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essential oils

Aromatic Recipes
Topical Medicine
April 24, 20260Comments

Anti-Aging Aromatics: Herbs & Essential Oils for Radiant Skin

My friend and I were sitting together recently, enjoying the warm spring afternoon light in the park, talking about everything and nothing. At some point, the conversation turned, as it
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic Recipes
Herbal Medicine
Ritual
Topical Medicine
March 12, 20260Comments

Aromatic Herbs for Women’s Health

For thousands of years, aromatic plants have been an important part of women's lives. Their fragrances have filled kitchens where stews and herbal teas simmered on the stove, herbal baths
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Aromatic History & Lore
Herbal Medicine
Human/Plant Connection
Plant Profiles
February 26, 20260Comments

Yarrow in Herbal & Aromatic Medicine: History, Uses, and Energetics

The first time I truly met Yarrow was on a group hike with one of my herbal teachers. As we walked, he pointed out the feathery leaves at our feet
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Alchemy
Natural Perfumery
January 15, 20260Comments

Creating Harmony: The Composition of Natural Perfumes

We live in a world saturated with scent. Our air fresheners, laundry detergents, cosmetics, body products, and even most perfumes are infused with synthetic fragrance compounds designed to imitate nature.
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Natural Perfumery
January 7, 20260Comments

Natural Perfumery & Aromatherapy: Where Scent Becomes Medicine

Long before scent was bottled, branded, or adulterated, it was burned, worn, prayed with, and brewed into medicine. Across cultures and centuries, aromatic plants have lived at the crossroads of
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Human/Plant Connection
Incense as Medicine
Ritual
December 4, 20250Comments

Aromatic Rituals for Holiday Stress, Boundaries & Nervous System Support

You’re standing in your childhood kitchen when it begins: your mother casually asking why you’re still single (again), your sister spiraling about seating arrangements, and your uncle launching into opinions
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Aromatherapy
Herbal Medicine
Sustainability
Topical Medicine
November 25, 20250Comments

Herbal Holiday Gift Guide

As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect moment to celebrate the magic of small businesses. Beyond the glittering lights and busy crowds, these herbal businesses offer handcrafted remedies and
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
woman touching a field of chamomile outside on a sunndy day
Aromatherapy
Herbal Medicine
Human/Plant Connection
November 17, 20250Comments

The 4 Elements in Traditional Medicine: The Foundation of Energetics & Constitution

Have you ever wondered why the same essential oil that melts away your tension leaves someone else feeling restless? Or why your favorite go-to digestive herb doesn’t help your friend?
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
Alchemy
Aromatherapy
Herbal Medicine
Human/Plant Connection
Incense as Medicine
September 18, 20250Comments

From Hobbyist to Healer: Stepping Into Herbal and Aromatic Practice

Many of us step onto the plant path as hobbyists, captivated by herbs and aromatic plants, experimenting with teas, oils, or incense blends for personal use. Sometimes we share our
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
woman's hand lightly touching a fresh lavender plant
Aromatherapy
Herbal Medicine
Human/Plant Connection
Ritual
August 28, 20250Comments

Why True Plant Wisdom Goes Beyond Facts & Recipes

We live in a culture that loves quick fixes. If you’ve got a headache, there’s a pill for that. Feeling run down? Take Reishi. Feeling anxious? Chamomile. Trouble sleeping? Just
by NW School of Aromatic Medicine
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“How do you define nature? If we define it as that “How do you define nature? If we define it as that which is untouched by humans, then we won't have any nature left for our children when they’re adults.” 

-  Emma Marris, environmental writer

Nature is everywhere… we just need to learn to see it that way. 

Let’s consider a new definition of nature, one that includes not only pristine wilderness but also anywhere that life thrives, like the untended patches of plants growing in urban spaces. 

Let’s encourage each other, and our children, to connect with all types of nature, so that we feel called to love and protect it.

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#nature #emmamarris #natureiseverywhere #natureiseverything #natureismagic
What if the skincare industry has it backwards? W What if the skincare industry has it backwards?

We've been sold the idea that aging skin is the enemy… something to fight, reverse, and erase. Advertisements for expensive skincare products and Botox reinforce that narrative. 

But aging isn’t a problem to fix; it's a natural part of being alive, something to support rather than fight.

In the world of aromatic medicine, this similar mantra is something we return to again and again: plants don't "treat problems," they support bodies. 

And when it comes to aging skin, aromatic plants have so much to offer in that spirit; not to reverse the clock or erase the evidence of a life well-lived, but to nourish, strengthen, and bring radiance to skin that is constantly, beautifully renewing itself.

Our latest blog post explores 8 herbs and essential oils—including Helichrysum (pictured), Frankincense, Rosemary, and Rose—that work with your skin's natural rhythms to support elasticity, radiance, and regeneration from the inside out.

Plus: a beautiful DIY facial oil recipe that's become a daily ritual for us. 

🌿 Read Anti-Aging Aromatics: Herbs & Essential Oils for Radiant Skin at the link in bio.

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 #antiaging #antiagingtips #antiagingroutine #antiagingskincare  #antiagingoil #naturalskincaretips  #diyfaceoil
A friend said something to me recently that I have A friend said something to me recently that I haven't been able to stop thinking about.

We were sitting in the park, talking about aging (the new gray hairs, the fine lines), and I admitted I felt a small pang of discouragement. Then she said: "I cherish my wrinkles and laugh lines. They tell the stories of my years of joy and laughter."

Just like that, something in me shifted.

It was a gentle reminder that aging isn't a problem to be solved, but a natural, dynamic process unfolding in us, as it has in every human who has ever lived a full and meaningful life. 

Many of us are taught to believe that aging is the enemy…

But what if aging skin isn't a problem to fix, but something to support? 

Aromatic plants have been doing exactly that for centuries. 

In my latest blog post, I dive into 8 powerful herbs and essential oils that nourish, strengthen, and bring radiance to the skin, plus a simple DIY facial oil recipe you can make at home.

✨ Read the full blog at the link in our bio. 

Enjoy the article, 
Melissa

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 #antiaging #antiagingtips #antiagingroutine #antiagingskincare #naturalskincaretips #naturalskincareroutine #diyskincarerecipes
Outside of the world of aromatics, it’s a little-k Outside of the world of aromatics, it’s a little-known fact that aromatic plants have a direct effect on our emotions and mental state.

There's a magical, mystical association with scent and how it interacts with our being and consciousness. This exists across all ancient teachings of aromatherapy and incense.

Maybe you’ve felt it before… a deep, undeniable, and indescribable feeling inside of you when you smell a certain aroma, like Rose, Frankincense, or Pine.

Aroma reaches every part of our being, mind, body, and soul, and its gift opens something sacred within us, connecting our spirit to the divinity of life. 

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#aromatherapy #aromaticmedicine #aroma #aromatics #aromatherapymagic  #sacred
Happy Earth Day! 🌍 For us, it's never just about Happy Earth Day! 🌍

For us, it's never just about one day... it's about the small, daily moments of connection. 

It's all about reciprocity. Giving thanks, showing gratitude, and taking care of the Earth that takes care of us in so many ways. Every single day.

Drop the names of your favorite aromatic plants that the Earth has gifted us.👇

I know, it's impossible to pick just one... but right now, our favorite is Tulsi 🌱

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#earthday  #earthdayeveryday #happyearthday  #natureheals #naturehealsmysoul
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):

đźš« 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.

đźš« 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.

đźš« 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.

đźš« 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).

đźš« 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!

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#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! 🌹💧

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#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

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#robinwallkimmerer #gatheringmoss #robinwallkimmererinspiration #inspirationalquotes
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