The first recorded use of aromatic plants as food flavors was during the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1046 BCE)The tradition and love for flavoring our foods has advanced with civilization. In accordance with this evolution of our human palate essential oils with GRAS status have been used by the food industry for many, many years as food flavoring agents. We are beginning to see the use of essential oils as food flavoring agents emerging in fine culinary institutes and restaurants. For those who love adding a unique element of spice and flavor to dishes that's never before been experienced essential oils can truly delight. Now you can make your own unique and exquisite creations to share with your family and friends. Aromatherapy...

Aroma therapy has been used since the earliest days of man on planet earth. The earliest aromatherapists were probably the tribal shamans who used plant aromatics to heal the sick of their tribe. Evidence of this can be seen in the drawings found on the walls of caves depicting plant aromatics being used to heal the sick. From the drawings it looks as though plant aromatics were used in many, if not all, of man’s most important ritual celebrations like birth, puberty, marriage and death. I believe that this early subconscious memory of 'healing with plants' is one of the primary reasons that aromatherapy is gaining global popularity at such a rapid pace today. It is because of the powerful...

If you are formulating something that contains fluids like water, milk, and even hydrosols, you will have to preserve the product in some way, or store it in the refrigerator and use within 3-4 days.So what “natural” preservatives can you use to extend the life of your homemade product?Natural product manufacturers have used essential oils to preserve their products and so can you.Many studies have demonstrated essential oils to have both antimicrobial and antioxidant activity.The percentage of essential oil required to adequately protect a product from microbial growth and oxidation usually exceeds the recommendations for safe amounts of essential oils to use in skin care products. However, high concentration of essential oil can be used in aromatic room sprays.  If...

Natural products that are completely preservative-free will not stay fresh for as long as commercial products do.However, there are several things you can do to help your preservative-free products stay fresh longer and extend their shelf life.Small BatchIf you're a DIY lover you probably already know the many virtues of blending your products in small batches.Small batch method of formulating also ensures less wastage. You'll be able to use up your custom products in a short period of time.Your products will stay fresh without the need for harsh preservatives. Also, you'll be able to use expensive oils like rose and helichrysum more frequently in your products, as a little goes a long way.  Formulate Anhydrous Products (without water) Microbes love to...

 Why would you choose to buy aromatherapy products made using traditional "artisan" aromatherapy methods of manufacturing that are "preservative-free"?I've always been a champion of Mother Nature and her natural way of life! A commercial product bought from a store is never natural.Seldom will you see traditional 'artisan' custom crafted aromatherapy products for sale in a commercial store. If you do, they will be more expensive because of the additional amount time required to custom craft the product.Processed and manufactured products are usually loaded with preservatives which give them the illusion of freshness and an "unnaturally" long shelf lifePreservatives allow a product that is manufactured using machinery to appear to be “fresh” for months or even years until the time when...