by Andrew Pacholyk MS L.Ac ~
Peacefulmind.com
Today, scientists have turned their attention to the now very topical issue – sense of smell. They have been especially interested in the tie between scents and memory triggers in the brain and those infamous pheromones – fragrant hormone-like substances that influence physical attraction. The olfactory membrane is the only place in the human body where the central nervous system is exposed and in direct contact with the environment.
Consider these essential oils when you need to improve memory and concentration:
Basil: aches & pains, headaches, PMS, fever, depression, cold, bronchitis, poor concentration, nervous tension, chest infections, digestive problems, insomnia, fainting, nausea, migraine, easing depression; to support the process of deep change.
Bergamot: Uplifting, refreshing and encouraging. It can help relieve anxiety and depression, ease grief and sadness, increase mental alertness.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon bark was first recorded in the Chinese Materia Medica as early as 2700 B.C. The herb has been used as a healing aid for stomach upset and gas, diarrhea, rheumatism, kidney ailments, and abdominal pain. Cinnamon bark contains the essential oils of cinnamon and can stimulate concentration and memory.
Frankincense: Sedative, elevating, warming, used for anxiety, apprehension, fears, nervous tension and stress-related conditions. It slows down and deepens the breath, which makes it helpful for meditation.
Lavender: Balancing, stimulating, strengthening, good oil for mind clearing and focus.
Lemon: tangy and tart, sunshine in a bottle, lemon essential oil sparks the mind, helps with focus and wakes up the brain. Perfect oil alone or blended with rosemary and/or peppermint.
Orange: like lemon, this sweet and tangy essential oil comes from the rind or peel of the fruit. This sweet or wild crafted oil is great for consciousness and awareness, focus, brightening up the spirit, lifting the energy, helpful with conversation and one of the few oils that is great for focus and attention.
Peppermint: Refreshing, increases concentration, increases memory, strengthens the nervous system , used for fainting, headache, mental fatigue, migraine, stress.
Rosemary: Stimulates the adrenal cortex, used for nervous and emotional exhaustion, apathy, depression and stress. Clears the head, improves memory and concentration, reduces mental fatigue, combats headaches.
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