Ayurvedic blends

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From: http://birchhillhappenings.com/recipes/hairskin.htm Skin Care Blend 10 drops Sandalwood 10 drops Bois de Rose AKA Rosewood 10 drops Lavender 30 ml Avocado or other Carrier Oil Mix and then massage on area. Use daily. (500 Formulas by Schiller and Schiller) Corn and Callus blend Lavender - 12 drops Myrrh - 6 drops Sweet almond - 2 ounces. Mix in a bottle, shake well to mix. Massage into the affected area to soften calluses and corns. Apply daily. Soften Corns and Calluses Sweet almond or Sunflower oils - 2 tablespoons Tagetes - 20 drops Carrot seed - 5 drops Roman Chamomile - 10 drops Mix in a bottle and apply several drops to the corn twice daily. Remember to soak your feet and vigorously rub the corn and calluses after soaking to help remove any of the dead skin. You may need to

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This document contains a list of ayurvedic blends for the hair, scalp, and face.

Transcript of Ayurvedic blends

From: http://birchhillhappenings.com/recipes/hairskin.htmSkin Care Blend

10 drops Sandalwood 10 drops Bois de Rose AKA Rosewood 10 drops Lavender 30 ml Avocado or other Carrier Oil Mix and then massage on area. Use daily.(500 Formulas by Schiller and Schiller)

Corn and Callus blend

Lavender - 12 drops Myrrh - 6 drops Sweet almond - 2 ounces. Mix in a bottle, shake well to mix. Massage into the affected area to soften calluses and corns. Apply daily.Soften Corns and Calluses

Sweet almond or Sunflower oils - 2 tablespoons Tagetes - 20 drops Carrot seed - 5 drops Roman Chamomile - 10 drops

Mix in a bottle and apply several drops to the corn twice daily. Remember to soak your feet and vigorously rub the corn and calluses after soaking to help remove any of the dead skin. You may need to use a pumice stone to help remove some of the dead, thickened skin. Continue to use the above blend, periodically, once you have the corn and/or calluses gone to help prevent them from returning.Recipe adapted "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy" by Valerie Ann Worwood.

Skin Toner

Distilled water - 8 oz Lavender - 2 drops Palmarosa - 1 drop Rosewood - 1 drop Pour distilled water into clean bottle and add essential oils. Shake then apply the toner to your skin with a cotton ball after cleansing. Shake well before each use.(Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty by Roberta Wilson)

Face Blend for Normal skin

Geranium 1 drop Lavender 2 drops Sweet Almond Oil - 1 Tablespoon Blend essential oils with Almond oil and use on your face after cleaning and toning. Use a few drops of this blended mixture as needed.Face Blend for Dry Skin

Neroli 2 drops Roman Chamomile 1 drop Sweet Almond Oil - 1 tablespoon Blend oils with almond oil and use on your face. Use a few drops of this blended mixture as needed.

Just remember the essential oils should be blended with the carrier oil or lotion at least 1-2 days in advance so the oils can blend thoroughly.Face Blend for Mature Skin

Frankincense - 2 drops Rose - 1 drop Sweet Almond Oil - 1 Tablespoon Blend essential oils with almond oil and use on your face to tone and rejuvenate mature skin. Use a few drops of this blended mixture as needed.

In any of these blends the Almond Oil can be substituted for another oil of your choice or moisturizing lotion.INHALATION FORMULA

2 cups boiling water Eucalyptus - 12 drops Cedarwood - 6 drops Rosemary - 3 drops Peppermint 6 drops

Pour blend into bottle, shake well and then add 5 drops to the boiling water (place in a stainless steel bowl), lean over bowl and place towel over head to inhale the oils. Caution - remember sometimes less in oils is better than moreLICE and SCABBIES (EXTERNAL USE ONLY!!)

Cinnamon (2 drops) Rosemary (2 drops) Pine (2 drops) Thyme (1 drop) 5 ml of Carrier oil

Mix oils, put directly on affected area. Be sure to do a skin test on inside of Forearm first!!BODY POWDER

10 drops peppermint 10 drops spruce 5 drops clove 5 drops Spearmint 2 tablespoons (30ml) Corn starch Apply to skin as needed to feel refreshed and comfortable.Skin Care Blend

10 drops Sandalwood 10 drops Bois de Rose AKA Rosewood 10 drops Lavender 30 ml Avocado or other Carrier Oil Mix and then massage on area. Use daily.(500 Formulas by Schiller and Schiller)

For Oily Hair

Ylang Ylang - 9 drops Lime - 9 drops Rosemary- 8 drops Grapeseed oil- 2 tablespoons Mix all ingredients then apply 1 teaspoon to hair and scalp and massage in. Allow to penetrate for several hours or overnight. Wash your hair with a natural unscented shampoo washing it twice. Use 3 times a week.Skin Toner

Distilled water - 8 oz Lavender - 2 drops Palmarosa - 1 drop Rosewood - 1 drop

Pour distilled water into clean bottle and add essential oils. Shake then apply the toner to your skin with a cotton ball after cleansing. Shake well before each use. (Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty by Roberta Wilson)

ATHLETES FOOT RELIEF OIL

carrier oil - 2 oz Tea Tree - 10 drops Eucalyptus - 8 drops Myrrh - 6 drops Thyme - 6 drops

Place in a clean container and blend together. Apply a few drops directly to affected area. once or twice a day. This will not cure Athletes foot over night. You should get relief within a day or two. Be consistent and with continued use your feet will feel better quickly. Fungal infections - which is what Athlete's foot is can take several weeks to be cured. Use this consistently for several weeks to eliminate the fungal infection.DETANGLE CONDITIONING HAIR SPRAY.

150mls distilled water 20 drops Lavender 20 dropsRosemary 20 drops Carrotseed (cold pressed ) 5 ml Emulsifier or solubaliser

Put distilled water in a spray bottle. Add emulsifier and shake well, then add oils and shake again thoroughly. Use when hair is wet or dry. Spray enough to slightly dampen hair (if it is dry) and gently brush or comb hair. De tangles and conditions hair without leaving any residue. For some hair it may also control frizziness. Can be used whenever you brush your hair in between washes.Submitted by Lisa P. from Australia, Thanks Lisa

DRY SKIN FORMULA

Jojoba 1 teaspoon Camellia oil 1 teaspoon Sesame oil 1 teaspoon Carrotseed essential oil 25 drops Sandalwood 6 drops Neroli 4 drops Geranium 2 drops

Blend all ingredients in a 1 oz bottle, shake well to mix. Apply 4 6 drops of blend twice a day to dry area.HAIR LOSS RECIPE

Jojoba 1 TBS Sweet almond 1 TBS Carrotseed 40 drops Lavenderoil 10 drops Clary Sage 6 drops Roman Chamomile 4 drops Rosemary 4 drops

Blend all ingredients in a clean bottle. Shake well and warm before using. Apply a few drops into scalp, leave overnight or until absorbed in. Apply several times a week.SUNBURN RELIEF

Jojoba 2 oz Aloe Vera gel 2 oz Helichrysum 25 drops Lavender 60 drops

Blend together store in a cool place. Apply as needed.PERFUME BLEND

Helichrysum 20 drops Clary Sage 10 drops Bergamot 10 drops Lavender 10 drops Clove bud 5 drops Rose Otto 5 drops Vanilla in Jojoba 25 drops 1 ounce Jojoba

Blend all ingredients. Let this blend for about a week or more.A STEAM BATH FOR OILY SKIN AND ACNE

Juniper Berry 6 drops Lemon 4 drops Cypress 4 drops

Add the above essential oils to a bowl of Very Hot water. Hold a towel over your head and bend over the bowl, draping the towel over the bowl so the steam does not escape.

This will help to stimulate the skin on your face. After 510 minutes rinse your face with tepid cool water. Pat dry.Recipe adapted from Aromatherapy Handbood for Beauty, Hair, and Skin Care by Erich Keller

FOOT DEODORIZING POWDER

Sage 2 drops Coriander 2 drops Spearmint 2 drops Talc Powder 2 ounce Baking soda 1 tablespoon

Open the bottle of Talc Powder and add the baking soda. Shake well. Then add the drops of essential oil to a cotton pad or ball and drop inside the talc/baking soda bottle. Shake well and let sit for a couple days before using.

Apply to your feet and inside your shoes.ANTIWRINKLE OIL

Neroli - 10 drops Lavender 10 drops Frankincense - 10 drops Rosemary 2 drops Fennel 10 drops Lemon 3 drops Carrotseed -10 drops Evening Primrose oil OR Rosehipseed Oil -10 drops 2 tablespoons of ONE of the following - Hazelnut, Sweet almond or Apricot Kernel

Blend all ingredients in an amber bottle. After it is well blended, apply a few drops to the face and neck area each night after cleansing and toning your skin.

If you want to use the Evening Primrose Oil in this blend the easiest and most cost effective is to buy Evening Primrose Capsules (Gel capsules) and cut the end off and squeeze the oil into your blend. Since it is such a small amount that it is needed.13

HAIR MOISTURIZER

Cedarwood - 8 drops Lavender - 8 drops Rosemary - 12 drops 1 ounce Jojoba

Blend all together in a PET plastic bottle. Then massage about 1 teaspoon of this blend into the hair and scalp. Put on a shower cap and wrap all with a towel. Just sit and relax for at least 15 minutes. Shampoo and rinse your hair twice. Dry and style as normal. You can do this once a week or monthly.8

From: http://www.crunchybetty.com/simple-homemade-3-ingredient-facial-oil-moisturizer-customize-it-for-your-own-gorgeous-skinMy two favorite base oils areargan oil and/or jojoba oil, because theyre both verrrrrrrry healing and nourishing, theyre both very light and they sink into your skin without any feeling of greasiness, and theyre great for all skin types.Here are the base oils you could choose from (this is not an exhaustive list, but its most of em): Argan oil(great for dry, aging, oily, normal, or acne-prone skin) Jojoba oil(great for dry, aging, oily, normal, or acne-prone skin) Apricot kernel oil(great for any skin type, but especially good for normal, dry, and aging skin) Sweet almond oil(just an all-around great facial oil, but it takes a bit longer to sink in than the first two) Grapeseed oil(great for normal, oily, or acne-prone skin) Avocado oil(great for dry and aging skin) Hemp seed oil(great for any skin type, also very light)Plan on your base oil being at least 2/3 of your facial oil mixture (well talk about mixing at the end).

Ingredient Number Two Extra Nourishing Bonus OilsThese are the oils that are a little more pricey, but with that price tag comes a beautiful kick in the pants to your troubled skin. Your skin wears pants, right?If you want to skip the nourishing oils, thats just fine. Maybe some day in the future youll want to add one. In fact, Im sure you will. Because once you start rolling around in crunchiness, you never want to stop.So here are some ideas for the more nourishing bonus oils: Tamanu oil(wooooooooooonderful for acneic or oily skin, or skin with scars) Sea buckthorn oil(powerfully nourishing, this is a great oil for all skin types, but especially aging or dry skin) Rosehip seed oil(incredibly regenerating, this oil is known for its firming and anti-aging abilities its good for dry, aging, and normal skin) Carrot seed oil(you only need a small amount of this oil, but its superb for any skin type is there anything it wont heal?) Borage oil(crazy high in oleic acids, this oil is great for most skin types, but especially oily and acneic skin) Evening primrose oil(acne, aging, normal skin, you name it and evening primrose oil can even be taken internally to help with acne) Neem oil(very antimicrobial and healing, neem oil is a stellar choice for acne and oily skin) Emu oil(emollient like you wouldnt believe, emu oil is protective and nourishing for dry or aging skin)Now, you might want to add a little bit of flava with an essential oil!

Ingredient Number Three Add Your Skins Favorite Essential OilRemember! You only need a couple of tiny drops of essential oil to get an amazing benefit for your skin. Essential oils are potent (and they last forever when you use them this way)!There are FAR too many essential oils with skin benefits to list them all here, so Im just picking and choosing a few of the more widely available or commonly known essential oils. Lavender(acne, oily, or even dry skin lavender is healing, but a little, tiny bit goes a long way) Peppermint(like lavender, peppermint is great for oily and acneic skin, and like lavender dont use much! Its very astringent, but it might also tingle your skin right off its bones) Chamomile(my favorite chamomile is Roman and roman chamomile is wonderfully healing and soothing, so its great for ALL skin types. Really. Very, very great, but also very expensive) Rose(wonderful for aging, dry and normal skin, its also pretty expensive, unless you find the mixed with jojoba kind, which just means its diluted and you can use more in your blend than if it were neat) Rose geranium(another great, all-around healing essential oil this is especially good for dry, sensitive, aging, and normal skin) Palmarosa(my skin loooves this oil, and its great for any skin type, but it does seem to work well for breakouts, in addition to being softening and soothing for aging skin, which, yes, I have) Lemongrass(brightening and toning, this is a great oil for normal, oily, or acneic skin) Rosemary(got acne and oily skin? You might just want this)Okay, quickly, heres how you mix em.Creating Your Custom Homemade Facial OilThis is where the fun starts. You get to experiment with what type of blend works best for your skin, but heres the BEST place to start.Were going to assume youre using a 1-oz bottle (for essential oil purposes), but if you use a smaller bottle, be sure to adjust your essential oil additions downward as necessary.1. Fill your small bottle just under 2/3 of the way with your base oil2. Add your bonus nourishing oil until the bottle is just about full (unless youre using carrot seed oil, in which case just put in a few drops)3. Add ONLY 4-7 drops of essential oil. Less if youre using peppermint, especially. Cap and shake well after each drop, and you can gauge, very roughly, just how much essential oil youll need. You should be able to smell it, but it should not be overpowering. Just faintly identifiable.And thats it!Keep your facial oil out of the sunlight, and it should be good for 8-12 months.

From: http://www.growingupherbal.com/blending-essential-oils-for-beginners/Have you ever wondered how to blend essential oils together?

I know I did when I first started using them on myself and my kids. Id buy a bunch of single oils as well as several synergy blends because I didnt know how to make them myself.

Synergy blends are combinations of oils that all work well together and promote something specific like relaxation, energy, keeping bugs away, etc. These blends of essential oils can be used for their aromatherapy purposes as well as their medicinal purposes.

Over time, Ive become more confident in blending essential oils myself as a result of learning how to do it and practicing.

Now I cant help you with the practicing, but I can help you with learning how to do it. Not only will blending essential oils yourself save you money, but it will boost your confidence and help you learn how to use them effectively within your family!

Today I want to share the basics of blending essential oils with you so that you can walk away, get the oils you need, and start making your own synergy blends yourself! Well go through the steps that will make this an easy process for you when you decide to try it on your own!

What Result Are You Looking For?Why do you want to blend oils together? What will their purpose be? How will you use this blend?

These are all questions you need to ask yourself before you buy a single oil or start blending anything.

Lets say for our example today that you want to make a blend of oils that helps lift the spirit and provide some energy. This would be a great blend for mom or dad first thing in the morning or mid-afternoon if you start to feel tired. Its a great blend for giving the kids morning baths with. Its also a great blend to use in an essential oil diffuser when your studying or homeschooling your children.

How To Choose Quality Essential OilsLike everything else in life, there are varying qualities of essential oils.

The quality that youre looking for will depend upon what youre using the oils for. Almost all oils are for external use only although there are a couple brands that can be used internally. Some brands are therapeutic grade while others are not. Some brands are not pure essential oils and contain fillers or additives.

Your best bet is to know what you need the oils for, know the kind you need, and then research the companies that sell those types of oils to get the quality you need.

Here are some great quality oils that will fit different budgets.

Young LivingdoTERRA Edens GardenAura CaciaMountain Rose HerbsNowFor our example today, Im going to be referring to oils for external use only, and Ill be linking to Edens Garden oils. They are 100% pure essential oils, they have great prices, and theyre one of my favorite brands.

Eden's Garden Essential OIlsIll also be talking about using essential oils safely at the bottom of the post.

Step 1 Finding Essential Oils With The Properties You NeedThis first step is pretty easy. All you need to do is Google it.

So in our example, we want to make a synergy blend of oils that is uplifting and energizing so wed need to Google energizing essential oils or uplifting essential oils.

When I do this, these are the oils that I find:

rosemaryclary sagebergamotlemongrasseucalyptuspeppermintspearminttea treecypresspinelemonbasilgrapefruitgingerAre you seeing anything similar among these oils? Theyre all very distinct, and they all have stimulating and clarifying properties. You have strong, minty type oils like rosemary, peppermint, spearmint, eucalyptus, tea tree, pine, cypress, and then you have sweeter or spice like oils such as clary sage, bergamot, lemongrass, lemon, basil, grapefruit, and ginger.

Step 2 Blending Essential Oils Based On Their Categories and NotesThis step is the most tricky part for beginners, but it really doesnt have to be. This is where you pick and choose from the oils in the above list based on each oils category and note.

This is mainly used when blending essential oils so that your blend comes out smelling nice. Its more for aromatherapy purposes, not so much for therapeutic or medicinal purposes. But, in my opinion, if Im making a blend of oils for a therapeutic purpose, I still want it to smell good so I follow this step even in that case.

First well talk about what categories and notes are, and then well put it all into practice with our example.

Essential Oil CategoriesEssential oils are grouped together based on their aromas, and oils from the same categories tend to blend well together. You can also mix and match categories which Ill talk about below. The following information is from AromaWeb.com they have a great article on this topic, but Im going to share some of it here. Just click the link above to read their article if you want to learn more in depth on this topic.

Categories

Floral Lavender, Neroli, JasmineWoodsy Pine, CedarEarthy Oakmoss, Vetiver, PatchouliHerbaceous Marjoram, Rosemary, BasilMinty Peppermint, SpearmintMedicinal Eucalyptus, Cajuput, Tea TreeSpicy Nutmeg, Clove, CinnamonOriental Ginger, PatchouliCitrus Orange, Lemon, LimeBlending Categories

Floral blends with spicy, citrus, and woodsyWoodsy blends well with all categoriesSpicy and oriental oils blend with floral, oriental, and citrus.Minty oils blend with citrus, woodsy, herbaceous, and earthy.Essential Oil NotesThe note of an essential oil is based on how quickly it evaporates. When you put a blend of oils on your skin, it will smell one way, but 3 hours later it may smell another way because some of the oils in your blend have evaporated. These notes are based on the musical scale and are referred to as top notes, middle notes, and base notes.

Refer to the article on AromaWeb.com to find a great list of which oils are which. Below Im going to categorize the oils in our example only.

Top Notes

basilbergamoteucalyptusgrapefruitlemonlemongrasspeppermintspearmintMiddle Notes

clary sagecypresspinerosemarytea treeBase Notes

gingerMost times, for beginners, its recommended that you only start with three oils. A top note oil, a middle note oil, and a base note oil. The more comfortable and experienced you get with blending essential oils, the more oils you can add to your blends.

Energizing Blend ExampleFor our example were going to blend some oils from the oriental, citrus, and floral categories since they will work well together. Im going to use lemon (citrus) and ginger (oriental) because lemon is a top note and ginger is a base note.

Notice that I dont have any middle note oils that work really well with the blending categories Ive chosen. The energizing oils that are middle notes are woodsy, herbaceous, and medicinal. The woodsy category is the only one that can work with citrus and oriental categories, but Id like to stick with a lighter scent and the floral category just so happens to work well with the citrus and oriental categories.

Notice the example oils in the floral category lavender, neroli, and jasmine. Neroli is a citrus oil with a floral aroma which is why its included in the floral category, not the citrus one. Neroli also happens to be a middle not oil which will make it a perfect addition to our energizing blend. Although its not really an oil known to be energizing, it will balance our blend so that the lemon and ginger can do its job.

Step 3 Blending And Testing Essential Oil BlendsOnce youve narrowed down your oil choices based on what theyre used for (step 1) and then narrowed them down again based on their categories and notes (step 2), youre ready to actually start blending.

Its recommended that you only start with 10 drops of oil total so you can test your essential oil blend without wasting too much of your precious oils, in case you dont care for it later.

Remember, youre only working with your essential oils right now you are not diluting them with carrier oils yet.

Blend using the 30, 50, 20 ruleAnother thing you may be wondering is how much do you use of each oil. The rule I go by when creating an essential oil blend is the 30, 50, 20 rule where you use 30% of your top note oil, 50% of your middle note oil, and 20% of your base note oil. This is because when you use your blend, youre going to smell all the oils together first. After a while the top note will have evaporated which will leave you with the middle and base note. As more time goes by your middle note will evaporate leaving you with the base note alone.

Lets look at how this works in our example.

Example Energy Blend

For our example were using lemon (top note), neroli (middle note), and ginger (base note) oils. If Im starting with only 10 drops of oils and following the 30, 50, 20 rule my sample will look like this.

3 drops lemon5 drops neroli2 drops gingerEasy!

Step 4 Letting Your Essential Oil Blend RestThis next step is the easy part. Once youve mixed your oils you need to set your new blend aside and let it rest for 24-48 hours. This resting period allows the chemicals and constituents of the different essential oils to mix and meld together, helping them blend better.

Step 5 Testing Your BlendBlending Essential Oils for BeginnersThis is the last step on blending essential oils. At this point, your oils have just finished their resting period. Now its time to smell them and see what you think.

Smell them as they are, on their own. What do you think?

Next try diluting some of your blend in a carrier oil. You can take 4 drops of jojoba, sweet almond, grapeseed, avocado, or any oil youd like (preferably one without a strong scent) and add 1 drop of your essential oil blend to it. You now have a 20% dilution. Now smell it? What do you think?

You can dilute it even further by adding 5 more drops of carrier oil to it and see how that smells too. This is a 10% dilution.

If you like the scent, go with it. Now you can make more of your blend using larger amounts of oils, let it rest, then bottle it up and label it using it as needed.

If you dont like the scent, you can start the process over varying the amount of oils used or you can chose different oils all together. The possibilities are endless!

A Word On Essential Oil SafetyEssential oils are strong and concentrated, and they can be poisonous in large does. They can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals, and some can even react badly with people who have certain medical conditions or who are on certain medications. Its not recommended to use essential oils on children younger that 3 months old although lavender, chamomile, and tea tree are the safest, but they still need to be diluted and used in small amounts.

Almost all oils are going to caution you about safety, especially when using them with children or with people with medical conditions. Id recommend Googling the safety of specific oils or checking to see if they can safely be used. Remember, Google is your friend.

Theres also a great site called LearningAboutEOs.com that is all about giving you unbiased information from certified aromatherapists about essential oils and how to safely use them. Ive learned and am learning SOOOO much from this site!

And lastly, let me caution you about who you get your essential oil information from. I am NOT an essential oil expert. I do not have any sort of background or education on essential oils other than what Ive taught myself via books and blogs. You can take my advice (as I always try to research well), but I recommend you double check me and do your own research. Essential oils are many times stronger than herbs, and they dont contain plant properties that will buffer their side effects like an herb does. Children in particular are more sensitive to them than an adult is. I strongly recommend you get your information from certified aromatherapists that arent affiliated with specific companies as youll know theyre unbiased and not out to get you to buy their oils. Just sayin.

The graphic below may help you when it comes to easily picking essential oils suitable for children, you can check out this post here where I explain what each of the below oils is used for, and you can click here to find a similar graphic on age appropriate oils for children.

From: http://www.essentialoilspedia.com/baldness/

New hair growth begins in the hair follicle in the dermal layer of the skin. The growing phase of a hair produces growth of about 0.5 inches per month and lasts 2 to 6 years. This is known as the anagen phase and is followed by brief period called the catagen phase. The catagen phase is a transition to the last or telogen phase where the hairs rest before they go through the natural shedding cycle. Normally after hairs fall out another hair starts to grow from this same follicle. In baldness, for generally unknown reasons, a new hair does not begin to grow from the follicle. Excluding the cases of medical or illness induced baldness the answers to where and why this occurs are not well understood. In the majority of cases it appears to be connected to genetics and aging but not with diet, nutrition, nor is it a disease.Some health conditions such as thyroid issues or iron deficiency anemia and health treatments such as chemotherapy will result in baldness with the hair usually growing back in 6 to 12 months. Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause), severe stress, major illnesses, major surgery, or dramatic nutritional changes may also induce temporary loss of hair. These less frequent types of hair loss are known as alopecia areata or patchy hair loss, alopecia areata or alopecia totalis is the loss of all head hair, and finally alopecia universalis is the loss of all hair from the head and the body.The more common bald hair is associated with genetics and aging manifests itself differently in men and women. Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia in men) follows a pattern of a receding hairline that progresses to an M shape and then continues to the familiar U shape. There are medications commonly used today that will stimulate the hair follicle growth (Minoxidil Rogaine, and Finsteride Propecia, Proscar) but hair loss resumes if the medication is not continued.Female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia in women) is characterized by thinning on the top or the center of the head. Unlike with men, the front hairline is not affected and the thinning on the top usually stops before total baldness happens.Suggested Oils to UseLavender, Lemon, Peppermint, RosemaryAlso consider:Clary Sage, Cypress, Roman Chamomile, Sandalwood, Thyme, Wintergreen, Ylang YlangSuggested Ways to useBasic hair health: Eating well with, taking vitamins, as well as omega3s builds strong and healthy hair. Consider oils for hormonal balance if neededStress Related Hair LossLavender is found in many hair formulas for all types of hair and scalp conditions. It is balancing, soothing, regenerative, and antibacterial. The most commonly used oil for stress reduction. If stress is playing any part in preventing you from having the head of hair youd like, add a little Lavender!B vitamins also reduce the stress that can cause hair loss. The best way to take B vitamins is in a supplement or food where all of the B vitamins are combined. (natrualnews.com)Mild hair loss: Add 1 2 drops of Rosemary to shampoo daily to stimulate follicleSerious hair loss: For more serious loss consider one of these blends: 3 drops Rosemary 5 drops Lavender 4 drops Cypress 4 drops Clary Sage Blend 2: 8 drops Rosemary 10 drops Lavender 10 drops SandalwoodUse a good regular hair care routine:Shampoo with 1 2 drops of Rosemary to slow hair loss.Condition with Conditioner, add 1 2 drops of coconut or olive oil for dry hair, only use on tips and/or outer half of hair shaft for oily hair. Let the conditioner remain in hair 2 3 minutes before rinsing for best results.Dry hair and spray (spray is especially effective after hair coloring or perms.) with the following blend: 2 ounces of water 4 drops of Peppermint (or other oil of choice)

From: http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsek/a/Alopecia.htmNatural Remedies for Alopecia AreataIn most people with alopecia areata, hair usually grows back within a year without any treatment. The following are some natural remedies that have been explored for alopecia areata.1) Essential OilsA double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the use of a combination ofessential oilsor a placebo oil in 86 people with alopecia areata. The combination oil was a mixture of thyme,rosemary,lavender, and cedarwood essential oils in a mixture ofcarrier oils(jojobaand grapeseed). This oil was massaged into the scalp daily. The control group used only the carrier oils for their massage, also daily.After 7 months, 19 (44%) of 43 people using the essential oil blend showed an improvement compared with 6 (15%) of 41 people in the control group. Although no side effects were associated with the topical application of essential oils, they may cause allergic reactions in some people.

From: http://blackgirllonghair.com/2013/09/4-benefits-of-essential-oils-for-natural-hair/

1. Supporting Hair GrowthA mix ofthyme,rosemary,lavenderandcedarwood oilsin a carrier oil were shown to improve hair regrowth in some patients experiencing hair loss (19 out of 43 showed improved regrowth ArchDerm, pp2349-1352, 1998). This is not acceleration of hair growth but rather supporting hair to regrow. For faster growth, a study performed on mice showed that Jujuba oil (also know as jujube or red date oil) stimulated minimally faster growth of around 1 1.5 mm more per month compared to noessential oiluse. As this is a mouse study, there is no evidence that the same would work in humans.2. Antifungal and antibacterialSome oils are known to be active against ringworm and therefore can be considered antifungal. Spice and herbal based oils seem to be the most effective in this function. Examples include,cinnamon oil,fennel oil,lemongrass oil,wild basil oil,Brazilian cherry oil(Mycoses, pp 333-336, 1993).Basil,thyme, oregano,rosemary,cloveandsage oilare known to have some antibacterial activity.Tea tree oilgets a special mention in this category as it has a pretty vast repertoire including antifungal, antibacterial and even some antiviral activity. Additionally, it is known to reduce swelling (anti-inflammatory) so is useful as a treatment for any bumps(Clin Microbiol Rev, pp 50-62, 2006).3. Physical SensationsSomeessential oilscan induce a physical effect.Peppermint oilfor example induces a tingling sensation on skin or scalp in the case of hair care. Although it is widely and erroneously reported that this tingling is linked to follicle stimulation (no evidence of that yet), it can be a pleasant sensation for some.Ylang ylangis known to increase skin temperature which some may experience as a warm sensation(Phytotherapy Research, pp 758-763, 2006).4. FragranceAromatherapy is a pretty self explanatory word with an aroma inducing a therapeutic effect. Scientifically, fragrances likelavenderandrosemary oilare known to have positive effects on mood which is a huge bonus if you have serious detangling ahead of you.Lavender oilis considered relaxing whilerosemaryhas been linked to improved alertness(International Journal of Neuroscience, pp 217-24, 1998).Peppermintandeucalyptus oilare also considered relaxing(Cephalagia, pp 228-234,1994). This list is based on those that have been scientifically studied, there is no harm in using an oil whose fragrance you like for examplevanilla,orange peel,rose oiletc.NOTE: Some people are allergic toessential oilsand when pregnant, someessential oilsare not recommended.

From: http://www.anandaapothecary.com/articles/hair-growth-essential-oils.html

Essential oils and carrier oils can help hair grow stronger and healthier, and can support regrowth in those experiencing hair loss.*

Essential oils have long been ingredients in hair care recipes...You'll often find Lavender, Chamomile, Rosemary and Tea Tree in shampoos and conditioners, and for good reasonthese oils can positively support the health of the scalp and hair follicles. Which may be the best oils for you? Here's a look at many essential oils and carrier oils used in hair care, with some tips to helping you create your most effective formula.

For dilutions: 1% essential oil in a carrier is 8 drops of essential oil per each ounce of carrier oil.

The Essential Oils

Essential oils can be thought of as the 'active ingredients' in your formulas. Choose one or more and add them at the recommended concentrations to your carrier oil(s). Massage your blend into the scalp daily. Some recommend wrapping the scalp with a warm, moist towel afterward to open the pores and enhance absorption. This can be done before bed, and you may want to use a cover for your bedding to provide protection from the oils. Essential oils can also be added to your current shampoos and conditioners.

Carrot Root - High in carotenes and other antioxidants, Carrot oil is exceptional for stimulating and regenerating skin and follicle cells. Retin-A, containing tretinoin - a form of vitamin A, has long been used alone or with Rogain to support hair growth for men with hair loss due to male pattern baldness. Carrot oil is actually a supercritical extract of carrot root emulsified in Jojoba oil (it is one of the few CO2 essential oils that is solid in its pure form). It may be one of the most beneficial oils for people experiencing hair loss of all types, and can support healthy hair growth for everyone. Use at 1 - 3%

Carrot Seed - Mentioned in the aroma literature for invigorating pallid and dull skin, can do the same for hair follicles. May be especially useful where detoxification is necessary; noted specifically for folks whom have been exposed to environmental toxins (polluted urban areas, office environments, significant automobile commuting time, etc.) Use at .5 - 2%

Cedarwood - Some people may be experiencing less than optimal hair growth or hair loss from bacterial or other infections, or from immune system deficiencies. Cedarwood is one of the essential oils in a blend successfully studied for alopecia areata (along with Thyme, Lavender and Rosemary, based in Jojoba and Grapeseed). Use at .5 - 1%

Chamomile, German - One of aromatherapy's most effective agents for reducing inflammation. Hair loss is sometimes attributed to inflammation in the scalp and follicles, resulting in less-than-ideal cellular function. Some even attribute hair loss to an over-heated scalp. German Chamomile is both anti-inflammatory and cooling, with a pleasant sweet herbaceous aroma. Consider also Lavender for a similar effect. Use at .5 -1%

Clary Sage - Proper hormone balance is crucial for both genders when considering the health of hair. Clary Sage is thought to balance estrogen levels in the skin and scalp, and can be of particular help for women of maturity. Use at .5 - 1%

Clove - Antiseptic and a very potent antioxidant (one of the most potent natural antioxidants ever tested, at over 100,000 on the ORAC scale). Can increase circulation, and may be of best support for stimulating new hair growth. For scalp circulation stimulation, Black Pepper may also be used. Use only in very small amounts due to possible skin sensitivity, .25%

Cypress - Included in formulas for increased circulation and capillary strength. It is important to have good blood circulation to the follicles for optimal hair growth. Many regimens for treating hair loss include Ginko and other herbs specifically for increasing circulation in the scalp. Use at .5 - 1%

Helichrysum - Thought to be regenerating to all soft tissues of the body, helichrysum is found in blends for both mature skin and for healing wounds. It is likely regenerative to scalp tissue as well, and may be particularly important as some physicians see the aging scalp to resemble scar tissue. Also an excellent anti-inflammate, and used to enhance circulation. Use at .5 - 2%

Lavender - Found in hair formulas for all types of hair and scalp conditions. Balancing, soothing, regenerative, anti-inflammate and antibacterial. The most commonly used oil for stress reduction. If stress is playing any part in preventing you from having the head of hair you'd like, add a little Lavender! Use at .5 - 3%

Myrtle - A balancer of scalp oils, particularly useful where over-production of sebum may be clogging the pores and follicles of the scalp. A natural, gentle antiseptic; also considered regenerative. Use at .5 - 1%.

Rosemary - One of the premier hair growth enhancing essential oils, rosemary is found in many preparations for hair and scalp. Thought to increase cellular metabolism, thereby stimulating healthy hair growth. Use the Verbenone type if regenerative properties are desired (may be most useful for supporting treatment of hair loss). Successfully used in alopecia areata treatment. Use at .5 - 2%.

Sage - Highly regarded for hair growth, with stimulating properties found in Rosemary - along with hormone balancing of Clary Sage. Can balance scalp oils, and is found in blends for scar reduction and skin regeneration. Not for children or if pregnant. Use at .5 - 1%.

Sea Buckthorn - Noted as enhancing skin and scalp health for every skin type and even every imbalance. Highly nutritive, potent antioxidant and regenerative. Due to high carotene content, will tend to leave the scalp with a little red color for a while after applied - be careful not to stain clothes and bedding. May prevent UV damage, which has been implicated in reducing energy in hair follicles. This is an amazing oil, well worth its berry-redness! Use at .5 - 2%.

Ylang Ylang - Like Lavender, it is thought to reduce stress. Long used to increase the thickness of the hair shaft and to grow thicker hair. Can have a balancing effect on scalp oil production, and may help with split ends.

The Carrier Oils

Carrier oils are just as important as the essential oils for getting the best results for stimulating hair growth. The carriers provide important essential fatty acids to the scalp and follicles. They offer necessary nutrients, and have therapeutic actions themselves. All these oils may be used for 100% of the base, though it may be most beneficial to blend two or more that suit your specific needs.

Coconut - A carrier oil used in Ayurvedic medicine for enhancing hair growth all by itself. Fractionated coconut (as we carry here at Ananda) is simply Coconut oil that has had the largest-chain molecules 'fractionated' from the smaller onesthis allows the oil to stay liquid at room temperature. Fractionated coconut has a nice light texture, appreciated in the warmer months. Virgin whole coconut can also be used in your formulas, and will remain liquid if blended with other carriers for your base. Highly nutritive, excellent for all types of scalp & hair.

Evening Primrose - Many conditions of the skin are positively affected by essential fats, of which Evening Primrose is a wonderful source. Application and ingestion of this oil has been the subject of many scientific inquiries, with exceptional results for all kinds of dermatitis. Evening Primrose is noted to specifically address hair growth (or hair loss) where poor circulation might be an issue. Evening Primrose also may have a significant effect in reducing inflammation, which may in-turn be beneficial for reversing hair loss.

Grapeseed - In the last few years, this oil became very prominent for healthy cuisine. Sometimes found dark green in color, the darker Grapeseed oils have more significant amounts of antioxidant polyphenols. Grapeseed has a particularly light feel, and may be the best choice if one has an oily scalp, though is wanting the many benefits of essential oil application. Grapeseed and Jojoba were used as the base for a study which treated alopecia areata with essential oils. These oils may be used 50/50 for this purpose.

Hemp - Like Evening Primrose, Hemp offers significant quantities of essential fats, may improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Hemp is a highly regarded oil for its many nutritive constituents, and is considered the most palatable of the high Omega-3 plant oils. Some experts note that ingestion of essential fats can be very significant for hair growth, and Hemp is the most easily ingested of the plant sources (generally Evening Primrose and Borage oils are found too bitter, and are taken in capsules, rather than 'straight' or in a salad dressing, etc.)

Jojoba - Found in many natural hair care products, Jojoba is used for softening and moisturizing dry hair. It is thought to cleanse the follicles of sebum, and promote vibrant, shiny and soft hair.

Rosehip Seed - Considered one of the most therapeutic carrier oils for skin and hair. Rosehip has been the subject of many studies involving the reduction of sun damage and wrinkles for the skin. While not yet proven in the laboratory, Rosehip seed oil's therapeutic effects should benefit those needing its regenerative properties for their scalp and hair. While it can be used at 100% strength, Rosehip is most often blended with other carriers at 10-30% of the base formula.

Sesame - Also highly regarded in Ayurveda, Sesame contains lignans that greatly enhance the efficacy of Vitamin E. Sesame is thought to encourage the growth of dark lustrous hair.

Blends and Recipes

Here are some suggestions for basic hair care formulas. All of these are designed for regular daily application, or as frequently as you feel is beneficial to you. These formulas can be massaged into a wet or dry scalp and left for at least 20 minutes, or applied before bed and left overnight. All formulas may be increased or decreased in total volume, thought the ratio of essential oil to carrier oil should stay close to these suggestions. These are general (though potentially very effective) suggestions -- changing ingredients to best suit your hair is encouraged!For Healthy & Vigorous Hair Growth - for those with 'normal' scalp conditions, blend 2 ounces Jojoba and 2 ounces Coconut oils. To this add 64 drops Lavender, 64 drops Rosemary (Cineol or Verbenone), and 16 drops Sage. If pregnant, use Rosemary Cineol and skip the Sage.For Healthy Growth for the Mature Feminine Beauty - To 2 ounces Jojoba, 1 ounce Evening Primrose and 1 ounce Rosehip Seed, add 48 drops Lavender, 48 drops Rosemary Verbenone, 48 drops Carrot or Sea Buckthorn and 24 drops Clary Sage. Treating Hair Loss For Men - Blend 1oz each Evening Primrose, Coconut, Rosehip Seed and Sesame. To this add 64 drops Carrot oil (HelioCarrot CO2 extract in Jojoba), 32 drops Rosemary Verbenone, 27 drops Helichrysum, 12 drops Clove, 32 drops German Chamomile, 48 drops Lavender, 20 drops Cypress.Treating Alopecia Areata - In 4oz of a 50/50 base of Jojoba and Grapeseed oils, add 32 drops each of Lavender, Thyme, Cedarwood and Rosemary c.t. Verbenone.For Dark & Thick Hair - In 4 ounces equal parts Jojoba, Coconut and Sesame, add 48 drops Lavender, 48 drops Rosemary Verbenone, and 48 drops Ylang Ylang.These are just a few suggested recipes. It is important to understand your own hair & scalp type, and reasons for your hair's condition. This will help guide you to the best choices for treating hair loss, or just growing wonderfully thicker & healthier hair.

By Cipriana ofUrbanbushbabes.comFor years I used products containingmineral oilto coat my strands. Many manufacturers usemineral oilin a majority of products that contain synthetic ingredients because of its behavior as a preservative.Mineral oilis the result of the distillation ofpetroleumwhich acts as asaran wrapagainst your scalp, slowing down one of the skins main job which is to eliminate toxins. On the other hand natural oils are easily absorbed by the skin.When I used products that consisted mostly of synthetic materials such asBlue MagicIm not going to lie my hair did grow, but it was not until I switched to all natural products that I began to see the true potential of my growth capability. Before the change in my regimen I experienced a GREAT deal of shedding and dandruff. Now those days are far behind. Im still fascinated by how are body responds to topical products. Not only is it important to watch what we put into our bodies but what we put on it as well.My boyfriends grandfather is full Cherokee Indian and when we met three years ago he always talked about the importance of what you put on your body, coming from a background of ancestors rich in a holistic lifestyle. But I could not and would not give up my trustyCoconut Blue Magicuntil just about a year ago. When I finally gave in tothe natural stuffI was determined that this was just a trial period and I would be back on my good oldBlue Magicin no time. Well its been a year later and I am still using the natural stuff. For years I had been so accustomed to my hair feeling greasy from themineral oilbased products that it took me a while to really understand what my hair felt like with natural oils.Again I am not here to force you into switching into an all-natural regimen, do what works best for you, but I did come across two interesting articles fromehow.comabout the usage of certain natural oils by Native Americans and the distinct benefits the hair reaps from each of these natural oils.1.Jojoba OilJojoba oilis an extract of the Jojoba plant found in California, Arizona and parts of Mexico.Jojoba oilhas been used for hundreds of years by American Indians to moisturize and grow hair. The molecular makeup of jojoba has similar characteristics to the natural oil the glands of the scalp produce.Jojoba oilcan be purchased at herb shops and can be applied directly to your hair or you can add a few drops to your favorite conditioner to promote hair growth. Jojoba is hypoallergenic and will not harm your hair or scalp.Aloe verais another product used by Native American Indians to promote hair growth and is also an excellent moisturizer for your hair.2.Wheat Germ/Aloe Vera/Coconut MilkMix 1/4 cup ofwheat germ, 1/4 cup ofaloe veraand 1/4 cup ofcoconut milkand use this product as a natural shampoo.Aloe veracan be purchased at drugstores and herb shops and can also be applied directly to the scalp as it will open pores on the scalp that may have previously been blocked and will allow the hair follicles to grow. The American Indians also used and continue to use several kinds of oils to promote hair growth such asemu oil,rosemary oil, andmustard oil.3.Peppermint OilA few drops of any of these products can be massaged directly into the scalp to stimulate the hair follicles and promote hair growth.Peppermint oilis also a good scalp stimulator but must be diluted before application. Mix 3 drops ofpeppermint oilwith 3 teaspoons of water and massage into the scalp. These oils can be purchased at herb shops and all are hypoallergenic and not harmful to the hair or scalp.4.Lavender Oil/Lavender WaterLavender(Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis), native to the Mediterranean, is now grown in temperate climates worldwide. For centuries,lavenderhas been used by herbal practitioners to prevent baldness and to encourage new hair growth.Lavendercontains potent anti-bacterial agents that soothe and heal scalp infections. It is useful in treating dandruff and adds volume to the hair shaft. Place a few sprigs oflavenderin a glass container and cover withextra-virgin olive oiland cover tightly. Place in a cool, dark spot and allow to age for 3 to 4 weeks. Use thelavender infused oilas a daily scalp massage. Apply and leave on overnight. In the morning, wash hair with a gentle organic shampoo and style as usual.A daily rinse oflavender water(bring water to a boil, add a few sprigs oflavender, reduce to simmer for 20 minutes, then cool) will impart a delightful fragrance and shine to hair. Applylavenderas a daily rinse after shampooing.5.Burdock Root OilBurdock (Arctium Lappa) root oil, also known as Bur oil is one of the most important herbs used to restore hair. Burdock promotes healthy hair by relieving scalp irritations and improving blood circulation to the hair follicle.Burdock root oilsupplies natural phytosterols and important essential fatty acids to hair roots, and has been traditionally used to reduce and reverse hair thinning. It is a key ingredient in many hair restoration treatments.6.Saw PalmettoSaw Palmetto(Serenoa repens) has been used for centuries as both a food staple and as a healing medicinal herb. The herb produces a dark red berry which is dried and then pulverized into a fine powder.Saw palmettois available in several forms including ointments, capsules, tinctures and teas. Recent scientific studies have shown thatSaw Palmettomay have beneficial effects for those suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); male pattern baldness and other conditions associated with excess DHT (male hormone) production.7.Stinging NettleStinging Nettle(Urtica Diocia), found growing naturalized across America, blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Excessive DHT contributes to hair loss in both men and women.Stinging nettlecan be purchased in either pill or capsule form and is said to be more effective when used in combination withsaw palmetto. Nettle can be harvested in the wild (use gloves as the leaves are covered with tiny hairs that cause a stinging sensation upon contact with human skin). The fresh leaves can be submersed inolive oilin a glass jar. Seal and place in a cool, dark spot for 2 to 3 weeks. Apply the oil in an invigorating scalp massage.Stinging nettleessential oil is frequently an ingredient in organic shampoos and conditioners.8.RosemaryUsed for centuries in cultures worldwide to promote hair growth and delay the onset of gray hair,Rosemary oilstimulates blood circulation of the scalp. A refreshing daily rinse ofrosemary leavessimmered in water retains hair color. The rinse is most effective on dark hair. A few drops ofrosemary oilcan be added toolive oiland used as a scalp massage oil.So interesting! Ladies, have you tried any of these? How do they work on your hair?

From: http://blackgirllonghair.com/2012/01/the-naturals-guide-to-essential-oils/2/

UsingEssential OilsEssential oilsare extremely potent and only should be used 3-4 drops at a time. When used on the scalp and other sensitive skin areas, theessential oilmust be diluted with a thicker oil to prevent irritation. This thicker oil is called a carrier oil because it carries or holds theessential oil. It is very important that you DO NOT USEESSENTIAL OILSDIRECTLY ON THE SKIN WITHOUT A PROPER CARRIER OIL. Burning, irritation, and skin discomfort may occur from using theseessential oilswithout a buffer.Lavender oilcan be used without a carrier, but manyessential oilswork better with carrier oils.Proper dilution is the key. You do not want to dilute theessential oilstoo much in your carrier or the benefits of theessential oilwill be lost. However you need just enough carrier oil to prevent burning or irritation from the strongessential oil. My personal dilutions involve - cup of carrier oil to up to 8-10 drops ofessential oils(2-3 drops of each oil). You should slowly add youressential oilsto your carrier oil, testing between drops, to insure the proper dilution for your personal tolerance level is met. Once you are comfortable and know theessential oilsyou are working with pretty well- youll be able to interchange them and change the dilutions with relative ease.Also, warming your carrier oil before hand will enhance your scalp massage experience! Gently place your vial of carrier oil into a bowl of warm water for 2-3 minutes. Do not use the microwave! Only a gentle heating is needed. Then, add your drops ofessential oil. Finally, proceed with your warmessential oilmassage.Below, you will find a list of some recommendedessential oilsfor hair care:Rosemary OilPeppermint OilThymeYlang YlangLavenderJasmineCedarwood OilCarriers:JojobaSesameSweet Almond OilOliveSoybeanAlmondThis list ofessential oilsis by no means exhaustive. There are many, may varieties of oils you try! Just check your local health foods store or visitessential oilvendors online to see which oils are available to you.Storage and CareEssential oils will keep for years. Keep your oils stored in a cool, dry place. Make sure that your essential oil storage bottles are composed of a dark glass that is impermeable to harmful sunlight (or does not readily allow sunlight to pass through). Sunlight denatures and damages essential oils, causing them to lose their effectiveness and potency. Proper storage and care will ensure an optimal shelf life for your essential oils.Your Essential Oil Scalp Massage!Gently apply your essential oil mixture to the pads of your fingers, and massage the oil mixture into the scalp for 5-10 minutes. Make certain that you are not rubbing or messing your hair around during your scalp massage. The pads of your fingers should be firmly planted on the scalp skin, and you should maneuver them in a circular, squeezing, or kneading motion. The skin itself should be manipulated without disturbing the orientation of the hair. Next, you can either rinse out the essential oils and wash your hair or proceed directly with styling. These essential oil massages can be done nightly for increased circulation to the scalp in order to reduce thinning and promote healthy hair growth.