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Tuesday, March 1, 2016

HEALTHY LIVING--GOOD SENSE SCENTS

Smell is a powerful sense. Research shows that it can trigger memory, improve your mood and your sleep and relieve pain and stress. But which scents work best for which?

Lavender—acts as a calming agent and relieves stress and anxiety.

Peppermint—great for the relief of tension headaches.

Note: Peppermint is an irritant. Keep it away from your eyes.

Clary Sage—works as a mood enhancer and anti-depressant, heightening happiness. Rubbing on your belly may ease menstrual cramps.

Note: Clary sage contains estrogen-like compounds. For that reason it should not be used by women who have had breast or ovarian cancer.

Eucalyptus—relieves congestion and respiratory problems because it contains antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties.

Note: Keep eucalyptus away from infants, small children, and pregnant women. The strong odor might also adversely affect those with asthma and COPD.

Tea Tree—This is great for your skin. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help treat fungal infections and fight acne.

Some common sense dos and don’ts when it comes to scents:

Always test scents on a small patch of skin to check for an adverse reaction. Don’t use if you experience itching, burning, swelling, redness, nausea, stuffiness, or a severe headache.

Never take essential oils internally.

Use cautiously around infants, small children, and pets.

Some oils can increase the risk of sunburn. Never expose yourself to direct sunlight after using essential oils.

Oils are flammable. Keep them away from candles and other open flames.

Overuse of oils can lead to sensitivity and inflammation.

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