Articles > "Spruce" Up Your Trip with Pure Essential Oils
by Peggy Carey

Your travel experience can be enhanced by using therapeutic grade essential oils or aromatherapy as it is often called. The Lakota Indians used spruce for religious ceremonies, but it also has many physical applications such as inhalation for sinus/respiratory infections. When you research oils to make a selection for your trip, you will find that most oils have many uses.

It is believed that the Egyptians were the first to discover the benefits of aromatic oils and particular oil blends. According to ancient text, oils were used for every condition from gout to a “broken head” referring to mental illness. Fragrance “cones” made of wax or animal fat and fragrant essential oils were worn by aristocratic Egyptian women who were bathed in the pungent scents as the cones melted from the North African heat. They also carried around alabaster bowls full of oils. If the idea of a fat and oil cone melting on your head or carrying around a bowl of oil seems a little messy, don’t despair. You can experience the same benefits by wearing a Whiffer™ aroma pendant containing your favorite pure essential oil around your neck or pinned on your lapel. It is aromatherapy on the go, anytime....anywhere! The Whiffer™ is a great way to enjoy oils as you travel since it serves as a hands-free personal diffuser.

The Benefits of Oil Inhalation

Experts tell us that the body’s response time to the inhalation of essential oils can be as quick as one to three seconds. This is one of the reasons many people prefer this method of application. Oil inhalation tends to increase the production of endorphins (the body’s natural pain relievers and mood elevators), as well as neurotransmitters and antibodies. This dramatically boosts the immune system, creating an overall sense of well-being (either relaxation or stimulation, depending on the oil) and increasing the general state of health of the entire body. Oils also inhibit the growth and reproduction of airborne pathogens which can dramatically reduce your exposure to colds or flu. Studies show that cinnamon, pine, thyme, and lemon oils have powerful effects on influenza viruses. Inhaling lavender oil can knock out a sinus headache within 60 to 90 seconds. Smelling the oil of eucalyptus for several minutes helps open clogged nasal passages and clear up sinus congestion. While smelling the oil of peppermint will usually eliminate acid indigestion or heartburn. Wear your Whiffer™ and receive the benefit of powerful anti-pathogenic, immune-boosting, cell-nourishing, body-oxygenating and health-enhancing properties of the oils. You will be surrounded by a cloud of aromatic goodness everywhere you go.

Research has shown that the effect of fragrance and aromatic compounds on the sense of smell can exert strong effects on the brain....especially the hypothalamus (the hormone command center of the body) and limbic system (the seat of emotions). Some essential oils high in sesquiterpenes, such as myrrh, sandalwood, cedarwood, vetiver, melissa, and frankincense can dramatically increase oxygenation and activity in the brain. This may directly improve the functions of many systems of the body.

In many situations inhalation of essential oils is the preferred application if the goal is to increase growth hormone secretion, induce weight loss, increase libido, or balance mood and emotions. Sandalwood, peppermint, vetiver, lavender, ylang ylang, and white fir are extremely effective when inhaled.

Oils recommended for a handy travel kit would include, lavender, lemon, peppermint and the Young Living blend Purification which contains citronella, rosemary, lavandin, lemongrass, Melaleuca alternifolia, and myrtle.

Lavender may help relieve a headache or motion sickness, promote sleep, clean a wound, and ease the discomfort of a sunburn.

Lemon may sanitize counter tops and bathroom fixtures, purify drinking water, and disinfect hands after using public restrooms.

Peppermint is good for indigestion and heartburn, is cooling and reduces fever, helps relieve motion sickness, and makes a great foot bath for sore feet.

Purification™ will cleanse the air of mildew, cigarette smoke, and disagreeable odors. It helps repel insects and when worn in a Whiffer™, fights pathogens found in recirculated air on planes and other enclosed vehicles.

Premium quality oils (not perfume quality) will certainly add enjoyment to your trip by providing first aid, stress relief, and a clean environment You will find your own “quick fix” with a little experimentation.