Here in Minnesota the weather this past week has brought to mind the upcoming Fall season. And anyone in that state of mind is probably already thinking about winter and cold / flu season. This leads me to the topic for today…the blend I refer to as ‘Just Breathe’.
I have chronic sinus infections and through the years it has brought me to a certain routine that I follow all year long. The newest of that routine began during my education through Aromahead Institute the Winter of 2017 while getting my certification training. It involves using this blend in a diffuser in the bedroom and my own personal inhaler whenever my sinuses start to feel blocked.
The blend contains Lavender (lavandula augustifolia), Sweet orange (citrus sinesis), Frankincense (boswellia carterii), Cypress (cupressus sempervirens), Helichrysum (helichrysum bracteriferum) and Spikenard (narostachys jatamansi).
Since this was one of my first blends, Lavender was how I started since it is a good all-purpose oil. It also has chemical properties for supporting your immune system, reducing inflammation and pain. Next came Sweet Orange and Frankincense to the mixture. (I am surprised that not all my blends have these three oils in them)
The first thing about Orange I notice is the aroma and how uplifting it is. Who would not want to this to be part of a blend that helps clear up your sinuses? With its high level of d-limonene component, it effectively fights off nasty infection bugs by energizing the white blood cells. How many of you only know Frankincense because one of the three Wise Men presenting it to baby Jesus? It has a little more than that going for it like reducing fluids and removing excess mucus from respiratory systems. What more can you ask for in a sinus blend?
Now on to the other three oils which you may or may not have heard about. Cypress has a smoky / woodsy aroma and with its high a-pinene component it’s properties of antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic makes it a perfect fit. From Aromatics International (www.aromatics.com) ‘Helichrysum Bracteiferum essential oil helps promote healthy lung function, especially relating to allergies and congestion from cold or flu.’ The reason for that statement is the high 1,8-cineole component it has that is a wonderful decongestant. Last but not least is Spikenard which I selected for the calming and sedative properties it has. Not only does it calm the mind it encourages sleep and relaxation.
Now is the point where I have to explain that this information should not be used in place of professional healthcare. I am not a doctor, nor do I play on TV. I still have problems with my sinuses, this blend did not cure my problem….it has been added to my routine. I carry the inhaler in my purse and whenever my sinuses are stuffy, I take some nice deep breaths. Not only does it open the sinuses it gives my body the extra immunity boost to start fighting those nasty germs. As for the diffuser next to my bed, the aroma alone makes it worthwhile…however the bonus of a clear and calm mind really helps.
Until next time,
Happy Blending, Jeanne
