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Aromatic History & Lore

image of a field of clary sage
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Herbal Medicine
Plant Profiles
July 2, 20240Comments

The Benefits of Clary Sage: Nature’s Tranquil Treasure

In the world of aromatherapy, few plants hold as revered a place as Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea). With its captivating scent and beautiful blooms, this aromatic herb has been cherished
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Incense as Medicine
Plant Profiles
Ritual
Sustainability
Topical Medicine
June 20, 20241Comments

The Timeless Allure of Frankincense

For thousands of years, the fragrant swirls of Frankincense incense have woven their way through the entirety of human civilization, leaving an undeniable mark on our cultural, spiritual, and medicinal
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Human/Plant Connection
Incense as Medicine
Natural Perfumery
Ritual
Sustainability
May 9, 20240Comments

From Nature to Nose: Unveiling the Art of Natural Perfumery

Have you ever felt a deep desire to have your beloved aromatic plants accompany you throughout your day? That’s what it’s like to wear natural perfume. Unfortunately, many modern perfumes found
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Incense as Medicine
Natural Perfumery
Plant Profiles
Ritual
Topical Medicine
May 1, 20241Comments

Labdanum (Cistus) Resin – The Champion of Perfume

If I were to name the top 3 most tantalizing and exotic-smelling aromatics in the world, Labanum would surely be on that list. The mystique of this rich, sweet, animalic,
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatic History & Lore
Incense Crafting
Ritual
February 21, 20240Comments

The Ancient Story of Incense Clocks

How would you tell time without your iPhone, watch, or digital clock? Before the invention of electricity and modern technology, ancient peoples would often use the elements of the natural
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Aromatic Recipes
Bio-Regional Aromatic Medicine
Herbal Medicine
Incense as Medicine
Plant Profiles
Sustainability
Topical Medicine
January 24, 20240Comments

Medicine of the Evergreens: Our Greatest Winter Allies

In the heart of winter's icy grip exists a steadfast symbol of endurance and resilience – the magnificent evergreen trees. With autumn behind us, many plants have shed their leaves
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Aromatic Recipes
Herbal Medicine
Incense as Medicine
Plant Profiles
December 21, 20230Comments

The Health Benefits of Cinnamon Beyond the Kitchen

Cinnamon, the well-known aromatic spice that infuses warmth and depth into our favorite culinary delights, is much more than just a flavor enhancer. From the cozy aroma of chai tea
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Aromatic Recipes
Ritual
December 5, 20230Comments

The Art of the Herbal Bath

In a world that constantly buzzes with activity and stimulation, finding moments of tranquility and self-care can feel like an out-of-reach luxury. But self-care can be simple, affordable, and accessible.
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Herbal Medicine
Incense as Medicine
Ritual
July 26, 20230Comments

Aromatic Herbs in Grief Support & End-of-Life Care

Death, the inevitable end of our journey, is a universal experience that touches us all. A profound event which leaves us grappling with a myriad of emotions, a profound sense
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Ayurveda
May 8, 20230Comments

The Spiritual and Scientific Magic Behind Our Sense of Smell

Our sense of smell is a mysterious mechanism through which we can experience the healing power of aromatic plants. We know aromatic plants have been used since ancient times for
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
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🌿 Follow us on Instagram for daily inspiration, plant knowledge, aromatic wisdom, and one-of-a-kind courses 🌿

Why do certain aromas hold such power over us? Why Why do certain aromas hold such power over us? Why can a single inhale of Pine, Rose, or Cinnamon instantly transport us across decades, stirring tears or lifting the heart with inexplicable joy? 

The answer lies in scent’s unique connection to memory and emotion. 

Unlike other senses, which pass through the thalamus before reaching consciousness, scent travels directly to the olfactory bulb, which links straight to the amygdala and hippocampus, the brain’s centers for emotion and memory. 

In other words, scent bypasses logic and speaks directly to the heart.

This is why certain aromatic plants feel profoundly moving... 

They're keys that unlock entire worlds of feeling and memory. 

What scent speaks to you the most? 🌿

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#aroma #aromatherapy  #scentmemory #scenttherapy #aromaticplants #aromaticmedicine
Which aromatic plant matches your energy? 💜 Lave Which aromatic plant matches your energy? 

💜 Lavender: super chill
🍋 Lemon: upbeat and energetic!
✨ Rosemary: great memory and laser-sharp focus
🌿 Eucalyptus: fresh and exciting
🌲 Cedar: steady and faithful

So… which one are you today? 

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#aromaticplants #aromaticmedicine #aromatherapy #aromaticenergy
“Making a perfect medicine incense is in itself th “Making a perfect medicine incense is in itself the most wonderful process. It usually takes 2 to 3 years, in which we experience with our heart, nature's ingredients in the ways our ancestors did, and learn to enjoy the four seasons drenched in nature's exotic and mystical scents.”

– Li Shiliang, 7th generation Master Medicinal Incense Crafter

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#incense #naturalincense #incensecrafting #incensecrafter #aromaticmedicine
Myrrh is often seen as a symbol of life and death. Myrrh is often seen as a symbol of life and death.

Myrrh was one of the first things given to Jesus upon birth (along with Frankincense and gold, of course). Myrrh was also often used in the embalming process in ancient Egypt, anointing those who had left the Earth. In fact, the body of Jesus was rubbed with Myrrh for preservation before being placed in the tomb. 

Emotionally, it has been traditionally used to help people work through grief and sorrow, often accompanied by loss. There is a sweet ancient story about a Roman emperor who burned a full year's worth of Myrrh when his wife passed away.

Myrrh is a gentle hug and a comforting crutch. It can help remind us that everything on Earth is connected, and from death comes new life.

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#myrrh #incenseresin #naturalincense #myrrhoil #MyrrhMagic #aromatherapy #aromaticmedicine
5 things you might not know about Marjoram: 🍃 Wil 5 things you might not know about Marjoram:

🍃 Wild Marjoram was known as a funeral herb to the Greeks. It was planted on graves to promote peace to those who have passed on.

🍃 The Latin name, Origanum marjorana, comes from the Greek words “oros” and “ganos,” which translates to “joy of the mountains.”

🍃 Ancient Egyptians used Marjoram to make perfumes, unguents (ancient ointments), and medicines.

🍃 According to folklore, the plant’s aroma was a gift from Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility. Because of this, it’s commonly used as a floral crown in weddings, symbolizing love and honor.

🍃 Dioscorides, a famous ancient Greek physician, made an ointment of Marjoram to warm and strengthen the nerves and called it “amaricimum.”

What's your favorite way to use Marjoram?

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#Marjoram #aromaticherbs #aromaticspices #aromaticmedicine #aromatherapy #ancientfolklore
This time of year, the plants inherently know that This time of year, the plants inherently know that the Earth is growing warmer; they can tell that things outside are changing, and it’s time to get ready to sprout and grow new leaves and flowers.

Just as the plants and animals know this wisdom deep down inside, our energetic bodies know on a subconscious level as well.

The opportunity for growth is always there for us, but this time of year, the potential is most potent…

The fresh flowers popping up and new colors everywhere stir up energy and inspiration deep down inside of us that has been dormant through the winter months…

Do you have plans to take advantage of this energy and cultivate something new? What’s on your bucket list this year? 

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#spring #newbeginningsahead #freshenergy #natureisinspiring #plantgoals
What is an aroma? How does our body process aroma? What is an aroma? How does our body process aroma? 

Our instructor Erika Galentin dives into the scientific essence of aromas, explaining how these molecules transcend their chemical origins, becoming sensations within the body. 

Want to hear more from Erika? Stay tuned for a very special announcement tomorrow!

##aroma #aromaticplants #aromaticmedicine #aromaticmedicineschool #aromaticmedicinegarden
If you were stranded on a deserted island and coul If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring one herbal item, what would it be? 

For me, it would be Pine resin salve. 🌲

Many years ago, I gave a jar of Pine resin salve to a farmer friend of mine who was worried about one of his goats, Daisy. She’d been with him for many years, and they had formed a sweet bond over the years.

One morning, he noticed Daisy limping in the distance and discovered a deep gash on her leg. He called me to ask if I had anything that might help, and I could hear the concern in his voice. I’d just made a fresh batch of Pine resin salve, so I delivered him some, knowing its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties would help soothe whatever had happened to sweet Daisy.

He gently cleaned Daisy's wound and applied the salve, spreading it evenly over the injured area. And as he did, he whispered comforting words to his loyal friend, assuring her that everything would be alright.

Daily, he faithfully tended to Daisy's wound, applying the Pine resin salve. Slowly but surely, the deep wound began to close, and Daisy's limp gradually faded away. Her spirits lifted, and a spark returned to her eyes.

One day, my friend called me again, this time excited and relieved to share that Daisy was okay. The Pine resin salve had helped seal her wound, and she was back to her happy, playful self. My friend was in awe. 

While I trusted in the healing potential of Pine, it was still a magical marvel and a reassuring moment to witness and be a part of. It's little stories like these that remind me of the beauty, wonder, and healing power of the natural world. 

What’s your trusted herbal ally? Share with us in a comment below!
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#pine #pineresin #herbalsalve #herbalally #herbalmedicine #aromaticmedicine
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