Transdermal application of certain substances has proven to be highly effective; but where should these substances be applied?
It's easy to get carried away with essential oils, with their captivating aromas that waft around. However, I want you to be informed about how you may apply these oils so you may benefit most of their use.
Research has shown that applying substances topically has the same efficacy, if not more, than if the substance were to be ingested or inserted. In regards to hormonal treatment, physicians are more likely to suggest a topical or insertable protocol for the hormonal balance due to efficacy and, more importantly, fewer possibilities of side effects (which is especially important if you're taking more than one substance!)[1].
Before it became commercial, essential oils have been used for thousands of years. Egyptians would create formulations utilizing resins and extracts from botanicals for topical application (i.e. before surgery, rituals)[2].
With a conscious effort and with science to support it, essential oils may be incorporated into a wellness protocol.
How & Where to Apply
There are physical, emotional, and spiritual pressure points on the body. Essential oils may be used for various reasons, to include:
emotional support (i.e. irritability, lack of vitality)
mood support (i.e. anxiety, depression)
wellness support (i.e. increase nutrient uptake)
spiritual maintenance (i.e. chakra balancing).
Acupuncturists and body energy specialists are knowledgable about these access points and how to balance and release energy there.
Disclaimer: The intent of this post is not to curate an expert in you about this field, but to give you an understanding as to why essential oils are placed in certain areas.
It's important to keep in mind that the energetic system of the body also involves the lymphatic system. Unlike the circulatory system, it needs stimulation to continue flowing effectively through the body.
Using Our Oils
As of when this was written (July 2020), Asili Herbs and Botanica currently has three essential oil blends, but we'll focus on one in particular: RAHA
During the last week before our firstborn came earthside, I was busy preparing and formulating. RAHA, meaning ease in Swahili, is a blend of tonifying and balancing botanicals that support the hormone system.
The sweet and earthy scent of clary sage (Salvia sclarea) brings on a wave of relaxation, promoting the tension release emotionally and in the nerves. This is due to the rich amount of esters in the plant. Research has proven it to be a potent antidepressant, as it increases the amount of serotonin and decreases cortisol in the body; it's a wonderful modulator of the dopamine pathway[3].
To apply RAHA, place the oil in these areas of the body:
temples
jawline
back of neck
armpits
abdomen
pelvic region
lower back
How do you apply essential oils? What have you noticed works best? Let's discuss in the comments below!
References
1. K. C. Garala, A. J. Shinde, and P. H. Shah, “Formulation andin-vitrocharacterization of monolithic matrix transdermal systems using HPMC/Eudragit S 100 polymer blends,”International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 108–120, 2009.
2. Elshafie, H. S., & Camele, I. (2017). An Overview of the Biological Effects of Some Mediterranean Essential Oils on Human Health.BioMed research international,2017, 9268468. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/9268468
3. Seol GH et al. Antidepressant-like effect of Salvia sclarea is explained by modulation of dopamine activities in rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2010; 130(1): 187-190. Cited in Quintessential Aromatics database, 2013.
