Base Formula Blog

Hyperactive kids? Try our calming aromatherapy spray

April 12th, 2012

Are your kids bouncing off the walls after too many Easter Eggs? As we approach the end of the school holidays it may be time to start calming things down a little. Follow our tips below to help you get back in control and prepare them for the start of the new school term.

We expect and encourage children to have fun and to be energetic and active, but sometimes their behaviour can get out of control as they are not able to discriminate when they are going a little over the top. When this happens it is important that you help to direct your child’s energy into more balanced and healthy channels – i.e. going for a bike ride or a play in the park rather than running wild around the house and creating mayhem.

Other tactics that may help:-

Find time to spend more quality one-on-one time with your children
Make sure they have contact with other children with whom they have shared interests
Avoid refined sugar products and processed foods with additives and artificial colours
Watch out for common food allergies i.e. eggs, wheat, dairy
Avoid lots of artificial lighting and excessive noise
Try calming, soothing essential oils for massage, baths or in natural, therapeutic room sprays

Make your own Room Spray

100ml bottle with spray top
5ml of Vodka
2 drops Valerian essential oil
4 drops Orange essential oil
Top up with De-ionised Water

Shake well and spritz the air. Do not spray onto polished surfaces. This could also be sprayed onto a tissue and left in the bedroom before bed – remove once child is settled.

Disclaimer: The information provided on the Base Formula blog is for personal information and interest only. It is not intended to offer professional medical advice or treatment for any condition. We recommend that you consult your GP or nurse if you have any health concerns whatsoever. Our advice has been provided on the basis that there are no known contra-indications to treatment. If you have any health problems or are taking any medication you should seek advice from your healthcare provider prior to using aromatherapy. We would also advise that you make an appointment with a local aromatherapist who will be able to take a full case history and offer you tailored treatment advice. Please note that Base Formula accepts no liability for misuse of essential oils or other products or for any reliance on the information provided within.

Please visit our website for more details on using essential oils safely and effectively.

Tags: hyperactive children, room sprays
This posted is listed in the following categories: Make Your Own Recipes, Natural Health & Beauty

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Calorie free Easter chocolate treat

April 4th, 2012

Despite all the fun, Easter can be a bit of nightmare if you’re watching your weight. With all those tempting chocolate eggs and yummy hot cross buns your willpower will certainly be put to the test.

Tip: To build your resolve, add 3 drops of Cedarwood and 3 drops of Grapefruit to a tissue and have a quick sniff whenever temptation arises.

If you simply can’t resist a chocolate fix then why not try our scrumptious chocolate inspired bath treats which will satisfy your cravings, and be just as indulgent – yet completely calorie free.

Chocolate Orange Bath Bombs

50g Shea Butter
100g Cocoa Butter
100g Sodium Bicarbonate
50g Citric Acid

Melt the butters and add 6 drops of Orange Sweet essential oil. Quickly blend in the remaining ingredients and pour into ice cube trays. Cover with cling film and freeze. When ready to use simply pop one in the bath. They smell like chocolate orange and have a little fizz to them! As an alternative to Orange you could try Lime essential oil – anyone remember Chocolate Limes?

Warning: may leave bath slightly oily / slippy.

Please visit our website for more details on using essential oils safely and effectively.

This posted is listed in the following categories: General

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Walnut trees affected by climate change

April 2nd, 2012

According to researchers at the Purdue University in the US, Walnut trees may be disastrously affected by climate change. The university study carried out over 5 years has shown that Walnut trees need very specific conditions in order to thrive and that they are particularly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions such as drought and late Spring frosts. The university is now attempting to identify and breed varieties that can be used in different climates. They are hoping that the seeds produced by today’s mature trees may be adapting through genetic changes. Let’s hope they’re right!

Walnut oil is obtained by cold-pressing the fruits (nuts) of the walnut tree – approx 50% of the fresh kernel inside the shell of a quality dried walnut is oil. The oil is clear with a bright to light golden colour. It is rich in Omega 3 essential fatty acids which make it an excellent skin care oil. Its powerful emollient properties leave the skin feeling soft and smooth and it is often used as a key ingredient in anti-ageing creams to regenerate and moisturise mature, dry and damaged skin. It is also reported to be beneficial for healing wounds and skin conditions such as eczema and for helping with arthritis.

Read more about therapeutic Walnut oil on our website.

This posted is listed in the following categories: General

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Q&A: Using Cade Oil to help with eczema

March 29th, 2012

Q: I would like to use Cade Essential Oil for treating my 4 years old daughter’s eczema on her face, arms an legs. Can you please advise me the ratio for blending and if I can use it in conjunction with Roman Chamomile and Sweet Almond Oil.

A: Cade is a lovely essential oil to use for dry skin conditions – it is used extensively in dermatological skin preparations. It can be blended with Roman Chamomile and Sweet Almond carrier oil, but you may also like to consider our Hemp Seed Oil as an alternative carrier as this is a rich oil suitable for very dry skin.

With regards to blending ratios for a young child we recommend blending at no more than 0.5%, e.g. 50ml carrier and 6 drops total of essential oils.

As with any condition we suggest you seek medical advice for confirmed diagnosis, and then arrange an appointment with a qualified aromatherpist who will be able to take a full case history and blend appropriately for your needs, you can find an aromatherapist local to you by visiting www.fht.org.uk/findatherapist.

Disclaimer: The information provided on the Base Formula blog is for personal information and interest only. It is not intended to offer professional medical advice or treatment for any condition. We recommend that you consult your GP or nurse if you have any health concerns whatsoever. Our advice has been provided on the basis that there are no known contra-indications to treatment. If you have any health problems or are taking any medication you should seek advice from your healthcare provider prior to using aromatherapy. We would also advise that you make an appointment with a local aromatherapist who will be able to take a full case history and offer you tailored treatment advice. Please note that Base Formula accepts no liability for misuse of essential oils or other products or for any reliance on the information provided within.

Please visit our website for more details on using essential oils safely and effectively.

Tags: cade, dry skin, eczema, hemp seed oil
This posted is listed in the following categories: Aromatherapy Q&A, Natural Health & Beauty

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Essential oils for fainting

March 27th, 2012

Fainting occurs when the brain doesn’t receive sufficient oxygen. This can occur for a number of reasons. The most common occurance is when one of our major nerves (the vagus nerve) is overstimulated which slows the heart rate and lowers the blood pressure. This can be caused by intense stress, fear, pain or shock.

Fainting can also be caused by low blood pressure, i.e. when you stand up suddenly, circulatory imbalances, low blood sugar, an overloaded system, standing up for a long period of time, over-heating, dehydration, anaemia or an abnormal hearbeat. If you are in any doubt as to the cause of your symptoms you should consult with your GP.

In aromatherapy Lavender, Rosemary, Peppermint and Neroli essential oil can be useful for people who are prone to fainting.

Safety note: Do not use Rosemary if you are pregnant or epileptic. Avoid Peppermint during pregnancy and with children under 7 years.

Blends for fainting:-

5 drops Peppermint
5 drops Neroli

5 drops Lavender
5 drops Rosemary

Blend your chosen oils into a small amber bottle and use as follows:-

Add 2 or 3 drops of the blend to a tissue and inhale when you are feeling faint, or hold the tissue under the nose of the person who has fainted to help revive them.

Add 2 drops of your oil into a rollette bottle and top up with either Neroli (Orange Flower) or Lavender Hydrolat. Or blend 2 drops into 15ml of Aloe Vera Gel. Either product can then be applied to the pulse points as required.

Please visit our website for more details on using essential oils safely and effectively.

Tags: dizziness, dizzy, fainting
This posted is listed in the following categories: Natural Health & Beauty

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Important information for Base Formula Blog users

March 27th, 2012

The information provided on the Base Formula blog is for personal information and interest only. It is not intended to offer professional medical advice or treatment for any condition. We recommend that you consult your GP or nurse if you have any health concerns whatsoever. Our advice has been provided on the basis that there are no known contra-indications to treatment. If you have any health problems or are taking any medication you should seek advice from your healthcare provider prior to using aromatherapy. We would also advise that you make an appointment with a local aromatherapist who will be able to take a full case history and offer you tailored treatment advice. Please note that Base Formula accepts no liability for misuse of essential oils or other products or for any reliance on the information provided within.

Please visit our website for more details on using essential oils safely and effectively.

Tags: disclaimer, safety advice
This posted is listed in the following categories: General

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Get your feet fit for Summer

March 26th, 2012

With the glorious sunshine and record breaking temperatures set to continue for a few more days many of us will be seriously considering ditching the woolly socks and boots in favour of cooler, more summery shoes! The only problem is that after months of neglect our feet are probably not looking their best – on the upside though it does gives us the perfect excuse for a treating ourself to a much-needed pedicure!

If you’d like to learn how to perform a professional manicure or pedicure treatment why not consider booking on our 1 Day Manicure & Pedicure Diploma course (evening classes also available). We’ll teach you the basics of nailcare, cuticle work, relaxing massage and how to expertly apply nail polish. By the end of the course you’ll be fully competent to carry out professional manicure and pedicure treatments (no previous experience is required).

If this isn’t for you why not simply try our intensely hydrating foot treatment to nourish and rejuvenate the skin.

Blend the following ingredients:-

50ml Moisture Cream
1ml Hemp Seed oil
3 drops Rhododendron essential oil
2 drops Lemon essential oil

Apply liberally to the feet before bed. To increase the nourishing benefits of the cream sleep in a pair of our Cotton Moisturising Socks and see the softening results of this treatment, take shape.

Baring your feet also gives you the ideal opportunity to splash out on all the latest nail polishes – neon colours, sherbet pastels and cool neutrals are all the rage for Spring/Summer 2012. To ensure your nails are primed and ready for all these wonderful colours follow our recipe below to make your own nourishing nail whitening and buffing paste.

Blend the following ingredients:

1.5 tsp White Kaolin Clay
5ml Calendula oil
1 drop Lemongrass
2 drops Lemon

Apply to clean, unpolished nails, massage in and gently buff off until your nails are squeaky clean. Then apply a polish of your choice.

If you’re qualified in Manicure & Pedicures you may want to consider our 1/2 day UV Gel Diploma Course to take your nail skills to the next level. UV Gel polishes are becoming increasingly popular with clients as they offer a longer-lasting, chip free finish which is ideal for all those forthcoming holidays and summer weddings!! Evening classes are also available for this course.

Tags: feet, foot treatment, manicure, pedicure
This posted is listed in the following categories: Make Your Own Recipes, Natural Health & Beauty

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Beat the clock and spring into British Summer Time

March 23rd, 2012

The clocks go forward this Sunday to mark the start of British Summer Time and although we all lose an hour in bed we can look forward to longer days and warmer weather ahead.

Unfortunately it’s not all good news for everyone, as losing an hours sleep can have a detrimental effect on our health and wellbeing. According to a number of studies the clock change can affect our bodies for up to 6 weeks. It can interfere with our immune system and make us more susceptible to bugs. Some people who suffer from low mood or depression also find that the change contributes to their angst. Rather than feeling happier they become increasingly frustrated that their mood hasn’t lifted despite the brighter, longer days. A study carried out at the University of Alabama has also found that the abrupt change to our daily schedule can increase the risk of us having a heart attack by 10 per cent. And here we were looking forward to the start of British Summer Time…

It’s not all doom and gloom though. To help you minimise the effects of the clock change we’ve put together a couple of aromatherapy blends and an easy-to-follow guide to beating the clock!!

Change your clock early on Saturday evening so your body has more time to adjust to the change
Don’t go to bed too late on Saturday night
Get up at the normal time on Sunday morning – if you take advantage of the extra hour in bed you could just make things worse
If it’s nice and sunny try and get outside as the sunlight will help your body to adjust
Try not to dose off on Sunday afternoon
Take it easy on Monday, eat healthily, don’t go the gym and have another early night to ease your body into the new routine

Energising blend to get you up and motivated

50ml Bath & Shower Gel
2 drops May Chang
2 drops Grapefruit
1 drop Lime

Uplifting blend to boost your mood

50ml Bath & Shower Gel
2 drops May Chang
2 drops Sweet Orange
1 drop Patchouli

Beat the bugs

Essential oils help to support and strengthen the body’s immune response in 2 ways. Some essential oils have anti-microbial properties which help fight infection and some have immuno-stimulant properties that help to strengthen the body’s natural defences. Some essential oils do both, so if you want to protect yourself from Spring and Summer bugs try any of the following which can be used in massage, inhalations, room sprays or diffusers.

Tea Tree
Lavender
Manuka
Ravensara
Eucalyptus
Bergamot

Tags: energising, immune system, uplifting
This posted is listed in the following categories: Make Your Own Recipes, Natural Health & Beauty

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Q&A: Therapeutic oils for dry, cracked skin?

March 15th, 2012

Q: Can you advise which carrier oils and essential oils would be most beneficial for extremely dry, cracked skin?

A: As a base oil we would recommend our new Hemp Seed Oil. Hemp is one of the most nourishing carrier oils available. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids which help to keep the skin soft and supple. It is particularly useful for dry and damaged skin. We’d also recommend Geranium, Frankincense and Myrrh essential oils which are excellent for soothing and healing dry, cracked skin. Try our recipe below for making your own ultra-hydrating, therapeutic moisturising cream.

Ultra-hydrating Moisture Cream

50ml Moisturising Cream
1ml Hemp Seed Oil
3 drops Myrrh
3 drops Frankincense
2 drops Geranium

Blend all of the ingredients and store in an airtight container. Apply generously as required.

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

Base Formula Aromatherapy Team

Tags: cracked skin, dry skin, moisturising cream
This posted is listed in the following categories: Aromatherapy Q&A, Make Your Own Recipes

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Aromatherapy advice for the menopause

March 7th, 2012

The menopause (also known as the ‘change of life’) is marked by the ending of ovulation (egg production) and menstruation (when a woman’s periods stop). This is caused by falling levels of the female sex hormone oestrogen.

This process happens gradually with periods becoming less frequent before stopping altogether. The average age for UK women to reach the menopause is 52. If it occurs under the age of 45 it is known as premature menopause.

The hormonal and biological changes that occur in the lead up to the menopause can result in women experiencing a number of unpleasant physical and emotional symptoms. You may experience problems such as tiredness, depression, low libido, vaginal dryness, hot ﬂushes, bladder weakness, dehydrated skin, hair loss, insomnia and weight gain.

The most common solution is for your GP to prescribe HRT (hormone replacement therapy), but there is much controversy surrounding this.

Many people turn to aromatherapy which can be helpful in conjunction with leading a healthy, balanced lifestyle and eating the right foods.

We’ve put together a couple of blends with essential oils that are known to regulate hormone production and which have an affinity with the female reproductive system. These can be blended into 50ml of Bath & Shower Gel or in 50ml of carrier oil (for massage).

Blend 1

3 drops Geranium
2 drops Rose
1 drop Chamomile

Blend 2

2 drops Clary Sage
3 drops Jasmin
5 drops Ylang Ylang

If you’re suffering from hot flushes you could also try our soothing Aloe Vera & Rose Gel or use one of our hydrolats as a cooling, therapeutic face and body spray – try blending Lavender and Peppermint hydrolats together and store in the fridge for an extra cold spritz!

Tags: hot flushes, menopause
This posted is listed in the following categories: Natural Health & Beauty

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