.
4. Calming: The relaxing properties of Essential Oil of Spearmint induce relaxation in the intestines and muscles of the abdominal region, thereby helping the gases formed in stomach and intestines to pass out using its natural downward passage. This gives a relief from a lot of problems such as uneasiness and restlessness, insomnia, headaches, stomach aches, indigestion, loss of appetite, chest pain, vomiting, cramps and related symptoms.
5. Insecticide: It is an effective insecticide and keeps away mosquitoes, white ants, ants, flies, moths etc. It can be safely applied on skin to get protection against mosquito bites. The spearmint oil is sometimes used in mosquito repellent creams, mats, fumigants etc.

Other Benefits: The Essential Oil of Spearmint helps assist with asthma and congestion (being a decongestant), gives relief from fever, flatulence, constipation, sinusitis, acne, gum and teeth problems, migraine, stress and depression. Being far lower in menthol content, it can be safely given to the children.

Few Words of Caution:  This essential oil should not be taken by pregnant women.

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular among those who are interested in alternative medicine. I invite you to contact me to discuss ways in which Aromatherapy and essential oils can assist you to better health.

Share your favourite use of Spearmint! I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

Essential oils could be a cheap and effective alternative to antibiotics and potentially used to combat drug-resistant hospital superbugs, according to research presented at the Society for General Microbiology’s spring meeting in Edinburgh (April 4, 2010).

Fàilte (Welcome)!

“Professor Yiannis Samaras and Dr Effimia Eriotou, from the Technological Educational Institute of Ionian Islands, in Greece, who led the research, tested the antimicrobial activity of eight plant essential oils. They found that thyme essential oil was the most effective and was able to almost completely eliminate bacteria within 60 minutes.

The essential oils of thyme and cinnamon were found to be particularly efficient antibacterial agents against a range of Staphylococcus species. Strains of these bacteria are common inhabitants of the skin and some may cause infection in immuno-compromised individuals. Drug-resistant strains, such as meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are extremely difficult to treat. “Not only are essential oils a cheap and effective treatment option for antibiotic-resistant strains, but decreased use of antibiotics will help minimise the risk of new strains of antibiotic resistant micro-organisms emerging,” said Professor Samaras.”

In this age of instant everything

Our culture has allowed the health care industry to become so powerful and disproportionately lucrative, that it is now in the business of illness rather than health.

Most medical schools don’t teach disease prevention, proper diet or exercise as a part of health. Objective measures are emphasized – white blood cell counts, blood pressure readings, etc., instead of how the patient feels. Pain is treated as a powerful enemy, its symptoms assaulted with prescription drugs that mask it or drive it underground- a practice that usually means it will resurface later with increased intensity.

Conventional medicine focuses on crisis intervention and is less successful in treating chronic illness.

Modern medical techniques were developed during war time, for emergency care. However, respected studies show that most illnesses don’t just drop out of the sky and hit us over the head. These emergency measures tend to overkill, and even suppress the body’s own immune response.

Information About Alternative Medicine Often Suppressed

Why is information about cures by alternative medicine often suppressed even though conventional medicine very often interferes with the natural process of healing?

People are so coerced to use conventional medicine that they refuse to even give alternative medicine a chance. Commercial ads have such great influence when heard often enough, that the public is convinced. That is what Big Pharma is counting on. Have you ever noticed the way conventional medicine is advertised? It would seem that every effort is made to down play the possible negative effects.

The ads begin by distinctly emphasizing the benefits of the medicines; then with hurried words or small print on the screen they are changed to something like this, “If you have gallbladder problems, or ulcers, (or other ailment) you shouldn’t take this.”

Then in closing, someone affirms that the benefits have been personally experienced! Beware of such deception and trickery; your health may be seriously compromised. You should ask yourself, “If this conventional medicine is likely to affect my stomach, kidneys, liver, why should I take it at all when I can use some form of alternative medicine that is not toxic?”

Many people, have been brainwashed to distrust natural remedies and are so eager to get well, they jump at the announcement of some apparent new super healing conventional medicine; and, without any hesitation, embark upon a regimen with the belief that it is the answer to their problem; Yet, they continue to be sick or even get worse. In spite of that they keep on ingesting them.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

I believe that if people are encouraged to use alternative medicine to treat disease before it develops into a serious illness, they might very well have little need for conventional medicine such as chemotherapy, synthetic drugs, and surgery. If the body is kept in a healthy state, it is not likely that disease will develop.

Day by day, warning signs of an impending illness are being ignored, then when that illness becomes overwhelming, a quick fix is sought seldom delivering the required result.

If you would like to discuss this further you will find me at the Aurora Home Show on Saturday, April 13th, 2013 sharing a table with Somafit Wellness Center. On Sunday, April 14th, 2013 you can find me at the Passport to Wellness Show in Aurora.

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular among those who are interested in alternative medicine. I invite you to contact me to discuss ways in which Aromatherapy and essential oils can assist you to better health.

Share your experiences with me. I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

(Sources: Page, L., 2000. Healthy Healing. 11th ed. United States of America: Traditional Wisdom, Inc.; Society for General Microbiology Journal)

Ylang Ylang essential oil is extracted from the flowers of a tropical tree native to Indonesia, the Commores, Madagascar and Reunion. The flowers of Ylang Ylang are pink, yellow, cream or mauve with a strong, exotic and floral fragrance. The aroma earns Ylang Ylang the nickname of Poor Man’s Jasmine, as its scent is reminiscent of Jasmine. The name is derived from the Malay alang ilang referring to flowers which flutter in the breeze. Ylang Ylang is commonly used for romantic occasions; in Indonesia, the flowers of Ylang Ylang are spread on the newlyweds’ bed. In the Philippines, the flowers of Ylang Ylang were traditionally used to make a pomade to massage on the body; this helped to counter insect and snake bites and to avoid diseases throughout the rainy season.  In the Molucca Islands, Ylang Ylang flowers are used to protect against infections, fevers and skin disease. Ylang Ylang was a traditional folk remedy for asthma, headaches, malaria, rheumatism and diarrhea.  Here are 8 wonderful current uses for Ylang Ylang essential oil:

1. Anti Depressant

Ylang Ylang fights depression and relaxes the body and soul, thereby removing anxiety, sadness etc. It also has an uplifting effect on mood and induces feelings of joy and hope. It may be an effective treatment for those undergoing nervous breakdown and acute depression after a shock or accident.

2. Anti Seborrhoeic

Seborrhoeic Eczema is a dreaded disease which is caused due to malfunctioning of sebaceous glands resulting in irregular sebum production and consequent infection of the epidermal cells. It looks very ugly as the skin, colored white or pale yellow, dry or greasy, starts peeling off, particularly from the scalp, eyebrows and wherever there are hair follicles. Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil can be beneficial in curing this inflammatory situation and reduce peeling off of skin by regularizing sebum production and treating the infection.

3. Anti Septic

Wounds, cuts, abrasions and burns come with the potential of bacterial infection. The essential oil of Ylang Ylang might help us avoid both septic and tetanus as it inhibits microbial growth and disinfects the wounds. Using this oil increases your chances of remaining uninfected from these types of wounds, and helping them heal quicker.

4. Hypotensive

High blood pressure is an alarmingly growing problem both among the young and the old.  We all know that the drugs for lowering blood pressure bring serious adverse side effects on our health. This oil can be a safe refuge. It is natural and has no adverse side effects, if taken in prescribed quantities.

5. Nervine

Ylang Ylang essential oil is a health booster for the nerves. It strengthens the nervous system and restores it from damages. It also reduces stress on the nerves and protects them. It can also help heal nervous disorders.

6. Sedative

Do you suffer from stress, anger and anxiety? Consider using this essential oil to help with these issues.

7. Aphrodisiac

This can be a very beneficial oil for those people who are losing interest in sex due to tremendous work load, professional stress, worries and the effects of pollution. This loss is an alarmingly growing issue particularly in metropolitan areas.

8. Other Benefits

It is suggested that this oil can be used to cure infections in internal organs, such as stomach, intestines, colon urinary tract. It may also be beneficial for people suffering from insomnia, fatigue and other stress related factors. Plus, it is extremely effective in maintaining moisture and oil balance of the skin.

Few Words of Caution: Some cases of sensitivity, nausea and headache have been observed when taken in excess amount. Otherwise it is non-toxic and non-irritant.

An ointment or cream made with Ylang Ylang would be a great addition to your medicine cabinet for those who have small children who are always getting bruises, scrapes and minor injuries. Come talk to me and we can make up a blend for you.

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular among those who are interested in alternative medicine. I have had great success using Ylang Ylang  in a carrier oil for several clients who are suffering from depression and anxiety. I invite you to contact me to discuss ways in which Aromatherapy and essential oils can assist you to better health.

Have you used this essential oil? Share your experiences with me. I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

Pine essential oil is the oil obtained from the tree commonly known as pine which is believed to have originated from Austria and Russia and then spread to different parts of the world. If you are yet to know which tree we are talking about, you must have seen it being used as a Christmas tree. The health benefits of pine essential oil are attributed to its antibacterial, analgesic, diuretic, energizing, antiseptic, and aromatic properties. Below are 7 common uses for Scotch Pine essential oil.

1. Skin Problems

The most important health benefit of pine essential oil is in treating various skin problems. Dermatologists often prescribe the oil in treating:

• psoriasis
• itching
• pimples
• eczema
• skin diseases
• fleas

2. Systemic Uses

Pine essential oil increases metabolism and thus boosts your activity levels. It is also helpful as:

• A purifying agent to treat intestinal problems
• A diuretic to help remove water from your body
• A cure for respiratory problems. It is regularly used in making cough and cold preparations.
• Treatment for food poisoning

3.  Analgesic

Pine essential oil is analgesic and hence it is a good remedy for people suffering from joint pain, arthritis, and rheumatism. It is frequently used in wellness centres that have a sauna.

4. Emotional Benefits

The health benefits of pine oil also include some emotional benefits such as:

• It gives an energizing feeling and therefore is effective in removing mental stress
• It is used as treatment for removing adrenal fatigue and refreshes your spirits as it is an excellent mood elevator
• Regular massage with pine essential oil gives you mental clarity
• It removes anxiety and nervous tension, and is useful for people suffering from loss of concentration and loss of memory.

5. Antibacterial

Pine oil is a natural remedy for numerous infections due to its antibacterial properties.

6. Household Products

Pine oil is also added in many household products due to its aroma. These include room sprays, volatile liquids and room fresheners.

7. Other

Pine essential oil is widely used as a massage oil  It is also used in removing lice from hair and in soap making.

Normally pine essential oil is obtained using steam distillation. Fresh twigs and needles are used for extracting the oil. Cones of pine tree are also used by many manufacturers for obtaining the oil. Since pine is abundant in nature, the oil is very cheap and readily available.

Internal consumption of pine essential oil can be dangerous as there is a possibility of kidney damage. Further, pine essential oil can cause irritations on highly sensitive skin. Hence it must be used in diluted form.

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular among those who are interested in alternative medicine. I have had great success using Pine essential oil in a carrier oil for several clients who are suffering from rheumatic and joint issues. I invite you to contact me to discuss ways in which Aromatherapy and essential oils can assist you to better health.

Have you used this essential oil? Share your experiences with me. I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

Ancient Uses of Sandalwood

Sandalwood is known to be one of the oldest materials used for aromatic and perfumery uses; it has been used for at least 4,000 years. The ancient Egyptians used sandalwood to embalm bodies. Indian temples are built with sandalwood in order to keep white ants at bay. Sandalwood is also used in Indian meditation ceremonies.  In Ayurvedic medicine, sandalwood was used for respiratory and urinary infections and for the revitalization of skin; in Chinese Medicine, sandalwood was used for skin complaints, stomach ache and vomiting. The Japanese used sandalwood to honor Buddha. I thought it would be helpful to share 5 powerful ways that Sandalwood can be used.

Distillation of Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood essential oil is obtained from small pieces of wood from matured sandalwood trees by a process known as steam distillation. Ideally, wood from the trees which are around 80 years old should be used to extract sandalwood essential oil. However, considering the rarity of this species, people often extract the oil from trees that are anything between 40 years and 80 years old. In fact, the relatively older sandalwood trees will not only enclose more quantities of the essential oil, but its aroma too would be more potent or rich.

The Benefits of Sandalwood Oil

1. Sandalwood is a sedative oil, hence its use in meditation, as it induces a feeling of deep peace
2. Sandalwood is also
   • Anti-infectious
   • A decongestant
   • Anti-depressant
3. It has been used in the healing process of major burns victims, due to its antiseptic properties
4. Sandalwood is useful for chronic bronchial infections and for treating coughs (sandalwood oil)
5. It is also effective in helping sciatica and lumbago.

People who are new to aromatherapy often confuse essential oils with fragrance oils, but these two products serve entirely different purposes. Fragrance oils are synthetic scents that have been created in a laboratory, while essential oils are made from natural plant extracts. Both have a pleasing smell, but only essential oils offer the benefits of aromatherapy. Essential oils are also significantly more expensive than fragrance oils, since they are highly concentrated and must be harvested with great care.

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular among those who are interested in alternative medicine. I have had great success using Sandalwood essential oil in a carrier oil for several clients who are suffering from depression. I invite you to contact me to discuss ways in which Aromatherapy and essential oils can assist you to better health.

Have you used this essential oil? Share your experiences with me. I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

The name “Roman Chamomile” is not a reference to the use of the oil by Roman soldiers, but rather to the area it is indigenous to. Roman soldiers gained courage in battle, and a clear mind from Roman Chamomile, it was also thought to heal any plant around it, hence the title of “plant’s physician”. Those same Roman soldiers also carried it with them to use on all injuries and illnesses. I thought it might be helpful to share with you 10 health benefits for Roman Chamomile Essential Oil.

1. It promotes a general feeling of calmness,
2. Relieves anxiety and depression,
3. It also helps to relieve PMS as well as hormonal depression,
4. As a muscle relaxant it will help to quell restless leg syndrome, soothe muscle pain,
5. Can be used in an emergency during an asthma attack,
6. Relieves digestive problems, including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, gas and diarrhea,
7. Helps with skin conditions such as the discomfort from eczema, psoriasis, acne and boils,
8. Can be used on mild infections from cuts and inflammation caused by hemorrhoids, gingivitis, bursitis, carpal tunnel, rheumatism and sciatica,
9. Has the ability to ease sprains, bruises, allergies, burns, gout and rosacea and can also prevent nightmares, cleanse the blood by removing toxins from the liver, and generally speed up the healing process, and
10. In children, Roman Chamomile will reduce irritability and nervousness, help alleviate the symptoms of colic, reduce teething pain, lower fever and soothe a cranky or crying baby.  Diffuse the essential oil into the air to take advantage of its calming properties.

Blend some of the Roman Chamomile in Fractionated Coconut Oil. It is mild enough to use topically for children for tummy ache, teething, fever and earache. Please note that: essential oils should never be put directly in the ear canal. You will get just as much benefit from placing a drop on your finger and running it down behind the ear and/or down the jaw line.

I have had great success using a blend of Roman Chamomile essential oil in a carrier oil for several clients who are suffering from depression, as well as gout. They have found that the swelling goes down and that the pain is reduced.

Have you used this essential oil? Share your experiences with me. I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

Ginger is an oil that was used by many ancient civilizations for both culinary and medicinal purposes; the ancient Greeks were known to use ginger extensively in their pharmacopoeia. The Chinese used ginger for tooth ache, malaria, rheumatism, diarrhea and excess mucus. Traditionally, ginger has been used for its aphrodisiac properties.  Ginger was also one of the first spices to be traded from Asia to Europe in the Middle Ages and has since been used in the Western world principally as a digestive aid. So I thought it might be helpful to share 3 of the major benefits of ginger essential oil although as described below, there are a myriad of other benefits.

1. Rheumatic pain

Rheumatic pain can be eased by massage or compresses, using a low dilution of the essential oil, since high concentrations will irritate the skin.

2. Winter Ailments/Diarrhea

For colds, ‘flu and diarrhea, stomach cramps (whether digestive or menstrual in nature), the most effective use of ginger is an infusion (or ‘tea’) made from the fresh root. Cut very thin slivers from the ginger root, and simmer them for about ten minutes, using about six thin slices from a root of average thickness, to each cupful of water. With a little honey this makes a very pleasant winter drink which is used in traditional Chinese medicine as a preventative against winter ailments.

3. Nausea

Ginger quells nausea and can be a great help with both travel sickness and the ‘morning sickness’ of pregnancy.

The Distillation of Ginger Essential Oil

Ginger essential oil is steam distilled from the dried ground root, also known as the rhizome root. The aroma of ginger essential oil is warm and spicy

The Properties of Ginger Oil

Ginger is also an analgesic, expectorant, digestive, stimulant, anti-catarrhal and it is invigorating. For medicinal purposes, ginger oil can be used to treat insomnia, impotence, angina, indigestion, constipation, flatulence, rheumatism, tooth ache and fatigue. Ginger is useful for travel sickness, hangovers and to stimulate the appetite of children and can be used in relieving the symptoms of bronchitis.

In traditional Chinese medicine, ginger is used in any condition where the body is not coping effectively with moisture, whether the moisture originates within the body or without. Diarrhea and catarrh (the buildup of mucous in the nose and throat) are examples of inability to deal with moisture of internal origin, while rheumatism and many of our winter ills are aggravated by external damp, and the fiery properties of ginger are used to combat this.

I have had great success using a blend of ginger essential oil in a carrier oil for three clients who are suffering from arthritis. They have found that the swelling goes down and that the pain is reduced.

Have you used this essential oil? Share your experiences with me. I love getting feedback. And here on this blog you’ll get commentluv so don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye

Did you know the properties of essential oils (so necessary to their native plants), are very useful to humans as well?

A good example of this has to do with mold and fungi. As essential oils boost the immune systems of plants against the constant threat of mold and fungi, they work to do the same for humans. This is why essential oils can be so effective against health problems related to these hardy organisms.

In addition to defending against molds and fungi (as well as viruses and bacteria), essential oils also work to support various bodily systems such as the endocrine, circulatory, digestive, nervous, and reproductive system.

The place to begin to address how essential oils work is by considering their chemistry. Essential oils are made up of tiny molecules – much smaller than the molecules found in “fatty oils” like vegetable or olive oil.

These tiny molecules then work in a number of ways:

• It makes them aromatic, as small molecules are able to quickly vaporize and positively affect the body through the nose and lungs. (This ability is what led to the term “aromatherapy.”)
• It enables them to easily cross tissues and cell walls — including the blood-brain barrier — which gives the power to reach areas of the body like nothing else. (This can be seen in the ability that essential oils have to quickly and positively affect the emotions.)
• It equips oils to penetrate the skin and reach any part of the body in minutes. (e.g., an Essential Oil like peppermint can be placed on the sole of the foot and be tasted on the tongue within a minute).

Here at Celtic Sage, we are always looking for new holistic additions to our line of specially formulated, safe and proven natural products for our clients. We are dedicated to continuing to provide you with information and options to adopt a more holistic approach to living.

We are also pleased to announce that we will be adding a fragrance line to our existing product line this year. There will be five fragrances to choose from.  Stay tuned for the launch towards the end of April. We are also adding Spirit Catchers and Chakra Balancers. These will become available in May.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our clients, family and friends for a great 2012 and wish you an awesome 2013! We look forward to working with you this year.

In the meantime, please send us your feedback! Don’t forget to leave a link back to your own blog too via the commentluv feature here on the site.

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now),

Faye