We have been using Aromatherapy for quite some time without realizing it, in the form of Ben Gay and Tiger Balm, for sore muscles and stiff joints. Yet until recently, the real powerhouse of pain relief, Helichrysum italicum, has gone relatively unnoticed. The oil is now becoming more and more popular, as it not only relieves pain, but actually speeds healing of many injuries and ailments. What’s different about Helichrysum than oils that have been used traditionally for pain? Why might it provide better effects than the Wintergreen found in Ben Gay? Here’s a look at the multitude of actions of Helichrysum, and how you can benefit from this effective natural plant medicine.

Healing The Musculoskeletal System

To reduce pain and heal structural tissues at the same time, a synergy of active ingredients is necessary. That’s why aspirin and ibuprofen reduce pain, but don’t stimulate healing — they only address one part of the equation. Essential oils are naturally made up of many chemicals — one oil can have more than a hundred identifiable molecules. And because of their molecular structure, they’re very compatible with our physiology. When topically applied, they pass right through our skin and into the bloodstream and underlying tissues where they can quickly get to work.

Inflammation Reduction

Helichrysum seems to have been designed by nature to heal trauma of our muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and even skin. Its natural chemistry has components which reduce inflammation and pain, while concurrently stimulating tissue regeneration. The anti-inflammatory action is a result of constituents known as “curcumenes”, similar in structure to molecules found in the popular inflammation-reducing herb turmeric. This is a crucial step in initiating the healing process; if inflammation is not reduced, more activity can cause more inflammation in a vicious cycle. Reducing inflammation allows the healing process to begin, as damaged tissue material can then be removed from the injury site, and fresh nutrients can be brought in.

Muscle Relaxant

Where Helichrysum distilled from plants grown in coastal regions of the Mediterranean really stand out is in its ability to release muscle tension. In particular, a sub-species known as “serotinum” has the highest levels of neryl acetate. This is of a group of compounds known as “esters” which are particularly good anti-spasmodics. Just like the word says, these compounds relieve muscle spasms — a condition that is often found in our necks and backs where the musculature has locked up in a stiff and painful condition. This can be the result of old injuries (where the body is trying to protect itself by holding together weak joints), from stress, or simple poor posture or ergonomics (like hunching over a computer all day). By relieving these spasms, circulation in the area is increased, and the healing process is dramatically accelerated.

Cellular Regeneration

Helichrysum contains molecules regarded for their ability to signal our cells to heal and regenerate. These compound are called “di-ketones”, of which Helichrysum specifically contains several “italidiones”. You’ll find the essential oil an ingredient in nearly every wound healing and scar reducing formula in aromatherapy. (It should not be used on open wounds due to its anticoagulant effects, but is suitable once an injury is no longer likely to bleed). These same regenerative di-ketones make the oil an excellent choice for all sorts of skin-care recipes; the regenerative action can be complemented by a carrier oil like Rosehip seed, whose carotene content also supports skin healing — these two oils together form the foundation of many anti-aging skin care blends.

Quicker Healing by Preventing Bruises and Blood Clots

Helichrysum essential oil is called for at 100% strength in one particular use: preventing the formation of bruises and hematomas. When an impact injury occurs, one of the first physiological responses is the filling of the damaged tissues with fluid, and the blocking of further blood flow through the area. Blood already in the area will stagnate and turn dark, resulting in a bruise. This is a natural response to prevent us from causing further damage. However, it also slows the healing process. One or more applications of the essential oil will prevent the initial swelling from occurring, and limit the formation of a bruise. This typically gets one “back into the game” much more quickly, as many avid users who are also fitness addicts will attest to. Twist an ankle, apply some oil. Bump your head, do the same. Works every time!

Personal Healing Experiences

Personal and anecdotal experience with Helichrysum essential oil confirms its purported healing actions. A user with chronic neck pain from a sever auto accident found relief within minutes of massaging the essential oil at 100% into the stiff and painful vertebrae. Other users find their sports-related injuries to heal more quickly, and are less likely to become chronic overuse conditions. Application after simple burns in the kitchen leads to quick pain relief and fast healing. While the scientific evaluation of Helichrysum’s effects are yet to be performed, this is no reason to avoid trying this essential oil for yourself — the conventional thinkers firmly believed the Earth was flat for a very long time!

The author has made available much information about aromatherapy, such as using lavender and other essential oil.

Sandalwood is both a classic scent and a classic medicine. Used as an aromatic for over 4000 years, and as a medicine in the Ayurvedic system for perhaps a millennium, the wood itself has been greatly valued by mankind. The essential oil, while only becoming popular in the last hundred years, is a truly classic scent, with important science-proven therapeutic medicinal applications. Whether it be for the body or mind, sandalwood oil can offer effective support. Here’s a look at the therapeutic applications of this treasured oil, and how you too might benefit from its medicinal magic.

For those not so familiar with the source of this wondrous material, sandalwood oil is distilled from the the wood of, of course, the sandalwood tree. Sounds simple enough, but the tree is totally unique — its a parasite, growing only on other trees. So harvesting the wood involves cutting down both trees. To make matters more challenging, the wood isn’t really ready to harvest until its at least 30 years old, and really, the older the better.

The very finest oil, certainly aromatically — and some people believe therapeutically as well — is distilled from the Santalum album species native to India. The essential oil has become so highly valued that over-harvesting of the trees has made a significant impact in deforestation in certain regions. So much so that the government of India made it a law that they now own all the sandalwood trees in the country! This, of course, is meant to prevent poaching of the trees, as clearly the offense is rather serious stealing the valuable resource from the government. Thankfully, there are plantations of this same species of tree underway, and other sources of very fine sandalwood oils that are now close in rivaling the quality of the Indian material.

Obviously there must be something to this oil for it to be so prized! While the oil and the wood have been closely tied to spiritual practices for thousands of years, research laboratories are only just now uncovering some profound medicinal properties. A paste made of the wood has historically been used as medicine for the skin, and now it’s been discovered the essential oil alone can actually prevent the formation of skin cancers. When skin is pre-treated with the oil, then exposed to potentially damaging quantities of ultra-violet radiation, the formation of cancerous tumors is significantly reduced.

Scientific researchers have elucidated the source of this cancer-preventative action. It turns out that one of the major natural chemical constituents, called “santalols” (found only in sandalwood oil, and no other natural material yet discovered) reinforces the signal for cells to die as they normally should. A feature of cancer cells is that they do not live and die in a natural cycle as healthy cells do — they just go on living, growing and spreading. So application of sandalwood oil prior to exposure to a carcinogen essentially tells the cell to keep on going through its normal healthy life cycle. And despite the lack of availability of Indian sandalwood, santalols are found in all other popular species from which the oil is distilled.

The aroma is highly regarded for its calming, centering qualities, without being sedating. Researchers in Vienna, Austria published research indicating study participants were positively affected in the areas of alertness, attentiveness, calmness, mood, relaxation and vigor. This correlates to its long-time use as the first choice aromatic in aiding meditation. It is reputed to quiet mental chatter, again while bringing the awareness to a singular focus.

Curiously, the oil has also been researched for supporting deeper, more restful sleep. The essential oil works both when inhaled and when topically applied. One study examining the effects of inhaling santalol, the primary natural constituent of the oil, found this component could result in a significant decrease in the time spent awake in sleep-disturbed subjects, and also increased the total time spent in REM sleep. This study noted that the effect was not due to the aroma’s interaction with the olfactory sense and the brain, but by its distribution throughout the bloodstream via inhalation. This implies that a similar effect may be achieved by wearing the oil as a natural perfume, or similar topical method.

This is just a brief look at some wonderful therapeutic actions available using sandalwood. Its skin care properties go far beyond sun protection; these include care for dry skin, mature skin and acne-prone skin as well. The oil is very safe, and well-tolerated by nearly everyone. When you find yourself looking for a source of sandalwood, you’ll find several varieties available. Research has shown them to be fairly equivalent in many respects therapeutically — for skin care, the lower-cost Australian is an excellent choice. For aromatic uses, find one that you enjoy the most! And know that a little goes a long way — start with a small amount, and enjoy its subtle, uplifting nature.

For more on the therapeutic value of aromatherapy oils, and one of many important oils individually such as organic Geranium essential oil, visit The Ananda Apothecary online.

Hello:

The original massage training I received was in Lomilomi from a true kahuna on the “Big Island” of Hawaii.
I have both given and received them.

Please contact me at: uwaiu@yahoo.com for full details.

Glowing Testimonials For Thai Massage Course

Speakeasy Thai Survival Guide $15.01 Includes ebook and audio files download (hear the phrases in Thai), instructions on the website… More Than Just A Phrase Book! Speakeasy Thai not only has 100’s of Thai phrases that you can use on a daily basis but is also full of tips on Thai culture, travelling and relationships. It’s a must have for newbies and seasoned veterans alike! This is a great book, written with a sense of humour and …

Thai Yoga Massage : Thai Yoga Massage: Back Chopping

Thai Massage: An Introduction for the Mat and Table by Chuck Duff $49.99 This comprehensive DVD, from ITTA Certified Instructor Chuck Duff, shows in detail a 1-hour Thai massage sequence, applying the same sequence on both the mat and the table with appropriate body mechanics. No prior knowledge is assumed.Thai massage is unique in that it can benefit both the giver and the receiver if properly performed. Western style therapists often experience symptoms of occupation…

HandsFree Thai Massage: The Commoner Style with Chuck Duff $49.95 This DVD by Chuck Duff, founder of Thai Bodywork School of Thai Massage provides in-depth coverage of the techniques of HandsFree Thai(tm), which allow the practitioner to work on large or heavily muscled clients in a way that is highly beneficial for the client and the practitioner. Commoner or rural style (Nuad Chaleisak) techniques allow the therapist to provide broad, deep pressure using feet,…

Synergy Teacher Training: An Overview with Francisco Morales-Bermudez $24.95 The art of Synergy is a compilation of several healing modalities. The most important element of Synergy is its ability to work the aspects of communication, trust, and playfulness in a community setting. These elements are shared through circle exercises, Thai massage, partner stretching, and flying. This DVD is an overview of Synergy Teacher Training and explores aspects of the 4 elements of …

Thai Massage Mat This thai massage mat is filled with cotton batting. The batting is packed to provide solid support, and yet is soft and comfort. The outer cover is made of a 100% cotton fabric and has a zipper along one length so that it can be easily removed and washed. Inside the cover, the batting is enclosed in a casing. Three ties are include for easy roll-up and storage. Overall size is 80″ long by 60″ wid…

Shiatsu Thai Massage Mat $249.00 Traditional shiatsu mat made with untreated cotton batting and natural cotton canvas. Wide enough for both the practitioner and the patient to work and stretch out comfortably.  3″ of cotton batting provides for ample cushioning yet light enough to be portable with its roll up ties and attached carrying strap.  Perfect for Shiatsu, Thai massage, sleep overs and even road trips!…

Thai Mat with Cover for Yoga Meditation Massage …

Thai Yoga Massage: An Introductory Step-by-step Guide to This Ancient Practice $64.94 …

Nuad Bo-Rarn: Traditional Thai Massage (An Introductory Instructional Video) …

Thai Yoga Massage: A Dynamic Therapy for Physical Well-Being and Spiritual Energy $13.51 A paperback edition with DVD featuring a unique massage therapy that combines stretching, breath work, assisted yoga postures, and pressure point therapy. • Text includes more than 125 black-and-white photographs of instructional postures and 3 color charts showing practitioners the sen energy lines. • DVD features author demonstrating techniques for performing a one-hour massage. In th…

Psychic Massage (Harper colophon books ; CN 353) $10.95 …

Fort collins massage, Denver massage, Greeley massage,

Yoga Thai Massage DVD

Loving Sex – Thai Massage for Lovers $9.57 INTIMATE TECHNIQUES FOR SENSUAL PLEASUREThai Massage in its present form has been practiced for well over 1000 years. Using Traditional Thai Massage as a foundation, learn to give your partner a deeply satisfying and sensual massage. Couples who give and receive Thai bodywork share loving touch as the gateway to shared peace, well-being, vitality and intimate bliss. These techniques teach intimacy…

Thai Massage: An Introduction for the Mat and Table by Chuck Duff $49.99 This comprehensive DVD, from ITTA Certified Instructor Chuck Duff, shows in detail a 1-hour Thai massage sequence, applying the same sequence on both the mat and the table with appropriate body mechanics. No prior knowledge is assumed.Thai massage is unique in that it can benefit both the giver and the receiver if properly performed. Western style therapists often experience symptoms of occupation…

The Thai Massage DVD $29.95 …

Thai Massage For Lovers -Dvd Bundle – Adult Toy Sex Kit $29.80 INTIMATE TECHNIQUES FOR SENSUAL PLEASUREThai Massage in its present form has been practiced for well over 1000 years. Using Traditional Thai Massage as a foundation, learn to give your partner a deeply satisfying and sensual massage. Couples who give and receive Thai bodywork share loving touch as the gateway to shared peace, well-being, vitality and intimate bliss. These techniques teach intimacy…

Pilates Yoga DVD For Couples Thai Massage DVD $33.00 Pilates Yoga DVD For Couples Thai Massage DVD is inspired by 2,000 years of tradition and the author’s desire to bring peace and domestic harmony into your most intimate relationships! Beautifully shot in a yoga studio and easy to follow along at home…

Pilates Yoga DVD Table Top Thai Massage DVD $79.99 Pilates Yoga DVD Table Top Thai Massage DVD contains many of the techniques used in this ancient healing art are applicable to the massage table and highly beneficial for both the client and therapist. This easy-to-follow, comprehensive routine includes n…

Pilates Yoga DVD Nuad Borarn Thai Massage DVD $65.00 Pilates Yoga DVD Nuad Borarn Thai Massage DVD – Nuad Borarn instructional DVD includes supine, prone side lying and seated positions. A full length presentation (96 minutes long) is performed by a seasoned professional teacher of this unique and powerful modality….

Psychic Massage (Harper colophon books ; CN 353) $10.95 …

AcroYoga – Flight Manual and DVD ***NEW and EXPANDED*** (Jan 2008) The AcroYoga Flight Manual and DVD set provides instruction in the foundational elements of this new practice. Topics Covered: *Brief History of Yoga, Acrobatics & Thai Massage *AcroYoga Lingo & Principles *AcroYoga Asana Sequence *4 Partner Yoga Flows *Pure Inversions Progression Chart *Partner Acrobatics *6 Acrobatic Flying Transitions Flows *4 Thai Massage Fl…

Thai Yoga Massage Workbook for Couples (Companion Book for Thai Yoga Massage DVD for Couples) Thai Yoga Massage is an ancient healing technique from Thailand dating back over 2500 years. This book is meant to be used as a Companion Book to the Thai Yoga Massage DVD for Couples or as a Workbook for Couples & Healers to deepen their knowledge of thai massage and healing. There are wonderfully clear pictures with explanations of techniques. This is wonderful as an Introduction to Thai Massage…

Keller Chiropractic – Dr. Wade Parkhill, DC – Health Tip #3

Big Stick Self Massage Device $49.95 A favorite of weight lifters, body builders, football players, and others who aspire to muscle madness . . . Endorsed by Senior International Weightlifting Coach, USA Weightlifting, Mike Burgener . . . This is the biggest, meanest Stick we make. Longest, stiffest model, 30″ long, 18 spindles, 20 ounces…

THE STICK POWER STICK BODY MUSCLE MASSAGER DC-2700 $44.95 The Power StickThis model is designed for those with moderately increased body mass. It is 27″ with 16 working spindles. Featured on the Today Show….

One of our cats, loves to climb into my husband’s underwear and lay in them,when he is on the toilet.

Special Thai Massage.

The Thai Massage Video [VHS] …

The Thai Massage DVD $29.95 …