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basil, clary, cardamon, cinnamon leaf or bark, Clove bud, coriander, Eucalyptus citriodora, Fatigue(emotional ginger, grapefruit, helichrysum, jasmine, juniper, orange, palmarosa, peppermint,rosemary, and mental thyme, vetiver, ylangylang Fatigue (physical) Nervousness Panic Sadness Shock Shyness Stress Suspicion Basil, elemi, ginger, lemon, lavender,orange, peppermint, rosemary Chamomile, Clary, Coriander,Frankincense, Neroli, Orange, Vetiver Chamomile, Clary, Geranium, Jasmine, Juniper,Lavender, Neroli, YlangYlang Benzoin, Jasmine, Rose, Rosewood Lavender, Neroli,Rose, Teatree Black Pepper, Ginger, Jasmine, Patchouli, Peppermint, Rose, Neroli, YlangYlang Bergamot, Atlas Cedarwood, Roman Chamomile, all Citrus oils, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Sweet Marjoram, Melissa, Neroli, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Rose (absolute and otto), Rosemary, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Ylangylang. Jasmine, Lavender
Tension
Chamomile, Clary, Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, Neroli, Orange, Rose, Rosewood, Sandalwood, YlangYlang
Here is a handy guide of commonly used essential oils, and some of the ailments or conditions they're most often used to treat:
Basil: Bronchitis, colds, fatigue, influenza, gout, insect repellent, sinusitis Bay Laurel: Amenorrhea, colds, influenza, tonsillitis Bergamot: Acne, anxiety, cold sores, depression, fatigue, halitosis, itching, oily skin, stress Black Pepper: Arthritis, constipation, fatigue, muscle cramps, poor circulation Cedarwood: Acne, anxiety, arthritis, bronchitis, cystitis, dandruff, stress Clary Sage: Amenorrhea, anxiety, depression, dysmenorrhea, fatigue, sore throat, stress Cypress: Hemorrhoids, fatigue, oily skin, rheumatism Frankincense: Anxiety, asthma, bronchitis, depression, scars, stress, stretch marks Ginger: Arthritis, fatigue, nausea, sore muscles Grapefruit: Cellulitis, depression, fatigue, stress, water retention Helichrysum: Acne, burns, depression, dermatitis, fatigue, panic disorders, skin wounds Jasmine: Depression, dry skin, fatigue, labor pains, sensitive skin Lavender: Acne, anxiety, asthma, depression, irritability, labor pains, panic disorders, sprains, stress Lemon: Athlete's foot, colds, depression, fatigue, influenza, oily skin, varicose veins, warts. This one is sometimes mistaken as essential oil lemongrass. Note that it is only essential oil lemon, as lemon and lemongrass are different. Many customers are looking for essential oil lemongrass instead of essential oil lemon, so be guided. Mandarin: Anxiety, depression, irritability, stress Neroli: Anxiety, depression, irritability, panic disorders, stress Orange: Colds, depression, digestion, influenza, stress Patchouli: Acne, anxiety, fatigue, hair care, insect repellent, stress Peppermint: Asthma, fatigue, headaches, nausea, sinusitis Roman Chamomile: Allergies, anxiety, arthritis, depression, earaches, irritability, PMS, stress Rose: Anxiety, depression, eczema, menopause, panic disorders, stress. Essential oil rose is a popular one. The most well-known essential oil is probably rose oil, essential oil rose is produced from the petals of Rosa Damascena and Rosa Centifolia. Steam-distilled essential oil rose is known as "rose otto" while the solvent extracted product is known as "rose absolute". Rosemary: Arthritis, dandruff, fatigue, neuralgia, poor circulation
Sandalwood: Anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, oily skin, stress Vetiver: Acne, anxiety, arthritis, fatigue, stress Ylang Ylang: Depression, hypertension, stress
Essential oil*
Country of origin
Stress-relieving properties
Medical properties
India
Uplifting; good for mental fatigue, burn-out, doubts, concentration, clarity, enthusiasm Encouraging; good for anxiety,
Muscular aches and pains, respiratory disorders, scanty menstruation, colds and influenza, mental fatigue, anxiety and depression
Antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic; good for folds and flu, cystitis, fever, infections
Analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic, antispasmodic; good for sluggishness and Helps reduce sluggishness, apathy, acne, arthritis, apathy; provides stress rheumatism, relief colds/influenza and other respiratory ailments, headache, cystitis
Hungary
Antiseptic, antifungal, expectorant; good for digestive problems, skin and hair problems, bronchial asthma, urinary
Good for anxiety, worry, other Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana L. USA stress-related disorders, paranoia; improves focus, strength of purpose, stability
Acne, oily skin and hair, dandruff, eczema, psoriasis, arthritis, rheumatism, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, premenstrual syndrome
Skin care (most skintypes), acne, allergies, Good for irritation, burns, eczema, inflamed impatience, nervous skin conditions, earache, tension and other stresswounds, menstrual pain, related disorders premenstrual tension, headache, insomnia
Antiseptic, antibacterial, Helps to clear the mind, diuretic, insecticide; good refresh the spirit; good for for rheumatism, fever, insomnia; promotes menstrual problems, relaxation and reduces digestive problems, intestinal parasites; aids stress healing
Somalia
Good for exhaustion, panic Skin care (particularly attacks, anxiety, nervous ageing skin), acne, tension and other stress- abscesses, scars, wounds, related disorders; calms respiratory ailments such the mind; provides as asthma, bronchitis, inspiration and emotional coughs, catarrh, cystitis, stability painful menstruation,
premenstrual tension
Essential oil*
Country of origin
Stress-relieving properties
Medical properties
China
Healing; good for acute fear, extreme mood swings, balance, tranquillity, humour, nervous tension and other stress-related disorders
Antidepressant, antiinflammatory, antiseptic, antifungal; good for burns, skin complaints, burns, headlice, ringworm, neuralgia, menopausal problems, premenstrual tension Antiseptic, antibacterial, astringent; good for cellulite, muscle fatigue, colds and flu
Liberating; good for self doubt, USA depression, nervous exhaustion, mental stimulation
Emotionally warming; uplifts, nurtures, boosts confidence; good for depression and other stress-related disorders, addiction, scarring
India
Muscular aches and pains, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis, painful menstruation, labour pains, depression, premenstrual syndrome
France
Skin care (most skin types), acne, allergies, athletes foot, boils, bruises, eczema, dandruff, dermatitis, burns, Healing; good for anxiety, chilblains, psoriasis, nervous tension, stress- ringworm, scabies, insect related disorders, inner bites/stings, asthma, peace, awareness, earache, coughs, balance, relaxation, colds/influenza, catarrh, laryngitis, nausea, colic, rejuvenation cystitis, painful menstruation, depression, headache, insomnia, migraine, premenstrual syndrome
Guatemala
Focusing; good for concentration, nervous and mental exhaustion, depression and other stress-related disorders
Analgesic, antidepressant, antioxidant, antiseptic, antibacterial, astringent, antifungal, insecticidal; good for athletes foot, scabies, muscular aches and pain, gastrointestinal problems, headaches Antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, insecticide, stimulant, tonic; good for acne, colds, depressions, dermatitis, indigestion Antidepressant, antihistamine, antispasmodic, antibacterial, sedative; good for allergies, cold sores, eczema, asthma, bronchitis, indigestion, nausea, menstruation problems, insomnia, migraine
China
Revitalizing, relaxing, supportive; good for anxiety, irritability, nervous exhaustion and other stress-related disorders, lethargy, negativity and work related stress.
Somalia
Antiseptic, antiinflammatory, Positivity; good for coping antibacterial; good for with anger, touchiness, athletes foot, eczema, feelings of weakness, lack dermatitis, ringworm, scars, wounds, respiratory of incentive ailments, sore throats, thrush Soothing; good for stressful situations, exhaustion Antiseptic, antibacterial; good for respiratory problems, bladder infections, oily skin, acne Analgesic, anti-emetic, antioxidant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic
Australia
Indonesia
Italy
Invigorating; calming; good for depression, nervous tension and other stress-related disorders, self-consciousness, withdrawal, worry
Antidepressant, antiseptic, antibacterial; good for bronchitis, colds and flu, indigestion
Soothing; good for indecision, tension, touchiness, depression, nervous exhaustion and other stress-related disorders
Antidepressant, antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal, stimulant, tonic; good for abscesses, acne, athletes foot, colds, bed cores, skin complaints, dandruff, wounds
USA
Bruises, sprains and strains, swellings, toothache, muscular aches and pain, halitosis, Clarifying; good for mental indigestion, irritable bowel fatigue, overwork, apathy, syndrome (oil to be taken concentration, vitality in the form of capsules), flatulence, mouth ulcers, mouth thrush, nausea, headache, migraine Revitalizing and calming; good for depression, nervous exhaustion and other stress-related disorders, pessimism, confusion, nervous exhaustion Acceptance; good for exhaustion, stress-related disorders, dissatisfaction, guilt; provides assurance, balance Aids irritability, stress, nervous tension and insomnia Antibacterial; antiviral (can be used in the treatment of flu, sinusitis, bronchitis, and herpes simplex [cold
Antiseptic, antispasmodic
Hungary
sores] and herpes zoster [shingles]) Antidepressant, antiinflammatory, antiseptic, Soothing, uplifting; creates antibacterial, antiviral; a sense of wellbeing; good good for eczema, for depression, nervous palpitations, respiratory tension and other stressailments, nausea, related disorders menstruation problems, insomnia, headache Strengthening; good for nervous exhaustion, overwork, strain, mental fatigue, and other stressrelated disorders, loss of memory; provides energy, creativity, clarity, concentration Comforting; soothes anxiety, tension or stress; restores the spirit; relaxing; good for depression and other stress-related disorders
Morocco
Portugal
Skin and hair care, dandruff, headlice, insect repellent, scabies, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, poor circulation, headaches
Antidepressant, antiinflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial; good for acne, eczema, respiratory ailments, cystitis, nausea, insomnia, pre-menstrual tension Antiseptic, antifungal, sedative; good for skin care, indigestion and other stomach problems, stretch marks Antiseptic, antiinflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal; good for acne, allergic skin reactions, athletes foot, bad breath, dandruff, cold sores, ringworm, , fungal nail infections, burns, insect bites/stings, cold and flu, sore throats, thrush,
USA
Calming, relaxing, invigorating; good for mental stress, anxiety, apathy, nervous tension
Australia
cystitis Uplifting, calming, balancing; good for anxiety, nervous tension, depression and stressrelated disorders, impatience, fear Antidepressant, antiseptic, hypotensive, sedative; good for high blood pressure, palpitations, depression, insomnia, premenstrual tension
Madagascar
Suggested usage
Warnings
Angelica
Anise
Basil
Benzoin
Bergamot
Black pepper
Digestive Tract, Antispasmodic, Kidneys, Muscle Massage, bath Pain, Stiff Joints, Anaemia Infection, Cold, Catarrh, Sinusitis, Headaches, Pain Killing, Sore Throats
Cajeput
irritate sensitive skin Antiseptic, helps digestive problems Cardamom and gas, used for nausea and headache. Clears oily skin and acne, dermatitis, antiseptic, soothes cold sores, aids Carrot seed digestion, cold, flu, antiseptic, immune system booster, antidepressant
Cedarwood Antiseptic, Bronchitis, Catarrh, Cystitis, Urinal and Vaginal Infections
Chamomile
Stomach Upsets, Anti-inflammatory, Eyes, Massage, bath, vaporiser, compress Insomnia, Sprains, Earaches, Hair, Soothing, Aches & Pains, Eczema
Cinnamon
Strong antiseptic, aids poor circulation, muscle aches, colds, flu, male aphrodisiac, stimulating, warming
Muscle Relaxant, Asthma, Digestive, Tonic, Stress, Massage, bath, vaporiser Tension, Menstrual, Cramps, Depression, Aches, Flu Lavender, Sandalwood, Jasmine, Geranium, Cypress, Orange
Clary sage
Clove
Antiseptic, treats colds and flus and nausea, tooth and gum pain, acne
Stimulates Appetite, Analgestic, Flatulence, Rheumatic Pains, Aids Digestion
Massage, bath
Coriander
Jasmine, Sandalwood, Bergamot, Neroli, Rose, Geranium Bergamot, Juniper, Pine, Lemon, Lavender, Orange Melissa, Lavender, Lemon, Pine, Thyme, Chamomile Rose, Sandalwood, Juniper
Cypress
Astringent, Antiseptic, Circulation, Asthma, Menstrual Regulation, Haemorrhoids Decongestant, Antiviral, Colds, Influenza, Antiseptic, Wounds, Burns, Muscular Pain Carminative, Digestive, Flatulence, PMT, Regulates Menstrual Cycle, Detoxifying
Eucalyptus
Fennel
Frankincense
Anxiety, Respiratory Infections, Soothing, Asthma, Massage, bath, vaporiser Uterine Tonic High Blood Pressure, Heart Disease, Cough, Blood Circulation, Colds, Cholesterol
Hot compress
Garlic
Geranium Ginger
Antidepressant, Astringent, Diuretic, Haemostatic, Massage, bath, vaporiser Promotes Healing, PMT Catarrh, Diarrhoea, Rheumatism, Colds, Flu, Cramps, Nausea, Travel & Morning Sickness
Grapefruit
Tissue toning, treats congested skin, Massage, bath, vaporize cellulitis, diuretic, digestive, antiseptic, liver tonic. Relieves nervous exhaustion and stress, joyful and energizing Very emollient, softens scars. Antirheumatic, hypotension, diuretic, relieves grief
Uterine, Menstrual Pain, Antidepressant, Cramps, Coughs, Childbirth, Chest Diuretic, Detoxifying, Astringent, Tonic, Eczema, Cystitis, Purifying
Hyssop
Jasmine
Juniper
Lavender
Analgesic, Antibiotic, Antiviral, Headache, Menstrual Pain, Acne, Anti-inflammatory Stimulates Immune System, Corns, Warts, Bleeding Gums, Digestive & Circulatory Tonic
Bergamot, Orange, Lemon, Geranium, Pine Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Juniper, Cedarwood
Lemon
Undiluted oil may irritate sensitive skin, do not overuse Undiluted oil may irritate sensitive skin
Lemon grass
Very emollient, softens scars, antirheumatic, hypotension, diuretic Mild astringent, emollient, tonic, antispasmodic, diuretic, calming
Marjoram
Inhale, bath, massage, vaporizer Massage, bath, local wash, hot compress Massage, bath, vaporizer
Marigold
Dry Skin, Nappy Rash, Promotes Healing, Varicose Veins, Chronic Ulcers Eczema, Skin, Allergies, Coughs, Shock, Menstral Regulations, Blood Pressure
Mandarin
Melissa
Undiluted oil may irritate sensitive skin Do not use during pregnancy
Myrrh
Gargle, bath, inhale, massage Inhale, bath, massage, vaporizer Inhale, bath, massage, cold compress Massage, inhaltion, mouthwash, cold compress Massage, mouthwash, vaporizer, bath
Sandalwood, Frankincense
Myrtle
Astringent, Acne, Catarrh, Bronchial, Chest, Haemorrhoids, Urinary Infections Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Insomnia, Gentle Sedative, Shock, Gums, Mouth Circulation, Heart, Digestion, Bad Breath, Rheumatic Pain, Appetizer Antispasmodic, Stomach, Mild Sedative, Constipation, Chronic Diarrhoea
Lavender, Cypress, Neroli, Lemon, Geranium Rose, Sandalwood, Lavender, Jasmine, Lemon, Bergamot Clove, Orange, Rosemary
Neroli
Nutmeg
Orange
Orange blossom
Patchouli
Massage, skin tonic, inhale, bath Massage, warm compress, inhalation Massage, inhalation, mouthwash
Ylang Ylang, Rose, Bergamot, Lemon, Geranium, Jasmine Eucalyptus, Lavender, Majoram, Rosemary
Do not overuse Do not use before bedtime, may irritate senstive skin
Peppermint
Petitgrain
Pine Rose
Neroli, Sandalwood,
Confidence Improving Heart, Liver, Colds, Gallbladder, Catarrh, Speech, Sinusitis, Asthma, Sight, Memory, dandruff Rosemary
Jasminie, Geranium
Rosewood
Tissue regenerator, sensitive skin, tonic, antiseptic, analgesic, calming, balancing, anti-depressant Aching joints, fluid retention, perspiration, sore gums, nervous exhaustion
Antiseptic, Dry Skin, Sore Throat, Cystitis, Bronchitis, Urinary Infection
Sage
Sandalwood
Tea tree
Influenza, Fungi, Viruses, Warts, Ringworm, Cold Massage, bath, vaporizer Sores, Blisters, Acne
Thyme
Cold, flu, muscle fatigue, arthritis, Inhale, massage, gargle, whopping cough, tonsilitis, sore bath throat Sensuality, fragrant, softening, relaxing, and euphoric, centers emotions Antiseptic, emollient, reduces skin swelling, antispasmodic, detoxifying, sedating, spirit lifting Stress, aching legs, hysteria, stiff neck
Relieves Sexual Anxiety, High Blood Pressure, Slows Breathing, Antidepressant, PMS
Tuberose
Verbena Vetivert
Ylang ylang
Bath, massage
Massage, bath, vaporizer, skin tonic Sandalwood, Lemon, Orange, Bergamot, Jasmine, Neroli
Do not overuse
2006 SoapMakingForum.com Common Essential Oils There are many different essential oils available, each with its own special properties. The table below lists some of the more commonly used oils and their qualities. Use it to determine which essential oil or oils you might like to try.
Essential Oil Uses Bergamot A balancing oil. Lifts melancholy and depression An antiseptic, astringent, expectorant, and sedative. Normalizes sweat gland function. Good for bronchial Cedarwood problems and useful for controlling mold and mildew. An analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic. Excellent for headaches (apply as a compress to Chamomile head). Good in baths, hair rinse, and massage oil Cinnamon Useful for scent enhancement in the home or office. Makes a good air freshener and is also anti fungal. bark A very aromatic oil that is enjoyed by both men and women. An antidepressant, anxiety-reducer, anti Clary Sage inflammatory, antispasmodic, and aphrodisiac. Helps to counteract insomnia. Good used in skin and hair care products. Caution: Should not be used in the first months of pregnancy. An astringent, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and deodorant. Constricts the blood vessels. Repels fleas. Reduces Cypress coughing and excessive perspiration An antiseptic, antiviral, chest rub, decongestant, disinfectant, and expectorant. Reduces fever. Used as an Eucalyptus ointment for muscular aches and pains. Good for repelling insects, and for use on insect bites or stings. Has a normalizing, balancing effect An anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, sedative, and expectorant. Promotes cellular regeneration. Good for Frankincense cleansing and purifying the home. Helpful for bronchitis An antidepressant, anti diabetic, antiseptic, hormone balancer, and insect repellent. A normalizing and Geranium balancing, mildly sedating oil good for PMS, nervous tension, skin concerns, and neuralgia. Good as a bath additive. Reduces appetite; useful in treating obesity. Balances moods, relieves depression, cleanses the body of Grapefruit toxins, reduces water retention, and cleanses and detoxifies the skin. Useful in baths, skin care products, and colognes. An antiseptic and tonic. Useful for cleansing and detoxifying. Stimulates the respiratory system. Good for Hyssop bronchitis as it helps clear the lungs of congestion. Caution: Do not use if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder. An antidepressant, antiseptic, and sedative. Useful for anxiety, emotional imbalances, frigidity, and Jasmine impotence. Benefits scalp and skin. An antiseptic, detoxifier, diuretic, and internal cleanser. Helps rid the body of toxins and parasites, reduces Juniper spasms, improves arthritis, and reduces cellulite. Caution: Do not use during pregnancy. Do not use if you have kidney problems. Useful as an antiseptic and for improving immune system function, calming and normalizing the body, Lavender fighting bacterial and fungal infection, easing depression, and reducing inflammation. Good for acne, burns, eczema, skin healing, sleep disorders, and stress.
Rosemary
An antiseptic, astringent, and bacteriostat. Helps to increase the body's defense against infections. Good for varicose veins, stomach ulcers, anxiety, depression, and digestive disorders. Emulsifies and disperses grease and oil. Helpful in cleaning products and hair rinses and for wound cleansing A calming, sedating, and soothing tonic. Moisturizing for the skin. Balances and uplifts emotions. Has antispasmodic and regenerative properties. Useful in skin care products. Caution: This oil increases sensitivity to the sun. Do not use it if you will be spending considerable time outdoors. An earthy scent used in personal fragrances, baths, and hair care products. Good for dry skin. Has antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, and fungicidal properties. Helpful for headaches, congestion, fatigue, fever, indigestion, muscle soreness, sinus problems, and stomach problems. An antiseptic, antispasmodic, mental stimulant, and regenerative. Good for use in baths and oral care products. An antiseptic, antiviral, expectorant, restorative, and stimulant. Helps to clear the mind. An antidepressant, antiseptic, and tonic astringent. Also a mild sedative. Good for female complaints, impotence, insomnia, and nervousness. Used in skin care products. An analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, and mental stimulant. Enhances circulation. Helpful for cellulite, dandruff, hair loss, memory problems, headache, and sore muscles. Used in hair care products as a conditioner and shine enhancer. Caution: If irritation occurs, discontinue use. Do not use directly on the skin without diluting. Use caution inhaling it if you have asthma or bronchitis. Do not use if you have epilepsy. An antiseptic and regenerative. Calms and helps restore emotional balance. Good for anxiety, cellular regeneration, depression, headaches, nausea, PMS, and tension. Good in facial or massage oils. An antidepressant, antiseptic, expectorant, aphrodisiac, and skin moisturizer. Good for bronchitis and nervousness; it is soothing for both mind and body. Good in skin care blends. A potent anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, expectorant, fungicide, and parasiticide. Good for athlete's foot, bronchial congestion, dandruff, insect bites, ringworm, and yeast infections. Mainly used as a fragrant scent for the bath and body. Used in skin care products. An anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. Improves digestion and lowers blood pressure. Similar in function to chamomile An antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, and calming sedative. Lifts mood, eases anxiety, reduces stress, normalizes the heartbeat, and lowers blood pressure. Good for frigidity, high blood pressure, and impotence
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Top 5 Plants that help memory 1. Ginseng Ginseng is among the most popular herbs in herbal medicine around the world, being used for its therapeutic effects since ancient times. Ginseng has important benefits for brain functions, causing dilation of the blood vessels at the brain level and thereby increasing blood flow. This ensure both a higher blood flow as well as a higher intake of nutrients, and a better oxygenation. Ginseng is recommended with caution to those suffering from hypertension or vascular fragility. The main properties of ginseng : - lowers the effects of aging - strengthens the body, boosting the immune system. A substance called saponin contains antioxidants that help slow the aging process and strengthens the immune system. - ginseng also contains steroids. The Chinese called this plant the essence of men (gin = man, Seng = essence). Steroids contained in ginseng are very similar to those who are secreted by the human body. Ginseng increases sports performance and reduces muscle fatigue. - ginseng balances the metabolic processes through its contents of saponins which are also designed to regulate cholesterol and blood pressure. - it is a good aphrodisiac, preventing sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Ginseng also increases the fertility of women. - stimulates digestion - it is a good tonic for the brain, increasing memory performance, attention and power of concentration. - eliminates stress. 2. Sage Sage (Salvia officinalis) is used both as a spice and on aromatherapeutic treatments. For example, using sage oil helps to reduce cellulite. In terms of brain functions, sage is calming and stress reducing, thereby facilitating the ability to concentrate. It is especially useful to those who have to learn in a short time. 3. Wormwood There are two kinds of wormwood that are used in herbal medicine: common wormwood (Artemisia vulgaris) and the bitter wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). For memory improvement you can use the common wormwood which has
an exceptional tonic effect on the brain. It also has other effects: stimulates menstrual cicle for women with varying degrees of amenorrhea, diaforetic, detoxifying. 4. Vanilla Vanilla is also helpful in memory improvement.It has the ability to stimulate the cortex functions, to enable the maximum RAS limit (reticular activating system). Vanilla is ideal for those who work in offices, classes, or for those who exercise. Vanilla is known to increase stress tolerance and it is used during studying with excellent results. 5. Mint Italian researchers have found that after boiling mint leaves more than 12 unstable volatile chemical compounds that inhibit aggression centers are realesed.Peppermint is very useful to treat fatigue caused mainly by the intellectual strain, stress or exhaustion. Although the effect of menthol on aggressive centers is direct and immediate, in order to obtain maximum efficiency you must use it a minimum of 12 days. Use peppermint tea, flavorings and oils of peppermint or mint leaves in culinary preparations and you will see how intellectual efficiency increases considerably.
by Tonia E. Chrapko, B.Ed., creator of the BRAINBOOSTER DVD series. Even though science continues to give us ever increasing insights into what memory is, much of it remains a mystery. Researchers consider memory a process, and when you remember you are actually reconstructing the event from bits of information stored in various parts of the brain. But the mystery is, what initiates the reconstruction? Is it, as some suggest, directed from outside the physical body, from the energy body? That remains to be seen. In the meantime, lets look at what science can tell us about some of the chemical activity in the brain.
The Location of Memory
In the past, it was thought that all memory was in the brain. However, Gazzaniga (1988) reports that memory occurs throughout the nervous system. So every thought you have is felt throughout your entire body because the receptors for the chemicals in your brain are found on the surfaces of cells throughout your body. Thus when the chemicals are activated across synapses in the brain, the message is communicated to every part of your body by chemotaxis, a process that allows cells to communicate by radar or remote travel using blood and cerebrospinal fluid. In more extreme cases, the body sometimes buries intensely painful memories in muscle tissue so that the conscious mind is spared the depth of trauma. Then when that person receives deep tissue massage or bodywork such as Rolfing, and the muscles are stimulated, the memories can be reactivated, causing the person to experience the repressed emotions. Another example
of muscle memory is evident with organ transplants. People who have received donor organs have reported experiencing cravings or emotional reactions to certain incidents that they never had before.
The Biology of Memory
What it comes down to is brain cells, or neurons, communicating with each other through electo-chemical pathways. An electrical impulse travels down the axon or outgoing branch. Then the fingers at the end are stimulated to release chemicals called neurotransmitters (tiny molecules that send specific messages). The dendrites or incoming branches of other neurons pick these up. The space between the axon and dendrites is called a synapse.
Solidifying the Synapse
For learning to stick, the synapses need time to gel. If the synapse doesnt gel then recreating the event, i.e. recalling the memory is difficult, if not impossible. A research team comprised of scientists from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston and the University of Houston reported the discovery of a new protein transforming growth factor-B (TGF-B) that acts to solidify the new synapses (Science, March 1997). However, if there is too much protein it can build up and clog the synapse, thus reducing memory recall. Usually the neurotransmitter calpain, found in calcium, keeps the buildup of protein down. So, inadequate dietary calcium means that too much protein can build up because there is not enough calpain to keep the synapses clean. Unfortunately, an excess of calcium in the diet also creates a problem because the calpain starts to interfere with proper neural transmissions. A drastic way to remove excess protein from the synapse is by electric shock. Acetylcholine, one type of neurotransmitter, is important for three reasons: it is necessary for activating REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, it keeps neural membranes in tact so that they dont become brittle and fall away, and it breaks down the excess build up of amyloid protein at the synapses found in Alzheimers patients (Robert Wurtham, director of the Clinical Research Center at Massachusetts Institute of Technology).
Stress Erodes Memory
Excessive stress and obesity produce an over-production of a complex set of stress hormones called glucocorticoids (cortisol being one example). Over exposure to glucocorticoids damages and destroys neurons in the brains hippocampus a region critical to learning and memory. One really good way to burn off excess cortisol is through exercise. So for those experiencing particularly high stress levels exercise is not only beneficial, it is necessary.
What are the Characteristics of Memory?
Sensory we remember things that involve our five senses. So, the more senses that get activate, the easier it will be to recall. Intensity when something is more intensely funny, sexual, absurd, etc. it tends to stand out in our memories. Outstanding things that are dull and unoriginal are more difficult to remember because there is nothing to distinguish them from all the other memories.
Emotional the amygdala a round, pea-sized part in the middle of the brain - acts as a gate keeper, so when something happens that has high emotional content positive or negative the amygdale says, This is important! and we tend to remember it more easily. Survival the brain is wired for survival. This means that anything we perceive as important to survival we will remember more easily. Its not just physical survival. Survival can include, emotional survival, psychological survival and financial survival. Personal importance we naturally remember things that interest us and that have some personal importance. Repetition the more often we recall information, the better we get at recalling on demand. First and last the brain most easily recalls things from the beginning and the ending of any session or lecture.
Pay attention often times the biggest problem is that peoples minds are not focused in the moment. Instead, they are thinking about something in the past of future. Visualization create a visual in your mind because the brain thinks in pictures and concepts, not paragraphs. Association find something to connect the information tosimilar to word association. Ask, What does this remind me of? Imagination get creative when visualizing or making associations.
Why do we forget?
It could be that we never stored the information properly in the first place. It could be because there was not enough emotion or personal importance connected to the information to make it stick. It could be that it was so emotionally traumatic that the mind suppressed it in order to maintain normalcy.
Why do we remember negative events?
Whenever emotions are activated, especially strong emotions, the information or experience is entrenched into memory. Often times we tend to dwell on it, thereby rehearsing it and entrenching it even further. It is also easier to recall negative memories when we are in a bad mood. Why? Because we remember things in the state that we learned them so whenever you are feeling angry you will more easily recall other situations in which you were angry.
The subconscious remembers everything
If we were to compare the conscious mind with the subconscious, the conscious would measure about one foot long and the subconscious would be the length of a football field. The potential is enormous. So everything we experience can be stored. However, the conscious mind would get overloaded trying to process all the incoming bits of data on a daily basis. Instead, all the information goes into the subconscious for storage and we may never deal with it, except if the mind chooses to process it at night through dreams. Or, if we go for clinical hypnosis, through which a therapist assists in accessing information or memories the conscious mind has forgotten or repressed.
Copyright 2004 by Tonia E. Chrapko, B.Ed., creator of the BRAINBOOSTER DVD series. All Rights Reserved.
Learning Tips
from the popular BRAINBOOSTER DVD program. Copyright 2004 by Tonia E. Chrapko, B.Ed., creator of the BRAINBOOSTER DVD series. All Rights Reserved.
1. Your brain loves color. Use colored pens good quality, not gel pens or use colored paper. Color helps memory. 2. Your brain can effectively focus and concentrate for up to 25 minutes (adults). Take a 10-minute break after every 2030 minutes of studying. Go do some chores: rake the lawn, iron a shirt, vacuum. Come back after 10 minutes and do another focused, intense session. 3. Your brain needs to be rested to learn fast and remember best. If you are tired take a 20-minute nap first otherwise you are wasting your study time. 4. Your brain is like a motor: it needs fuel. You wouldnt put dirty fuel in your Lamborghini (if you had one) or you wouldnt put low quality fuel in a rocket, would you? Well, your brain is a much more valuable, intricate machine than either of those so feed it properly. Junk food and imitation food and all the chemicals and preservatives weaken both your body and your mind. In fact, a recent study in England showed that your IQ is affected by your diet. 5. Your brain is like a sea of an electro-chemical activity. And both electricity and chemicals flow better in water. If you are dehydrated you just dont focus as well. Drink enough water (colored liquids pop, juice, coffee, etc. are not the same). Often times headaches are connected to dehydration, too. 6. Your brain loves questions. When you come up with questions in class or when reading a book, your brain automatically searches for answers, making the learning faster. A good question has more than one answer. 7. Your brain and body have their own rhythm cycles: there are times during the day when you are more alert than others. You will save time learning if you study during your peak periods. If you have a part-time job that happens during your peak period you may wan to reconsider if it is wise to be giving your employer your best learning time.
8. Your brain and body communicate constantly. If your body is slouched down, the message the brain gets is that this is not important and so it doesnt pay as close attention. In any learning situation, sit up and lean forward to help keep your mind alert. Buy a good quality, adjustable office chair. 9. Your brain is affected by smells. Use aromatherapy to keep your brain alert. Peppermint, lemon and cinnamon are good ones to experiment with. 10. Your brain needs oxygen. Get out there and exercise. 11. Your brain needs space. Be sure that you are not trying to study in a small cramped area. 12. Your brain needs your space to be organized. One recent study showed that kids who grow up in tidy, organized homes do better academically. Why? Because by being trained to organize the outside environment, the brain learns to organize the internal knowledgewhich makes recall faster. Buy a 4-drawer legal-sized filing cabinet. 13. Your brain cells in the hippocampus, a part of the brain that deals with putting information from short-term to longterm memory, are destroyed by cortisol, which is created when you are stressed. So, yes, stress affects memory. How do you get rid of cortisol? Exercise. 14. Your brain doesnt know what you cant do until you tell it. What are you telling it? Listen to your self-talk. Stop the negativity. Replace it with more positive, encouraging talk. 15. Your brain is like a muscle: it can be trained and strengthened, at any age. No excuses. Stop being a mental couch potato. Professional athletes practice every day; you can practice homework everyday. If you dont have any, make some up for yourself. Read ahead, reviewdo SOMETHING. 16. Your brain needs repetition. It is better to do short frequent reviews than one long review because what counts is how many times your brain sees something, not how long is sees it in one sitting. 17. Your brain can understand faster than you can read. Use a pencil or finger to lead your eyes. By doing so you help your eyes move more quickly. 18. Your brain needs movement, especially if you are mostly a kinesthetic (body movement) learner instead of a visual or auditory learner. You might find your productivity go up if you have a standing desk. Buy one or make one by raising your desk/table on blocks. This allows you to move more easily and stay more alert. 19. Your brain seeks patterns and connections. When you are learning something, ask yourself, What does this remind me of? This will also help your memory because it connects the new knowledge to something you already know.
20. Your brain loves fun. We learn in direct proportion to how much fun we are having. Learning is life. Live it up! Copyright 2004 by Tonia E. Chrapko, B.Ed., creator of the BRAINBOOSTER DVD series.