From the Desk of Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt

In today's world, the media often presents a daunting picture. Yet, while we may not have control over the larger forces at play, we can control the fragrances and essential oils we surround ourselves with. Though essential oils cannot alter global events, they can provide for a vibe that will make things just a little less intimidating.

Essential oils exercise their effects on soul and psyche by interacting with the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). For everyone wishing to explore the ANS connection of essential oils, Dr. Rolf Deininger's seminal contribution to this topic, The Magic World of Essential OIls and Scents, Their Influence on the Psyche, is available in full length in the Proceedings of the 1995 PIA Aromatherapy Conference.

In this 75 page article, Dr. Deininger presents experimental data on the psychic action of scents. He sets the tone about the nature of smell by stating the following ... (see below)

“Smells influence personal and interpersonal behavior, in seeking or avoiding a person, in sexual behavior, and in feeding. They also influence mood. Smells open our senses to the nature of person or situations. Smell is the sense of taste from a distance, as is clearly evident from phrases such as smelling a rat, sniffing something out, having a nose for something, rubbing someone’s nose in something, or causing a stink. From experience, burning wood spreads anxiety and the smell of cooking awakens appetite. What is so special about smell is that its perception is accompanied by emotional and hedonistic evaluating reactions to a much greater extent than with sight, hearing, or taste.” ~ Dr. Rolf Deininger

For many in aromatherapy, these more subtle and psychological effects are of prime interest and have led to the publication of a number of books discussing this and similar topics. So given today's difficult emotional climate, I thought it might be nice to try some oils for their uplifting character. While it is easy to accept that some of the better known florals like Rose or Ylang have a sedating or relaxing character, I thought it might be nice to explore some oils which are not commonly associated with this context and which might offer some unexpected surprise moments.

Below are some that I find particularly radiant when it comes to inspiring joy...

Goldenrod, with its precious sesquiterpenes, is an often overlooked essential oil. French Style aromatherapy recommends it for inflammation of the outer and inner linings of the heart as well as inflamed arteries. It is also recommended for nervousness, neurovegetative imbalances, and hypertension.

Ravintsara is commonly accepted as a powerful antiviral agent in the context of colds and flu. However, it is also a forceful neurotonic, uplifting patients weakened from their condition.

Cardamom is a powerful antispasmodic and, as such, helps to overcome emotional upset.

Frankincense is well known for myriad benefits and is commonly used for nervous depression.

Lavender, how can an attempt to create an uplifting synergy manage without Lavender. Classic aromatherapy recommends true Lavender for spasms of the solar plexus, insomnia, and anxiety.

Marjoram is one of the more underestimated therapeutic oils. It is the classic and effective remedy for neurovegetative dystony. French aromatherapy recommends it for hyperthyroidism with associated cardiovascular troubles such as tachycardia and hypertension. Marjoram is also recommended for many forms of neuropsychological issues such as anxiety, stress, exam-anxiety, neurasthenia, and neuralgias.

I hope that by exploring these oils you might find some vibrations that bring more joy and peace to your world. Below are links to more detailed descriptions of each...

From the Desk of Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt

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