THE ABC’s OF ESSENTIAL OILS

by: Dr. Steven Riess

Essential oils are liquids that are extracted from plants including, but not limited to, the seeds, barks, leaves, stems, roots, flowers and fruit. As we begin to understand the power of essential oils in holistic healthcare – it is of absolute necessity of obtaining pure therapeutic-grade essential oils. Chemists can replicate, but it would be nearly impossible to recreate the oils in a laboratory. It’s like the difference in using real vanilla extract vs. imitation vanilla extract.

Essential oils embody the regenerative, protective, and immune-strengthing properties of plants, bushes, and trees.  They can support our bodies in various ways:

• By promoting relaxation
• Support healthy immune function
• Calm tension and nerves
• Promote healthy metabolism
• Uplift mood
• Promote emotional health
• Help reduce occasional upset stomach
• Support muscle and joint function
• Increase positive feelings
• Help decrease stress
• Improve appearance of the skin
• Provide antioxidants
• Repel insects
• Soothe occasional skin irritations

Essential oils have been around since the beginning of early civilizations. Egyptian papyri and Chinese manuscripts describe the medical use of aromatics used thousands of years ago. Additionally, there are references to aromatics, ointments and incenses in the Bible and Torah (such as frankincense, myrrh, rosemary etc.).

Ultimately, the only thing that affects change in the body is our brains! If we can stimulate the brain – we can affect change! The blood-brain barrier is a filtering mechanism between the circulating blood and the brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid. Some essential oils can cross through this barrier and directly interact with brain cells and impact the brain therapeutically and naturally! However, not all essential oils are able to cross over and yet they can still affect the brain through the sense of smell by activating the olfactory bulb in the brain’s limbic system. This system is a group of related structures in the brain that are responsible for processing emotion, memory, and smell. 

Essential oils, whether you use them topically, aromatically, or internally is just another NATURAL way to help support our bodies and enhance our lives!

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Dr. Steven Riess has dedicated a career in providing natural pain relief treatments and education about how to stay out of pain.  His practice is located in Plainview, NY where he provides a full array of services to help you achieve optimal health.  For more information or to get acquainted with Dr. Riess, visit: www.drstevenriess.com