BulHerba

Aromatherapy is an ancient branch of herbal medicine which makes use of the medicinal characteristics of essential oils extracted from plants, herbs and flowers for healing. The oils can be used alone or in blends. They are often integrated into treatments in the spa as candles, massage oils and even as a bath. Sometimes, they are used as burners as to alleviate stress and to effect a specific mood all within the comfort and privacy of the home.

When absorbed through the skin, each essential oil exhibits a specific pharmacological effect such as anti-bacterial, antiviral, diuretic, vasodilator, tranquilizing and adrenal stimulating. When an essential oil is inhaled, the molecules enter the nasal cavity and stirs up the brain’s limbic system. This is the system responsible for one’s emotions and memories and is directly connected to parts of the body that regulate heart rate, blood pressure, stress, memory, hormone balance and breathing. This system also influences the adrenals, pituitary gland and the hypothalamus.

Aromatherapy has long been used for relief of muscular pains, menstrual cramps, skin ailments and nervous issues such as anxiety, depression and stress. Scents such as those of rose petals induce sleep while some unpleasant odors have been used to suppress the appetite of those who aim to lose weight.

Stress is a normal reaction to the continuously changing conditions of our existence and all its aspects. A certain amount of stress is actually necessary to keep us focused, motivated and to spice up an otherwise unchallenging life. Too much stress, on the other hand could cause the body to suffer both physically and emotionally, making the body defenseless to such illnesses as headaches, sleeplessness, ulcers, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.

Dealing with stress involves very simple principles:

• Rely on family and friends. Communicating your problem to people who care would make the load your carry much lighter.
• Avoid making too many drastic changes all at one time. You must try to plan ahead so that most of the events in your life would become manageable and within your control. This gives you more mental vigor to deal with sudden events and changes you cannot control.
• Know when to seek help and do not hesitate to see a professional who can assist you.
• Instead of turning to alcohol and cigarettes, be more conscious of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Exercise, eat balanced meals and be physically active. Over-all wellness is a wonderful mood lifter.
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation and visualization or ‘daydreaming’ whenever you feel stressed out.

Acupuncture originated in China over five thousand years ago, it is an essential part of traditional Chi

nese medicine.

The healing principle of this art is based on a person’s “Qi” or vital life. This energy is believed to flow all over the body through twelve invisible channels known as meridians. Each meridian is associated with a specific organ system. If the energy is free to flow throughout the body, a person is in his best health. If the flow of Qi is blocked, an imbalance develops and person begins to go down with a disease.

Acupuncture makes use of needles as well as other physical stimulants to affect the flow of Qi, this results in the prevention and treatment of disease. Insertion of needles to specific points in the body stimulates the release of pain-relieving endorphins. It also facilitates the release of nerve impulses to the brain through neurotransmitters. This treatment also invigorates circulation and revitalizes the autonomic nervous system, influencing the electrical currents in the body.

A technique of acupuncture known as Cupping involves the application of glass cups to create suction on the skin.

It is often used to treat cough, hypertension, morning sickness, depression, bronchitis, irregular menstruation and a myriad of painful conditions such as back pain, arthritis and rheumatism. This treatment is extremely simple and is safe even for babies; however, it must be performed by a trained acupuncturist.

Aside from serving as a mini color palettes to a lot of women, the nails protect the vulnerable finger and toe tips. Deciding on the nail polish that suits you best is not the only requirement to keep the nails gorgeous. Proper and constant care need to be given to the nails to keep them healthy and well-groomed.

Cut nails after taking a bath, this is when the nails are softer and easier to trim. Clip fingernails to an oval shape and cut the shorter and rounder toenails straight across.

Moisturize your hand including the cuticles and the base of your nails to prevent having dry nails. Dry nails turn brittle and start to peel. Household chores that involve chemicals such as soap could also make the nails go dry; wear rubber gloves to stop this from happening.
Reinforce your nails once or twice a week, if they are soft and weak. Apply nail strengtheners to coat the nails with keratin and calcium.

Meticulously dry your toes and fingers after taking a bath to avoid having fungal infections on your nails. Always wear footwear in public showers, swimming pools and changing rooms; fungal infections spread by contact.

When applying nail color, always put start with a base coat to protect the nails from getting stained. Darker colored nail polish leaves a darker stain when removed. Most nail polish can stain the nails so do not keep the nail color beyond two weeks.

If having a dazzling smile is not motivation enough to give adequate consideration to your dental health, an excruciating bout of toothache is bound to do the trick. Here are simple pointers to keep you smiling:

1.    Brush your teeth after every meal and upon waking up in the morning. This makes sure that no plaque and food particles are left on your teeth and the crevices of your gums.
2.    Go slow on the sweets. Avoid starchy and sugar foods. Brush your teeth after eating such food. If this is not possible, try at least to rinse your mouth with water right after eating to avoid leaving their residue on your mouth for too long.
3.    For babies: do not leave a bottle of milk or juice for the baby to suck on overnight.
4.    Use fluoride toothpaste. High concentrations of this mineral in your saliva prevent tooth decay and forestall superficial cavities to go deeper.
5.    Use tooth paste and mouth rinse that reduce place or have disinfectant properties; this lowers your chance of having bacteria that causes tooth decay. The chemicals contained in these products destroy decay-causing bacteria and adheres to the teeth surface thus hindering plaque to stick to your teeth.
6.    Visit your dentist at least twice a year.