Wednesday, August 5, 2009

NAHA E-News Going Green Article June 2009









Essential News Going Green
E-tips for Aromatherapy Awareness

Contributed by Shellie Enteen BA LMT
from the free monthly Astralessence Newsletter
(sign up via website at the end of article)

To Green Clean with essential oils, all you need is some distilled white vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, water, a measuring cup and some recycled spray bottles or jam jars.

Essential oils to have on hand are Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), which are known to have strong antibacterial properties, especially when mixed together. More of the effective essences used for cleaning are Lemon (Citus limon), Orange (Citrus sinensis), Pine (Pinus sylvestris), Eucalyptus (E. globulus), Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata) and others can be added for their fragrance and other properties.


In the near future, I will be announcing a free tele-seminar about making products. (October 8, 2009 see http://www.naha.org/ for more details). Click on this link to purchase a CD Recording of Shellie's tele-conference presentation.

For now, I will tell you one of my favorites: creating a healthy, "green" laundry experience that will also diffuse a fabulous fragrance into your home. It is important to find an all plant derived laundry liquid or powder. Many will be surprised to learn that Borax was banned in the UK 40 years ago because of toxicity to the human body. The phosphates that we abhor in the US don't affect us, but do create algae that harm fish populations. Not all brands in the health food store are Borax free. Ecover is a Borax free brand in health food stores and one in the main stream, is Purex. (You may well find others by reading labels.)

It's also important to stop using fragranced products which contain synthetic chemicals. Many holistic practitioners know that lots of 'symptoms' and environmental sensitivities are exacerbated or created by exposure to chemical fragrances.


So, begin by adding a Borax and fragrance free laundry product. Then measure out a cup of white vinegar and add at least 15 drops of a blend of Lavender and Tea Tree - with Eucalyptus if you want to rid laundry of dust mites, too. You can add other favorite essences, but not any that have a strong color...like Chamomile or Cedar. Then, just pour the vinegar and essential oils into the washing machine as it is filling with water and add clothes or linens.

A wonderful feature of using vinegar is the softening effect. And vinegar plus antibacterial essential oils will get your laundry cleaner in cold water washes than just using laundry soap. Create your own blend or purchase my favorite laundry blend that comes with a dropper top for easy dispensing.

If you try green cleaning with essential oils in your home, I'd love to hear your experiences!

Please contact Shellie directly at shellie@astralessence.com http://www.astralessence.com/

Shellie is also a regular contributor to MASSAGE TODAY Publication sharing her professional views on True Aromatherapy within the Massage Community.

Want to contribute to the NAHA Essential E-News column? We'd love for you to share your helpful aromatherapy recipes and green-awareness tips. We are also looking for information on the following: Marketing your aromatherapy business tips, diffusion blends, what do you do to be green etc.

Please fill out the Online Feedback Form and submit your writings in a WORD Document to Kelly at ashitherapy@skybest.com If your e-news is accepted for publication in a future NAHA e-newsletter you will be notified via email.

NAHA E-News Going Green Article July 2009










Essential News-Going Green



E-tips for Aromatherapy Awareness


Contributed by: Gina Rafkind

Feet Treat~give yourself a little sole power!



They come in all different shapes, sizes and we usually don't think about them until they hurt us. Yes, I'm talking about our feet! They do so much for us on a daily basis but for the most part are neglected. It's time to give a little gratitude to our feet and take time out to give them a little attention. Warning: This tip may cause you to relax so do not operate any heavy machinery afterwards:)



What you'll need: 1 golf ball, 1 - 1 oz. bottle with a screw top or flip cap, 1 oz. jojoba (or carrier oil of your choice), 7 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil, 5 drops Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil, 2 drops Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) essential oil.



I chose the three essential oils above because they are all known to help with nervous tension. Plus, Lavender is known to help relieve insomnia and inflammation. I love pairing Lavender with Geranium because I feel combining them makes the blend even more powerful. Geranium and Cypress are believed to aid with circulatory issues so they may help with arthritic conditions.



First, put the golf ball on a rug and rub the soles of your foot over the golf ball, one foot at a time. This feels so good! You are stimulating the reflex points on the bottom of your feet.
Don't be surprised if you feel sensations in other parts of your body. If you have ever had a reflexology session, you will know what I mean.



Then after you have made your massage oil by putting the designated drops of essential oils from the above into the 1 ounce bottle, adding your carrier oil to fill the rest of the bottle, capping the bottle and shaking gently, pour a little massage oil into the palm of one hand. Warm the oil up by rubbing your palms together, and then give your feet, one foot at a time, a nice, calming massage. I love to do this right before going to bed.



I keep the massage oil blend in the draw of my night table, along with my golf ball. You can also do this in the morning after waking up. Enjoy!



*Important Note: Before using any essential oils, check with your medical practitioner if you have any health concerns or conditions or if you are pregnant or nursing.

Gina Rafkind is the owner and founder of VedaSun; a company whose mission is to be your Aromatherapy Luminary and inspire you to Break Out and unleash your vibrant inner being by enhancing your awareness practice of using your senses as a pathway to presence.



Gina is a Licensed Cosmetologist, Aromatherapy Consultant, Certified Reflexologist and Acutonics Provider. She has been formally involved in the Aromatherapy field since 2000 and has studied with a Certified Aromatherapist. She is a current member of the Advisory Panel of the Natural Ingredient Resource Center.



Contact Gina at The Aromatherapy Luminary Discover 4 empowering steps to ignite your vibrant inner being.
http://www.pathwaytopresence.com/ http://www.vedasun.com/



Want to contribute to the NAHA Essential E-News column?
We'd love for you to share your helpful aromatherapy recipes and green-awareness tips. We are also looking for information on the following: Marketing your aromatherapy business tips, diffusion blends, what do you do to be green etc.

Please fill out the Online Feedback Form
and submit your writings in a WORD Document to Kelly at ashitherapy@skybest.com If your e-news is accepted for publication in a future NAHA e-newsletter you will be notified via email.

NAHA E-News Going Green Article August 2009


Essential News-Going Green
E-tips for Aromatherapy Awareness



Contributed by Jennifer Hochell Pressimone


Green Bugs Busters!



In today's world, finding ways to green our earth, our communities and ourselves are vital. Having natural, green alternatives at our fingertips not only makes it simple, but it ensures that we may take action. Take pest control for example, if a greener solution for insect repellent, ant repellent or flea control was available, wouldn't you be likely to use it? Especially if it has additional health benefits, such as boosting immune function, enhancing your mood or helping release irritability?

Well, bugs may be a part of the natural greening process for the environment, but when they start attacking us or our pets, compromising our immunity and health, we need to take control. Using a natural, aromatherapy-based bug repellent, may be necessary to deter pests from biting you or your pet.

The great thing is that by using this natural repellent, you may also gain therapeutic value such as reduced anxiety and increased mental clarity, all at the same time. As we know, aromatherapy is a powerful combination of science and art. It is known to shift, alter, enhance and change our emotional, mental, physical and spiritual state. It provides a plethora of therapeutic properties such as antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-parasitic and vermifuge. Using essential oils with these properties provide you with a multi-faceted, multi-therapeutic and effective product, especially when seeking bug protection.


There are several essential oils known to offer stronger bug repelling properties than others. The ones I have found to be tremendously effective in fighting these unwanted nuisances are citronella, lemongrass, thyme, geranium and lavender. I have also found additional benefit by blending these essential oils with liquid plant-based enzymes, which are known to break down protein. Most bugs have an exoskeleton made of a protein structure. These enzymes help to break down their outer shell, thus disabling them from biting you or anyone else. The enzymes in conjunction with pure essential oils make for a valuable blend that may combat lice, fleas, insects and other nagging pests that may compromise optimal body functions.


If you happen to miss a spot while applying your bug repellent and get an insect bite, lavender and frankincense essential oils are known to provide anti-itch, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Simple apply 1 drop neat to the specific area or mix in some avocado or jojoba oil for instant relief.



Bug Repelling Essential Oils


Cymbopogon nardus, is a member of the Gramineae family. This tall, perennial grass has a history of providing insect repellent properties in addition to being antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-parasitic. It is commonly employed in outdoor candles, natural bug repellents, aromatic mists, lotions and herbal teas. In addition to repellent bugs, citronella may help ease depression, reduce fever and combat colds.


Cymbopogon citratus, is a member of the Gramineae family. It is a tall, perennial grass that has historically been used to energize the mind and body, combat fatigue, combat infection and repel insects. It offers analgesic, astringent, antibacterial, antifungal and vermifuge properties. Lemongrass is commonly employed in herbal teas, aromatic mists, immune supporting blends and insect repellents.


Thymus vulgaris, is a member of the Labiatae family. It is a perennial, evergreen herb, historically used as a digestive tonic, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-parasitic and vermifuge. Thyme was employed along with clove and lemon during WWII to disinfect hospitals and fight against pesty invaders. Thyme has been commonly associated with cooking as it may combat internal parasites, indigestion, gas and bloating. It is a great addition to any insect repellent adding a sweet, green and herbaceous scent.


Pelargonium graveolens, is a member of the Geraniaceae family. It is a perennial shrub offering antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and vermifuge properties. Geranium essential oil, not to be confused with the plant we see on our doorstep, historically has been known to have a balancing effect on the body - physically, emotionally and mentally, as well as pH. This scent often repels bugs as soon as they come into contact with it.


Lavendula angustifolia, is a member of the Labiatae family. It is an evergreen shrub that perhaps is the most recognized, researched and used essential oil to date. Historically, it has been referred to as "the jack-of-all-trades" essential oil, providing countless therapeutic properties such as antiviral, antifungal, antifungal, analgesic, antiseptic and vermifuge. It not only helps to protect the body from pest invasions, it helps to calm irritations from those who attack us, reducing redness, inflammation, swelling and itching.


As you will note, a common denominator among most of these oils is that they belong to the Gramineae or Labiatae family and are perennial grasses or shrubs. So, if you do not have one of these listed oils in your cabinet, but you do have another that belongs in this botanical family, you may be able to substitute. Research it in an aromatherapy reference book (there are several available at www.naha.org online bookstore) and decide if it is a good choice for the blend you are creating.


You can choose to combine all of these oils in a blend or just use the ones you have on hand. Apply in a carrier to protect skin as well as hydrate and moisturize the skin. For pets, children and elderly, use a greater dilution ratio.

There are also many other ways to bust bugs, such as ants, roaches and fleas, from our home, our pets and even our plants. Peppermint, eucalyptus and clove essential oils are historically known to combat ants and other crawling critters. You can spray a mixture of these essential oils with plant-based enzymes and/or a soap concentrate like castile soap directly on their path or place a few drops of essential oil onto a cotton ball and place in the areas they may hide (of course, keeping it out of reach for children and pets).


To protect a plant from bug invasions, use a very diluted solution of water, vinegar and plant-based enzymes with 1 drop of an essential oil. Spray once daily.


Green Bug Buster Checklist: 100% pure essential oilsAvocado oil or jojoba oil, Liquid plant-based enzymes,Soap Concentrate or Castile Soap, Bandana or scarf (to spray solution for you or your pet when outside)


Bug Buster Spray 3.75 oz. Plant-based enzymes .25 oz Avocado oil 6 drops citronella 5 drops lemongrass 4 drops thyme 4 drops geranium 4 drops lavender. Combine avocado oil in the bottle with the essential oils and shake. Add in the plant-based enzymes and shake well.


Apply generous layer to skin at least 10 minutes before bug exposure. Use as needed. * for pets, because they have a more sensitive system than humans, apply a light layer over their coat once before bug exposure. An over-intoxification of the spray can cause them to be lethargic.

Information provided is for educational purposes only and not intended to diagnose, prescribe or treat any health concerns. A professional healthcare provider should be consulted before beginning any health program.


Here's to a greener you, a greener pet and greener environment. In scents and health, Jennifer Hochell Pressimone


Jennifer Hochell Pressimone is a holistic aromatherapist and herbalist, NAHA Regional Director, author, educator and natural health consultant. She is the owner of JennScents®, Inc. and the Clermont Herb Shoppe & Day Spa in Clermont, Florida. Jennifer contributes regularly to the NAHA journal and will be a featured speaker for NAHA upcoming tele-seminar in December. She can be reached at jh@jennscents.com www.jennscents.com



Want to contribute to the NAHA Essential E-News column?

We'd love for you to share your helpful aromatherapy recipes and green-awareness tips. We are also looking for information on the following: Marketing your aromatherapy business tips, diffusion blends, what do you do to be green etc.

Please fill out the Online Feedback Form
and submit your writings in a WORD Document to Kelly at ashitherapy@skybest.com If your e-news is accepted for publication in a future NAHA e-newsletter you will be notified via email.

NAHA August E-Newsletter 2009




NAHA E-News Issue: 2009.3 August
Dear NAHA Member and Aromatherapy Supporter,

Welcome to NAHA's E-News. You are receiving this email as a current Member of NAHA or if you signed up to receive NAHA Enewsletters. If your contact information has changed please let us know so we can update enewsletter database.
Please use the Online Feedback Form to submit your contact changes.

August Highlights
*Membership Appreciation
*Approved Schools Renewed and New Listings
*Membership Discount Program
*E-Scents-green tips for aromatherapy awareness (see separate post for article)
*Calendar of Events
*Aromatherapy in the News
*Director's Corner
*Tele-Conference Schedule Updates: September 10, 2009
Muscle Testing with Aromatherapy-benefits of using Kinesiology in Aromatherapy Presented by: Sylla Sheppard Hanger LMT

NAHA Membership Appreciation

THANK YOU to the following members who recently joined or renewed their membership.

Aroma Heals Aromatherapy Institute

International Institute of Chinese Medicinal Aromatherapy

NAHA Approved Educators Schools
click on the direct link to find out more on aromatherapy schools and educational programs available in the USA, Canada and Internationally around the world. Many schools also offer distance learning, homestudy programs and online courses.

Aromatherapy Educators and Schools are a wonderful source for building a strong foundation and awareness in true aromatherapy. Please support the NAHA Approved Schools & Educators.

Here what some are sharing in response to NAHA E-news:

Good morning Kelly,"I'm so glad you forward these press releases. It really helps to stay informed personally, and to also provide information for our students." Lauren Shapiro-Communications Manager for American College of Healthcare Sciences.Lauren Shapiro, Communications Manager, works on behalf of the American College of Healthcare Sciences to educate the community about holistic health education and professional career opportunities.

In addition to maintaining the College's social media, including several blogs and the College's monthly newsletter, the ACHS Reporter, Lauren also builds community connections by circulating information about the College's current programs, developing programs, and community wellness events. Lauren is also an ACHS faculty member and teaches English Composition. While working with ACHS, Lauren has the unique opportunity to learn about the health-promoting properties of aromatherapy and herbalism through her everyday interactions. At present, she is researching apartment gardens!


THIS SECTION: NAHA Tele-Conference*Directors Corner*Aromatherapy Safety

NAHA Tele-Conferences

Topic: Muscle Testing with Aromatherapy-benefits of using Kinesiology in Aromatherapy

When:September 10, 2009 Thursday 8:30pm EST
Fee: Free for NAHA Members
Presenter: Sylla Sheppard Hanger LMT

Sylla will speak about:
Introduction to Aromatic Kinesiology (asking the body to hear, feel and understand the body's voice- Robbi Zeck).

Sylla will present on the unique use of muscle testing with aromatherapy and the benefits of using it in bodywork as well as any aromatic endeavor, or just for one self when one feels stuck; emotionally, physically and spiritually. Based on The Blossoming Heart- Aromatherapy for Healing and Transformation and work of Robbi Zeck (Australia)

Sylla will be offering tele-conference attendees a 10% discount on purchase of Robbi Zeck's book 'The Blossoming Heart- Aromatherapy for Healing and Transformation'.

Discount will apply towards Sylla's professional manuals and chemistry kit/booklets.Want to learn more about Aromatic Kinesiology?

Sylla will also be hosting a special in-person seminar workshop.
Tampa, Florida October 31 and November 1, 2009 'Aromatherapy and Emotions' with Presenter; Robbi Zeck; Pioneer in Aromatic Kinesiology.

To learn more about Sylla and her school or to register for upcoming event with Robbi Zeck please visit http://www.atlanticinstitute.com/


To Register for Tele-conference
Please fill out the NAHA Online Feedback Form.

1. Completely fill out entire form
2. Use the comment box to include the tele-conference date and topic you want to attend.
3. Once your NAHA Membership is verified you will receive by email tele-conference call-in number and access instructions.

(please allow time for form to be processed prior to receiving confirmation).

Incomplete forms will not be accepted. Please fill in all information on the form in order to register for the tele-conference.

Tele-conferences are open to NAHA Members only.

Space is limited so please be sure you will be able to attend before registering.

Upcoming 2009-2010 Teleconferences to be scheduled with:

Shellie Enteen; Oct 8: Create a Toxic-free Environment by Cleaning with Essential Oils

Kelly Holland Azzaro; Nov. 12: Animal Aromatherapy; Holistic healing for you and your animal friends

Jennifer Hochell- Pressimone; Dec 10: Aromatherapy Relief for Holiday Stress - Keeping a Strong Immune System

Dr. Bruce Berkowsky: Jan 12: Spiritual PhytoEssencing (specific topic TBA)

Sara Holmes March 11: First Do No Harm; Safe Alternatives to Neat Application of Essential Oils in Massage and Spa Treatments

Dr. Vivian Lunny; April 8: Hormonal Balancing with Essential Oils

Mindy Green; May 13: Aromatic medicine in a clinical setting

Lesley Wooler; TBA
and many more exciting presenters/topics to be announced soon.

Tele-conference date, time, presenter and fees are scheduled to change without notice. Tele-conference may also be rescheduled due to technical difficulties.

Are you interested in presenting a tele-conference?

If so please fill out the NAHA Online Feedback Form.

1. Be sure to include your complete contact information.
2. Use the suggestion box at the end of the form to include the tele-conference topic, along with a brief description of the 1 hour long presentation.

All submissions will be reviewed by the NAHA Board. If your tele-conference is approved you will be notified by email.

NAHA Director's Corner click on link to read more about this months highlighted director: Central District Director Missouri Jeff Hoard
Jeffrey Hoard has been NAHA Central District Director and Missouri Regional Director since 1999. He was a signer of the original NAHA bylaws adopted at the San Francisco AGM in 1995. He has served on several bylaw committees, 3 Conference Committees, the Executive Committee, the Ethics Committee and the Advisory Committee since then. From 1997 to 2000 he was editor of Scentsitivity Journal, the predecessor to the Aromatherapy Journal and has had articles published in both Scentsitivity and the Aromatherapy Journal. He was a daily volunteer in the NAHA Administrative office from 1997-2000 as special assistant to the President and was an active volunteer at the NAHA conferences of 1996, 1998 and 2004.


Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Safety Awareness

Visit the NAHA website via this link for more information on Essential Oil Reaction Form.

Or contact NAHA Safety Chair Sylla Sheppard Hanger at sylla@tampabay.rr.com http://www.atlanticinstitute.com/

NAHA Enewsletter Layout:
Kelly Holland Azzaro

Editorial Team:
Shellie Enteen
Kelly Holland Azzaro

Disclaimer:
The information on the NAHA Website or contained in NAHA Email Communications are not intended to diagnose or take the place of professional healthcare. Please consult your health care practitioner if you are pregnant or have been diagnosed with any serious healthcare problems.

Keep all aromatherapy products out of reach of children. Do not get near eyes.
If essential oils get in the eyes, flush with water and seek proper healthcare advice.
Before using essential oils and aromatherapy products please consult with a professional aromatherapist.

NAHA website is a resourceful area for information on Aromatherapy Safety, Applications and Uses. http://www.naha.org/

All Questions pertaining to essential oils and aromatherapy must be submitted via the online Feedback form which is on the Contact NAHA page and Membership Resources page.
All incomplete forms will be returned to sender.

NAHA can not diagnose or prescribe essential oils, please note that any information shared is for educational purposes only.

Membership Discount Program
Click on the above link to view the Professionals, Schools and Businesses that offer a discount to NAHA Members. Please mention that you are a active member of NAHA when placing an order in order to receive a discount.

Do you want to offer a discount to NAHA Members?
If so, please fill out the Online Feedback Form and be sure to include your complete contact information along with discount amount and for what items; ie; products, services et

NAHA Members Marge Clark and Jennifer Hochell Pressimone are offering NAHA Members special discounts that were highlighted in recent NAHA E-news Announcements .

Marge of Nature's Gift is offering NAHA Members a special 10% off discount on essential oils, blends, carriers and hydrosols. Also free media rate shipping on her autographed book.
Visit http://www.naturesgift.com/ more information. (Use order code: NAHA at online checkout)

Jennifer of JennScents is offering NAHA Members a special 20% off discount to purchase JennScents Recipe Guide and JennScents Aromatherapy Guide for Pets. (mention this e-newsletter when placing your order with JennScents for the discount to apply). To purchase a copy or for more information please visit her website http://www.jennscents.com/ or email jh@jennscents.com

Essential News-Going Green
E-tips for Aromatherapy Awareness
Contributed by Jennifer Hochell Pressimone
Click on the separate blog post titled: August E-news Going Green Article to read Jennifer's complete E-tips; Green Bugs Busters!

Want to contribute to the NAHA Essential E-News column?
We'd love for you to share your helpful aromatherapy recipes and green-awareness tips. We are also looking for information on the following: Marketing your aromatherapy business tips, diffusion blends, what do you do to be green etc.

Please fill out the Online Feedback Form
and submit your writings in a WORD Document to Kelly at ashitherapy@skybest.com If your e-news is accepted for publication in a future NAHA e-newsletter you will be notified via email.

NAHA Calendar of Events
Click on the above link to view more classes, lectures, workshops and educational programs

Journal Discount Packet SPECIAL SALE

NAHA Journal Discount Packet get them while they last. Here is your opportunity to purchase past issues of the NAHA Aromatherapy Journals at a special discounted package price.

Click on link to NAHA Bookstore to order online.

Visit the NAHA Online Yellow Pages Advertisers

An affordable way to promote your business, products and services. Only $150.00 per year for Members and $250.00 per year for non-members. Includes a direct link to your website.

Save 20% off August Online Book Special Aromatherapy Workbook; Marcel Lavabre
*mention this enewsletter when ordering (use online store comment box at checkout) Offer Expires: August 30, 2009