Using Essential Oils: Helichrysum

 Helichrysum

A plant of Mediterranean origins produces essential oils that involves steam distillation of the leaves. It is also commonly know as the curry plant attributed to a common scent. Curiously, its similarity to curry which involves another anti-inflammatory herb tumeric helps to define its attributes and uses. . According to several holistic therapists the plants shape, smell or location in which it proliferates gives clues to its benefits. The word root helios in Greek signifies the sun.

This little burst of sunshine with yellow or orange flowers was always in my life. My mother had it as straw flowers that we carried from residence to residence and they remained in a small vase from decade to decade. Come to find years later their impressive role in reducing inflammation. 

The studies of this plant are minimal as in most essential oil research. Precautions are important: dilute the oil before application to skin, avoid placing on open wounds, ingest the tea or infusion (and not the direct plant materials) based on sound herbal practices, and test the application before a sustained or broad application.

That being said, its benefits include

1. Reduced inflammation of skin
2. Anti fungal, anti bacterial and anti viral
3. Assists in joint inflammation
4. Reducing allergic reactivity
5. Aids in addressing gallbladder disorders

Uses

• infuse 10-12 drops of the essential oil into 1 tbsp. carrier oil (coconut, olive, grapeseed or jojoba) 
• rub gently on skin in the affected area
• for joint or muscular discomfort repeat 3 times daily; making a larger batch and storing at room temperature.
• this solution can be applied to nasal cavity using a swab to anoint the nostrils (limit 1-2 x daily)
• combine with heat or cold pack or alternating 5 minute intervals on same location
• for reducing sensitivity of nasal cavity try direct placement of essential oil to a diffuser. Following recommendations of the element. Some diffusers or nebulizers require more or less concentration.

If any increased redness or suggestion of intolerance discontinue use and remove residue of oil.  Then contact an holistic practitioner for guidance or modifications such as creating essential oil combinations.

Thoughtful Thursdays

May Focus on Clutter Clearing

Could it be as simple as that?  What if by eliminating clutter, you find clarity?  

Last week we initiated Clutter Clearing focus and effort in our lives.
But what if you can transform your surroundings, and therefore your own approach to life.
We combine this effort towards an objective of re-tooling ourselves, like a "modern-day alchemy".

We think it's worth the experiment.

Let's explore how you have been approaching an obstacle and, after this week of de-cluttering,
then how you can approach that previous sense of a barrier (obstacle) as flowing progress.

Set down the phone or mouse and begin to journal for 10-15 minutes on how you have initiated this process of de-cluttering. Remember this is your journal; it's not necessary to share.

1. Did you find a goal or task for the de-cluttering initiative?
2. How did you made the conscious or unconscious choice to pick that task?
3. Has there been a positive change in your space since initiating the project?
4. Do you need to make modifications to your plan?

Returning to the blog, let's try a small energy exercise to open the the door wide.
Close your eyes and allow 10 deep breaths. During this breathing time, visualize removing physical barriers (trash, baskets, boxes or clothing) through an open door.

After the breathing exercise, return to see and feel the space more open. Create a positive image of that clear space.

Inspirational art @EarthTones - crystal infused Affirmations by Andee Allen

Now consider how to celebrate that space. Visit us at our Conscious Living Store and select one inspirational item to celebrate the progress you've made. Pick an item that is affirmative of your goals whether it is a candle, chime, incense or printed inspirational message.

We will check-in next week for more elements of the clutter clearing focus.