As is often the case at this time of year here in the UK, we seem to be suffering from a deluge of flu, sore throats, coughs and colds. Almost every other person that you speak to has either just got rid of a cold, or they are coming down with one.
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Stress is the curse of living in modern times and it seems almost impossible to escape from. And despite what some people might say to the contrary, just about everyone suffers from stress at some point during a typical working day. The problem is, if we experience stress continually it can take a heavy toll on our mind, body and spirit.

In recent studies experts have determined that heart disease is linked to anger, and irritability is linked to mental stress. Too much stress can cause the blood flow to the heart to become restricted (cardiac ischemia) which can lead to a heart attack. Read more…

Niaouli essential oil has been derived commercially from the tree of the same name now for well over 100 years, although it has taken many years to correctly identify and classify it botanically. This is because there are several plants with strikingly similar appearance that were originally mistaken for niaouli. Over the years a wide range of common names and synonyms were associated with all of these species which added to the confusion, taxonomically speaking.
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The Thymus genus belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is highly complex, consisting of over 100 different species known by more than 300 common names. The species of thyme used for the production of various ‘thyme’ essential oil is Thymus vulgaris, and is believed to be an improved, cultivated form of the wild thyme which originated in the mountainous regions of Spain and Europe.
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There are approximately 250 natural species of Pelargonium, with thousands of hybrids and cultivars, and surprisingly few of these species have a truly pleasing fragrance. Pelargoniums are believed to be of South African descent, but due to massive hybridisation after their introduction to Europe in the 17th century they now bear little resemblance to their original parentage. Read more…

Aromatherapy is the controlled use of essential oils which, when used correctly, can help to alleviate a wide range of physical and emotional disorders. Used in massages, baths, compresses and inhalations, essential oils can assist relaxation and pain relief, thereby promoting a feeling of health and well-being. This in turn can help to break the vicious circle of stress, which so often leads to ill health.
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