Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Hydrosol, byproduct of essential oil distillation

Hydrosol is known as the byproduct of essential oil distillation. The results of this processing step contain a mixture of oil and water. The volatile substance will separate from the condensed H2O(due to differences in specific gravity). It is also referred as volatile oil. In layman's terms, it is called fragrant seeds or bibit minyak wangi (Indonesian), while the aqueous phase is referred as "aromatic or floral water" (or in the trade term: hydrolate).
The use of hydrosol has been known since centuries ago, and recently began re-popularized by modern society. Many of the suppliers offer: "essential oils water spray ", but most of them do not use the distillation result, but just mix liquid H2O with few drops of the oil, then they give smell good impression. In the market, this offer is different, because the power of hydrosol aroma is much more durable, but mild (not so strong) as it is obtained as byproduct of minyak atsiri (Ind.). This mild characteristic is more preferred because it is more easy to use
The properties
This aromatic substance contain volatile compounds (carboxylic acids, alcohols) which is soluble in condensed H2O and only contain a small amount of ketones, so it becomes fragrant aroma and smells like the distilled material. This fragrant material is considered as a byproduct of essential oil distillation.
The benefit
Hydrosol examples of the best known by the public is "rose water". This is used in a variety of purposes relating to the world of cosmetics, such as a powder solvent, scrub, mask and so forth. Some examples and its usefulness:
Chamomile: calming effect, relaxes the stress and anti-inflammatory
Geranium: balancing emotions and moods paved
Neroli: adding to the spirit and moisturizing the skin
Rose, Sandalwood, and Lavender: Soothes the skin and make it smell good
Ginger hydrosol benefit: aromatherapy, raw materials of beauty and skin care products, natural oral therapy for symptoms of nausea (travel, morning sickness, post-anesthesia), a natural drinks that warms our bodies so that it is suitable for cold weather like today or while you celebrate a New Year's Eve 2012, etc.
Tips of use
In a single use, it is simply applied to the skin, or used as a mixture of water bath. In use as a powder solvent, scrub, mask and other,hydrosol as byproduct of essential oil distillation is used for thinning them.

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Saturday, December 10, 2011

Cardamom oil

Cardamom oil has a promising market in Europe with a price in excess of U.S. $ 230.0 per kg. The yield depends on the type of raw materials. This is generally used as a flavor agent as well as having benefits for human health and treatment. Its components consist mainly of cineol and alpha terpenil acetate. The rest is oxygenated monoterpenes, monoterpene hydrocarbons, and a sesquiterpene.
Its raw material (kapolaga herb or kapulaga in Indonesia); is known to have two types, namely Sabrang (Elettaria cardamomum) and local (Amomum cardamomum). Sabrang is the kind which is most cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, Laos, Guatemala, and El Salvador. This species is regarded as the true one, while the type which is widely planted in Indonesia is local type and called as well as the false. The main compounds of True Cardamom Oil are terpenes, terpineol and cineol, while False Cardamom Oil also contain borneol and camphor (kamfer).
Cardamom oil sold in the international market is produced through the distillation of the seeds (Sabrang types), while the products of local species is not yet known. The processing technology used is generally steam distillation. The color is clear to pale yellow. Types are planted in Indonesia is widely used for a mixture of herbs, while its essential oil is not much produced. The results showed that the characteristics of Sabrang cardamom oil, locally grown at Sukabumi West Java - Indonesia, can meet the requirements of International Standards, while the characteristics of the essential oil from local species are very different. The main difference of these two kinds of products is their main components, which Sabrang contains terpinil acetate, while the main content of local species is cineol. Other components include limonene, sabinen, linalool, linalyl acetate, pinene, and zingiberen.
The yield of Sabrang cardamom oil and the local one is 3.5 and 2.5%. The essential oil of true species is widely used as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents, lotions, creams, and perfumes, especially the oriental and is an important flavor in food processing. The maximum usage rate in the perfume was 0.4 and 0.01% in alcoholic beverages. High price in foreign markets provide hope for the development of Sabrang species as a new source of essential oils. Utilization of local species is for the pharmaceutical industry and partly as a culinary ingredient. It is also used as raw material for its oleoresin.
Usefulness of essential oil for their plants itself is that C4 photosynthesis minimizes photorespiration and increases sugar production. This adaptation is very useful in hot regions with a lot of sunlight and in environments like these C4 plants emerge and flourish. In addition, it is also useful in the process of pollination by attracting several kinds of insects using its unique smell. Preventing damage to crops by animals and as a reserve food for plants is another function of volatile oils for their plants. While the cardamom oil benefits are as a fragrance enhancer, an ingredient for mixture of herbs or medications to reduce stomach bloating pain, sore throat, hoarseness, reducing excessive fart, anti-cough, preventing bone loss, rheumatism, whooping cough, stomach cramps, vomiting, stomach inflammation (gastritis), fever, gout, muscle pains and hernias.
In general, cardamom oil has chemical compunds as follows: terpineol, borneol, sebinena, cineol, β-camphor, limonene, α-terpinene, proteins, sugars, fats, acetate, mirkena, mirtenal, karvona, and silicates.

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Thursday, December 8, 2011

Rose oil benefit

What is exactly the rose oil benefit ? What makes these flowers so valuable that it is often used as wreaths are worn around the special guests, like David Beckham gets garlands from Syahrini a famous artist from Indonesia when he and his team LA Galaxy from USA visit to that country for Asia tour. Whether because of its color is beautiful or interesting. Or because of its aroma? The following descriptions may be valuable for their lovers of this essential oil.
The rose oil is obtained by distilling its flowers. The main chemical components contained in it is citronelol, geraniol, alcanes, and alcenes. This is commonly used for bathing, compresses, massage, perfume, air freshener, and skin care, and has a tonic effect.
Traditionally, it has been known to have a positive effect on the skin. Almost all types and brands of perfume known to use it as raw material. It also reduces redness caused by enlarged capillaries, irritation and burns, or inflammation of the skin. The smell is relaxing to the nervous system and is known to reduce the emotional and psychological stress and depression.
Rose oil benefit is to affect the emotions, soothing mood, release tension of nerves, and evoke the feminine side of women. Therefore, the symptoms of depression and stress, such symptoms during menstruation, can be reduced by inhaling the scent of rose oil. This can make a woman always feels optimistic, making it useful for those who lost their confidence. Furthermore, it is intentionally mixed to make the men able to increase sperm production. Another benefit is to address the problem of dry skin, wrinkles, and chapped skin.
Its flower is a symbol of beauty and adored by almost all the girls in the world. It is also a universal symbol of purity. They are producing a natural compound that works to minimize pores and reduce oil on the face. In accordance with the symbols, they are naturally good facial cleanser because it is very soft and smelling good.
Spices bath
This is a typical traditional treatment which was originally only intended for women nobles of the palace. But now you can do herbs bath and soak in warm water spiked with sandalwood, turmeric and betel rhizome oil and flower extracts such as Rosa damascena and jasmine oil because one of rose oil benefit is to relax and cleanse the body and eliminates odors.

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Friday, November 11, 2011

How to store essential oils

Some tips related to how to store essential oils (EOs)in order to maintain its quality and durability, among others are:
1. Make sure whether the product is pure or mixed.
2. Use a clean or nodes glass bottle to save it. When using a package from metal, look for metal that do not affect the quality of its content, because there are certain metals that can react with chemicals in EO, so it will obscure the scent and damage its components. The brown color glass will be very suitable for the types which is easily oxidized.
3. EO can also be stored in a sealed bottle or airtight. This is intended to avoid evaporation and losses.
4. Avoid direct sunlight, because there are certain EOs which is volatile and easily oxidized when exposed to sunlight.
5. Choose a cool and dry environment, and not to keep it in a moist place are the important parts of our tips on how to store essential oils.
6. Each package of EO should be labeled, which comes with the name or materials type, properties, efficacy and usefulness.
7. Bottles should be placed in a special box or cupboard which is safe from the reach of infants or children.
8. Each pure EO should not be mixed with others, except during use. This is to maintain the purity and avoid loss of its efficacy.
9. For the products that have undergone mixing, specify the composition of the materials, so that you don’t need adding new materials that will be able to affect its usability and usefulness.
Another thing you need to consider besides how to store the essential oils is the expired date, because each has a different shelf life associated with its properties and the content of their chemical compounds.

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Thursday, November 10, 2011

Rose essential oil

Rose essential oil is one of the oldest and most valuable raw materials for perfumery. Not all of its components are soluble in the cosmetics. It is started from a perennial erect shrub with beautiful sweet scented flowers. Out of about 120 species, three species are commercially used for the essential oil production, namely, Rosa damascena., R. Gallica and R. centifolia. R. damascena is the most important with a delicate fragrance from which most of the high grade product. The extracted absolute adds lasting notes. Bulgarian rose oil is used for flavouring Certain types of tobacco. Limited quantities of otto are employed in flavouring soft drinks.
Plant and flower
Other species is R. alba with white flowers, but with less content of essential oil (EO). Indonesia to develop a hybrid type like sonia, Tineke, and pareo. The production reached 140-190 flowers per m2 per year. Usually it is fully formed after 20-25 days. It needs environment temperature about 15-23 degree Celsius and humidity 60%. If the ambient temperature is greater than 23 degree Celsius, then the respiration faster than photosynthesis so that the amount of flower are increasing but the content and quality of its EO declined.
Time to harvest is only 20 days annually. In order to get the higher yield with the highest quality, flower pickers must go to the garden at 5 am.
It should be harvested before the morning dew evaporates. According to experts, the crop yields on two different mornings will produce different characteristics of EO.
Producer countries
The best rose essential oil used as a perfume ingredient is not from France, but from the Balkans, Bulgaria. Famous perfume brands in the world, often using it as potential materials for its flagship commodities. And now they began to like Bulgarian rose essential oil which is said to have the best quality. The main producers in the world today include Bulgaria, Turkey, Morocco, Iran, France and Italy. Approximately 60 to 70 percent of world production of this product has been imported by France.
According to experts, the special characteristics of the climate in Bulgaria, has made the rose essential oil produced is more flavorful and durable. This makes manufacturers compete to use it. In the world, its prices constantly on the increase, according to the type of processing needed to produce this valuable raw material.
The amazing value
Rose oil price today has reached $U.S. 9,000/kg. Experts from Bulgaria, predict that an increase in demand for this product may be increased sharply. The production of this precious perfume substance needs a lot of labor. To produce two pounds (= 0.9 kg) of rose essential oil, requires 5,500 pounds (about 2.5 tons) to 6,600 pounds (2.9 tons) of raw materials. For that reason, its price is often compared to the gold price. In Bulgaria for example, 0.002 lb (about 9 grams) of this product sold at a price of $ U.S. 24.
The application
The rose essential oil is not only used for perfumes and cosmetics. Rose water and jam is used for making syrups and medicinal preparations. The Americans have found other use: to maintain spacecraft equipment. This is because it is more resistant to various temperatures. It is also contained in the most expensive perfume which is now on display for sale in Spain at a price of U.S. $ 636.000 per bottle (500 ml). One mini bottle of this luxury fluid contains at least 170 kinds of rose essential oil. This precious perfume is made with takes 1 year of manufacture.

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Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Carrier oil for essential oils

In fact, pure essential oils (EO) should be diluted first with a carrier oil or basal oil in order to obtain an adequate concentration and chemical effects are not too hard on the body, so they should not directly be used for aromatherapy purposes. This is because the active ingredients in EO have the strong enough power of reaction. If it is not be diluted first, then it can lead to excessive sensitivity of the users organs.
Carrier oil is the oil obtained from the extraction of vegetable material. The content can usually be found in the seeds and the fruit of a plant. Its function is as a source of food reserves as these plants grow. In addition, it is also a backup energy source for plants, especially in helping the chemical-biological processes during his lifetime.
Chemical properties
The compounds that make up carrier oil for essential oils may consist of: lauric, palmitic, capric, stearic, kaproat, decanoate, and linoleic acid and other compounds which are derivatives. They have different chemical properties with EO properties. They are less stable, easily soluble in ether, but not easily soluble in water and do not easily evaporate.
Basically it is is a type of vegetable oil in the form of straight-chain fatty acids containing ester groups, which are hydrophilic. These can cross the hair follicle, reaching the top layer of skin and can be absorbed by the skin as well. Aside from being a base component in the aroma therapy, they also can act as emoliensa, cosmetics, nutrition, sunscreen, and water repellent. In aroma therapy, they are used in a ratio of more than EO.
They can be produced from grains and fruits through the process of extraction so that it is commonly referred as vegetable oil. The type of carrier oil for essential oils are the oil of coconut, wheat, sunflower, olive, peanut, corn, soy, sesame, avocado, and etc. Choosing the right type of material mentioned above will determine the characteristics of the resulting mixture for each of these vegetable oil have a distinctive aroma, especially if they have not been properly purified. However, sometimes it purification process eliminates the efficacious component in it, such as antioxidants or vitamin E that actually has a benefit if the mixture is intended for the skin.

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Saturday, November 5, 2011

Essential oil for abdominal pain

Essential oil is traditionally prepared to get rid of light abdominal pain and which is not repetitive. However, in principle, the pain should be examined by the physician to keep the possibility of the symptom which is associated with appendicitis, inflammation of the pancreas, peptic ulcers, pancreatic cancer, pneumonia, inflammation of the bladder, hepatitis, inflammation of lung, viral infection, or other things that need more serious treatment. If nothing else more serious then it can be reduced by the following treatment.
Pain in the upper abdomen
Rub the following mixture to the abdomen. The essential oil of peppermint (3 drops) and clove (2) dissolved in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (coconut or sesame oil).
In the lower abdomen
Rub the following mixture to the abdomen. Thyme (2 drops) and clove (3) dissolved in 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil (coconut or sesame oil).
That symptom actually can be caused by other factors, such as malabsorption syndrome caused by unbalanced eating lifestyle. So that, the food absorption and digestion process of is compromised, because a number of enzymes to break down food is not enough. Some foods that enter the body will be wasted. Therefore, if abdominal pain occurs too often, then you should consult to your doctor or nutritionist, instead of using essential oil.

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Monday, October 31, 2011

Different types of essential oils

Essential oils (EO) are obtained by different methods -- distillation being the most familiar. There are four different types of essential oils: absolutes vs. concretes, expressed, solvent-extracted, and steam-distilled.
Absolutes are "essences," rather than "essential" oils. They are generally obtained from the extraction of a concrete with alcohol. A concrete is the solid waxy residue derived from hexane extraction of plant parts(usually the flower petals). This method is used for botanicals where the fragrance and therapeutic parts of the plant can only be unlocked using solvents. These are not to be used internally, as traces of petrochemicals remain in the product. Jasmine and neroli are examples of absolutes.
Expressed oil are pressed from the rind of fruits (usually citrus). Tangerines, grapefruits, lemons and oranges are produced by this method. Technically speaking, these are not EO - they are expressed product, but they are highly regarded for their therapeutic properties, none the less. It is best to use only organically grown crops for this method, since pesticide residues, especially highly toxic, carbamate and chloride-based petrochemicals, can become highly concentrated in this product.
Solvent extration involves the use of oil-soluble solvents, such as hexane, dimethylenechloride, and acetone. There is no guarantee that the finished product will be free of solvent residues. Steam distillation is the oldest and most traditional extraction method. Plant material is inserted into a cooking chamber, and steam is passed through it. After the steam is collected and condensed, it is processed through a separator to collect the product. The amount of pressure used, the amount of time the plant parts is steamed and the material the steam chamber is constructed of contribute a great deal to the quality of the product.
Glossaries related to the different types of essential oils
Absolute : the most concentrated form of fragance obtained when distilling a concrete.
Balsam : water soluble, semi-solid or viscous resinous exudate similar to that gum.
Concrete : a waxy concentrated semi-solid EO extract, made from plant parts, and is used to make absolute.
Essence : the liquid products resulting from the condensation of vapour from puree processing.
Essential oils : volatile aromatic liquid consisting the odorous principles botanical matter
Fixed oil : obtained from plants that are fatty and non-volatile
Flower water : the water resulting from the distillation of essential oils, which still contains some of the properties of the plant parts used in the processing.
Fractionated oil : it have been re-distilled, either to have terpenes removes or remove other substances.
Infused oil : its is produced by steeping the macerated botanical material in oil until it has taken on some the material properties.
Oleo gum resin : odoriferous exudation from botanical material consisting of essential oils, gum, and resin.
Oleoresin (OR): Natural resinous exudation from plants or aromatic liquid preparation extracted from botanical material. Solvent extraction of properly ground plant parts subsequent removal of solvent distillation gives dark coloured viscous products.
Resin : they are natural exudations from trees, prepared resins are OR from which the essential oils has been removed.
Resinoids : perfumed substances extracted from natural resinous material by using solvent.
Terpeneless : EO from which monoterpene hydrocarbons have been removed.
Tincture : either a herbal or perfume substances prepared in an alcohol base.
Volatile : substance that is unstable an evaporates easily, like an EO, then give distinct aroma
Spice oil : EO obtained by steam or water distillation of ground spices and in some cases whole spices.
Perfume : liquid with a specific favour produced by mixing or blending two or more EO in a solvent
Different types of essential oils showed the effect on their chemical composition, properties, proper application, and application concentration, although it used the same raw materials.

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Sunday, October 30, 2011

Essential oil for natural sunscreen

Among the essential oil that can be used for natural sunscreen is ylang-ylang. This oil can be a single topical dosage form or mixed with other materials in the form of basal oil such as avocado, seed grain, and corn oil. This basal oil contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that can function as a protective skin from the damage caused by environmental factors such as dust, heat, radiation, and others.
Sunscreen is very beneficial to the skin from the influence of the hot sun. Especially for those who live in the tropics where the hot sunlight can burn the outer layer of the epidermis then the skin become darker because of pigmentation changes. By using natural sunscreen from ylang–ylang essential oil, skin health is expected to always awake.
It is a material that can absorb or scatter ultraviolet (UV) radiation which can be produced from organic materials. These compounds generally contain a benzene ring. One of the active components is 4-methoxy octyl cinnamic which can be synthesized from the Claisen condensation reaction between 4-methoxybenzaldehyde and octyl acetic. Eugenol, seen from its structure (aromatic ring, allyl functional groups, hydroxy, and methoxy), can be converted to derivatives such as 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde. Eugenol is a component of clove essential oil. By replacing the octyl group with other alkyl compounds, it is expected to produce a better sunscreen activity. Their activity is shown by the SPF value (sun protection factor). The value expressed the ability of a component to protect the skin from sun damage.
The results Dwiyono et.al., students from Gadjah Mada University - Indonesia, showed that the condensation reaction of 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde, a derivative of eugenol, and hexyl acetic produced 3,4-hexyl dimethoxy hexylbenzaldehyde. This essential oil natural compound has the activity of the protection against UV-B ray regions that can be classified as UV-B sunscreen compound.

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Friday, October 28, 2011

Essential oil chemical changes

Essential oil chemical changes is usually attributed to such general reactions as oxidation, resinification, polymerization, hydrolysis of esters, and to interreaction of functional groups. These processes seem to be activated by heat, the presence of air, of moisture, and catalyzed by exposure to light and in some cases, possibly by metals.
There is no doubt that oils with a high content of terpenes (all citrus oils, pine needle oils, oil of turpentine, juniper berry, etc.) are particularly prone to spoilage, due probably to oxidation, and especially resinification. Light seems to be of lesser importance as a factor causing deterioration, than is moisture.
Essential oils containing a high percentage of esters (bergamot, lavender, etc.) turn acid after improper storage, due to partial hydrolysis of esters. The aldehyde content of certain oils (for example, lemongrass) gradually diminishes as the essential oil chemical changes take place. Fatty oils, with a few exceptions, are very prone to oxidation, but such spoilage can be retarded or prevented altogether by antioxidants. Certain types, especially those containg alcohols (for example, geranium), are quite stable and stand prolonged storage. Still others, patchouli and vetiver, for instance, improve considerably on ageing; in fact, they should be aged for a few years before being used in perfume compounds.
As a general rule, any essential oil should first be treated to remove metallic impurities, freed from moisture and clarified, and then be stored in well-filled, tightly closed containers, at low temperature and protected from light. A layer of carbon dioxide or nitrogen gas blown into the container before it is sealed will replace the layer of air above the oil and thereby assure added protection against oxidation. Nevertheless, moisture seems to be one of the worst factors in itsspoilage and, therefore, any moisture must be removed prior to storing.
The effect of essential oil chemical changes is on their physical properties such as increase or decrease in their viscocity, color change, and loss of scent.

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Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Retort for essential oil distillation

Retort for essential oil distillation is often referred as tanks. It is a vessel where the contact between the plant substances with steam takes place and then it vaporizes the volatile compounds. Its simple form is a cylindrical with a diameter equal to its height or slightly smaller, and equipped with a lid that can be raised and can be attached with a clamp on the cylindrical body.
The lid should be attached strong and tight enough with vessel so that no moisture can loose during the refining process takes place. At the top of cylinder was placed a kind of swan neck that can flow the vapor to the condenser. In the water distillation method (WD), liquid H2O and plant material is filled into the retort, and then heated. The steam along with essential oil will evaporate together, then head to the goose neck and condense.
In the water and steam distillation method (WSD), an open container is stationed in the form of plates with holes (can also be a coarse sieve from metal) on the bottom inside the retort for essential oil distillation, which is used to hold plant material above the water surface.
During the processing of seed (whole or have been grinded), this container should be covered with cloth or others so that the seed do not pass down. This container must be sufficiently far above the bottom so that the liquid H2O can be filled pretty much into the vessel without any contact with the material and drought does not occur during the processing. As an illustration, for the retort which has 60 cm height, the container should be 20 cm above the bottom.
In WD method, the tank should be wider so that the raw plant parts can be submerged in liquid H2O. It will produce more yield and better quality. Height and diameter of the tank on the WSD are approximately equal. If you have more quantity of the material, so the tank height must be adjusted. All you need to know is it must be maintained so that it is not too dense to allow the steam move freely toward the top through them. In addition, it should also be made an instrument that can detect the water level in the vessel to avoid drought during the processing. To prevent heat lost, it would be good if the entire surface of the retort for essential oil distillation is coated with heat-resistant layer, such as asbestos.

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Sunday, October 23, 2011

Health benefits of essential oil

The health benefits of essential oil today is as a source of natural medicine which is safe and inexpensive, through the aroma therapy method. This is quite reasonable, because they contain chemical content of active ingredient that has efficacy and rapid effect in helping to cure diseases. The active ingredient is also an effective and practical cosmetic material.
The effect of essential oil on health can be explained through the following mechanisms:
1. Its molecules are very small so it can easily be absorbed through the blood capillaries to flow throughout the body tissues. The active substances then circulated to all body tissues, so it will be easier to reach the locations/target to be treated (target site).
2. They have also properties to get dissolved easily in the fat or fat-soluble, so it is easily absorbed into the skin layers and the layers underneath the skin (subcutaneous) when applied or rubbed.
3. They can relieve tension in muscles that are experiencing fatigue due to excessive activity.
4. The health benefits of essential oil can be explained through the effects of active substances which can affect the lining of the intestinal wall directly, lenders membrane, and the muscles in the bowel wall when consumed internally via the oral route.
5. It can also affect the impulses and nerve reflexes received by the ends of nerve receptors in the outermost layer of skin beneath the epidermis layer. In addition, they can affect the work function activity of the brain through the nervous system associated with the sense of smell. This response will be able to stimulate increased production of nerve conduction of the brain (neurotransmitters), which is related to the recovery of psychological conditions (such as emotions, feelings, thoughts, and desires).
6. They can also affect the lymph nodes. In this case, the effectiveness of active substances can help prostaglandin production which plays an important role in regulating blood pressure, controlling the pain, and hormonal balance.
7. Other health benefits of essential oil is to help the performance of enzymes, among others, the digestive enzymes that play a role in stimulating appetite; hydrochloric acid, pepsin, mucin and other substances that exist in the stomach.

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Thursday, October 13, 2011

Essential oil for skin softening

Essential oil for skin softening are suitable by using the essential oil of camomile, patchouli, sandalwood and a mixture of all three materials. Those types can be used as a perfume or aroma therapy inhalation. They can also be used in a variety of body care products like hand body, body lotion, body scrub, body mask, and the powder component. The others types are excellent for use in the bath, or afterwards in the form of herbal bath and body wash.
Combine with a healthy lifestyle
All women off course dream about a beautiful skin. Further more if they have already got married, the husband's praise will surely make their effort to treat theirs so meaningful. Caring your beauty is not expensive. If you like to eat vegetables, then get the dream by eating certain herbs. There are a few tips that can make you have the dream. It certainly will make you more and more confident.
For those who live near the tea garden, make it a habit to drink green tea. Green tea has many benefits, among others, stop inflammation, slow the DNA damage, and prevent sunburn skin. For them lived in town, it would be obtained by purchase.
Next, look for plants producing omega-3 fatty acids. Essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 prevent yours from dryness and excess oil.
Using essential oil for skin softening will give us a better impact if it is followed with good nutrition. Essential fatty acids are the fats that make yours smoother and looking younger. Its sources include olive oil, canola oil, walnuts and salmon, sardines and mackerel.
Next, seek out plants producing vitamin E. It is an antioxidant that becomes a shield from damage caused by sun exposure. They also acts as an anti-inflammatory and immune system enhancer. Sources of foods rich in vitamin E include vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, asparagus and leafy greens.
The easier way is eating the herb producing vitamin C. They protect yours from the sun. They also repair damage caused by free radicals, which damage the skin reinforcing fibers such as collagen and elastin. Source of vitamin C among other are peppers, citrus fruits, papaya, kiwi, broccoli, green leafy vegetables.
You should also eat a lot of herbs that contain vitamin A. Eat fruits and vegetables such as carrots. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin A, which moisturize the skin inside. The other sources are green vegetables, eggs and low fat milk such as cheese.
This one is special, indeed somewhat strange name that is selenium. Selenium is a trace mineral that protect skin cells from free radical damage. Selenium might also plays an important role in preventing cancer. Foods that are rich sources of selenium include brazil nuts, mushrooms, shrimp, lamb, tuna, salmon. Selenium is also found in cooked beef, sardines, crab and pasta wheat.
Facial tips using essential oil
To make facial smoothing concoction in the form of 'liniment' (solution in oil), use olive oil as a basal oil or emollient cream base. Pure olive oil is believed to create a soft glowing skin, compared to other types. It helps you to lubricate yours and make it look healthy glow. Add a drop of essential oil into the basal oil with the proper dose. This herb can also be applied evenly on yours or can be mixed with warm water and used as a facial compress.
So, the use of essential oil for skin softening becomes one of the alternative methods that need to be supported with a natural healthy lifestyle.

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Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Basil essential oil benefits

Basil essential oil benefits may be not known by the public because traditionally, basil (Sundanese: surawung) are familiar to us as raw eaten vegetable. We often encounter it in the traditional market or displayed on supermarket shelves that are sold in a small bond. The price is relatively cheap. People usually buy it just for salad or as an aromatic spice in cooking. It is a member of the family Lamiaceae, which means the group of plants with lipped flowers. Its genus name is Ocimum that means scented plant. Its distinctive aroma comes from the leaves. It is closely related to ocimun sancium, mint (Mentha arvensis), and cumin leaves (Coleus amboinicus). Mint leaves in the Sunda tradition (society of West Java – Indonesia) is known as karesmen, commonly eaten raw.
In Jakarta, only its fresh leaves sold in supermarkets are packed in a small tube container. It is widely used as an aromatic spice blend for Italian cuisine, such as sphagetti sauce or pizza sauce. Its plants have many varieties. In Indonesia it has botanical name: Ocimum basillicum. It grows in groups (like bush). In Jakarta, it is commonly used in typical Betawi dish, side dish like rice or laksa. In West Java, it is used in a variety of delicious Sundanese dishes such as ulukutek oncom leunca (sauteed leunca), pais side dish (fish pepes), laksa bogor or Karedok. While in the area of East Java, its leaves served with krawu rice, botok, trancam, tempeh or. In Manado cuisine - tasty pasty food - spiked with the leaves as a complementary dish.
In India and parts of Africa, infusion of "basil tea" is commonly served to replace the original tea leaves drinks. The drinks are usually served during the change of seasons, when the person susceptible to coughs, colds, or fevers. In Europe, basil essential oil is distilled and sold. It is widely used as an ingredient for the manufacture of drugs or treatments such as soap, perfume essences, body lotion, ointment, candy lozenges, as well as aromatherapy.
According to the "List of Food Composition" from Nutrition Directorate of the Ministry of Health (Indonesia), it is grouped into vegetable which is rich in provitamin A. Each 100 g of its leaves contained 5000 of vitamin A. Another advantages, it is including vegetables that contain lots of minerals of calcium and phosphorus, which is about 45 and 75 mg per 100 g of leaves.
Indonesia people have long recognized it as a functional food which is delicious. Hereditary, it is used to overcome flatulence or colds. If your infants and toddlers suffer from bloating or fever, just apply the leaves and the squeeze of the red onion with coconut oil on the abdomen, chest, and backs (because babies can not eat.
If you encounter problems with body odor, bad breath, or milk jam, it can be overcome by familiarizing yourself to eat a salad of its fresh leaf. Alternatively, you may drink its leaf juice that have been mashed together with beluntas leaves and turmeric leaves. In the book of "A Dictionary of Practical Medical Materials", John Henry M. mention, basil leaves juice is efficacious to cure diarrhea, breast pain, kidney stones, disruption of the vagina, and also can overcome albuminaria, or the concentrated albumin in the urine.
According to the team of researchers from the Center for New Crops and Plant Products, Purdue University, USA, it is proven to cure headaches, colds, diarrhea, constipation, intestinal worms, and kidney disorders. They also suggested the efficacy of treatment with its leaves, which can cope with heartburn, flatulence, colds, convulsions, and lethargy. In addition, the basil aroma can repel the mosquito.
What are basil essential oil benefits ?
Since ancient time, it is distilled to take the basil essential oil. John Henry classified them as high volatile oil. That is, the scent of basil disappear soon after 24 hours application to the body. For comparison, the medium one will disappear after 3 days after its application, while the category of low volatile oil showed the lost after a week.
Essential oil of basil can be used for aromatherapy massage because it can relieve and refresh our body. However, pregnant women are prohibited from using it because it is possible to cause a miscarriage.
In addition, basil essential oil could overcome digestive disorders such as indigestion, vomiting, intestinal infections, stomach ulcers, and gas in the intestine. Also, disorders of the head (such as ear pain, fever, nasal pain, migraine), muscle disorders (spasms or cramps), and neurological disorders (anxiety, depression, hysteria, nervous weakness, insomnia).
For men, there are also basil essential oil benefits. Its 1-8 sineol compounds can overcome the problem of premature ejaculation. Its eugenol content may facilitate the occurrence of an erection. While its arginine substances can strengthen the vitality of the sperm and prevent infertility.
As for women, it is including healthy food which is very useful. It is rich in anetol and boron compounds that stimulate the hormone estrogen, whereas its eugenol compound can kill fungi that cause vaginal discharge. Its stigmaasterol substances stimulate the maturation of the egg (ovulation), and its zinc content reduces the secretion of vaginal fluids. Its tryptophan substances could delay monopause. So, it is not the usual vegetables because basil essential oil benefits should not be underestimated.

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Sunday, October 2, 2011

Clove leaf essential oil business

Clove leaf essential oil business in some areas of Central Java, Indonesia is facing a tough challenge. Many owners of this business in a number of villages at the district of Kaligesing (Purworejo - Indonesia) complained of capital difficulty. They can not buy in large quantities clove leaves from the collectors and growers.
This fragrant product is limited because of clove leaves to run out in one or double times of distillation process. Though the price of its essential oil was improved in the range of Rp 125,000 per kilogram. "Now the price is good, but our capital is limited," said Dahlan, one of the employers in the Village District Tlogoguwo Kaligesing, to Kedaulatan Rakyat News, Thursday (9/29/2011). He claimed to have only one ton of the raw material. That raw material is expected to be discharged to a one-time process. Typically, Dahlan have it as much as two to three times.
Dry season, he continued, is the harvest period for clove leaf essential oil business. Farmers actively seek and collect the dry leaves that fall on their farms. Abundant supply of those leaves make any entrepreneur can process it every day. During the dry season, Dahlan claimed to have processing approximately 78 times. In fact, when the rainy season, a maximum of only six times of distillation did. Nevertheless, the processing could be maximized if employers easily get the raw material. Tlogoguwo distiller workers, Giman added, the price of the dried leaves also increased. When the rainy season, the businessmen buy Rp 1,200 per kilogram, but now (at the time of this article written) it is Rp 1,810 per kilogram.
According to him, each time the process, employers need between 8-9 hundred pounds of leaves. After cooking for about eight hours, it will produce 18-19 kilograms of oil. "The oil we sell directly to the merchant who is also a partner of venture capital lender," he said. Despite these obstacles become significant problems for clove leaf essential oil business, but it should be an opportunity for investors who are interested to benefit from these fragrant compounds.

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Saturday, October 1, 2011

How to use essential oil for aromatherapy

Before starting the treatment, your way of how to use essential oil for aromatherapy need to be considered in order to obtain optimal benefits. This is useful for selecting the appropriate types. Currently, the most common type, such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus is obtained through the distillation process.
In general, when you use it, use the smallest amount of them that will be done. It should only be used in the body after receiving a detailed consultation and prescription from a practitioner who trained and qualified aromatherapist. The smoke from its burning may contain potentially carcinogenic substances, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). They naturally have the high content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some of them should be avoided during pregnancy or by people with asthma, epilepsy, or with other health conditions.
Tou can try some tips on how to use essential oil for aromatherapy:
1. Using them means using ingredients that contain chemicals with specific effects. Therefore, be aware of the procedures whether inhaled or just applied to our skin.
2. In choosing its products, should be adjusted with its use. This can be achieved if you select the right type.
3. It would be better if you select the product derived from plants, rather than synthetic materials.
4. In order not to cause side effects, it is worth if you first tested on the skin before you use it for aromatherapy,. Dilute a small amount of them and apply it on the inside of your arm. Do not use the pure one on your skin. Keep it out from the eyes and mucous membranes.
5. Add 7-10 drops of them in bath water directly or mixed with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil. Stir in water to form the number of 8. Soak in it for at least 15 minutes.
6. Massage helps the skin absorb it.
7. Use lavender essential oil for sheets and blankets at bedtime to sleep more relaxed.
8. Avoid using it after sweating or after come from the sauna.
9. Avoid the hot sun or bask in bed after using it.
Thus, this tips for aromatherapy will affect your success to gain the purposes or benefits you had planned.

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Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Essential oil uses as rat repellent

Essential oil uses as rat repellent is one alternative to reduce the negative impact of the use of chemicals in controlling them. They are one of the major pests in agricultural activities. Damage caused by this pest can occur ranging from field to storage. In addition, the mice often carry a wide range of pathogens that can be transmitted to humans, i.e. Yersiniosis, Leptospirosis, Salmonellosis and Lymphochytis choriomeningitis.
In the effort to overcome that obstacles, the various alternative control of mouse have been performed, both technical culture, physical, mechanical, and chemical. Chemical rat repellent is the most common alternative to be compared with other control method. This is understandable because the results of toxic chemicals uses can be immediately visible and can be easily applied to large areas.
However, the continuously use of chemicals to control various pests and diseases have led to many new problems, especially for the environment. The use of rat poison in storage areas or in homes have a greater risk, because of its toxic substances have a greater likelihood of contact with humans, pets and livestock, both directly and indirectly. It was reported also that the use of synthetic rodenticide has caused the rat to become more resistant. The use of materials that can resist the presence of the rodents or which is known as mice repellent is one way to control rats that are relatively more secure, because in general those materials are not toxic, but it works by affecting the their extra sensitive sense of smell.
The essential oil uses as rat repellent has been widely studied and researched in several laboratories and universities. Cahyani (2002) from Padjadjaran University of Indonesia, who tested several plant-based repellent materials, which include dragon wood (kayu naga), pandan leaves, jengkol or jering (Dogfruit or Archidendron pauciflorum or A. jiringa, Pithecellobium jiringa, P. Lobatum) and sandalwood oil (cendana oil) concluded that the treatment using sandalwood oil has the ability to reject the highest presence of the rat on a single treatment. The scent of sandalwood essential oil is appeared to affect the mind and behavior of rat. When inhaled, the aroma can provide a strong stimulus to the senses of smell. Because of the sandalwood oil scent, their very active behavior becomes calm or even reverse.
There are linkages between the specific scent of sandalwood with the mouse that have a very sensitive sense of smell. This indicates that certain scents can be used to get rid of rat. In addition to sandalwood oil, there are several other types that are commonly used in society, namely, among others, patchouli and vetiver essential oil. In a study conducted by Mardiningsih et al. (1995) from the Research Center of Spices and Medicinal Plants from Bogor Indonesia, a mixture of patchouli essential oil with naphthalene or with naphthalene and camphor in the form of solids and liquids which was absorbed on filter paper showed the repulsion against certain insects (Sitophilus zeamais and Carpophilus sp. In the results of this study also informed that its scent is a repellent of ants, cockroaches, moths cloth (Thysanura), Crocidolomia binotalis and Spodoptera litura.
Other type of essential oil aroma that is thought to have repellent power on rat is the vetiver. It is informed that from the vetiver essential oil refining area in Garut (West Java – Indonesia), in the vicinity of sewage treatment there were lots of mice population reduced after the introduction of sewage effluent treatment. So, it is suspected that its smell has the ability to repel rat.
The smell of patchouli essential oil has been shown in some studies may reject the presence of several types of insects, which include Sitophilus zeamay, Carpophilus sp. and Stegobium paniceum. Its content of patchouli alcohol compound acts as a repellent. It contains vetivone and vetivene, which are known to drive out to some of insects and antrophoda. Some products from the raw materials of vetiver plant part such as vetiver mats and tablecloths in the community are known to have the ability as a mosquito repellent and some other insect.
Based on the research of Natawigena et.al from Padjadjaran University (Indonesia), the scent of sandalwood, patchouli and vetiver essential oil absorbed on filter paper with a size 3 cm x 5 cm by 1 ml can repel the presence of mice in the experiments that have been conducted in the laboratory. The smell of vetiver essential oil is the aroma of the least preferred by rat in comparison with the others through the same way of application. It is one type of volatile substances which are difficult to evaporate and be able to retain its aroma longer. In addition, the essential oil uses as rat repellent also have other benefit as air freshener.

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Monday, September 12, 2011

Antibacterial essential oils

Antibacterial essential oils recently attracted worldwide attention, because its role in a natural treatment against infection. Why is that? Infectious diseases are still a major problem in the health field. Treatment of infections with a combination of antibiotics was originally believed to be a drug which capable of destroying the microbes causing the infection. But it is also known to raise new problems of the emergence of microorganism that is multiresistant. These microbes are easily transmitted from one patient to another, especially in hospitals, which is known as nosocomial infection. The situation prompted the researchers to find new, more effective drugs to treat the infections.
Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are the pathogen bacterium of the most attacking humans. S. aureus is a gram-positive bacterium that lives as a saprophyte on the lining membrane of the human body, the surface of the skin, sweat glands, and intestinal tract, whereas E. coli is a gram-negative bacteria are commonly found in the human colon as normal flora.
Several studies have found that the volatile compounds of betel leaf, ginger, and turmeric have activity as an antifungal and antibacterial. They are generally divided into two components, namely the class of hydrocarbon and oxygenated hydrocarbon groups. The compounds derived from oxygenated hydrocarbons (phenols) have a strong antibacterial power.
Antibacterial essential oils from basil
Basil plants contain volatile compounds, but until now has not been cultivated. In Indonesia, basil plant is used for vegetables or salad as appetite boosters. Basil plants can be used as traditional medicine, to treat fever and nausea.
Biological activity that has been studied from the basil plant, among others, as antipyretic (lowers fever), carminative, laxative, and stimulates milk glands. Basil leaves essential oil are composed of hydrocarbons, alcohols, esters, phenols (1-19% eugenol, iso-eugenol), phenolat ether (methyl clavicol 3-31%, 1-9% methyl eugenol), oxides and ketones. Based on the research of Maryati et. al (2007) from Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta, Indonesia, basil essential oil has a better antibacterial activity on E. coli than on S. aureus.
Galangal (Alpinia galanga L.)
According to the research of Parwata and Dewi (2008) from Udayana University, Indonesia, galangal essential oil is more effective inhibit E. Coli than S. aureus. From the analysis of gas chromatography-mass spectrometer showed the galangal rhizome essential oil contain at least 8 antibacterial compounds: D-limonene; Eukaliptol; 3-cyclohexene-1-ol, 4-methyl-1-(1-methylethyl); phenol,4-(2-propenyl) acetate, 2.6-octadiene-1-ol, 3.7-dimethyl acetate; 1,6,10-dodecatriene, 7.11-dimethyl-3-methylene; pentadecane; cyclohexene,1-methyl-4- (5-methyl-1-methylene-4-hexenyl).
Flowers of Lagetan (Spilanthes paniculata Wall.)
Based on the research of Soetjipto (2008) from Satya Wacana Christian University, Indonesia, essential oil of Legetan flowers showed its bacteria inhibitory activity which was stronger against gram-positive, rather than against gram-negative. The main components of of lagetan flowers successfully identified as an antibacterial essential oils is a mixture of compounds: sabinene, β-phellandrene, β-ocimene, trans-cariophyllene, 1.11 - dodecadiena, α-humulene. , 1-pentadecene and β-pinene.

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Friday, September 9, 2011

Cinnamon oil benefits

Cinnamon oil benefits are numerous so that it can be used in many industries of food, beverages, medicines, cosmetics, flavors, fragrance, and cigarettes. Percentage of export value of Indonesia Cinnamomum sp. in 2005 to some major destination countries such as America, Germany, Netherlands and Singapore respectively are 46, 4, 11 and 4%. Some other products are: whole skin (stick), buds, oleoresin and materials for botanical pesticides.
Cinnamon oil as an antidiabetic
Inhibition of α-glucosidase in the intestine of mammals is capable of lowering blood sugar levels from the metabolism of carbohydrates so that cause the reduction of postprandial hyperglycemia to prevent chronic complications of diabetes melitus (DM). One of the groups that play a role in the inhibition of the enzyme a-glucosidase is a cinnamoyl group. Components of cinnamon oil containing cinnamoyl group is cinnamaldehyde. The main component is cinnamaldehyde (42-75%), while other components are eugenol, a-pinene, linalool and benzaldehyde. Based on the Ngadiwiyana et.al. research (2011) from Diponegoro University of Indonesia in Indonesian Journal of Pharmacy, cinnamaldehyde has a potential as a compound inhibiting a-glucosidase enzyme activity that could be developed as antidiabetic compounds. On the other hand, its plants and oil has been used as traditional medicine for diabetes.
Cinnamon oil benefits for health in general
Its efficacy can cure rheumatism, gout, cough/ cold, eliminate body odor, lower cholesterol, relieve colds and prevent cancer.
Cinnamon oil as organic pesticide/ natural pesticides
According Towaha and Indriati (2008) from Balittri of Indonesia, cinnamaldehyde in its plant is also an excellent fungicide. The essential oil uses of 30% at doses of 12 ml/l and 15 ml/l suppressed the widespread attacks by 31.49% and 34.35%. The active component contained in the plant (cinnamaldehyde) is toxic to Blattella germanica L. pests. Cinnamaldehyde content in oil of the skin, twigs and leaves, respectively is 66.51, 12.15 and 38.31%. Utilization of plant-based pesticides is an appropriate alternative to the current control and needs to be developed at the farm level. Organic pesticides easily available and the price is relatively competitive with synthetic pesticides, its raw material is pretty much available around our garden like a waste product of essential oil industry while its negative impact on the environment, humans and livestock can be ignored. Cinnamon bark oil has been used as an organic pesticide formulation and is quite effective for controlling pathogens of Fusarium oxysporum, Phytophthora capsici, Sclerotium rolfsii and Phytophthora cinnamomi.
Another benefits of cinnamon oil
The essential oil is used as a lubricant massage the body, because it can soften the skin as well as a nutrient for him. In addition, it is beneficial for treating the skin of spots and can strengthen teeth.
Special notes
Cinnamon oil benefits are numerous, but because its yield is very low so that its price is very expensive. The main consumers of its essential oil are Europe for the type C. zeylanicum and the United States for the type of C. cassia.

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Thursday, September 8, 2011

Essential oil for inhalation therapy

The uses of essential oil for inhalation therapy has a powerful effect on the sensory organs passed through by the active ingredients. It is known that sensors sense of smell in humans has high level of sensitivity. The sharpness of the sense of smell can be as high as 10,000 times more powerful than the sense of taste.
Aroma components of essential oil quickly interact when inhaled. These compounds interact with central nervous system and directly stimulate the olfactory system. Then this system will stimulate the nerves in the brain below the cerebral cortex equilibrium. The aromatic compounds or fragrance of a plant material has also showed to influence locomotor activity.
Locomotor activity is the activity of motion as a result of changes in electrical activity caused by permeability changes of postsynaptic membrane and by the release of the transmitter of neurons presynaptic at central nervous system.
Inhalation therapy using essential oil is very useful to overcome and alleviate the circumstances relating to the health condition of a person's body. They are especially the diseases associated with respiratory tract disorders and disturbances of other body systems. The purpose of the uses of essential oil for inhalation therapy is a way to channel the efficacy of that substances directly through passing its vapor directly or through the equipment for aromatherapy, such as inhalers tube and sprays, brazier, candles or electric heaters. Substances that are produced can be either gas, smooth steam droplets, smoke, and sublimation steam inhaled through the nose and swallowed through the mouth.
Aroma substances in the form of vapor droplet or in any other form that will moisten the respiratory tract by wetting the membrane on the nose, pharinks, trachea, bronchi, bronchiolus, and alveolus. In addition, the vapor can also affect one's psychological state through the stimulation received by the olfactory nerve terminal present in the mucous membranes of the nose, or the neural response area to other organs which the drops of vapor passing through.
The study of essential oils that affect locomotor activity initiated by Kovar et at. (1987) who reported that 1,8-cineole compounds isolated from rosemary oil can decrease locomotor activity of mice after the mice induced by caffeine stimulant compounds. Clinical testing of the sedative effects of lavender essential oil started by Buchbauer (1993) which has been proved that it can reduce locomotor activity in humans (Buchbauer, 1991). Etnofarmacology empirical studies on aromatherapy plants showed that Indonesia has 49 species of aromatic plants from 22 tribes, of which 12 types are used empirically as aromatherapy to soothe and refresh the body.
However, for certain purposes such as to dilute the phlegm or mucus in the respiratory tract, then the use of essential oil for inhalation therapy is not proven effective, contrary to traditional beliefs.

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Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Benefits of clove essential oil

The benefit of clove essential oil is not as popular as olive or cajuput oil. But it is good for health. Clove oil is volatile substances that can be used as an alternative treatment. Many of the substances contained in this commodity play important role as antibiotics, anti-virus, anti-fungal and has efficacy as an antiseptic. In addition it was also found that it contain about 60-90 percent eugenol.
The other contents are manganese, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, fiber, iron, potassium and calcium. It also contain vitamins which are needed by our body, especially vitamin C and vitamin K.
The research note that it can reduce inflammation in the body, improve immune system naturally, improving blood circulation, increase metabolism and help cope with stress and depression.
Some of the health benefits of clove essential oil are:
1. They improve the respiratory condition. People suffering from colds, nasal congestion, viral infections, asthma, tuberculosis or bronchitis can use it. Drink the mixture from 10-15 drops of good quality clove essential oil in a glass of boiled water. It is also effective to overcome the symptoms of sore throat.
2. They can cure a toothache. Its eugenol content can be a pain killer as well as bacteria and fungus naturally. Apply one drop of clove essential oil and olive oil to a cotton ball, then put on the tooth decay or pain tooth. This technique can also reduce inflammation.
3. It can reduce sore muscles and joints. Most of analgesic balm used to relieve muscular aches, joint pain, sprains and lumbago, contain 1,0 - 1,5 % eugenol (its unique alcohol substance). Its calcium, omega 3 oils and iron can also contribute to strengthen the joints and bones in the body.
4. It can serve for skin care. It can be used naturally to heal your skin, treat insect bites and reduce the infection.
Although it is a natural remedy, but you should consider before using it, since not many studies showed its effectiveness in humans.
For people who have a high sensitivity (hypersensitivity), should be careful in its use to avoid allergic reactions. Although there are so many benefits of clove essential oil, for people who are taking anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners) or antiplatelet drugs should be reconsidered for using it and consult your physician first.

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Friday, August 26, 2011

Natural antibiotic from essential oil

Essential oil has been widely used as natural antibiotic in developed countries and some developing countries, especially in countries where there are laws that prohibit the use of certain antibiotics, for example, the ban of avoparcin use at Denmark in 1995 and 1996 at Germany. Then in 1997, avoparcin was banned from use in Europe. The others such as streptogramin, virginiamycin, tylosin and Zn-bacitracin are also known causing human health problems and banned.
The workings of natural antibiotics from essential oil
In vitro studies showed that volatile compounds from various plants have antimicrobial and antifungal that can inhibit and kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi, as well as other pathogenic bacteria in the digestive tract.
Active substances carvacrol and thymol from oregano and thyme can lower the incidence of Proline proliferative enteropathy (PE) caused by Lawsonia intracellulari and coccidiosis in chickens. Both types of the disease are known worldwide as the cause of economic loss.
Green tea extract can not only improve the condition of the microflora in the human digestive tract, but also inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms in cattle and chickens. The essential oil of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, garlic, rosemary, tea, fennel, black cumin, blackberry, peppermint, nutmeg, turi flowers (Sesbania grandiflora syn. Aeschynomene grandiflora), and Indonesian bay-leaf or Indonesian laurel are also known to decrease the incidence of diarrhea in cattle and chickens and reduce mortality in chickens .
Furthermore, oregano improves skin color of chicken eggs and improve the condition of chicken manure (no wet dirt). Application of thymol and carvacrol can stop fermentation in cattle feces, inhibiting the formation of short chain fatty fly, and reduce the smell of dirt.
Laboratory analysis showed that there is no residue left due to the use of natural antibiotic from essential oil and an increase in carcass quality. From the economic point of view, they can lower the cost of livestock production and is believed to stimulate the decline in meat prices, so that more poor people are able to purchase and consume meat. And the absence of certain political influence, increasing of protein consumption decreases the incidence of malnutrition.
The concept of livestock production without the use of synthetic antibiotic is new concept and it can be applied in tropical countries, although it is in the environmental stress conditions such as temperature, humidity, and disease. The use of essential oils in Indonesia to be important in improving the quality of products from livestock demanded to be able to compete with products from the foreign countries. Moreover, the requirements of importing countries become more complex, such as free from various diseases and the standard requirements of the antibiotic residues.
Therefore, natural antibiotic from essential oil should be developed further to provide safe and good quality food, and also not cause other negative impacts on humans.

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Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Organic insecticide from pepper spices

Did you know that the spices in your kitchen, hiding incredible potential as an organic insecticide? One is Pepper (Piper nigrum L.), the spices which never missed its presence in a mixture of Indonesian cuisine proved capable of controlling warehouse pests/ insect of Callosobruchus maculatus F. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae), which can cause damage to 70% on green beans in the warehouse. Control of C. maculatus in storage is commonly done is by fumigation. However, excessive fumigation and continuously can have negative impacts, including resistance, resurgence, as well as the effect on human health and the environment.
Green beans or mung bean are one source of vegetable protein from beans class that cultivated by many farmers in Indonesia. But in the cultivation of green beans, farmers frequently encounter problems in the field or in storage (postharvest). The problem that often arises in the storage warehouse is pest Callosobruchus maculatus (F.). The use of spice plants as botanical insecticides is a method that is economical and easy control of the bugs attacks.
Utilization of pepper as an organic insecticide or plant-based insecticides is an environmentally friendly alternative and in accordance with the principles of Integrated Management of Warehouse Pest. Based on the research, pepper gets its spicy heat mostly from the piperine compound, which is found both in the outer fruit and in the seed. Black pepper contains between 4.6% and 9.7% piperine by mass, and white pepper slightly more than that. Refined piperine, by weight, is about one percent as hot as the capsaicin. While the pepper essential oil contains Limonene, pinene, myrcene, Phellandrene, beta-caryophyllene, Beta-bisabolene, Sabinene, Linalol, Pinocarveol, Alpha, terpineol, Camphene, Alpha, Terpenene. Piperine and its essential oil work together as a nerve poison and stomach poison . Its fruit is euthanizing or anesthetizing because of its piperine substances which have similarities to morphine (an alkaloid).
How to get rid of bugs using pepper and other spices
Its seeds finely ground and then sieved with a sieve mesh size of 0.05 to get the powder. Then, the powder is mixed evenly on the surface of mung bean seed with a minimum concentration of 0.5% (w / w). The powder will coat the entire surface of the mungbeen seeds, resulting in pest C. maculatus reluctant to lay their eggs on the surface of the green beans (kacang hijau). The powder also penetrate into the pores of the surface of mungbeans, causing C. maculatus larval would not grow well, and eventually die. This experiment has been tested in insect physiology and toxicology laboratory, Department of Plant Protection., Bogor Agricultural University (IPB) of Indonesia.
The experimental result showed that the spice powder and drying treatment proved effective in inhibiting the development of C. maculates and does not reduce germination of green beans. It showed high effectiveness in the treatment of Java chili and pepper powder combined with drying for one week, which can inhibit up to more than 90%. Turmeric powder treatment also effectively inhibited the development of C. maculates up to 50%.
Now, you can try by yourself to use spices such as pepper as an organic insecticide to repel insects from food stock in the kitchen.

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Types of Aromatherapy

The types of aromatherapy using essential oil are categorized as internally and externally aromatherapy. However, the effectiveness of the active ingredient from any materials that will be used needs to be learned before. It aims to obtain an optimal effect and right-of-use.
Internal aromatherapy types
In the form of liquid, pure essential oil can be directly consumed orally (eat or drink by mouth) and through inhalation (inhaled through the nose). Examples of these are the oils of peppermint, clove, anise, basil, mint, rosemary, chamomile, bergamot, basil, betel, and others. Some products made from essential oils have also been produced, among others, in the form of lozenges, stick incense or cone, candles, and evaporation using burners.
Stick essence works as incense. How to use stick incense: burn the upper end of essence stick and place it in the stick holder. Then place them in a corner of the room that we want to be filled with fragrance. The length of stick essence burn approximately 20 minutes, but the fragrance can last up to approximately 1.5 hours. It is not recommended for people with asthma and cold caused by allergy in the morning.
Types of external aromatherapy
In general, the use of aromatherapy is mostly done outside the body externally than internally from within the body. As a material for medicines, essential oil easily absorbed when direct contact with the skin layer. However, this is more optimal if it is done by using the proper way. Some methods are often done in between a massage and water therapies.
The recommended ways for massage are: rub your body with essential oils just before bed. It feels a bit sticky and bitter (if licked); but then your body feel quite warm and, because of the aromatic fragrance, the feeling and the mind becomes more calm and relaxed. It is recommended to use oil with a fragrance intended for the afternoon / evening. After a few times, then the skin will feel supple, soft and not dry and cracked. Essential oils can also be used without the massage.
Bath salts are usually affixed to the water to soak. The content of salts and aromatic fragrance makes your body becomes fresh, gives you smooth skin, and the calm mind. If you do not have a bath tub to soak, then soak the feet with water spiked with a tablespoon of bath salts is enough to make fatigue and aches in the legs disappeared, and the mind calm. Adjust the aromatic fragrance for morning or afternoon / evening. It can also be replaced by a few drops of essential oil.
If you do not have much time to soak; you can still feel the fragrance in the bath. Soap scented with a choice of various fragrances of aromatherapy can replace the that salts. Its use is very easy just like using regular soap. Besides the skin becomes smooth, feel fresh, and relaxing your thoughts with aromatic soap.
The proper use of the types of aromatherapy uses essential oils greatly assist the efficient and accurate work of active ingredients.

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Sunday, August 21, 2011

Essential oil recipe to heal diarrhea

Essential oil recipe traditionally had been found to generate the power to heal diarrhea. Research shows that the oxygen molecules in that essential oil react with water in human body to create heat that kills microbes or germs by dehydrating them. In 1992, Pakistan Pharmaceutical journal contains research results prove that certain essential oils killing more V. Cholera and E. coli bacteria strain (which causing that disease) compared with antibiotics such as Ampicillin and Tetracillin.
Partawa and Dewi research published in Jurnal Kimia/ Indonesia Journal of Chemistry (2008) 2 (2), showed that assay results of the essential oil of Alpinia galanga L. (galangal/ greater galangal/ Thai galangal/ blue ginger/ Thai ginger/ Langkwas/ Lengkuas/ galangal root) to the bacteria E. coli at a concentration of 100 ppm and 1000 ppm, indicating its good resistance to that bacteria.
This disease may occur for various reasons, partly because the food factor, nerve, and microbes. Of all these causes, the most important thing is to drink plenty of water, then rub a solution of the recipe (bellow) in vegetable oil on the entire surface of the abdomen.
a. Essential oil recipe to heal diarrhea caused by dietary factors
Use the ointment with the following solution:
Oil of chamomile (2 drops), peppermint (3), and eucalyptus (1)
Dissolve them in 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, then rub the whole surface of the stomach.
b. Neural factors
For curing diarrhea caused by nerves, use the ointment with the following solution:
Oil of chamomile (1 drop), eucalyptus (2), and lavender (3).
c. Microbial Factor
To cure diarrhea caused by microbial, use the ointment with the following solution:
Oil of thyme (3 drops), lavender (2), and tea tree (1)
Oral medications
In order to get rid of the diarrhea caused by neurological disorders and food, use 1 drop of peppermint oil, whereas in the case caused by microbes, use of eucalyptus oil. The oil is dissolved in 1 tablespoon of honey, then drink. Diarrhea treatment with aromatherapy is only as a complementary treatment, so the patients should see a doctor if the symptoms have not disappeared or diminished.
It appears that some of them it is still difficult to find at an affordable price. To overcome this, that products which are difficult to obtain should not be used or can be replaced with the others which are easily available and have the same efficacy. For example, chamomile oil can be replaced with fennel oil or ginger oil. Although it is less beneficial, but this is the best possible way for modify essential oil recipe to heal diarrhea. It's important to consult your doctor before using that recipe since everybody has different physical condition.

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Saturday, August 20, 2011

What is aromatherapy

What is aromatherapy
Aromatherapy actually covers three inter-related factors. They are the body, mind and spirit. Because it is a form of treatment or on behalf of Aromatherapy products must be able to provide a real therapeutic effect which includes the above 3 things. Not just talking about factors of the body as long as this develops. And the bottom line again is that aromatherapy is not only about the 'beauty' or beauty alone. But more than that, Aromatherapy is a form of 'healing' or the healing process.
Aromatherapy is a form of therapy by using essential oils or 'aromatic' oils. Pharmacologically, essential oils have a real efficacy in the treatment and healing our bodies from various health problems. So with a foothold in the natural health, it was a natural beauty will shine. One example of the use of aromatherapy for body care is the use of eucalyptus oil to treat stomach aches. Who can deny the real efficacy of White Wood oil? As we all know primarily by the Indonesian community that this type of essential oil is always used as a reference if you have mild health problems in the abdominal area and our breathing. Only with smeared on the experience health problems, then the effect will be immediate and the pain was reduced even with the soon to be healed. Well, this is a real efficacious Aromatherapy for the body. Or another example is the use of oil in the oil Cironella wasps as a cure wounds. Look at how quickly the wound dry. That's because Citronella oil has the ability to freeze blood and regenerate skin cells rapidly. Even in an SPA product, Citronella oil mixed into the body scrubs. Given that the pharmacological Citronella is also antiseptic, so the cream is not just a function scrubs remove dead skin cells, but also kills the bacteria that exist in the skin.
In addition to real merit to the health and beauty of the body, essential oils also affect the mind (mind). When someone is having thoughts that cause tension headaches, essential oils such as Fennel (anise) is soothing, will be able to relax the nerves. A gentle warmth will help relax the muscles and blood circulation. The aroma was when inhaled by the nose and was captured by the receptors in the nostril, will be forwarded to the brain for later nerve-nerve response in accordance with the orders of the brain. And stretching the nerves will feel.
The stability of the soul (spirit) we are influenced by psychological factors. If the pressure of certain circumstances as a consequence of this life have brought someone on the unstable psychological condition, then it really needs to watch out and do treatment as early as possible. An example is the life of a career in the big cities. Accelerating the development of civilization has indirectly forced the professionals we are to exert all abilities both physically seemed to mind. That in turn will lead to fatigue, even to the extent of depression. And this is a real fact. As evidence is my experience over many years to pursue this Aromatherapy business. Most of our customers are in the productive age between ages 25 to 40 years. And most of them looking for Aromatherapy for the peace of the soul as a healer of their souls anxiety due to the demands of civilization. This is where the essential oil would be very instrumental. Certain oils such as Rose oil, Jasmine, greentea, Sandalwood, Ylang ylang Cempaka and will bring the feel of soul lovers Aromatherapy to calm the situation that alpha waves lull even
From the brief exposition above, then we can catch a picture of the function of essential oil therapy is called Aromatherapy. So a product can be regarded as aromatherapy if it contains essential oils as the active substance is real merit in providing therapeutic effects for the body (BODY), thought (MIND) and soul (Soul) as a whole. If just a scent that can affect mood alone (soul) but not efficacious person physically (body) and mind (mind), then it can not be regarded as Aromatherapy.

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Thursday, August 18, 2011

Essential oil recipe to make bath salt

Essential oil recipe combined with magnesium compound can be used to make bath salt. Magnesium (epsom salt) with chemical formula MgSO4.7H2O used to increase levels of minerals in the water. It is preferred than NaCl because it does not cause dryness of the skin.
Stress can remove magnesium from the body. The content of magnesium sulfate in epsom salt dissolved in warm water can be absorbed through the skin and replenishes the level of magnesium in the body. Magnesium helps us to produce serotonin, a chemical that enhances mood in the brain and creates a sense of calm and relaxation. Both could help recharging your energy. Research shows that it also increases endurance and energy that triggers the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), an energy package in the cell. It can reduce irritation by reducing the effects of adrenaline, also reduce blood pressure, creating a sense of relaxation, improve sleep quality, concentration and helps muscles and nerves function properly. The epsom is easily obtained at any drugstore or supermarket. Cheap and versatile, it can be used for a number of different applications around the home. Many of the applications should be done with speed healing and improve skin quality and assist with basic care.
Its efficacy depends on the type of volatile substances used. Some of them is made with the different purpose or function, i.e. to provide a healing effect on the disease, to provide a relaxing effect, to provide refreshment and other effects. Each function is derived from its formula that differ in type, composition, and concentration of essential oil used.
Making bath salt using essential oil recipe can be carried out using: patchouli, ylang-ylang, nutmeg, cloves, turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, and peppermint oil. The formulas are made of four themes, it is sensual, relaxing, javaspicess, and peppermint.
1. Sensual
Epsom salt 97%
Oil of cananga (1.5%), and patchouli (1%)
2. Relaxing
Epsom 97%
Oil of cananga (1%), nutmeg (1%), and patchouli (1%)
3. Java spices
Epsom 97%
Oil of cloves (0.5%), turmeric (0.5%), ginger (0.5%), nutmeg (0.5%), lemongrass (0.5%), and patchouli (0.5%)
4. Peppermint
Epsom 97%
Oil of peppermint (1.5%), patchouli and (1.5%).
From the formula above, you can find and make bath salt from essential oil recipe according to your own taste and using materials that are easy to get.

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Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Essential oil use for transparent soap

The essential oil use for transparent soap is one of its utilization as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic ingredients for the skin, in addition of the creams form. This product was chosen since it is used in everyday activities for body, face, hands and other limbs. It gives a relaxing effect through the aroma, and also gives the effect of treatment for skin problems like acne, eczema due to fungi, and other skin diseases. For health skin, the use of this efficacious product is aim to maintain our healthy skin.
To make this nutritious product, the volatile substances used are generally derived from plants that include in the family of Asteraceae, Burseraceae, Myrtaceae, Rutaceae, and Styraceae. The use of essential oil for transparent soap is aim to overcome the infection, inflammation, acne, relaxation, refreshment, and others.
It is produced by dissolving soap and alcohol by heating to form a clear solution, which is then added by perfumes and dyes. It is often referred as glycerine soap, because the making process need glycerine added about 10-15 percent. Raw materials used in the manufacture of transparent soap is a lauric acid, stearic acid, glycerin, surfactants, sodium hydroxide, sugar (sucrose), ethanol, EDTA, BHT, fragrance, and water. Usefulness effects are derived from the types of fragrance used, i.e. patchouli, vetiver, cinnamon, ylang, citrus, or tea trea oil, and others.
It has the power to effectively clean without leaving bubble. It will feel softer on your hands. It is widely used as a unique souvenir, birthday souvenirs, greeting souvenirs, as well as for a wedding gift. With its elegant and charming looks, it can be made into a variety of forms according to your design and a unique souvenir. Their appearance is so attractive, classy and luxurious so that it is sold at a price that is relatively more expensive and consumed by the middle to upper economic community.
How to make transparent soap from the essential oil
The tools needed, among others, are the heater tank, mixer machines, stoves, scales, container materials, additional container material, molds, cutting tools and packaging. As an initial step, the stock is made by mixing stearic acid with NaOH 20 ° Be as much as 98.3 g at the temperature of 90-100°Celsius for 30 minutes. Furthermore, other materials, such as glycerin, surfactants, DEA, EDTA, BHT, water, sugar, propylene glycol, foam boaster are mixed at the temperature of 90-95°Celsius for 30 minutes. After a homogeneous mixture, the temperature is lowered to 70°Celsius. The stock then is added by the essential oil, molded, and cooled to room temperature. The essential oil use for transparent soap is not restricted to one type of essential oil, but a combination of them could also be used to obtain various benefits.

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