These blends are formulated by our owner, Melanie Snell, who is a registered acupuncturist, herbalist and Reiki Master. She uses Chinese medicine theory in most of her products which will be indicated by the acronym TCM, which stands for Traditional Chinese Medicine. The essential oil blends and singles are made in a Vancouver, BC, Canada facility specializing in essential oils.
Calm Shen - Aromatherapy Blend
What can this blend help with?
Cools Heart and Liver agitation and nourishes Yin (TCM Theory). Calms over-excitement, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, sorrow and lack of joy
Ingredients: Bergamont (Citrus bergamia), Lavender (Lavendula augustafolia), Geranium (Palargonium graveolens), Spikenard (Nardostachs jatamansi) in a base of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) oil.
Bergamont: In Chinese medicine, Bergamont has a neutral to warm temperature with an affinity to Wood (Liver) and Fire (Heart) elements. Its primary function is to regulate and move the Qi of the Spleen and Liver and harmonize the Shen and digestive issues. This is one of the few autonomic nervous regulator oils, making it ideal for reducing the swing between sympathetic and parasympathetic functioning; think balancing between joy and depression, stimulation and sedation-type issues. Beramont is also good at helping us let go of preconceived ideas, fixed opinions and ego-driven thoughts that weigh us down and stop us from being open. Known for building courage and confidence, it provides protection, prosperity and happiness. Bergamot helps connect a person's spirit with the divine by supporting the solar plexus, the crown chakra. It is also widely used in the opening meditation of spiritual connection.
Meridians: Liver, Spleen, Stomach, Heart
Caution: Strongly photosensititzing
Lavender: In Chinese medicine, Lavender nourishes the Yin, activates the Qi, clears heat and calms the Shen. Lavender is a draining herb best applied in chronic excess conditions requiring dispersing, relaxing, and cooling; carefully use it as a single oil if you are deficient. Its element is Fire and Wood. Lavender essential oil promotes the opening of the heart and stimulation of the crown chakra, allowing us to be open to receiving. This is why I think it is an excellent oil for emotional conditions like nervous tension, nervous feebleness, anxiety and depression, making it an ideal oil for Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Meridians: Heart, Pericardium, Lungs, Liver
Lemongrass: In Chinese medicine, Lemongrass clears heat and wind, dries damp, regulates Qi - especially Liver Qi, harmonizes the Shen, and regulates the middle warmer. Its element affinity is with Wood and Fire. Lemongrass essential oil connects to the solar plexus chakra and symbolizes your self-esteem, helping you feel confident and personally empowered. It promotes clarity, discernment and optimism (which is why you often smell it in spas).
Meridians: Stomach, Lungs, Heart
Caution: Rarely, lemongrass oil might cause skin irritation when applied to the skin.
Instructions:
Step 1: First, twist off the cap and either breathe in the invigorating scent from the roller or wash your hands and roll into the palm of your hand - rub your hands together and cup around your nose, inhale three slow, deep breaths.
Step 2: Roll a small amount onto the inside of the wrists, around the back of the ears/neck or sternum. Please be mindful that oils can stain. You do not have to continue to step 3 and use acupressure points (this is just another option to use these blends).
Step 3: Roll on and massage acupuncture/acupressure points:
- Ren 17, also called "Sea of Qi," is a place to calm fear or anxiety, to catch what feels like a panicked uprising and send it gently, with love, downward back to the earth—located at the Heart Chakra, which, when open, enhances our ability to open our hearts, allowing us to love deeply and completely.
- To locate Ren 17: On the midline of the sternum, in a depression level with the crossing of the 4th intercostal space (rib) and the sternum – start under the clavicle and count down the spaces between each rib, then move to the center of the chest. You will probably feel a tender spot.
- DU14 (GV14), also called "Big Vertebrae," is a point that is great at balancing yang, whether deficient or in excess. It is often used in wintertime to treat colds and flu by expelling bodily pathogens as it strongly tonifies wei qi (immune system). It also can stimulate the adrenal cortex, clears the brain, and calms the spirit. It also can dramatically increase white blood cell production.
- To locate DU14: Below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).
- Liver 3, also called "Great Surge," whether you're feeling stuck physically, mentally, or emotionally, stimulation of this point can move stagnant energy, unburdens feelings of anger and resentment and supports growth. Generally, it resolves stagnation and tonifies Yin, balancing the Liver energies. An alternate translation of the point name is Happy Calm. When one feels angry or frustrated, the body often tenses. This rigidity does not allow for a smooth flow of Qi or Blood. The tension results in several symptoms arising and can vary from person to person.
- To locate Liver 3: This point is found on the top of your foot, in the hollow distal to the junction of the first and second toes. You may notice that this area is tender when pressure is applied.
- Kidney 3, also called "Great Ravine," is a critical point for accessing the power of the Kidney organs and addressing issues of energy (think like a battery pack) and, on a spiritual side, your destiny. If you experience excessive fear, anxiety or an overactive flight/fight response, this point brings immediate calm and rekindled strength and resolve.
- To locate Kidney 3: In a depression, midway between the tip of the medial malleolus (ankle bone) and the attachment of the Achilles tendon.
- Pericardium 8, also called "Labor Palace or Palace of weariness," is a point that gives relaxation by releasing tension to make room to enjoy life. Creating space and peace is essential so your body can activate self-healing. When we are in constant work mode or crisis, the body thinks it is in continual danger, which is why we become sick when stressed - this point helps the body feel safe. Spiritually this point is seen as an extension of the Heart Chakra: when the energy flows well, you radiate your vulnerability and beauty within - including a glow to your eyes and skin. You are more aware of your boundaries and can put this into practice in your life without shame, which makes you shine.
- Location of Pericardium 8: In the middle of the palm, with a clenched fist under the tip of the middle finger. Press slightly towards the little finger.
Warning: Store it in a cool dark place. For external use only. Avoid the eye area if you are epileptic or pregnant. If skin irritation occurs, discontinue use. The information shared is not to replace your primary medical professional's advice.
References:
- Diploma of Acupuncture with Pacific Rim College
- The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy by Salvatore Battaglia
- Aromatherapy by Micheline Arcier
- A-Z of Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis
- Natural Healing for Women by Susan Curtis and Romy Fraser
- Aromatic Medicine: Immune & Nervous Systems 2-part course with Peter Conway, Medical Herbalist, Pacific Rim College (PRC)
- The Nectar of Plants 3-part course with Josephine Spilka, L.Ac
- Aromatica Volume 1 & 2: A Clinical Guide to Essential Oil Therapeutics. Principles and Profiles by Peter Holmes
- The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood
- Chinese Medicine Essential Oils: A Materia Medica and Practical Guide to Their Use by Evelyn Robert L.Ac