The History of Lavender

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

The 20th Century Herbalist, Maud Grieve noted that when exposed to Lavender water, lions and tigers in zoos became docile. In the 16th Century, English women and men had lavender flowers quilted into their hats to "comfort the braines". Some Medieval Europeans looked upon Lavender as the herb of love and was touted as an aphrodisiac while others said that it had the ability to keep an individual chaste. Is this perhaps why Queen Elizabeth I greatly enjoyed Lavender Conserve most mornings at breakfast? Ancient Greeks and Romans prized Lavender for its aroma and cleansing properties while bathing, enjoying the soothing benefits of Lavender to help relieve fatigue and stiff joints. In Portugal and Spain, many continue the tradition of sprinkling Lavender flowers on their floors. Once stepped upon, the blossoms distinctive and heavy fragrance would permeate the room.

In modern times, folklore and heritage continue to give us wealth of the many remedial uses of Lavender. The art of phyto-science as we know it, allows us the opportunity to understand the many active components of Lavender and its efficacious use in hair, body and skin care formulations. HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Lavender's purported historical use ranges from calming and soothing skin to balancing oil production in skin and hair. It has been noted as being used for light forms of acne and dermatitis as well as rejuvenating the healthy appearance of skin and hair. It also offers some antiseptic properties and has been used in oral care as a mouth wash. These are just a few of the many benefits that Lavender has to offer.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Lavender has a sweet, floral, herbaceous scent with a woody undertone. Its soothing fragrance has been historically noted for its mildly sedative properties. Lavender is highly prized for its scent as a fragrance and is blended with other plant essences to add depth to complex perfumes. Dried Lavender blossoms add long-lasting fragrance in sachets and potpourris for use in closets and drawers. The heavy aroma is also known to help repel moths and other unwanted insects.

The History of Basil (Ocimum basilcum)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Basil, also known as St. Joseph's Wort, is said to have originated in Asia and some say that it could have been as far east as the Hunan region in China. The first known ancient record of Basil was found in India. The people in India dedicated the herb to the deities Vishnu and Krishna. Basil was so sacred it was worshipped more highly than their kings. Hindus that touched the herb would quickly ask the deities for forgiveness. In Italy, Basil is considered a symbol of love, when a man wears a sprig in his hair, it was considered a show of love and dedication to the woman he is courting. At the same token, if a woman places a pot of Basil outside her door, it was a symbol that she was ready to receive her suitor. In Romania, if a young man accepts a sprig of Basil from a young lady he would be considered engaged to her.

Traditionally, Basil was given as a good-luck present to new homeowners. An offshoot of this tradition is a modern day custom of placing a sprig of Basil in the cash register to attract customers to a new business.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Not much has been written about the historical use of Basil in beauty care, since most usage was strictly medicinal. Now with more awareness of phyto-science, Basil has become an herb of choice for many skin and hair care treatments. Basil can also act as an anti-inflammatory agent, soothing both skin and scalp conditions. The herb provides pro-vitamin A and vitamin K, both are essential for healthy skin and scalp. For those that have thinning hair, Basil has been noted to invigorate the scalp. Flavonoids found in Basil provide antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties. When combined with other herbs, Basil helps alleviate acne conditions and problematic scalp conditions. Basil has also been used for oral care products.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Basil has not only been known for its digestive aid properties, but its oil was used for alleviating aches and pains, muscle injuries and physical overexertion. Long used as a natural insecticide, it was well noted in the old days of Italy that women ironing delicate lace would put a pot of Basil on the windowsill to repel mosquitoes.

The History of Chamomile - German (Matricariachamomilla)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

German people have long shown a fondness for German Chamomile. Named Alleszuvertraut, which translates to "completely trustworthy", it made its mark in herbal history as a popular and efficacious plant. German herbalists have noted that Teutonic tribes discovered the herb and dedicated it to their sun-God because the flower center resembled the sun, and the white petals around it denoted the sun's forces. Tea made from the flower heads was given to those that suffered from muscular spasms and to relieve pain and swelling. German Chamomile Tea was also used medicinally to treat stomach ailments and as a mild sleep aid. German Chamomile also known as Wild Chamomile is an annual plant which should not be compared in any way to Roman Chamomile a perennial plant. Each herb has its own significance in herbal medicine. The whole German Chamomile plant has been used for making herb beers and for external relief from toothache, earache, neuralgia, etc. German Chamomile was used in ancient Egypt to treat fevers and in Rome for headaches and urinary tract disorders. Medieval Europe notes that German Chamomile acted as a diuretic and a tonic to alleviate pain and fatigue. During the same time it was combined with other herbs to create love potions. South Africans used German Chamomile for a variety of ailments that include insomnia, lumbago, hysteria, rheumatism and sore throat. In Costa Rica it was used as a diet aid.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

An infusion of Chamomile Flowers has been used in hair rinses and shampoos to soothe the scalp and bring out highlights in blonde, light hair. An infusion of German Chamomile flowers was used on skin to help soothe skin inflammations, sunburns and other burns. Added to the bath, it softens skin and helps relax tired, achy muscles and feet. Rich in naturally occurring (A) bisabolol, it alleviates blotchiness of the skin and soothes puffy and dark circled eyes. The same bio-active component offers anti-aging results to tired looking skin.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

German Chamomile Oil has been used to assist in allergies, boils, dermatitis, earache, flatulence, PMS, stress and wounds.

The History of Chocolate Mint (Mentha aquatica)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Also known as Water Mint, this extremely fragrant herb has a distinctive chocolate mint aroma and flavor. Mentha aquatica (Chocolate Mint) is one of more than 25 species amongst hundreds of varieties including hybrids of Mint. The different species share many common characteristics and chemical properties. Mint has been used in Europe since prehistoric times and in Egypt since at least 1000 B.C. In ancient Greece, Mint was combined with Rosemary and Myrtle to mask the smell of death. It was strewn in homes, banquet halls and granaries in Greece and Rome, to give off a pleasant aroma and to repel flies, mice and rats. In Roman mythology it was told that Pluto lord of the Underworld, fell in love with the nymph Minte (also called Menthe). In a jealous rage his wife Prosperine, transformed Minte into a lowly plant that would be trampled underfoot. Unable to help Minte, Pluto gave her eternal sweetness so that her fragrance would console him in the Underworld forever. Mint has also been said to be an appropriate offering to Venus the deity of Love. For the Greeks, Mint was also a magic herb that brought clarity and insight. As a fragrance, people of Athens were known to anoint different parts of their body with aromatic herbs; Mint was reserved for the arms, to give them the smell of strength.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

In Medieval Times, Mentha aquatica(Chocolate Mint) was simmered in vinegar to treat dandruff. Made into a tea, it was used as an invigorating mouth-wash to treat bad breath and as a gargle to treat sore throats. Infusions were traditionally used to soften and relieve itching sensation due to dry, cracked, problematic skin. It's astringent and cooling effect was beneficial for insect stings and bites. Compresses were used to alleviate sunburn. The pulp of the fresh plant was applied to bruises. And of course, its aromatic fresh aroma was used for deodorizing properties and for scenting toiletry goods.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Mint is known to counteract drowsiness and fatigue by increasing alertness and clear thinking. It calms and soothes muscles, particularly those of the digestive tract. Mint eases motion sickness and nausea. It was also known to give relief to headaches and clear sinuses.

The History of Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

In 1653, the herbalist Nicholas Culpeper in his Complete Herbal book, referred to Clary Sage as "clear-eye". When the seeds were soaked in water, it formed mucilage that was used as an eye-wash for removal of foreign particles. The same mucilage was used to draw thorns and splinters from the skin. Nicholas Culpeper also used the leaves in a mixture of honey and boiled vinegar to treat skin infections. Clary Sage was also used for digestive disorders and women's ailments. German merchants added Clary Sage to Rhine wine to imitate a good Muscatel. The practice was so common that to this day in Germany, they still call the herb MuskatellerSalbei and the English know it as Muscatel Sage. Clary Sage was also added to beer to fortify and enhance the effect of alcohol. Across the seas in Jamaica, the natives used Clary Sage in the same manner as the Europeans, as an eye-wash and for cleansing and treating skin infections.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Clary Sage along with other herbs were cooked in lard, cooled and then used as an ointment to soothe and calm the skin. It was used for skin blemishes and acne. In the Middle Ages, Clary Sage tea was used to cleanse the mouth and ward off infections of the mouth. If Clary Sage was not available, simply taking a leaf and rubbing it in ones mouth and gums sufficed. Today, phyto-science teaches us that Clary Sage offers many bio-active components including anti-aging properties for skin and hair care products. With its astringent and antiseptic properties, Clary Sage can be used in deodorants and is beneficial for balancing excessive sebum development (oil secretions) in skin and hair care preparations.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Clary Sage oil helps balance the extremes of emotions and restores emotional equilibrium. It also is noted that for both men and women it brings more awareness of their feminine qualities. Clary Sage's historical usage includes enhancing the immune system, calming digestive disorders and reducing inflammation such as eczema and other types of dermatitis. It also was used to calm muscle spasms and respiratory conditions.

The History of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Ancient beekeepers rubbed the fresh leaves of Lemon Balm onto their beehives to encourage bees to return to the hive and bring others with them. In fact, the generic name Melissa comes from the Greek word for bee. In the Middle Ages, Lemon Balm was used as a dressing for wounds, especially sword wounds. It was believed that a sprig of Lemon Balm placed on the injury was enough to staunch the blood. Lemon Balm tea was given to the ailing to combat mental confusion and as an elixir to extend a person's lifespan. So popular was its reputation for promoting longevity and dispelling melancholy, the 17th Century Carmelite nuns dispensed their Carmelite Water to a faithful following. This was Lemon Balm infused water combined with lemon peel, nutmeg, coriander and angelica root. American Shakers grew Lemon Balm as a relief from mild fevers. Thomas Jefferson grew Lemon Balm in his gardens as a culinary herb for flavoring syrups, tea blends and other beverages.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Lemon Balm contains Eugenol, a phyto-active which has been shown to kill bacteria and to also help calm and soothe muscles. Salves made with the herb was used for wound dressings and mouth sores. An infusion made from the herbs were used as a facial cleanser for mature and damaged skin. Used as a hair tonic, Lemon Balm was said to inhibit baldness and to help correct excessive sebum secretion of the scalp and skin. The same tonic was used to bring back luster and shine to damaged, dull, limp hair. Due to its anti-bacterial properties, Lemon Balm tea was used on skin blemishes and acne prone skin.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Lemon Balm essential oil is used to relieve anxiety, shock, depression and nightmares. Its antispasmodic benefits offer relief from stress-related digestive, menstrual and respiratory problems. When combined with German Chamomile, Lemon Balm is an effective treatment for eczema and allergies.

The History of Lemon Verbena (Lippia citriodora)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

In ancient times, Lemon Verbena was said to have purifying properties and was used to clean altars after each ceremonial ritual. The Romans used the herb to make a love drink and it was said that a small amount added into their lover's drink would inspire passion. The ancient Greeks put dried leaves of Lemon Verbena into their pillows to promote pleasant dreams. Native to South America, Lemon Verbena was introduced to Europe by the Spanish and was used primarily in perfumes. Introduced to North America in the 1800's, the herb's clean, sharp lemon fragrance made it a favorite in gardens. Its scent, inspired many to call Lemon Verbena the Queen of lemon-scented herbs. In the movie Gone with the Wind, Lemon Verbena was mentioned as Scarlet O'Hara's mother's favorite plant. As a culinary herb, it makes wonderful beverage teas, especially when blended with mint. Lemon Verbena is very versatile and can be added to many dishes. In Mexico, the leaves are sautéed and served as a vegetable. Chopped leaves were added to cooked rice right before serving for its aromatic appeal.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Lemon Verbena extracts and oil have been used to make an ointment or lotion to help lower the irritation and reddening of the skin. It has been used in hair rinses to help strengthen hair and invigorate growth. When used as a compress, Lemon Verbena reduced puffiness around the eyes. Made into a floral vinegar, it was used to soften and freshen the skin.It's oil has been used in cologne, toilet water, perfume and soap. Infused in oil, Lemon Verbena was used as an aromatic massage oil.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Lemon Verbena has a relaxing and de-stressing effect on the mind and was used to treat nervous insomnia. It was used to stimulate appetite and alleviate stomach spasms, cramps, indigestion and flatulence. Lemon Verbena essential oil has insecticidal, bactericidal, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, digestive and tonic properties. It is also said that the herb has a positive effect on the liver and helps relieve bronchial and sinus congestion.

The History of Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Oregano has a long culinary history; its heritage of use involves many countries particularly in Turkish, Greek, Portuguese, Spanish, Latin American and Italian cuisine. What most don't realize is that Oregano has also been used for thousands of years as a medicinal herb. Hippocrates, known as the Father of Medicine, used Oregano as an antiseptic and as a cure for stomach and respiratory ailments. The disinfectant and anti-bacterial properties were recognized in ancient Greece where they used the herb for treating bacterial infections on skin, wounds and to also to protect food from bacteria. Oregano oil aided digestion and was used to treat food poisoning. The Romans made Oregano poultices for scorpion and spider bites. Derived from the Greek words oros and ganos, Oregano literally means "mountain of joy". The herb was considered the symbol of happiness because of the abundance of bright purplish blossoms from the plants that carpeted the Mediterranean landscape. The ancient Greeks believed that when Oregano grew on a gravesite, that person was happy in the afterlife. Greeks and Romans would crown a bride and groom with sprigs of Oregano to symbolize the joyfulness of the wedding and the happiness of the couple. Oregano was also considered to be a protective herb that could ward of trouble and meddling individuals.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

The essential oil of Oregano combined with Olive Oil, was rubbed on the heads of bald men to invigorate hair growth. The Chinese used the herb to treat eczema and to alleviate itchy skin. Oregano tea was used as a gargle for sore throats and a mouthwash to help inhibit bad breath. The leaves from the plant was pounded into a paste and combined with oatmeal to help draw out skin impurities. The same combination was used for pain from rheumatism, swelling, itching, aching muscles and sores.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Highly concentrated in Thymol, Oregano is widely used as an anti-bacterial agent. The herb is also thought to stimulate bile production and has been used as a digestive aid and remedy. Oregano oil is also used to treat toothache, painful joints, skin disorders, painful menstruation, bronchial afflictions, insect and snake bites, mild fevers and fungal infections.

The History of Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Peppermint is actually a hybrid mint, a cross between Water Mint (Mentha aquatica) and Spearmint (Mentha spicata). In the 1700's, Carolus Linnaeus a Swedish botanist, physician and zoologist, treated Peppermint as a species; now it is universally understood that it is a hybrid. Of all the species and hybrids of mint, Peppermint is said to have the highest level of menthol, which was used to soothe and calm sore throats and dry coughs. The Romans were the first to introduce mint throughout Europe. In the Middle Ages, powdered Peppermint leaves were used to whiten teeth and freshen the breath. Peppermint was added to baths for its invigorating and soothing properties. It was made into chest rubs to reduce the symptoms of the common cold. Peppermint was applied topically to soothe and give a cooling effect on skin irritations caused by hives, poison ivy, or poison oak. In North America, Peppermint was introduced by the colonists who used it to make teas for headaches, heartburn, indigestion, gas and insomnia. Delicious and aromatic, the colonists also enjoyed Peppermint tea because it was not taxed like other teas.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Peppermint with its high concentration of menthol is good for skin and the scalp. It is commonly used in soap, shampoo and toothpaste. It is often used in skin balms to help increase the flow of blood to alleviate muscle aches. It's antiseptic and antibacterial properties prevents or relieve skin problems such as athlete's foot, acne, itchy skin and other skin problems. Added to creams or lotions, Peppermint improves dry, dull looking skin and helps lessen red and blotchy skin. Infusions tone and refresh the face. It regulates and normalizes oily skin and hair. Peppermint soothes, cools and invigorates the scalp and alleviates dry, flaky, itchy scalp conditions. In oral care, it's antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties freshens breath and promotes gum health. It is the oldest and most popular flavoring for toothpaste and gum.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Peppermint relieves pain and inflammation. It is used as a digestive aid, reduces headache symptoms and is used as a decongestant and expectorant. It offers antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties. Peppermint increases alertness and improves concentration.

The History of Rice (Oryza sativa) – Inari®

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

In Japanese folklore, Inari is a deity that is both man and woman. Inari, as a male (god of food) or female (goddess of rice) was worshipped to ensure a bountiful rice and crop harvest. As a goddess, Inari appears as a woman with long flowing hair carrying two sheaves of rice or as a long haired woman riding a white fox. The god Inari would appear as an old man with a long white beard. The fox is depicted as Inari's messenger and during rice season, shrines dedicated to the deity would have a fox statue next to him/her. In the beginning of rice season, foxes would arrive announcing the arrival of Inari and then leave after harvest with the deity.

Originally cultivated in ancient China, Rice was introduced to India before the time of the Greeks. Rice cultivation was introduced by Chinese tribes to areas such as Northern China, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam and Malaysia. In 300 B.C. rice cultivation was introduced to the West in countries such as Egypt, Iran and Iraq. During the times of Alexander the Great, rice became available in Greece, Sparta and Rome as an import from Egypt. In the 9th century the Moors introduced it to Spain and Portugal. When Columbus discovered America in 1492, he introduced Rice to the New World and then in the 20th century, California started cultivation of rice for the first time.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Hungarian women used the water left over from cooking rice as a moisturizer for rough, cracked hands. Rice powder was used as a main ingredient in face powders and was used as a softening and soothing ingredient for skin care preparations. Rice Bran Oil was added into creams to improve dry, damaged, mature skin and to add body and luster to hair. The biggest compliment a Japanese woman can be paid is to be called a Nuka Bijin, which translates to 'rice bran beauty'. Indonesian women soaked white rice in spring water and used the froth that formed on the top of the water to treat acne prone skin and exfolilate the face.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Whole rice grains can be mixed with lavender flowers are packed into a cloth pouch. Heated in the microwave, the packet is placed on the body to help alleviate muscle pain and alleviate stress.

The History of Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

There are over 700 varieties of geranium, only ten which including Pelargonium graveolens (Rose Geranium) produce essential oils. Originally native to southern Africa, Rose Geranium now flourishes in many countries such as Egypt, Morocco, Russia, Japan and China. It is said that the finest Rose Geranium oil comes from the island of Reunion, in the southwestern Indian Ocean. In the 1600's, Dutch sailors were the first to introduce Rose Geranium to Europe from Africa. For centuries, Rose Geranium adorned window boxes, walkways, gardens and homes in Europe and around the world. Many gardeners continue to plant Rose Geranium around their homes to keep away evil spirits. Known as the 'flower of constancy', it helps to lift spirits and bring joy and happiness to one's daily activity. Colonial American housewives lined baking pans with Rose Geranium leaves to impart a delicate rose aroma and flavor to their cakes and other baked goods. The Native Americans used the roots to make a tonic for refreshing and toning skin. Crushed Rose Geranium roots were made into a poultice for arthritic joints, sore feet and hemorrhoids. They also made a root tea for sores, bleeding wounds and burns.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Rose Geranium has been used in skin and hair preparations to help balance the secretion of sebum and clear sluggish and oily skin. It helps improve the appearance of broken capillaries and varicose veins. Rose Geranium helps balance the water system in the body, especially the lymphatic system to help detoxify the body and diminish the signs of cellulite. Its balancing properties soothe and calm dry skin conditions and helps clear up oily skin. Rose Geranium is often used for acne, bruises, sunburns and eczema. A hair or skin tonic made with an infusion of Rose Geranium helps cleanse and normalize the pH of the skin and scalp.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

To this day, European physicians use Rose Geranium to treat ailments such as diarrhea, gallstones, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections. It helps balance hormones and brings relief brought on by painful menstruation, PMS and other menopausal difficulties. Rose Geranium offers anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, haemostatic properties. It is used for acne, dermatitis, eczema, wounds, bruises hemorrhoids, varicose veins, sore throats and neuralgia.

The History of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Rosemary is derived from the Latin name rosmarinus, which is from 'dew' (ros) and 'sea' (marinus) or 'dew of the sea', since it is found growing near the sea. The Ancients were quite familiar with Rosemary and used it to strengthen ones memory. The herb was used in ceremonies as a symbol of remembrance. At funerals, mourners would throw it into graves as a remembrance for the dead. In Shakespeare's Hamlet, Ophelia says, "There's Rosemary, that's for remembrance." At weddings Rosemary was entwined in the wreath worn by the bride. The groom and wedding guests would also wear a sprig of Rosemary as a symbol of love and loyalty. Newlyweds would plant a branch of Rosemary on their wedding day. If the branch grew it was considered a good omen for the union and family. It was believed that when Rosemary was placed under a pillow before sleep it would prevent nightmares, and when planted in the home garden it would keep witches away. If Rosemary grew abundantly in the garden it meant the woman of the house ruled the household. In the 16th century, men were so annoyed of this statement they were known to pull out all the Rosemary plants to show they were in charge of the roost. Also in the 16th and 17th centuries, Apothecaries prescribed Rosemary for relieving intestinal gas and a digestive aid. In French hospitals, the herb was burned with Juniper berries to purify the air and prevent infection.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Rosemary was used to enhance circulation of the scalp and to relieve conditions such as flaky scalps and thinning hair. It was used to darken dark hair. The herb was used to improve dry,mature skin, help reduce redness, and to alleviate acne and eczema. Rosemary water was used as an eye wash to refresh and reduce puffiness. Recent use has been in slimming products for cellulite, broken capillaries and varicose veins.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Rosemary oil has been used for mental fatigue and sluggishness. It enhances mental clarity and balances intense emotions and mood swings. It is used against infections, joint pain, muscle spasms, digestive and liver disorders, and respiratory conditions. Rosemary improves circulation and assists in the drainage of lymphatic fluid.

The History of Sage (Salvia officinalis)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Native to the Middle East, Sage grows abundantly in dry and arid areas. Its Latin name salvia comes from 'salvare', which means to save, to cure. The ancient Romans regarded Sage as a sacred herb. It could only be harvested following a ceremonial harvesting which was done using a non-iron tool, by bare foot purified and chaste young boys, wearing white tunics. Sage was considered to give longevity and was associated with immortality. The Gauls, among other people from antiquity considered Sage a cure all for all diseases. In Provence (south of France) there is a saying, "Anybody having sage in their garden do not need to go to the doctor." In the 16th century during the Black Plague, Sage was part of the 'Vinegar of the Four Thieves', a concoction made by four thieves that looted houses after its occupants died. After being caught and in order to save their own lives, they revealed their secret of avoiding the plague. Vinegar of the Four Thieves was a combination of Sage, Lavender, Rosemary and Thyme soaked in vinegar with garlic. When rubbed carefully over the whole body, it was said to protect against all epidemics sent by the devil. The ancient Chinese preferred Sage tea over green tea and would trade four times the amount of green tea for Sage. North American Indians mixed bear grease with Sage to make a salve to treat wounds and sores.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

In the Middle Ages, Sage was used to control dandruff. An infusion was made, cooled and then brushed through the hair and scalp every night. Mixed with henna, it was used to color the hair and cover gray. Fresh leaves were used to clean teeth and freshen the breath. It's infusion is used as a gargle for gum disease and mouth sores. Sage was added into skin treatments to soften and tone the skin. The herb also has antiseptic and antioxidant properties and was used in skin and hair preparations to treat acne and seborrhea.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Sage has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic and astringent properties. The herb was used to aid digestion, cramps, flatulence and other intestinal discomforts. Hot compresses were used to soothe itchy skin and reduce swelling from bug bites. Sage was also used for regulating menstrual cycle and alleviating night sweats during menopause.

The History of Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

FOLKLORE & HERITAGE

Thyme grows spontaneously in dry and sunny places in the Mediterranean and is cultivated in France, Spain, Portugal, Greece and in the United States, especially in California. Thyme is derived from the Greek word 'thumos' meaning smoke. The herb was burned as an incense in ritual altar fires to purify sacrifices. According to legend, Thyme was born from the tears of Helen of Troy. In Danish and German folklore, wild Thyme was a place where you would find fairies. In ancient Greece, a person 'said to smell of thyme' meant someone of admirable style, activity, and energy. The Romans grew Thyme amongst bee hives to attract and keep bees. Beekeepers also burned dried Thyme to calm bees, especially during honey harvesting. Thyme also was a symbol of courage. In the early ages of chivalry, a woman would embroider a Thyme plant with a honeybee on a scarf and give to her champion Knight. In 1725, a German apothecary discovered that the essential oil of Thyme contained a powerful disinfectant called Thymol, found to be very effective against bacteria and fungi. Thyme tea was used to alleviate coughs and loosen phlegm. Thyme honey was added into other expectorant herbal teas for its medicinal properties and as a sweetener. Thyme honey was also used to treat sores. The essential oil was used as an antiseptic for fungal infections such as athlete's foot.

HISTORICAL USE FOR BEAUTY CARE

Thyme was used by Greek and Roman women as a toilet water and unguent. An unguent is similar to an ointment but less viscous and oilier. It was used for rashes, sunburns, abrasions and other skin conditions. Essential oil of Thyme was added to base oil and used as an invigorating massage oil to improve blood circulation. Thyme is well noted for its antiseptic, toning and antioxidant properties and was added to other preparations to treat acne, flaky scalp and thinning hair.

AROMATHERAPY BENEFITS

Thyme essential oil is used to fight infection and improve immunity. It eases muscle spasms, improves digestion, relieves urinary tract problems, alleviates respiratory ailments, improves blood circulation. Thyme is also used to help overcome emotional fatigue, nervousness, and stress.