The Australian Natural Therapists Association Limited (ANTA) is the largest national democratic association of ‘recognised professional’ traditional medicine and natural therapy [Complementary Medicine] practitioners who work in the areas of health care and preventative medicine.

The word massage is most likely to have emerged from the Greek word ‘Massein’, meaning ‘to knead’ or the Arabic word ‘mas’h’ meaning ‘to press softly’. Massage is the oldest form of physical medicine known to man and can be traced back to the early Chinese medical manuscripts around 400BC. Massage was advocated by Hippocrates who was born in the fifth century and was known as ‘the father of medicine’. It was widely used and written about in Roman times with history recording how Julius Ceaesar received massage to relieve neuralgia!

Very little was recorded about massage in Europe between the Roman times and the early Middle Ages, but by the sixteenth century medicine slowly started to re-learn what had been lost. Between 1776 and 1839, a Swedish professor, Peter Ling, created a scientific system of therapeutic massage known as Swedish massage and established a teaching institute in Stockholm.

Today, massage therapy is one of the fastest growing forces in the field of health care.

How does it work?

Massage is simply the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body – the muscles, tendons and ligaments. A massage therapist’s hands are his most important tool through which he not only treats the patient but also detects physical and emotional problems. The massage therapist palpates the patient’s body to determine the condition of the tissues and the likely source of any pain, and thus the correct form of remedial treatment.

Massage works through the various body systems in one of two ways, a mechanical action and a reflex action. A mechanical action is created by moving the muscles and soft tissues of the body using pressure and stretching movement, thereby cleansing them of acids and deposits. This mechanical action breaks up fibrous tissue and loosens stiff joints.

A reflex is created when treatment of one part of the body affects another part of the body, much like pressing a light switch on a wall to turn on a light in the centre of the room. Just like this electric connection, so too are different parts of the body connected to each other not just by flesh and bone but by nerve pathways, or flows of energy known as ‘meridians’. So, by using reflex action, some therapists will treat a patient’s stomach complaint by massaging the arms, and will alleviate pain in the legs by massaging the lower back.

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Buy the loose powder in larger quantities direct from a supplier as it is more economical this way. Mix with water into a paste, put on painful stiff joints and leave for approximately 20 to 30 minutes to penetrate the skin. Once the clay has been used, discard afterward. Remove as much of the clay as possible before having a shower – otherwise the clay could block the drains.

Once you have covered the painful area/s with the clay, cover with a piece of plastic, then place a small heated pad over the plastic and clay, or a hot water bottle or a grain pillow that is heated in the microwave.

Taking a bath afterward with essential oils and/or Epson salts would further enhance the treatment. After your bath rest and make sure you drink plenty of warm water with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Sunday would be the ideal time to do this.

Essential oils like clove, lemon, cedar wood, lavender etc

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Other research suggests that caffeine and alcohol destroy the vital nutrients needed for fat-burning.

Toxins within the body encourage free-radicals and they too use up vital nutrients that would otherwise be used for fat burning.

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Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, protecting or delaying the onset of diseases associated with aging. A wonderful supplement for the skin. Vitamin E helps maintain a healthy heart and circulation by keeping the blood vessels walls clear and in good condition.

Vitamin E can help with hot flushes and dryness.

Nuts and seeds are a good source (it is very important not to eat roasted ones).

The difference between natural and synthetic vitamin E

Natural supplements are labeled d-alpha tocopherol, synthetic ones are labeled dl-alpha tocopherol.  In studies the natural E vitamin was found to be one-third more potent and twice as effective, as the synthetic version.

Supplement – 400iu d-alpha tocopherol is a good daily maintenance dose.

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Found in whole grains, some nuts and seeds especially pumpkin seeds. Deficiency symptoms are quite varied – White mark on the finger nails, appetite problems (especially associated with eating problems), poor skin – including acne, skin easily marked, scared including stretch marks, infertility, poor resistance to infections, emotional and mental problems, cravings, lack of zinc is involved in most chronic diseases.

Supplements are easy to find and must be taken with a vitamin B complex. Stress, smoking and drinking puts a huge strain on zinc levels. Diabetes, prostate enlargement, immune problems, poor wound healing, colds, osteoporosis, skin problems, fatigue, hearing impairment, eating disorders, blood sugar imbalances, poor taste buds, craving for sweet and salt foods, eye health, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and chemical sensitivities.

Calcium supplements hinder zinc absorption by 50% so take zinc and calcium supplements separately.

Zinc is lost with a high refined carbohydrate diet and from stress – physical or emotional, exposure to pollution, needed for the correct levels of stomach acid.

Lear about Magnesium

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This oil can help high blood pressure and palpitations, calms the digestive system. Reduces inflammation, relieves emotional stress, and anxiety. This oil is truly excellent for headaches, migraines, and insomnia. Helps heal wounds, bruises, burns, sunburn, acne, boils, eczema, and psoriasis. Apply a drop of lavender undiluted directly onto an insect bite or minorCaution Lavender should not be used during the early stages of pregnancy. Use Lavender with caution if you have low blood pressure. burn.

12) lemon – cleansing

This oil encourages an alkaline environment, decongests the liver and gall bladder. This oil cleanses the circulation, helpful for high blood pressure, good for detoxification, helps cellulite, and reduces broken veins. This essential oil with other citrus oils makes the perfect natural room spray to deodorize cooking smells or pet odors. Caution Lemon is a photo-sensitizer (increases the skins reaction to sunlight making it more likely to burn) so it should not be used when exposed to sunlight or tanning beds. Avoid sunbathing for 12 hours after application. Lemon should not be directly inhaled as in a steam bath as described earlier.

13) lemongrass – revitalizing tonic

An essential oil that has a feel that is fresh and clean. Boosts the immune system, and speeds up convalescence especially after a viral infection. Effective for toning muscles, relieves tired, aching legs, and eliminates lactic acid. Helps to tighten open pores, calms excessive perspiration, and tones the skin.

14) mandarin – gentle tonic

Milder than all the other citrus oils like lemon, grapefruit, or orange. It is a calming tonic for any digestive problems, or insomnia, and eases depression. This oil is uplifting without stimulating, also tonic for the nervous tension and stress, and for the circulatory system. Good for the liver and gall bladder. It will help to boost the immune system. Caution Mandarin is a photo-sensitizer (increases the skins reaction to sunlight making it more likely to burn) so it should not be used when exposed to sunlight or tanning beds. Avoid sun exposure for 12 hours after application.

15) neroli  – stress relieving, good for mature skin

Neroli is special – excellent for high blood pressure, palpitations, and nervous heart conditions. Good for digestive problems due to stress, varicose veins, menopause, and PMS. It can help ease insomnia and anxiety. It can work wonders with mature skin, it encourages the regeneration of skin cells improving mature skin, wrinkles and scars. Generally there are no problems using it on sensitive skin. This oil is very expensive but as we already know a little goes a long way.

16) orange – uplifting, invigorating

Anxiety, cellulite, constipation or diarrhoea, digestive problems, dry, or sensitive, insomnia, muscle aches and pains, nervous tension, respiratory conditions, and stress.

Use well diluted. Orange is also a photo-sensitizer (increases the skins reaction to sunlight making it more likely to burn) so it should not be used when exposed to sunlight or tanning beds. Avoid sunbathing for 12 hours. Some people are allergic to orange so try a tiny bit first. Caution Should not be used during pregnancy.

17) palmarosa – cleansing

Antiseptic (intestinal-internal), antifungal, anti-viral, powerful bactericidal-large spectrum (most germs, E.coli), cellular stimulant, hydrating, cools body, tonic (nervous and uterine).  This essential oil has excellent skin care properties and is also used to relieve stiff and sore muscles. It calms the mind, yet has an uplifting effect, it is used to counter physical and nervous exhaustion, stress-related problems and nervousness. It is most useful during convalescence, aiding the digestive system, and helping to clear intestinal infection. It is effective in relieving sore, stiff muscles. It moisturizes the skin, while balancing the hydration levels and stimulating cell regeneration. It balances production of sebum, to keep the skin supple and elastic and is valuable for use with acne, dermatitis, preventing scarring, rejuvenating and regenerating the skin, as well as fighting minor skin infections.

18) peppermint – cooling, pain relieving

This essential oil can be used to clear the head and ease headaches, helps pain in general. Peppermint oil is well known for helping any digestive problems. It is an effective anti-spasmodic. It is excellent for general muscular aches and pains. Stimulates the mind, enhances concentration, wakes up and revives the mind from mental fatigue.

19) rosemary – stimulating and restorative

Rosemary is a rich, fortifying, and warming essential oil. Well known for its circulatory stimulating properties and for toning muscles. Rubbed into the joint it will ease pain and gout. Helps reduce cellulite, relieves digestive problems, and fatigue. Rosemary is excellent for detoxifying and aiding the liver and gall bladder. Helps to normalize cholesterol levels, and is really good for fluid retention. Rosemary enhances memory and brain function in general. This is also a good oil to add to shampoo to relieve most scalp conditions.

Caution Rosemary has antispasmodic properties and should not be used during pregnancy or if you have high blood pressure or epilepsy.

20) tea tree – anti-bacterial, anti-fungal

Acne, Age spots, Athlete’s Foot, Boils, Burns, Catarrh, bronchitis, sinus problems, Colds, flu, sore throat, Corns, Cystitis, thrush, and vaginal discharge, Dandruff, Fungal Infections, Immune System Booster, Itching (from insect bites, chicken pox, etc), Herpes, cold sores, mouth ulcers, Sweaty and smelly feet, Urinary tract infections, and Warts. This oil can be used undiluted on a very very small area – 1 or 2 drops on a fungal infection under the toe nail for instance.

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This oil is a wonderful nerve tonic. An excellent oil for all sorts of digestive ailments – from flatulence to nausea and vomiting.  It is useful in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism, muscle spasm and gout. Good for menstrual problems- delayed, irregular or scant. Basil is well known as an insect repellent. All sorts of respiratory conditions can be treated with basil. Do not use if you are pregnant

2) bergamot – calming tonic

Bergamot will help skin conditions and digestive problems related to stress. In fact it will help all sorts of anxiety related conditions. Has a strong affinity with the urinary system, also helping vaginal discharge, thrush and itching.

3) cedar wood – warming, soothing

This oil can help to decongest the lymph system, helps to unblock arteries by breaking down fat deposits, and improves poor circulation. Cedar oil can help to reduce fluid retention. It can help to calm nervous tension, instilling a sense of peace. Good for cellulite, oily skin, and acne. Avoid if you are pregnant and do not use on children.

4) citronella – insect repellent, clearing

This is an excellent essential oil, burn in an essential oil burner to keep insects away or make a spray. Can also be added to a body lotion and used as an insect repellent. Place a few drops on a piece of cotton to repel moths in your wardrobe. Careful if you have a sensitive skin.

5) clove bud – analgesic (anti pain)

Helps to relieve toothache very effectively, place 1 drop undiluted (in the mouth only) on the pain, until you manage to get to the dentist. This oil can also be added to carrier oils and lotions or a bath to help with joint pain. This is a powerful essential oil so use with care.

6) eucalyptus – respiratory, lungs

It is used for all sorts of breathing problems, such as asthma, bronchitis, congestion, sinuses. An oil of choice for laundry needs. Excellent for urinary infections, and cystitis, also reduces fluid retention. Good for herpes, cuts, and wound healing. Reduces fever -  good for colds and flu. Eases muscle aches and rheumatism. Caution Eucalyptus should not be used if you have high blood pressure or suffer from epilepsy and can be fatal if ingested.

7) fennel – lymph, fluid retention

For lymphatic decongestant, helps to reduce cellulite, cleansing oils for all systems. It relieves constipation, flatulence and nausea. Can help reduce fluid retention, reduce weight and help curb appetite. It can improve a poor circulation. Increases milk flow for nursing mothers. A really good oil for menopause as it encourages the production of estrogen. Also regulates the menstrual cycle. Do not use on children.

8) frankincense – anti-aging skin

As early as Cleopatra’s reign it was used in cosmetics and medicines. This oil is excellent for all types of skin it rejuvenates mature skin, helps to prevent aging and wrinkles. Good for the menopause. Alleviates stress related problems. Slow down the signs of aging – is an exceptionally good essential oil, for the skin – it will help to restore the tone to skin that is beginning to look slack helping to firm the skin. Frankincense will help with fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating skin cell renewal. Will purify the skin, and have a tonic affect.

9) geranium – balancing

Reduces fluid retention, balances hormones, will help to reduce hot flushes. Helpful for varicose veins and hemorrhoids (piles), helps to stop bleeding. It will ease anxiety, depression, and nervous tension. It helps to balance all skin types. Lifts the spirits, boosts immune system (adrenals especially) and heals a variety of skin conditions such as eczema, wounds, bruises, acne, broken capillaries, balances oil gland secretion, congested and mature skin, healing especially after facial plastic surgery, eczema, cellulite and others. It is a good hormonal balancer for women menopause and PMS. Aids digestion, jaundice, gastritis, colitis, cleans digestive system of mucus, and liver tonic. Aids poor circulation, and stimulates lymphatic system.

10) grapefruit – clearing, cleansing

Excellent for acne and other skin conditions. It benefits oily or congested skin, improves elasticity and has diuretic properties. Antiseptic (especially airborne), anti toxic, astringent, bactericidal, athlete’s foot, acne, oily skin, tones congested skin, tightens skin. Respiratory: airborne disinfectant-diffusion Muscular/Skeletal: eases muscle fatigue, stiffness Lymphatic: increases circulation, stimulates lymphatic system

Read part 3 click here

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Each little bottle is a therapeutic powerhouse, and will last a very long time and go along way. Each of the essential oils used in Aromatherapy can be used alone or in combinations to create a desired effect. Before using essential oils, it is important to understand the effect that the oil(s) have, and how they work. These essential oils are highly concentrated therapeutic parts of the plant. The therapeutic oils are found in different parts of the plant such as the flowers, seeds, twigs, roots, leaves or bark, or in the rind of fruit. For example – rose essential oil is found in the petals; basil oil is found in the flowering tops; rosemary oil comes from the leaves; sandalwood oil from the bark, and so on.

The methods used to extract the oil are time consuming and expensive and require a high degree of expertise. Given that it takes in excess of 220 pounds of rose petals to produce only 4 or 5 teaspoons of oil, a seriously powerful therapeutic tool!! Very precious indeed.

Due to the large quantity of plant material required, pure essential oils are highly effective so only a few drops at a time are required to achieve a healing effect. Essential oils penetrate the skin easily and find their way into the bloodstream where they affect the whole body – organs, tissues, and cells. Essential oils have differing rates of absorption, a general rule of thumb would be about 20 minutes, and can continue to be absorbed over a period of hours. So it is probably best not to shower directly following application to ensure maximum effectiveness. Research has revealed that the oils remain in the blood stream for about 7 hours, continuing to have a healing affect on the whole system.

Storage Essential oils need to be stored in a cool place, in air tight dark glass bottles. Well away from children. Taken internally they can be extremely toxic. Carrier oils should also be stored in a cool dark place. Any oil can be used as ‘carrier oils’, however they need to be cold pressed.

Carrier oils – carrot oil, evening primrose oil, perelli oil, pomegranate oil, jojoba oil, rosehip oil, camellia oil, rice bran oil, etc. We do not use any cheap oils and all have been chosen for their richly nutritious, none greasy, highly absorbent qualities.

Mixing Essential oils – in general keep it fairly simple by using one, two, three or maximum four essential oils in a mixture.

On joints – You can use the essential oils in a carrier oil, cream or lotion and than rub into painful or swollen joints. Cream or oil – a couple of drops essential oil (this mixture is too strong for the face) per teaspoon.

For your body – always dilute into creams, lotions, or oils – 20ml (4 teaspoons) of oil or body lotion, use 6 to 8 drops of essential oil.

For your face – 50ml jar of face cream or serum use 2 to 6 drops of essential oil, go easy at first you can always add a little more. The face is more sensitive in general than the skin of the body.

Bath - The oils are absorbed through your skin while also being inhaled. Add 4 to 8 drops of oil to a full bath making sure you agitate the water vigorously to disperse the oil over the whole surface before getting into the bath and soaking for 20 minutes with the bathroom door closed.

A hot foot bath with 4 to 6 drops essential oils

Insect repellent place a few drops of essential oil onto a piece of cotton and store in the wardrobe, or linen cupboard. Essential oil can be mixed into a body lotion to repel insects. Or buy a natural oil-free spray from the spa/clinic.

Inhalation a) putting some drops directly onto a pillow b) by gently heating the essential oil using a ceramic oil warmer to fill the room with the aromas d) adding a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhaling. (If you prefer, you can place a towel over your head to trap the steam, keep your eyes closed).

Sprays – all sprays containing essential oils must be kept away from polished surfaces.

Laundry – you can put a few drops in the wash or better still put a few drops on a clean cloth and add to the dryer. Eucalyptus is good for this or one of the citrus essential oils.

Handkerchief - place a few drops on a piece of cotton. Place the handkerchief to your nose and inhale. Good for easing colds, sinus problems, headaches, travel sickness and anxiety.

One teaspoon = 5ml

One tablespoon = 3 teaspoons = 15ml

8 drops to 4 teaspoons of ‘carrier’ oil on the body

8 drops to a full bath

4 drops to 6 drops of essential oil in a jar of cream, serum etc for the face, approximately 1 drop per teaspoon

For instance – a pot of face cream is anything from 30ml to 50ml – start off by adding 2 drops and mix well, use for a couple of days, if that is okay add 1 more drop, then later more.

Very important - If you have sensitive skin, a young skin age 3 to 11, or are an elderly person always use half or less than the amount of essential oil recommended. Start off with less as you can always add more next time.

Cautions - First and foremost do not use essential oils if you are pregnant – though there are some that are okay in qualified hands, wait until after you have given birth.

Some other things you need to bear in mind.

Never take the essential oils internally, this is extremely important.

Essential oils must always be diluted [into a body oil, cream, shampoo or lotion or into water etc as described, there are only one or two exceptions. Essential oils must be stored away from sunlight in a cool place in dark glass containers.

Always keep out of reach of children, as essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts.

Stay away from Rosemary and Eucalyptus essential oil if you have epilepsy or high blood pressure.

If you use lemon, orange, grapefruit, mandarin, or bergamot it is important to stay out of the sun for 12 hours after application, NO SUN BATHING until the next day.

Babies and children

Newborn = Chamomile Roman, and Chamomile German, Lavender, Mandarin, Dill

2 – 6 Months = Same as above, and Neroli, Tea Tree, Geranium,

7 – 12 months = Same as above, and Palmarosa, Tangerine,

2 – 5 Years = Same as above, and Ginger, Lemon, Grapefruit,

6 – 8 Years = Same as above, and Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Orange

9 – 11 Years = Same as above, and Frankincense,

Read Part two press here

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There are 300 different enzymes in the body that are dependent on magnesium. Unfortunately, it is very easy to be deficient in magnesium as typical diets lack the amounts needed. Stress drains this mineral.

Magnesium – lowers high blood pressure, heart pumps better, constricted blood vessels relax for a better blood flow, angina improves, blood clots less likely, lowers cholesterol, asthma, migraines, fibro-myalgia, brain function, osteoporosis, PMS, better sleep, relaxes muscles – cramps, blood sugar problems, grinding teeth at night, chemical sensitivity, bacterial and viral infections, kidney stones, and cravings.

Good food sources are fish, beans, nuts, seeds and green vegetables.

Zinc is so important – read more

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