The Olibanum tree from which Frankincense is extracted, is upon first glance may seem rather unremarkable. It appears as a giant shrub, with many knurled branches topped with abundant slender leaves and occasionally, small white flowers. A native to northern Africa, it even looks like it belongs in the desert, growing in some of the world's harshest conditions. When the tree's bark is pierced with a 'mingaf' knife, a milky-white resin is exuded and collected; thought the tree is not harmed. The resin forms droplets known as tears or pearls, which harden in to the orange-brown gum known itself as Frankincense.

Modern natural medicine and aromatherapy have taken to the use of the essential oil of Frankincense. The oil, having a warm, woody, sweet aroma with a hint of citrus, is steam or CO2 distilled from the resin. There are several species of Olibanum tree from which the resin is collected and the essential oil distilled, the most popular being Boswellia "carteri" and Boswellia "seratta". Carteri has been the most widely researched for medical applications, and seratta is appreciated for its rich, exotic aroma. The new modern CO2 distillations are more likely to contain the same healthful compounds as the historically-used resin. One of America's leading medical aromatherapist notes, regarding the production of essential oil from the resin, "It could be that the (health-related) substances in question are too polar and too large a molecular size to appear in steam distillates - their presence would be more likely in CO2 extracts."

The very wide range of therapeutic applications is one of the most appealing features of Frankincense. First off, it is highly revered for its use in skin care, particularly for mature skin that may be prematurely aging due so sun exposure. The desert-source of the plant material makes this use almost obvious. Extracts of the resin have even been the subject of double-blind studies, where one have of each participant's face received the preparation with the "active ingredient". The result was a significant improvement in skin texture (a measurable decrease in roughness), as well as a reduction in the appearance of fine lines. To benefit from the oil this way, you could add 4 to 12 drops per ounce to a cream or lotion you're already using, or if making up a new formula, use the essential oil at a concentration between .5% and 2%.

Boswellia extracts (like the CO2 distillation) have found their way into many common over-the-counter pain relieving and anti-inflammatory preparations for joint and muscular pain. Natural chemicals in the oils inhibit the action of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Frankincense essential oil in combination with other anti-inflammatory and analgesic oils can be of great support for arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other painful conditions. A blend to consider for these needs: in each ounce of carrier oil (sweet almond is fine), add 40 drops Frankincense, 40 drops Ginger CO2, 40 drops Sweet Marjoram and 40 drops Plai. Not only is the pain likely to be significantly reduced, but you're knees will smell wonderful as well!

Perhaps the most impressive therapeutic potential of Frankincense lay in its now extensively researched anti-cancer activity. The resin and its extracts have been shown to specifically target cancer cells in a number of different organs, causing apoptosis (normal cell death, which doesn't "normally" occur in cancer cells) to the cancerous cells, leaving healthy ones unaffected. While treatment protocols are still a ways off, it is possible to include daily doses of Frankincense as a protective measure. The essential oil is rapidly absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream -- small doses can also reasonably be ingested with the guide of a natural health professional.

In terms of "aroma" therapy, Frankincense can be an excellent antidepressant and grounding aromatic. A diffuser or warming lamp can be used to disperse the aroma throughout your environment. Frankincense oil can be applied directly to the forehead where you can both capture the aroma and absorb the oil directly (it is non-irritating or sensitizing, though if you do experience sensitivity, simply dilute to 5-10% in a carrier oil). It is considered deeply calming, and has been noted to have the potential to actually slow the breathing rate -- a very interesting effect, considering that some physicians believe our life spans to be governed by the number of breaths we take, and not the number of heartbeats. Our breathing patterns are also directly related to our stress level: under stress, we tend to take shallow, rapid breaths, and while relaxed, breathing is slower and deeper.

It's plain to see Frankincense is a very worthwhile aromatic in the therapist's toolkit. With anti-aging, anticancer, antidepressant and anti-stress activity, it's likely that the essential oil can easily find a way into your overall wellness program. You'll likely be happier and healthier for it, and will have another valuable natural medicine to enjoy and share.

The author has made available reports on specific anti-microbials such as tea tree and other therapeutic essential oils.

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Sandalwood is one of the oldest aromatic materials, being acknowledged in ancient biblical and in Indian text as well as used in religious ceremonies throughout the ages. Botanically known as a small evergreen in the genus Santalum and family Santalaceae, this modest-sized tree (up to 10 meters) provides a great deal of commerce for India and to some extent Australia and is now being examined by the medical industry for its medicinal properties. There are several species of Santalum, but only a few are used commercially, most notably Santalum album (India) and Santalum spicatum (Australia). Other tress from such places as Polynesia and Fuji are in small numbers and in great decline. Oddly, other plants such as the Bead Tree or Candlewood are known as sandalwood but are not botanically parallel. Sometimes, non-related plants such as Red Sandalwood are used as fillers for the more expensive, genuine sandalwood.

True sandalwood contains aromatic heartwood (middle) and roots which when harvested are used for furniture items as well as distilled for its highly prized essential oil. Plantations have been set aside in both India and Australia to meet growing demand for Santalum essential oil. Sandalwood harvesting and manufacturing of incense sticks, furniture and essential oil provides great employment for many in India, especially in southern India. The value of sandalwood in India cannot be overstated. Besides its ceremonial significance, sandalwood is used extensively in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The harvest and processing of sandalwood is strictly regulated and private ownership of the trees is not permitted. Since 1792 trees have been considered of Indian royalty and thus well guarded and protected. These valued trees take decades to develop their rich aromatic wood and are not considered commercially viable until at least forty years of age, but trees have been harvested at thirty to meet rising requests for its processed products.

Much of the valuable wood is found in the roots of sandalwood and thus harvested by uprooting the entire tree versus cutting it at the trunk. In the last few years alone, the price of sandalwood has skyrocketed, mainly due to rising demand and limited supply. Increased demand has mainly come from the perfume and aromatherapy industry. Sandalwood essential oil and paste is used in Indian and Chinese medicine and of course aromatherapy botanical medicine. The perfume industry covets this oil for its ability to blend well with other perfume oils; hence, it is used extensively in hundreds of cosmetic products.

Over the centuries, the use of sandalwood and its products have been an integral part of several religious cultures. It scent, either as an essential oil or ground as incense, is thought to bring one closer to the Divine. Hindus burn incense made from sandalwood oil in burial pyres and at funerals. It's also used in temples to remind people of the heavenly realms. Yogis in India use the oil to anoint each other during ceremonies and before meditation as well deity statues often made of sandalwood itself.

Sandalwood May Help with Antibiotic Resistance

Opposition to antibiotic use in food agriculture has been gaining momentum. In years past, it was known that severe illness-causing microbes such as Salmonella and E. coli could be contracted through eating contaminated meat. Now, it is proposed that contraction of bacteria, in this case antibiotic resistant bacteria, can possibly be transferred through ingestion, handling of industrial animal manure, as well as through drinking manure-contaminated ground water. With these scenarios coming to the surface, scientists and government officials alike are in alarm and strongly suggesting the decrease if not absolute elimination of non-therapeutic uses of antibiotics in the meat industry. Recent media has brought attention to the proposed link between the steep increase of antibiotic-resistant microbes with use and perhaps misuse of antibiotics in agriculture. Modern industrial agriculture raises animals in tight often inhumane quarters which results in animals being much more susceptible to sickness and disease, thus the administration of antibiotics is very common. Because bacteria and other microbes can easily mutate (in as little as 20 minutes), it is no wonder that great concern is now mounting.

Concern for antibiotic-resistant microbes is worldwide. A need to find alternatives to conventional antibiotic treatment is rising. Essential oils have been gaining attention by research scientists for their antimicrobial properties. A collaborative study of researchers in Austria and Germany (Flavor and Fragrance Journal 2006 May/Jun; 21(3): 465-468) found that santalols of sandalwood (the main chemical components of sandalwood) in medium and/or high concentrations showed significant antimicrobial potential against the yeast Candida albicans, the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, and the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Other Promising Uses

The Australian and Indian Santalum species, found to be similar in chemical composition, are known by aromatherapists to have such therapeutic properties as anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic (reduces fever), antiseptic (as mentioned above), antispasmodic (relieves muscle spasms), astringent, carminative (relieves flatulence), demulcent (reduces irritation), diuretic (soft and soothing to skin), emollient, expectorant, as a sedative and general tonic. Their principle chemical constituents are alpha-santalol and beta-santalol. According to a study conducted by the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and South Dakota University (Anticancer Research 2007 Jul-Aug; 27(4B): 2185-8) application of the chemical compound alpha-santalol prevents UVB-induced skin tumor development in mice. Sandalwood is also thought to help alleviate the symptoms of depression as reported by the University of Maryland Medical Center (www.umm.edu).

Summing It Up

It is rather evident that the value of sandalwood extends across centuries and continents. It is revered by various religions, scientists, aromatherapists and perfume enthusiasts alike. What is remarkable is that uses of plants and their essential oils are bringing such world-wide engagement as their promising applications are uncovered in scientific research. A need for alternatives to conventional antibiotics as well as insecticides is clear. As less-than amiable agriculture practices surface and resistance to current antimicrobials increase, it is apparent that humankind will revert back to solutions found in nature and perhaps make a more diligent effort to conserve the very earth that sustains us.

Essential oils have a very broad range of uses, from just making a room smell nice, to combating the most challenging bacterial infections. The term 'aromatherapy' includes all these uses. To learn more, visit The Ananda Apothecary online.

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The first thing that anyone seems to notice is our smile. Far too many people neglect their teeth during their younger years and they end up with graying teeth and a smile that they are embarrassed about. There is no need to spend a small fortune to get those pearly whites back. Simply put baking soda on a damp toothbrush and use it just as you would normally. In no time at all there will be a dramatic increase in the whiteness of your smile.

Your lifestyle affects your health and the way that they you look. Partying all night long is great when you are a kid, but many people seem as though they literally change overnight. All the smoke and alcohol along with a lack of proper rest will eventually take its toll. The prettiest women around will pay the price for this eventually.

Start drinking plenty of water every day to avoid this from happening. It will not only keep the body hydrated, but will also continue to flush out toxins. Some exercise is always a good idea and eating a well balanced meal is not going to hurt either. Doing all of this will keep that body and face looking great for many years.

Superfoods were something else that have gotten a lot of press and have found their way into a lot of expensive diet supplements. Why pay all that money when you can eat food that is high in antioxidants that will have the same affect. Eat the real superfoods like blueberries and drink a lot of green tea.

Of course, beauty products must also be looked at when discussing all natural beauty. Many women will do everything right until they get to this point and will then use the same harmful products on their skin that they have for years. Just about everything needed can be found in the cupboard and when it comes to makeup, there are many fine lines of true all natural products to choose from.

To be an all natural beauty is about more than just looking great. Everything from what is put into the body to the type of lifestyle that is led will affect everything both inside and outside. All natural beauty is definitely much more than just using natural products, it is about treating the body with respect and allowing its natural elements and abilities to shine.

Finding the right natural beauty treatment for your face and body is essential for proper health and long lasting beauty. Discover the secrets of natural beauty simply by following these all natural beauty tips. Get rid of those wrinkles and sagging and start to look and feel more beautiful. Find out all the secrets by visiting Natural Beauty Treatment today.

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Genetic background can be a help or hindrance to some of the most vicious degenerative diseases such as cancer and diseases of the circulatory system. But even these can definitely be overcome when a person decides to put his or her body back to rights and get well.

In order to start, one has to determine individual metabolic type. The important thing is how the body handles food, not the effect on the body created by a particular food.

This means that, by learning the do's and don'ts of proper environment and proper nutrition, and by investing what amounts to a small amount of our time and our money, we can soon be on the trail of our most valuable possession, ever-lasting good health.

Antioxidants such as Glutathione, Vitamins A, C and E and beta-carotene work to rid the body of free radicals. This can slow down aging and undo damage already done. Proven natural therapies can really prevent age-related diseases. One needs to liaise with a professional regarding what nutritional supplements and particular diet plan would be right for him or her. Exercise would also be a necessary ingredient.

While aging isn't caused by any one factor, free radical damage is the dominant theory of why we age. Free radicals are implicated in such diseases as hardening of the arteries, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, late-onset diabetes, and Parkinson?s disease. In addition to free radical damage, your body's everyday processes generate a lot of waste products that must regularly be detoxified and cleared out. There are safe and effective and gentle methods of detoxifying the body along with putting correct nutrition in the body.

Lifespan of mammals can be increased by restricting caloric intake ? much definitive research points to this conclusion. Even limited times of restricted calorie diet can balance hormones and those effects can continue even when normal eating habits are taken up again. A diet plan for the individual is imperative in an anti-aging program.

Get healthy - join the many who have launched themselves on the trail of a productive and energetic old age. Consult your health professional for a specific diet and program of nutritional supplements.

Live healthier, longer - learn how by going to Angel Longevity Medical Center. Find out more about Chronic Fatigue and Anti-Aging This and other unique content '' articles are available with free reprint rights.

categories: anti-aging,old age,stay young,natural medicine,hormone,natural hormone replacement therapy,diseases,degenerative diseases,eating habits,diabetes,heart disease,cancer

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Beware. Your cosmetics have been labeled as "acne Catch-22". Some examples like mineral oil, petroleum and sunflower oil do not permeate into the pores. Again, dead skin cells will mix with oil and clog your pores, then trap bacteria inside. The duration of acne's disappearance (if any) is unpredictable. For most people's cases, acne diminishes over time and tends to disappear or at the very least decrease after one reaches one's early twenties.

ACNE CAUSES The cause of acne in pre adults is generally an increase in male sex hormones which people of both genders collect during puberty. Severe acne is inflammatory; However, it can conceal itself in non-inflammatory form too. The Journal of American Medical Association published an article which says "Diet plays no role in acne treatment in most patients. Big amounts of certain foods have not clinically increased acne. That doesn't mean that you should eat foods high in sugar or fat.

SOME COMMON MEDICATIONS There are many common over-the-counter medications used for the treatment of acne, and not one of the following is a natural acne medicine because they contain one or more of the following ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, or salicylic acid. Each of these ingredients works a little differently. These non natural acne medications can be obtained in many forms, such as soaps, gels, pads, lotions, or creams.

HOW ABOUT POPPING? Never, ever try to pop you acne. Working on a pimple abrasion that's not ready to pop can lead to skin marks, so better leave the pimple which is not yet ready to pop. Let it be, if it doesn't want to pop. If you believe you have to do something, with a easy movement and a down-and-in motion, press from both sides.

HOW TO FACE THE PROBLEM IF YOUR FACE IS THE PROBLEM Can you imagine how your closeness would never be hindered? No more phobias. This program would take care of your body's hormonal level to prevent your acne. It would help you to stop missing out and to meet your full potential. Don't let a bunch of small inflamed lumps take over your life. Come on, there are a lot of things to achieve. This acne remedy might solve it all, so that you wont miss the adventure in your life!

Harry Park, like many others, has had acne, but found after numerous potions, cremes and concoctions, found a better way to completely eliminate acne forever with Natural Acne Medicine

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Even though all of us grow old, there are many physical debilities and limitations attributed to old age that are easily averted. Resigning yourself to aging gracefully is not the goal.

A slowly crumbling body growing weaker with the years is not only preventable, but sometimes reversible. You have a choice. Advances in alternative medicine make longer and productive life possible.

Preventing deterioriation is certainly wiser and cheaper than trying to cure age related disease after it has already taken hold. You?ve heard the maxim that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In this case it is certainly true.

A realistic goal is not to prolong life to some unrealistic advanced age, but to promote successful aging ? staying healthy and functional up to the end of a long, productive life. Utilization of safe, effective therapies that address the underlying mechanisms of aging, e.g. natural hormone replacement, and specific dietary and exercise recommendations are a good foundation to an anti-aging program.

You can avoid or reverse many diseases associated with old age by having a proper diet, lifestyle and natural hormone replacement and nutritional supplements.

Extra weight gain and fatigue, memory loss, muddled feelings, and weakness are all symptoms associated with age. These can be improved by these new methods. Some diseases resulting from old age can also be avoided or handled, such as late onset diabetes, cancer and heart diseases.

When these procedures are applied, a person can successfully thrive. A number of processes must work together ? detoxification of the body, correct diet and nutritional supplements, hormone replacement therapy and prevention of further toxification from the environment or personal habits are all included. Following such a program can make one feel young again.

You can participate in this new route to health and enjoy a youthful aging process. Effects of aging can be prevented with effective programs from a health practitioner.

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This essential oil has antibacterial properties and has been used for many decades for several skin conditions.Topical antibiotics like tea tree oil will kill bacteria on the skin's surface and stop inflammation. It does work for most people, but tea tree oil is not considered a miracle cure and can take longer to see results than some over-the-counter medications. If you read the reviews across the web, it gets mostly positive recommendations.

Tea tree oil has been shown that it can hinder and destroy microbes.It is speculated that because it can kill bacteria, it may help reduce acne by destroying Propionibacterium acnes, a bacteria that is associated with acne.This bacteria is very common and is usually not a problem. It's when the pores of the skin get plugged up with excess oils,that P.acnes can inflame the skin causing acne to form.

There are some over-the-counter products that contain 5% benzoyl peroxide with tea tree oil combined. I have talked to a few acne sufferers that have been using a alpha hydroxy lotion in the morning and a combined tea tree/benzoyl peroxide gel in the evening with great results. The alpha hydroxy lotion is used to help shed dead skin cells.

Tea tree oil products often have a very distinct smell. The major component of tea tree oil is a natural terpene. The word "terpene" comes from word turpentine which what the smell reminds me of.Other people have said it has that "camphor" smell to it.I have read a ton of people complain that their family members or partners don't like it.

When you first use the tea tree oil, it can cause dryness and irritation. If you bought it full strength, it should be diluted with water to about five percent strength before applying directly on the blemish or lesion. Pure tea tree oil is strong enough to cause severe skin irritations. You can use a small shot glass or a Dixie cup of water to mix in 3 or 4 drops of pure tea tree oil. Don't dilute it too much as there is the risk that it won't kill the bacteria and possibly cause the P.acnes bacteria to become resistant to treatment. Follow the package instructions carefully.

Some people can have allergic reactions to some of these products. Safety should be your first concern. Keep this stuff away from pets and children. It is toxic if swallowed! If your using any OTC product including tea tree oil for acne, and it is not helping,the best thing you can do is see a dermatologist as soon as possible. Don't keep trying every new product that comes along. Chronic acne left untreated properly, can lead to scarring and sometimes even affect a person mental state.There are different kinds of acne and they require different types of treatment.Using the wrong product or using it improperly can make acne worse. In fact, I would not recommend using any topical treatment (including tea tree oil) before consulting a certified dermatologist.

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If you are one of the millions of people out there who battle with acne and the scars that happen as a result from it, you're going to be pleased to hear that there are some really good household remedies that work awesome to get rid of the scars. Some even better news, is that you could in all likelihood even start today by assembling some easy fixings from your kitchen pantry. And even if you don't have all the needed components to start you can go to the health food store or your local market and pick them up easily. What I'm going to do with this article, is give you five really simple acne scar home remedies that you can mix up in your kitchen in no time flat.

The first one I want to tell you about is a paste that you can make from a mixture of sandalwood powder and rosewater. Sandalwood powder it easy to find at any local health food store as well as rosewater. When you get them all you have to do is mix them together until they form a paste and then apply it to your acne scars everyday. With a little bit of time, probably in a few weeks, you're going to see the scars lighten up and you will see that your skin will look a lot healthier.

Number two. To get rid of or reduce blackheads and blackhead scarring, mix ground radish seeds with water to form a paste. Use this paste to scrub the affected area daily. with a little bit of time you will see your scars disappearing, and fresh beautiful skin taking its place.

The third household remedy for acne that I wish to speak about is one that's made out of Sesame seeds. Yes, it's true Sesame seeds. This home remedy is more for acne scars that are really tender and sore. If you take the Sesame seeds and mix them with water you can apply it to your skin and it will work to cut down on the sensitivity and mend your scars. With a little bit of time you will find that your acne scars reduced dramatically.

The fourth really effective cure I have for you is to mix salt and vinegar to form a paste. All you will need to do is rub this paste on the areas affected by the acne scars and you will soon see a a notable lessening in the redness and you will also have a decrease in the amount of new blemish formation. For the best results you need to add this mixture to your skincare routine daily.

Number five. The citric acid in lemon juice acts to lighten acne scars, as well as toning skin. You can either use straight lemon juice, or peel a lemon and crush the peel in a blender. You then apply the lemon poultice to your skin daily in scarred areas. Leave it on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes, then wash off with mild soap and water.

Just as I promised, there you go, a list of five simple acne scar home cures that you can mix up in just a matter of a few minutes in your own kitchen. Now you don't ever have to ever have to spend a fortune on all that pricey pharmaceutical drivel that makes all those great claims for scar reducing. Because you now have the ability to treat your acne scars easily and effectively with very minimal damage to your pocketbook. It's nice to actually be able to use nature's healing power for a change instead of having to depend on harsh chemicals and pharmaceutical companies to get those lasting results that you deserve.

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If you battle with grievous acne blemishes, you're in luck. Acne herbal remedies are both affordable and effectual, and are getting more commonly accessible. You can use natural products to treat acne, reduce the appearance of scars, and enlighten your skin.

Acne is often stimulated by genetics or other natural factors, which implies that it is best treated using natural remedies such as nuts, fruits, and herbs that you can find in your local health food store or supermarket. Below are 3 simple acne herbal cures and natural treatments that you can put to use today!

The First Remedy

Believe it or not the first remedy I have for you calls for the utilization of peanut oil and lime juice. All you have got to do is blend equal parts together and place the mixing on your individual blemishes. Go ahead and leave this confection on your face for more or less 15 minutes while you are making ready for bed, or readying yourself for a soak in the tub. After the time is complete wash it off with warmed water. This concoction will function to prevent blackheads and pimples, however if you have allergies to these substances, please refrain from using them as they can induce reactions obviously.

The Second Remedy

Another obtainable acne herbal remedy is rose water. Lime juice combined with rose water will serve to shrink your pores and cleanse your skin. Over time, application of this solution will lead to fresh, conditioned skin. Rose water is on hand at many health or natural food stores, and is rather low-priced. Store the solution in a bottle in your refrigerator for a refreshing face wash - it will preserve for numerous weeks.

The Third Remedy

Rose water can also be blended with sandalwood or tea tree fundamental oils. Implement the concoction to your blemishes each night, leave on for ten minutes, then wash with cool water. The essential oils help fight bacterium on your skin, while the rose water operates to cleanse and purge your skin. The result - fresh, clear, spot free skin. This solution can also be stored in the fridge for a stimulating face wash.

Herbal cures for acne are quick to mix up, store for long periods of time, and can drastically improve your skin with steady use. If you're caught up in clearing up your skin, don't bother investing in pricey drug store cures. A trip to your local health food shop can supply you with super results inexpensively. Best of all, you'll know that the products that you're putting on your skin are safe and natural .

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