We have all experienced the undeniable power of aroma, even though we may not necessarily have been consciously aware of it at the time. For example, at some point in our lives most of us have all been greeted by a fragrance that triggered a powerful memory, perhaps one dating back as far as our early childhood. The smell of freshly baked bread or apple pie conjures up long forgotten childhood memories of your mother baking, or a whiff of perfume you’ve not encountered for years transports you back to your first true love at high school. Read more…

Getting sufficient sleep is vital for your overall health, because during this important ‘down-time’ you have the opportunity to rest and recuperate in preparation for the following day. During sleep the mind gets a well deserved break from the pressures and stress of daily life, the cells and tissues of the body are repaired, and energy levels are replenished. Medical studies have confirmed that sleep helps to regulate our hormones and recharge the body’s immune system which protects us from infection and disease. Read more…

There are over 60 species of annuals, non-woody perennials and shrubs known collectively as ‘basil’. In addition, there are almost 100 cultivars and their various sub-species which display a vast range of physical and chemical variations (chemotypes), often causing confusion to all concerned!
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In the bible it is described how the three wise men transported gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus shortly after his birth. For many people, it seems almost inconceivable that frankincense and myrrh were considered as precious and costly as gold at that time. But the truth is they really were.

Frankincense is the hardened oleo-gum resin obtained from several species of trees in the Boswellia family. The trees producing the finest quality resin can be found growing around the horn of Africa; Somalia, the Hadhramaut region of Yemen, and Oman. Read more…

Mandarin essential oil has a delicious aroma that never fails to bring a feeling of sunshine and happiness to any occasion, and is enjoyed equally by young and old alike. Mandarin is actually the collective name given to a class of oranges that possess thin, loose peel and a flavour much sweeter than that of the orange. This large group of citrus fruits are all characterised by brightly coloured peel and pulp, segments that separate easily and a rind that is easy to peel. Read more…

Eczema is a generic term used to describe a variety of inflamed skin conditions, and usually develops when an individual becomes overly sensitive to allergens such as moulds, pollens, dust, chemicals, animal dander or certain foods. Sufferers experience persistent and painful itching as they develop hot, flaky, itchy patches on their skin which may become extremely inflamed, dry and cracked, eventually leading to bleeding and weeping blisters.
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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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Neroli essential oil is extracted from the fragrant blossoms of the bitter orange tree (Citrus aurantium sub.sp amara), and has a beautiful aroma that appeals to men and women alike. In common with rose and jasmine, neroli oil is a complete fragrance in itself and forms the heart of one of the worlds most enduring perfumes, ‘Eau de Cologne’.
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