Sunday, August 30, 2009

Oldie but Goodie...article by Gabriel Mojay


(from PositiveHealth.com)

One of my favorite books on aromatherapy is Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit by Gabriel Mojay. In his book, Mojay details several essentials oils, giving not only their physical characteristics and abilities, but also speaks of their spiritual energies, utilizing Oriental & Ayurvedic principles.

I just came across an older article of Mojay's - but it is still very informative; to read it please click on the link:

Aromatherapy Energetics An Oriental Approach

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

TAO TE CHING - Chapter 76. Flexibility




TAO TE CHING - Chapter 76. Flexibility

A newborn is soft and tender,
A crone, hard and stiff.
Plants and animals, in life, are supple and succulent;
In death, withered and dry.
So softness and tenderness are attributes of life,
And hardness and stiffness, attributes of death.

Just as a sapless tree will split and decay
So an inflexible force will meet defeat;
The hard and mighty lie beneath the ground
While the tender and weak dance on the breeze above.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Happy Birthday Virgos!



Virgo, a mutable Earth sign, doesn't like instability. They can get very critical and demanding when they feel insecure; but what is more unstable then mutable earth? (Think earthquakes) That is one of the reasons Virgo is so detail orientated (besides that fact that mental Mercury is their ruler) and why they find comfort in collecting facts; they want solid footing in all their endeavors. Virgos do adapt to change. This trait is a strength because it is a survival mechanism, and a weakness because it makes them vulnerable to the demands and influence of other people. Instinctively responsive to the needs of others, they usually adapt to different people and changing circumstances by finding ways to make themselves useful.

The Virgin is the astrological symbol of Virgo and, like the true virgin, most Virgos are shy. Like a virgin waiting to give herself to the perfect lover, Virgos are also idealistic. Unfortunately when they allow idealism to get out of hand, nothing is accomplished. The virgin becomes a bitter spinster and talents die on the vine. Though intensely personal situations are inhibiting, there are other situations when Virgos can be very dynamic. When the spotlight is not directly on them but on a product or a service they offer, they are excellent salespersons.

And as the sixth sign of the zodiac, Virgo represents the need is to find ways to use one's individual talents for service to others. For many Virgos, the need to make things better is satisfied by pursuing careers in health-related fields or in other areas such as teaching, labor relations, environmental protection, social work, or religious counseling. Though most of them do have altruistic motives in helping others, it must also be said that Virgos have a tendency to act the martyr when their service or counseling is ignored, and it is not unheard of for them to use guilt as a weapon when they want to elicit the attention and cooperation of others. Virgos have to learn that helping others to improve is one thing, but pushing them toward goals of perfection they cannot hope to accomplish is destructive as well as impossible.

The sixth house, the house Virgo rules, also represents health & routine; hence Virgos are usually health conscious - some to the point of hypochondria. Many Virgos make an effort to stay physically fit. If they are convinced that results can be achieved, they don't mind tedious exercise routines. They enjoy tennis, racquetball, swimming, sailing, fishing, and biking. As athletes, Virgos are not overly competitive. Most of them do however, attempt to perfect whatever skills they do have in a particular sport. They are likely to be talented craftsman, seamstresses, or designers, and may have particular interest in such things as cartography, travel, and philately.

Virgos react to what they experience by assessing its practical worth. Before they take physical action, before they sort out their emotional involvement, and before they reason it out intellectually, they must ascertain what tangible advantages are to be gained from the experience. This is why they need all those details they strive to collect. If the advantages they find are not necessarily useful to them, they are willing to give them to those who can benefit. Virgos are effective negotiators. They patiently endure endless details and responsibilities if convinced it accomplishes an end they think justifies their efforts.

Mercury, planet of the intellect, also rules communication, which is important to talkative Virgos. They love books, magazines, and writing. With a critical eye for organization and detail and their constant search for perfection, Virgos have an irresistible urge to improve everything and everyone, whether they need it or not. Virgos are not above using their inability to achieve perfection as an excuse for their own idleness and unproductiveness. Out of character with their true nature, these Virgos are sloppy, disorganized, and irresponsible. What is worse, their own bad habits do not in the least inhibit them from criticizing others for the same behavior. Their analytical ability makes them excellent critics of the talent and performance of those more skilled than themselves. Virgos need to think that what they do is of a practical and helpful nature. The worthiness of their self-sacrificing efforts is spoiled at times however, when they exact tangible proof of gratitude from those who benefited from their actions.

Virgo colors are blue, yellow, gray, tan, navy, and lilac. Vulnerable parts of the body are the sinuses, respiratory system, and bowels. Colds, flu, allergies, and constipation are common Virgo complaints. The sapphire, which is a variety of the mineral corundum, is Virgo's birthstone. This gem was considered by ancient societies as a love charm. Though they come in a variety of colors and can even be transparent, the most valuable sapphires are blue. Blue is also the principal color associated with Virgo. Flowers and plants for Virgo include the aster, chrysanthemum, ivy, and fern.

Methodical, conscientious, Mercury-ruled Virgo is supported by Peppermint essential oil, Mentha Piperita, for enhancing mental clarity. A widely favored aromatic stimulant with astringent qualities, it's used to alleviate headaches and depression. Mentha (Mint) was an attractive Nymph desired by Pluto. His wife Persephone pursued her and, upon her capture, jealously crushed Mentha into the Earth. However, Pluto redeemed Mentha by transforming her into a wonderfully fragrant, healing plant. Invigorating and refreshing, Peppermint also stabilizes digestive disorders - good for Virgo's nervous tummies.

Friday, August 21, 2009

A Vedic Astrologer's take on swine flu (H1N1)



According to Anand Sagar Pathak:

The Kaal Purusha is the manifestation of time, which has been shown in personified form with reference to Lord Vishnu. In the above picture we can see that the Cancer sign (Karka rashi) represents the chest and the heart region of the Kaal Purusha. Human disease connected with the chest areas may be cold and cough and other symptoms found in influenza. The relationship of these symptoms is with the process of breathing which is the main function of lungs.

Cancer rashi signifies lungs as shown in the picture. Therefore, breath related disease in human beings can be related to Cancer rashi. This rashi is under constant affliction due to the transit of Ketu into this rashi from 30 th April 2008. This affliction was enhanced manifolds due to the Total Solar Eclipse of Sun by Ketu in this rashi on 22 nd July 2009...

The lord of Cancer rashi is Moon. Its element is water, which is the most important constituent of body fluids. The Moon rules over rainy season. According to Ayurveda, Kapha is one of the Tridoshas, which is produced by the combination of water and earth. Kapha increases anabolism and moon represents Kapha element. Cough and Cold are main symptom of swine flu.

The first case of swine flu in 2009 was reported on 2 nd May in Canada and it spread to many countries thereafter. Its intensity has increased rapidly in the season ruled by Moon (rainy season). The second enhancement in the intensity was after the Total Solar Eclipse due to conjunction of Sun and Ketu in Cancer rashi on 22 nd July 2009. In India this disease has acquired appreciable proportions after the solar eclipse.

Ketu means foreign land and foreigners as per Vedic astrology. Before the solar eclipse, swine flu was not a threat in India but, it was already a threat in Mexico and other countries. The disease has come into India from outside the country through human carriers. Swine flu has still not acquired serious proportions in India but “prevention is better than cure”. India's rashi as per Independence Day horoscope is Cancer (Karka) and swine flu is connected with this rashi.

Ketu in medical astrology is a nightmare for doctors. Ketu, not only makes diagnosis of disease very difficult, it also keeps on testing doctors with new diseases. One who masters Ketu will master the art of healing and diagnosis.

As per the transit of planets, swine flu will continue to remain a menace till Ketu remains in the Cancer rashi. Ketu will transit out of Cancer on 18th November 2009. It is expected that swine flu will be restrained after this date...


Interesting. I hope he is right about the swine flu being restrained by Nov 18th...

I do know that I will be diffusing my 'Germ Free Oil' on a regular basis - and practicing strict hand-washing protocol.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Utilizing aromatherapy for weight loss

Two essential oils that I would recommend to assist with weight loss would be Grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi), and Peppermint (Mentha x piperita). Both essential oils are bright and invigorating - Grapefruit with its citric tang & Peppermint with its menthol-cool freshness.



Grapefruit essential oil is known as a 'happy' oil due to its uplifting qualities and is liked by children for this reason; it is said to improve concentration and self-confidence. It is considered to be anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, detoxifying, anti-depressant, immune boosting, skin-toning and mentally rejuvenating. It is used in aromatherapy spa treatments to improve lymphatic drainage and to ease muscle stiffness, by dispersing lactic acids. It is also used as an aid to weight loss.

Per Grapefruit essential oil studies:
we observed that olfactory stimulation with scent of grapefruit oil (SGFO) enhances sympathetic nerve activities and suppresses gastric vagal (parasympathetic) nerve activity (GVNA), increases plasma glycerol concentration and body temperature, and decreases appetite in rats.


In other words - sniffing grapefruit essential oil can result in decreased appetite. In addition, if you like the smell of the oil, you will release endorphins when you sniff the grapefruit essential oil, and this can create a new neuropathway and a new habit to replace the old habit of snacking when hungry because you are bored or stressed.

Here is another interesting study done regarding Grapefruit essential oil:

Effect of aromatherapy massage on abdominal fat and body image in post-menopausal women

Department of Nursing, Wonkwang Health Science College, Korea. jm8711@naver.com

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to verify the effect of aromatherapy massage on abdominal fat and body image in post-menopausal women. METHOD: A Non-equivalent control group pre-post test Quasi-experimental design of random assignment was applied. All subjects received one hour of whole body massage as treatment by the same researcher every week for 6 weeks. Participants also massaged their own abdomen two times everyday for 5 days each week for 6 weeks. The two groups used different kinds of oil. The experimental group used 3% grapefruit oil, cypress and three other kinds of oil. The control group used grapeseed oil. Data was collected before and after the treatment using Siemens Somatom Sensation 4, a tape measure and MBSRQ. Data was analyzed by ANCOVA using the SPSS/PC+Win 12 Version. RESULT: Abdominal subcutaneous fat and waist circumference in the experimental group significantly decreased after aromatherapy massage compared to the control group. Body image in the experimental group was significantly better after aromatherapy massage than in the control group. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that Aromatherapy massage could be utilized as an effective intervention to reduce abdominal subcutaneous fat, waist circumference, and to improve body image in post-menopausal women.


I use grapefruit, cypress, and fennel essential oils in a synergy blend to detox - so I am not surprised at the results of this study. One word of caution - grapefruit oil does contain furocoumarins, which are responsible for phototoxic effects, so be VERY careful when applying this oil to the skin - dilute to not more then 3% and do not go out into the sun for at least 8 hours after application.




Pepperment has been proven in studies to aid in digestive issues, such as IBS. When dieting - I think that is quite useful. A cup of peppermint tea will help to settle the tummy, and give a lift, instead of munching on sugar-laden treats that while they give a quick lift - and then a crash!

Peppermint has also been shown to fight sleepiness (I always travel with it in my car especially for long trips).

In addition, research published in 2001 in the Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology found that inhalation of peppermint increased athletic performance (fitness, strength & endurance) in human volunteers. Another research study at the Wheeling Jesuit University by Bryan Raudenbush and colleagues found that peppermint improved productivity and pain tolerance.

Which is wonderful if you are dieting - you will need the extra boost to get you going on your exercise and to be able to tolerate the aches and pains associated with your new habits. ;-)

So try sniffing grapefruit & peppermint essential oils when dieting - I think you will be glad you did!

Sunday, August 9, 2009

That 70's show repeat?

Well, according to one astrologer, Bob Marks - it is about to be a repeat of the 70's:

...Intensifying the risks of serious problems, Saturn and Uranus, the planet of sudden, unexpected change and chaos, are now opposite each other, which, Marks notes, can polarize a society and lead to social upheaval. He notes, in fact, we're already seeing new signs of upheaval with the demonstrations in Iran. The last time Saturn and Uranus were in opposition was in 1965 and 1966, the start of the all the upheavals of the sixties. Such a formation is slated to occur five times in the current cycle, two of which have already taken place. The last time was November 4 on Election Day, which means, Marks says, the U.S. will lack stability for the ensuing four years.

...Marks notes that Mars, the planet of energy, war and violence, will join Saturn and Uranus next July 10, while Jupiter, which enlarges things, and Saturn, the planet of extremes, will both be close by. In layman's terms, explains Marks, "you're looking at a meeting of King Kong and Godzilla with a whole bunch of other monsters thrown in." To our astrological worrier, it suggests "something will start next summer that will turn the world upside down."

Conspicuously ominous for the U.S., Marks tells me, is that Pluto is opposite this country's sun sign (the 4th of July sign of Cancer). The last time Pluto afflicted with the U.S. the sun sign was in 1972 though 1984. During that period, we experienced the first oil crisis (1973), Watergate (1972-1974), stagflation for the entire 1970s, the Iran hostage crisis (1979), the second oil crisis (1979), and during the eighties a major recession with unemployment over 10%.

Marks' astrological conclusion: "The crisis of the 1970s is coming back."



Hmmm...the is the chart for that time period, and it is quite busy:



It is good to be aware of the major energy that will be expressed during this period...aware and prepared. However - please note the grand trine going on also - between the Moon, Uranus & Pallas. Enlightened, wise empathy and concern for others can smooth over the intense energy - if we are aware of how to utilize that energy, rather then let it steamroll over us.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Thinking about giving up smoking? Think about Black Pepper EO...



Great! You might think about using aromatherapy as a tool to help with this. The first thing I am going to say about which essential oils might be helpful - you need to find oils that YOU like. Any oils that evoke pleasure for you will cause you to release endorphins - and with repeated usage of the oils you can establish a new neuropathway with sniffing of an essential oil to evoke pleasure and calm - rather then via cigarettes. Take a sniff rather then light up, eh?

One of the essential oils you should consider using is Black Pepper essential oil - 'Piper nigrum'. Black Pepper has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat malaria and cholera, as well as to relieve digestive complaints such as dysentery and diarrhea. Indian monks include black pepper in their diet every day to help them sustain their endurance and increase their energy. Black Pepper essential oil also has analgesic properties which make it great for pain relief, stiffness, hangovers and headaches.

On a subtle level, Black pepper is especially helpful in confronting fears, as black pepper provides strength, protection and stamina. Use black pepper to add spice to a relationship that has grown stale. Black Pepper is a catalyzer, enhancing the synergy of blends and increasing the potency of other oils. It is also of assistance in opening the electrical energy flow throughout whole body. Black Pepper is an oil that stimulates the conscious thought processes. It can enhance the desire to get going on a new project or getting on with a new direction in life. It can also help to free the mind from envious thoughts. Black Pepper can be used to help one focus on what you want to manifest. It can help one to deal with anger and give one the courage to do so. Black Pepper helps one to listen to our inner intuition and to take chances.

Black Pepper essential oil has also been featured in a research study and found to be effective in helping one to quit smoking.

Inhalation of vapor from black pepper extract reduces smoking withdrawal symptoms. Rose JE, Behm FM., Nicotine Research Laboratory (151-S), V.A. Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705.

Previous studies have suggested that sensory cues associated with cigarette smoking can suppress certain smoking withdrawal symptoms, including craving for cigarettes. In this study we investigated the subjective effects of a cigarette substitute delivering a vapor of black pepper essential oil. Forty-eight cigarette smokers participated in a 3-h session conducted after overnight deprivation from smoking. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: one group of smokers puffed on a device that delivered a vapor from essential oil of black pepper; a second group puffed on the device with a mint/menthol cartridge, and a third group used a device containing an empty cartridge. Subjects puffed and inhaled ad libitum from the device throughout the session during which no smoking was allowed. Reported craving for cigarettes was significantly reduced in the pepper condition relative to each of the two control conditions. In addition, negative affect and somatic symptoms of anxiety were alleviated in the pepper condition relative to the unflavored placebo. The intensity of sensations in the chest was also significantly higher for the pepper condition. These results support the view that respiratory tract sensations are important in alleviating smoking withdrawal symptoms. Cigarette substitutes delivering pepper constituents may prove useful in smoking cessation treatment.


Another thing to keep in mind, is that you are also detoxing your body from the poisons of cigarettes. And when I am detoxing - I use a synergy of fennel, grapefruit, & cypress - all which help you to release toxins. Put a few drops of the synergy into about a cup or so of epson salts - and toss into your bath & soak awhile. Afterwards - be sure to drink lots of water.

If you are getting 'jittery' from the lack of nicotine - some chamomille or lavender EO might help calm your nerves. If you feel you are wavering in your resolve - try sniffing some cedarwood.

As to your post-smoking cough - the best thing you can do is put a few drops of eucalyptus EO into a bowl of kettle-hot water; drape a towel over your head and 'tent yourself' over the bowl of eucalyptus water and breathe deep. You might want to shut your eyes - and do it as long as you can. You will cough up a bunch of crap - but that crap needs to be expelled from your lungs. After you've done that a few times - your lungs should be a lot clearer.

My auntie in NM has COPD & asthma - and used to get very bad bronchitis at least once a year. I blended her a synergy of Eucalyptus & Frankinsence EO's (she just takes big sniffs of it about twice a day) and she swears it has saved her from having any of that for the past three years.

Best of luck in beginning on your new healthier path!

Monday, August 3, 2009

Lucky we have Jupiter (the planet of 'Big Luck")



Astronomers Look for Clues in the Wake of the Jupiter Collision

That's just our solar system's big guy, Jupiter, doing its job--using it's huge gravitational field to attract foreign bodies to itself, and AWAY from Earth.

Interesting how this happens - especially since in astrology Jupiter traditionally been called the "greater benefic." In traditional astrology, everything Jupiter touched was blessed with his beneficial presence... and so it's rather interesting that modern day astronomy appears to be giving a grudging nod to Jupiter's traditional astrological role and reputation among the other planets. Apparently... large gaseous planets, by virtue of their size and composition, tend to attract comets and asteroids to themselves and away from the smaller planets. The larger planets in solar systems (such as Jupiter) thus protect the smaller, more vulnerable planets (such as Earth) from taking these large hits by comets and asteroids.

Luckily for us, the big planets do act as "shields" in this way. Way to go, Jupiter!