A2Z 2020 — essential oils — L — Lavender

On St. Luke’s Day in the 14 and 1500s, young maidens sipped lavender in hopes that they would be granted a dream in which they would see their true love. Lavender tucked under the pillows of young men was thought to encourage them to ask for a lady’s hand in marriage. And completing the circle,…

A2Z 2020 — essential oils — J — Juniper Berry

History of Juniper Berry Essential Oil Greek origins: Juniper was commonly burned in spiritual ceremonies by the Ancient Greeks to combat epidemics. Medicinal folklore: Juniper Berry Oil has been traditionally used in ancient medicine by various cultures. The Zuni Indians for example used it to assist in childbirth. Ward off evil spirits: Juniper berries have…

A2Z 2020 — essential oils — I — Immortelle

The name Helichrysum is derived from the Greek words helios meaning sun and chrysos meaning gold, which refer to its numerous clusters of tiny yellow flowers. These dried flowers were presented as an offering to the Gods in Ancient Greece, used in Medieval Europe as potpourri, and have flavored sauces in various cultures around the…

A2Z 2020 — essential oils — H — hemp seed oil (carrier oil)

  The cultivation of hemp began more than 10,000 years ago in the region that is modern day Taiwan. Perhaps the first agricultural crop, hemp served as the foundation of sustainable civilization. Ancient farmers found that hemp was an ideal crop for conditioning their soil. The leaves would fall to the ground and create fertilizer…

A2Z 2020 — essential oils — G — Ginger

As early as the time of Confucius, the Chinese have grown and used ginger as both a medicine and a food. In ancient Asia, as today, it was valued for its ability to build fire, both as a digestive and as an aphrodisiac. The Mahabharata, a Hindu text written around 4 BCE, recorded the use…

A2Z 2020 — essential oils — F — Frankincense

Amongst many cultures around the world the fragrance of this resin was believed to increase one’s spiritual connection and intuition. The Chinese called it “fanhunxiang” meaning “calling back the soul fragrance.” It is often used in meditation, since the scent is calming, grounding and pleasant to the senses. It helps one to become more present…