Archive for the ‘Celebrity Tips’ Category

Blends for actress & aromatherapy fan Kirsten Dunst

Monday, October 3rd, 2011
Actress Kirsten Dunst has various beauty secrets, to keep her body beautiful and her complexion flawless. She follows a low acid, high alkaline diet. She is also a great fan of aromatherapy, even using essential oils to create her own perfumes! In her new film ‘Melancholia’, released in the UK last week, Kirsten plays a depressed bride!
Given her love of aromatherapy we thought we’d create a range of mood enhancing essential oil blends for her to try, not just to give her mood a boost (after playing such a depressing part) but also to remind her how versatile and life enhancing essential oils can be!

These aromatherapy blends can be added to 30mls of base oil for massage, or to 30ml of our fragrance free Bath Oil or Shower & Bath Gel.

Mood Elevation:

8 drops Bergamot
4 drops Petitgrain
2 drops Sandalwood

Stress Buster:

2 drops Neroli
4 drops Orange Sweet
2 drops Frankincense
7 drops Lavender

Muscle Ease (most beneficial for massage):

2 drops Benzoin
4 drops Clary Sage
2 drops Rosemary
7 drops Lavender

Hormone Balance:

4 drops Geranium
2 drops Rose
4 drops Bergamot
5 drops Lavender

Energy Boost:

1 drop Peppermint
1 drop Black Pepper
3 drops Rosemary
3 drops Lime

Princess Kate chooses Myrtle for bouquet

Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011

The new Duchess of Cambridge, now fondly called Princess Kate, chose a very symbolic selection of flowers for her bridal bouquet. The small yet beautifully elegant bouquet contained Myrtle, Lily of the Valley, Sweet William and Hyacinth! The flowers were carefully selected by the Royal family and the Middleton’s for their significance and meaning!

In the language of flowers Myrtle symbolises simple, uncomplicated love, joy, happiness and marital fidelity. It is also believed to bring good luck in relationships, prosperity and a long, happy life. Myrtle has been used since ancient times and was reported to be the sacred plant of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Aphrodite is often pictured wearing a Myrtle wreath on her head and for many years it was traditional that a bride’s head dress should be made of it. Roman bridegrooms also wore a wreath of Myrtle and its association with love is continued today with the inclusion of Myrtle in many bridal bouquets! Kate’s bouquet is believed to have contained stems from a Myrtle planted by Queen Victoria in 1845, as well as a sprig from the Myrtle used in the Queen’s wedding bouquet of 1947.

Myrtle is a small evergreen shrub that produces fragrant white or pink flowers. Myrtle essential oil can be steam distilled from the twigs, leaves and sometimes the flowers. It is a soothing, calming and cheering oil that has a variety of therapeutic uses. Learn more about the therapeutic properties of Myrtle essential oil on our website.

Lily-of-the-Valley has been used since the middle ages where it was often used in bridal bouquets to symbolise purity and modesty. This delicate, beautiful, fragrant flower is an old herb that is now mainly grown as a spring time bulb. Although it has been used for medicinal purposes in the past, it is now only really used by qualified herbalists. Lily-of-the-Valley has an exquisite, delicate scent, that holds pride of place amongst all the white-flower fragrances. To enjoy the aroma of one of the nation’s favourites why not try our Lily-of-the-Valley fragrance oil which is ideal for fragrancing your own toiletry products, pot pourris or other aromacraft projects. Please note that fragrance oils are not natural products and do not have any therapeutic properties.

Finally, in the language of flowers a White Hyacinth stands for loveliness and “I’ll pray for you”. Sweet William symbolises gallantry – a perfect token to the groom Prince William!

Sensual massage blend for the Royal wedding night

Friday, April 29th, 2011

If you believe what you read in the papers, William and Kate could be spending their honeymoon in either the Scilly Isles off the coast of Cornwall or on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia (we know which location we’d prefer!).

According to royal sources though, the couple will spend their first night as husband and wife in Buckingham Palace’s Belgian Suite. We’re sure the two young love birds won’t need much encouragement wherever they are,  but just in case we’ve put together a romantic, sensual massage blend that is guaranteed to get them in the mood after their somewhat hectic day!

Simply blend the following essential oils into 20ml of carrier oil:-

4 drops of Sandalwood
4 drops of Jasmine
4 drop of Bergamot

Sandalwood: Sandalwood’s gentle and erotic fragrance is enjoyed by men and women alike. It is a powerful aphrodisiac and is used in tantric yoga for the awakening of sexual energy. It has a harmonising and calming effect and will help dispel any stress or tension.

Jasmine: Jasmine is precious oil often referred to as the “King of Oils”.  It is also know by its Indian name “Queen of the night” as the flowers are harvested at night when their exotic perfume is at its strongest. Jasmine essential oil inspires confidence and euphoria and it is one of the most powerful aphrodisiacs. Jasmine is an expensive oil so we also sell Jasmine Light which is diluted at 5% in Jojoba Oil. Safety note: Avoid in early pregnancy.

Bergamot: Bergamot has an exquisite scent that appeals to both men and women. It is primarily used for its relaxing properties and it adds a wonderful therapeutic quality and fragrance to any massage blend. It is good for calming nervous tension and if you’re feeling a bit over-emotional after the big day! Safety note: Do not use on sensitive skin or before exposure to sunlight.

Calming advice for Kate Middleton

Thursday, April 7th, 2011

Kate Middleton is probably the most nervous women in Britain at the moment as as she counts down to her Royal Wedding on April 29. Prince William’s beautiful fiancé isn’t new to the cameras and paparazzi, but as the media frenzy escalates the final few days leading up to the wedding will undoubtedly be extremely stressful for the Royal wife-to-be. To calm her nerves and help her to relax we’ve put together a soothing aromatherapy blend that’s fit for a queen.

For a soothing massage we recommend she blend 20ml of carrier oil with 6 drops of Neroli, 3 drops of Geranium and 3 drops of Ylang Ylang. Alternatively she could just mix the essential oils with a little milk (to help the oils disperse) and then add to the bath for a relaxing and soothing soak!

Neroli is one of the best oils to treat anxiety. Traditionally used in wedding bouquets, it calms and soothes the nerves prior to a major event. It can also help ease agitation and the intensity of strong emotions. It has gentle, subtle aphrodisiac powers and a few drops at night can help relieve insomnia.

Geranium
helps create a sense of security and comfort and is gently balancing and uplifting. It is reputed to strengthen the flow of subtle energy and is beneficial for treating anxiety associated with nerves.

Ylang Ylang is a soothing oil that promotes relaxation and aids sleep. It is good for nervous tension and can help create a sense of calm, inner peace and confidence.

Beneficial essential oils for grief

Monday, February 7th, 2011
We were saddened to hear the tragic news that Britain’s Got Talent judge, Amanda Holden, has lost the baby boy she was expecting. Our thoughts are with her and her husband Chris at this very sad time.

The grief arising from a bereavement is one of the most devastating, negative emotions a person has to deal with. It is a strong, overwhelming, emotional pain that will stay with you spiritually for a lifetime. There is much more to dealing with grief than simply recommending a few essential oils but aromatherapy can certainly play a part in helping to release the stress and tension of bereavement and keep the mind balanced during the period of intense sorrow. Essential oils will not take the pain away but they can help you to work through the pain and move on with your life.

Rose Otto or Rose Absolute. Rose has a special affinity with grief and can help comfort feelings of sorrow and open the heart to release pent-up emotions.

Frankincense
is a rejuvenating essential oil that can help balance the out of control emotions that come with a bereavement.

Marjoram
essential oil has a warming, comforting effect on the emotions and is a traditional remedy for grief.

Both Lavender and Chamomile will aid relaxation and sleep, reduce anxiety, and relieve restlessness during grief. They will also help stabilise the emotions and release any anger.

Bergamot
is an antidepressant. Its citrus fragrance will also help to lift the mood.

Melissa
is an excellent tonic for the heart and its uplifting, antidepressant properties will help release trauma and pain.

Benzoin
has been used since antiquity in sweet and soothing aromatic incense. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and can help bring comfort to the depressed and emotionally exhausted.

How to use the essential oils:

Our recommendation would be to book an aromatherapy massage with your local therapist. The therapist will select the oils that are the most appropriate to treat you holistically i.e. as a whole person not just for the obvious symptoms of grief. For other ways to use the oils at home please click here.

Strictly Come Dancing massage oils…

Friday, December 10th, 2010

A weekend of Strictly Come Dancing starts tonight with the first round of the hotly-contested semi-finals. Each couple will perform their usual dance aswell as well as taking part the group ‘Swingathon’.

As we wait with baited breath we’ve  put together an aromatherapy massage blend to suit each of the 5 semi-finalists…

For Gavin Henderson and his sexy six pack we recommend pure Jojoba Oil – the ultimate massage medium which will deliver a subtle gloss and further define those fantastic pecs!

For ultra-feminine Kara Tointon we recommend Rose Absolute blended with Camellia Carrier Oil for an ultra-relaxing facial massage.

For Matt Baker – back to nature with a hint of sexiness – we recommend Ginger, Clary Sage and Orange essential oils in Hazelnut Carrier Oil.

For Pamela Stephenson – it’s all in the mind – Spearmint, Tangerine and Lime essential oils in hormone soothing Evening Primrose Oil.

For Scott Maslen – sex in the city (well – more the East End!) – we recommend Patchouli, Ylang Ylang and Mandarin blended in Sweet Almond Oil.

Oh- and if any of the men need any help in applying these oils then us girls at Base Formula will be more than happy to help!

Some calming advice for feuding X Factor girls

Thursday, October 21st, 2010

Aromatherapy prescriptions for X Factor feudsCheryl Cole must have known she was going to be in for a bumpy ride on this year’s X Factor when she put through Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel. But did she ever imagine she was going to be stuck in the middle of the girls’ feud?

Inside sources have suggested that X Factor finalists Cher Lloyd and Katie Waissel are no longer speaking. The two singers appeared close when the live shows started earlier this month, but now they are said to be at each others throats after Katie accused Cher of getting preferential treatment from Cheryl Cole and Cher complained that Katie is too bossy and controlling. Katie has said she feels Cheryl Cole favours Cher and that she is being made out to be the ‘wicked witch’ of the show.

So, Katie is angry and Cher is frail and prone to emotional outbursts. Piggy in the middle Cheryl has got a headache with it all “kicking off” and even Simon has had a ‘hissy fit’ at the state of the X Factor house (according to The Sun!!). As always I am delighted to prescribe an aromatherapy remedy to deal with these serious problems.  Although I’m not sure the show’s producers will approve because the more emotional drama the better the ratings! 

Cher – Psychological frailty
For Cher I recommend a blend of Bergamot, natures Prozac, Lime (to help her remember the words), Geranium to calm feelings of tearfulness and Benzoin for emotional comfort and to strengthen the respiratory system.

Katie – Anger
To help Katie control her temper I would suggest Ylang Ylang to reduce anger and irritability, Sandalwood to de-stress and reduce  anxiety and Grapefruit to detox the toxic atmosphere!

Cheryl – Headache
If all the arguing is giving Cheryl a headache then she should try a soothing blend of Spearmint, Lavender and Chamomile.

Simon – For just about everything!
Last but not least a little advice for Simon. I recommend Frankincense to facilitate deep breathing and calm his mind, Ylang Ylang to control anger (at contestants and Louis!!!!) and also as an aphrodisiac to ensure he stays on top form for fiance Mezghan, Clary Sage to help him chill out and give him a ‘legal’ high’ and Lemon as an aromatherapy equivalent of Red Bull to keep him awake and focused with such a grueling schedule.

As he is flying a lot between the USA and UK I would also suggest massaging a few drops of antiviral Lemon and Tea Tree blended with Starflower Oil into that newly sculpted physique. We wouldn’t want him to get laryngitis now would we, which seems to be the scourge of all the contestants at the moment. Anybody would think that they are all snogging each other????

How to use these essential oils
Add a max of 3 drops..any combination to a warm bath, drip onto a tissue and smell regularly or use an aromatherapy diffuser.

Julie Foster
Principal of The British School of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy prescriptions for X Factor meltdown

Thursday, October 7th, 2010

Aromatherapy prescriptions for X Factor meltdownHave the delusional symptoms of Cheryl Cole’s Malaria really gone??? I think not! Gamu is a good role model, hard working, motivated by thoughts of others with an incredible talent – expressed without fault. Both Katie and Cher demonstrated that attracting sympathy was a valid route to success. As someone who voluntarily supports young adults in developing their careers I am shocked at the injustice and the irresponsibility shown by the judges and producers of a show that has such an influence on young people. I have yet to hear of a job interviewer who shares a tear with a nervous interviewee and then say’s “let’s start again pet?” 

All the support for Gamu and the derision of the nation will surely be adding to Cher’s delicate state and no doubt Katie with her “badger’s bum” eye lashes must be feeling a bit down too. Poor old Cheryl Cole is reportedly receiving death threats following her decision to exclude Gamu so I’m pretty sure she’ll also be having another weep in some luxurious corner!

X Factor has clearly gone into emotional meltdown and judging by the overwhelming stream of entries on the ‘Gamu Should have Got Through’ Facebook page (nearly 1/4 million) the show’s fans (or X fans – no pun intended) have too!

To calm things down, as we wait to see what drama unfolds on Saturday night, I’ve put together a couple of aromatherapy prescriptions to try and ease the strain for all concerned!

Over emotional
For Cheryl, the fans, Cher and Katie (not Gamu she admirably keeps any emotional drama queen tendencies in check!) I recommend a long hot bath – add 6 drops of Geranium essential oil to help soothe the emotions and calm the tears, 3 drops of Cedarwood for strength and courage and Green Mandarin to lift the mood.

Memory boost
To help Katie remember her lyrics and for Cheryl, to remind her of her X Factor Job Description – i.e. choose the best performer who has star quality and who HAS the X Factor! Use an aromatherapy diffuser with 6 drops of premium quality Lime essential oil. It’s like having a large cup of ‘great’ coffee but without the headache – it kick starts the memory and sharpens concentration and focus.

Anxiety
For the contestants, their families, judges and maybe even the show’s producers (well maybe not the producers – some internet forums are saying they are already ordering the post show Bollinger as they are guaranteed the highest ratings in the history of TV). Use an aromatherapy diffuser or a burner and add 5 drops of Frankincense to deepen the breathing and counteract that “I can’t stop worrying” feeling, 3 drops of Clary Sage – a legal way to get that uber chilled feeling (avoid in pregnancy), 4 drops of Patchouli which is soothing for mind and body and 4 drops of Tangerine – a deliciously scented mood enhancer!

Oh and not forgetting the Madonna wannabe Katie and her badger’s bum eyelashes! Her poor old eyelids are bound to be sore when those fake lashes come off (glue and crocodile tears can be quite abrasive) - I recommend she try pure Borage Seed Oil (sometimes known as Starflower Oil!)

Julie Foster
Principal of The British School of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy advice for X Factor rejects!

Monday, October 4th, 2010

Aromatherapy advice for X Factor rejectsHearts were broken and dreams shattered last night as the four X Factor judges each chose their final three for the live shows. Several acts including the former favourite were axed as Simon Cowell and his fellow judges made some surprise decisions.

Unsuprisingly controversy started early this year as Cheryl Cole selected two contestants who failed to sing at the final audition stage, over what the viewing public believe are more talented singers. Both Gamu Nhengu and Treyc Cohen were rejected in favour of highly-strung Cher Lloyd and receptionist Katie Waissel. 

All may not be lost yet though, as it’s been reported that some of the rejected acts, including 18-year-old Gamu, may still return to the show this weekend as wildcard acts.

In the meantime, to help ease the rejected acts’ broken hearts we recommend a soothing blend of therapeutic essential oils. We’ve chosen Cedarwood (1 drop) to give the rejected contestants the strength to carry on with their dreams, Geranium (4 drops) to soothe bruised ego’s, Frankincense ( 1 drop) to deepen and calm the breathing and to stop the tears, Ylang Ylang (2 drops) to counter any anger and resentment and Tangerine (3 drops) to lift their spirits! 

We await the first live show with baited breath! Keep checking our blog for all the latest X Factor aromatherapy advice…

Back to work…Cheryl Cole style

Tuesday, September 7th, 2010

Cheryl Bounces Back after MalariaAfter an extended break (holiday or illness) most of us tend to drag our feet when heading back to work. Not so though for Cheryl Cole who, despite only recently getting the all-clear from doctors after her bout of malaria, has eagerly returned to the recording and dance studios in LA. If you’re feeling a bit lethargic and lacklustre about returning to work after the holidays or if you’re recovering from an illness we’ve put together a few expert aromatherapy tips to get you back on top form.

Try super zesty Lime essential oil to energise and focus the mind, Chamomile to settle any nerves and Bergamot to keep stress levels manageable. If you’ve been feeling off colour Bergamot is also good for an unsettled, delicate tummy.

For a natural ‘Red Bull Buzz’ at work or home use a Diffuser to vaporise Tangerine essential oil for its gentle, stimulating properties and Cedarwood for both physical and mental strength. Many Aromatherapists say that Patchouli helps to energise and motivate too and here we like to add it to sweeten the aroma, making the blend ideal to wear as a perfume (simply dilute the blend in a carrier such as Apricot Oil before applying to the skin).

Get up and go in the morning and blend your own rejuvenating shower gel with uplifting Green MandarinBergamot (known as nature’s Prozac) to soothe the nerves and Elemi to nurture and offer emotional support. Simply blend a few drops into one of Base Formula’s natural, fragrance free bath and shower bases.

A good night’s sleep is essential to boost vitality and your immune system – try our exquisitely scented French Lavender Room & Pillow Spray or Lavender Hydrolat in a spray bottle and spritz your bedroom to prepare both mind and body for a restful night’s sleep.