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aromatic medicine

Incense as Medicine
March 12, 20240Comments

Aromatics & Incense for Mental Health Support

Too often, aromatic plants and incense are dismissed merely as pleasant fragrances. Yet, the volatile oils released when burning natural aromatic plants, or using them in other ways, possess remarkable
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Incense as Medicine
Ritual
March 6, 20240Comments

Overcoming Burnout: Reclaiming Your Vitality with Aromatic Medicine

There’s no doubt about it, these days, burnout is everywhere: in the workplace, in our personal lives, and even in our leisure activities. We’ve all done it – held a match
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 Recipes
Human/Plant Connection
Ritual
February 13, 20240Comments

Exploring the Essence of Self-Love with Aromatic Plants

What would your life look like if you treated yourself with the same kindness you showed to others? As Valentine's Day rolls around again, there tends to be a lot
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Ayurveda
Herbal Medicine
January 30, 20240Comments

Holistic Aromatic Medicine Through The Ayurvedic Lens

Ayurveda is an ancient healing science from India that offers a holistic approach to well-being and longevity. The very word “Ayurveda” can be translated as “knowledge of life” or “science
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
Herbal Medicine
Incense as Medicine
December 15, 20230Comments

Breathing Easier: Aromatic Plants for Respiratory Health

We often breathe without much thought, until a tickle in our throats or a deep, heavy cough reminds us of our lungs' delicate and vital role in our daily life.
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 Recipes
Ayurveda
Herbal Medicine
Topical Medicine
November 14, 20230Comments

Fall Self-care Practices to Nourish Body, Mind & Soul

As the air turns crisp, leaves transform into a vibrant tapestry of warm hues and Earth’s critters prepare for the cold – the environment invites us to turn our awareness
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
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Essential oils are powerful plant allies, but more Essential oils are powerful plant allies, but more isn’t always better. And just because something is “natural,” that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s good for you. Here are a few of the most common mistakes we see (& how you can avoid them): 🚫 Consuming essential oils Even if an essential oil is marketed as “food-grade” or “therapeutic,” that doesn’t automatically make it safe to ingest. EOs are extremely potent & highly concentrated, and internal use can irritate the delicate tissues of the digestive system. Ingestion should only ever be considered under the guidance of a trained health professional. 🚫 Using oils neat on the skin Most essential oils should be diluted before topical use. Because they’re highly concentrated, using them neat can lead to irritation, rashes, allergic reactions, or skin sensitization. Diluting essential oils in a carrier oil helps protect the skin, allowing the plant’s benefits to be delivered in a gentle, supportive way. 🚫 Adding essential oils directly to bath water Oil & water don’t mix. Without a proper dispersant, essential oils float on the surface & can irritate skin. Always dilute in a carrier oil, soap, or other dispersing medium first. 🚫 Assuming “natural” means risk-free Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts – respect dosage, especially with children, pets & during pregnancy. Not all EOs are safe for topical use. 🚫 Overdoing it Sometimes less is more, especially when it comes to potent essential oils. Just 2-3 drops in an EO diffuser are all you need to receive therapeutic benefits. Subtlety = sustainability (for both your body & your oils). 🚫 Skipping education + plant context Knowing how an oil is made, what part of the plant is used & why it works matters just as much as what it’s “good for.” 🌱 When used with intention, education & respect, essential oils become incredible teachers. Want to learn how to work with them safely, skillfully & in relationship with the plants? You’re in the right place. ✨ Comment “EO” to get our free Essential Oil Safety Guide sent directly to your inbox! __ #essentialoils #aromatherapy #essentialoils101 #essentialoilsafety #essentialoiltips
Do you know what makes hydrosols so special? 🌿 Con Do you know what makes hydrosols so special? 🌿 Contrary to popular belief, they're not just essential oils mixed with water. (Mixing essential oils with water won't work because oil and water don't mix—they separate into layers.) Hydrosols are actually the aromatic waters that remain after essential oils are distilled. Once considered a byproduct, they're now prized for their gentle effectiveness in aromatic medicine. Also known as floral waters, hydrosols capture the water-soluble components of plants along with a hint of essential oil, offering a milder, water-based essence. This makes them a great, gentle option for those sensitive to strong scents, including children and pets (for most hydrosols). Hydrosols are often used as a gentle skincare product or facial toner, and they're ideal for herbal recipes that call for water, and as delightful room or body sprays. Many can even be enjoyed as internal preparations or spritzed on salads or added to beverages (just be sure it’s safe for consumption!). What’s your go-to hydrosol? We're loving Rose water in our morning coffee and iced tea lately—so refreshing! 🌹💧 ___________ #hydrosol #hydrosoldistillation #aromatherapy #aromaticmedicine #essentialoildistillation #rosewater #naturalskincare
“In Indigenous ways of knowing, it is understood t “In Indigenous ways of knowing, it is understood that each living being has a particular role to play. Every being is endowed with certain gifts, its own intelligence, its own spirit, its own story. Our stories tell us that the Creator gave these to us, as original instructions. The foundation of education is to discover that gift within us and learn to use it well.” ― Robin Wall Kimmerer, Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses ____________ #robinwallkimmerer #gatheringmoss #robinwallkimmererinspiration #inspirationalquotes
The Magic of Melissa 🐝✨ Melissa officinalis, also The Magic of Melissa 🐝✨ Melissa officinalis, also known as Lemon Balm, is not only an incredible ally in the medicinal apothecary; it’s also a wonderful addition to spiritual and magical pursuits. Its Latin name comes from the Greek word for “honeybee.” The herb was often rubbed on beehives to promote successful colonization of the hive, and was even planted by the beekeepers of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to protect the sacred hives. Nicholas Culpeper, a famous 17th-century English botanist, herbalist, physician, and astrologer, suggests it is ruled by Jupiter and Cancer. I can see Venus as well, as do others, but I feel Jupiter is strongest… Uplifting, opening of the heart and senses, its lemony scent moving everything upwards, so to speak, shaking off depressive energies. A favorite way to work with Melissa is in incense blends or as an addition to a bath soak, where its bright and lemon-like aroma evokes an energetic peace, and brings a sense of joy and harmony. ____________ #lemonbalm #melissaofficinalis #lemonbalmleaves #aromatherapy #herbalism #aromaticherbs #naturalincense
Do you know this aromatic plant? Here are a few h Do you know this aromatic plant? Here are a few hints… 🌿 This hardy perennial shrub has been commonly used as a culinary herb, as well as a fumigant to help disinfect the air and reduce the spread of disease. 🌿 Its aroma is warm, herbaceous, and pungent. It’s traditionally used as a respiratory tonic to help relieve cold and flu symptoms due to its antibacterial, antiseptic, and expectorant qualities. 🌿 It was also used during times of pandemic and infectious disease outbreaks across ancient Europe. Who is this amazing herb? ⬇ Drop your guess in a comment below! _____________ #aromaticherbs #aromatherapy #aromaticmedicine #herbalism #guesswho
Books are a treasure trove of knowledge, but to tr Books are a treasure trove of knowledge, but to truly understand the secrets of plants, there's nothing like a direct connection. Plants are living beings. Through working with plants and diving into continuous connection, we build relationships with them, getting to know the depths of their ways over time. So how do you build your connection with plants? Here are our favorite ways to help bridge the gap: 🌿 Connect with a living plant: Find a living plant growing in the wild or a garden. Interact with the plant by engaging your senses. What does it look like? How does it grow? How does it smell? What does it feel like? Take notes and spend a few moments of silence simply existing in the same place as the plant. 🪔 Incense meditation: Find an aromatic plant from an organic and sustainable source, burn it as incense, and sit in meditation. Take notes of any subtle changes you feel in your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual realms. 🍵 Tea meditation: If the plant is safe to consume, find some dried plant material you can brew as an herbal tea. Sip it slowly, inhale the aromatics, and observe how the tea makes you feel, both mentally and physically. Take notes and reflect on any changes you might feel. 💧 Explore different herbal preparations: There are countless ways to work with aromatic plants! You can experiment with making topical oils, salves, hydrosols, tinctures, glycerites, cordials, and more. Each preparation is a different adventure, teaching you new ways that the plant can offer up its gifts. These are just a few methods to connect with plants and deepen your relationship to the natural world. ⬇ What’s your favorite way to bond with plants? Share with us in a comment below. __________ #connectwithplants #connectwithnature #herbalism #aromatherapy #meditation #teameditation #incensemeditation
Honor the magic of Rosemary... Rosemary has been Honor the magic of Rosemary... Rosemary has been well-known and used by ancient herbalists and practitioners since the time of the early Greeks and Romans. Greek scholars often wore it in a plant garland on their heads to help with their memory and concentration during exams. Today, studies have confirmed that the ancient peoples were on to something… the aromatics of Rosemary can improve concentration, thinking, and memory, and it may even help with age-related memory problems. It’s also been shown to help reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. In Hamlet, when Ophelia says, “There's Rosemary, that's for remembrance,” she could be hinting at how Rosemary helps with memory, or foreshadowing her own death, since Rosemary sprigs were commonly placed on dead bodies for protection, as a blessing, and to help those still alive remember their loved ones who have passed on. 🌿✨ ___________ #rosemary #RosemaryOil #rosemaryplant #memorysupport #aromatherapy #aromaticherbs #aromaticmedicine
Did you ever climb trees as a kid and end up with Did you ever climb trees as a kid and end up with sticky "sap hands" that collected every speck of dirt in the universe? 🌲 I did. That sticky, evergreen-scented mess was a childhood rite of passage for me (and a sneak preview of the world I'd fall into years later). As a teenager, I was burning that same “tree sap” as incense to calm my mind, find inspiration, and deepen my meditation practice. A decade after that, I discovered what ancient cultures had known for millennia: resins are one of nature's most versatile and powerful substances. They've shaped: ✨ Ancient healing systems ✨ The aromatic arts: incense, perfumery, aromatherapy, cosmetics ✨ Trade and culture via the ancient spice routes ✨ Spiritual practices and rituals across the world No sticky-handed kid climbing a tree could have guessed all that. When I started working with resins as an adult, I witnessed real healing, right before my eyes. A custom resin balm I made brought my friend Ryan relief from debilitating knee pain when nothing else had worked. A resin-infused mouthwash transformed my friend Becca's battle with gum disease. A compound tincture cleared up arthritic ulcers on my parents' friend Craig's legs in just a month. These stories are why I've dedicated my life to this craft. And they're why I created the Botanical Resins & Gums Course — a complete guide to working confidently with resins for health, beauty, ritual, and pleasure. ⚠️ Today is the LAST DAY of the special enrollment period. The price goes up by $120 tonight and the bonuses disappear. If you're ready to unlock what resins can do, click the link in our bio to enroll before this special offer expires. 🌿 #botanicalresin #treeresin #holistichealing #resincraft #medicinemaking #herbalcourse #diynatural
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