“Kirka Pharma”

Aromatherapy is a medical treatment with natural ethereal oils. This method was well known as early as in the ancient Egypt, Babylon, China and India, however, its today’s name and application originate from the period between the two World Wars in France and England. After the end of the World War II, And especially during the last 20 years, the aromatherapy has become one of the most advanced fields of alternative medicine. Ethereal oils are easily evaporable liquids obtained from various parts o plants by distillation by means of steam, by extraction by means of easily evaporating solvents or by pressing.

Although these oils are not medicines, they are excellent alternative therapeutic agents having great antibiotic and antiseptic proprieties. They help in treatment of infection certain skin diseases, enhancing immunity and stress relieving.
The classic aromatherapy is based on the application of natural ethereal oils for massage, baths and inhalation (aero therapy). They can also be taken orally, however, in that case strict attention should be paid to dosing, because the highly concentrated preparations can be very harmful in case of excessive doses. “Kirka Pharma” is the representative and distributor of special natural glycerin soaps containing various ethereal oils, vitamin E, enriched with exotic essences of avocado, aloe, jojoba, sea weed, algae….Soaps contain African fruits.
Twenty different kinds of soaps made from natural glycerin with ethereal oils and exotic essences and fruits, have soothing, refreshing, regenerating and stimulating effects! Owing to their exceptional quality and richness in natural ingredients, the exotic soaps give the unforgettable sensation of exquisite fragrance and pleasure.
Ethereal oils can be used either independently or in preparations : oils, baths, shampoos, creams, mouth rinsing water.
Within its production range, “Kirka-Pharma” offers a large number of natural ethereal oils: thyme, mint, sage, lemon, orange, juniper, lavender, Siberian fir, mountain pine rosemary, eucalyptus; as well as the preparations based on these oils: relax and sport massage program

History of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has been around for 6000 years or more. The Chinese are thought to be one of the first cultures to use aromatic plants for good health. Their practices involved burning incense to help create harmony and a sense of balance.Later, the Egyptians invented a fundamental distillation machine that allowed for the crude extraction of cedar wood oil. It is also thought by a few that Persia and India may have also invented crude distillation machines, but not much is known about them. Aromatherapy in EgyptImhotep, the Egyptian god of medicine and healing, suggested aromatic oils for bathing, massage, and for embalming dead nearly 6000 years ago.Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used aromatherapy baths and fragranced massage. He used aromatic fumigations to free Athens from plague.Oils of cedar wood, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg and myrrh were used by the Egyptians to mummify the dead. When a tomb was opened in the early 20th century, traces of the herbs were discovered with intact portions of the body. The odor, although faint, was still evident. Although, a crude distillation process distilled the cedarwood, used by the Egyptians, the other oils the Egyptians used were most likely infused oils.The Egyptians also used infused oils and herbal preparations for spiritual, medicinal, fragrant and cosmetic use. It is believed that the Egyptians coined the term perfume, from the Latin per fumum, which translates as through the smoke. Egyptian men of the time used fragrance as readily as the women. An interesting method that the men used to fragrance themselves was to place a solid cone of perfume on their heads. It would gradually melt and would cover them in fragrance. Aromatherapy in GreeceThe Greeks learned a grand deal from the Egyptians, but Greek mythology actually credits the gift and knowledge of perfumes to the Gods. The Greeks also acknowledged the medicinal and aromatic benefits of plants. Hippocrates, commonly called the "father of medicine" practiced fumigations for both aromatic and medicinal benefit. A Greek perfumer by the name of Megallus created a perfume called megaleion. Megaleion included myrrh in a fatty-oil base and served several purposes:
For its aroma
For its anti-inflammatory properties towards the skin
To heal wounds
Evolution of Aromatherapy in the WorldThe Roman Empire built upon the knowledge of the Egyptians and Greeks. Discorides wrote a book called De Materia Medica that described the properties of about 500 plants. It is also reported that Discorides studied distillation. Distillation during this period, however, focused on extracting aromatic floral waters and not essential oils.A major event for the distillation of essential oils came with the invention of a coiled cooling pipe in the 11th century. Persian by birth, Avicenna invented a coiled pipe that allowed the plant vapor and steam to cool down more effectively than previous distillers that used a straight cooling pipe. Avicenna's input lead to additional focus on vital oils and their benefits. Within the 12th century, an Abbess of Germany named Hildegard grew and distilled lavender for its medicinal properties. Within the 13th century, the pharmaceutical industry was born. This event encouraged great distillation of essential oils. During the 14th century, the Black Death hit and killed millions of people. Herbal preparations were used extensively to help fight this terrible killer. It is believed that some perfumers may have avoided the plague by their constant contact with the natural aromatics.Within the 15th century, more plants were distilled to create essential oils including frankincense, juniper, rose, sage and rosemary. A growth in the amount of books on herbs and their properties also begins later in the century. Paracelcus, an alchemist, medical doctor and radical thinker is credited with coining the term Essence and his studies radically challenged the nature of alchemy and he focused upon using plants as medicines. During the 16th century, one could begin purchasing oils at an "apothecary," and many more essential oils were introduced.During the 16th and 17th centuries, perfume starting being considered an art form, and it was more clearly defined as its own field. During the 19th century, perfumery remained an affluent industry. Women would have their jeweler create a special bottle to hold their treasured perfume. The 19th century also was important scientifically as major constituents of essential oils became isolated.During the 20th century, the knowledge of separating the components of vital oils was used to create synthetic chemicals and drugs. It was believed that by separating the major constituents and then using the constituents alone or in synthetic form would be beneficial therapeutically and economically. These discoveries helped lead to "modern medicine" and synthetic fragrances. This actually weakened the use of essential oils for medicinal and aromatic benefit.During the earlier part of the 20th century, a French chemist by the name of Rene-Maurice Gattefossé became involved in the use of essential oils for their therapeutic use. Previously, he focused on the aromatic use of essential oils, but his interest in their medicinal use grew after an accident heightened his curiosity. While working, he burned his arm rather badly. By reflex, he plunged his burned arm into the closest liquid, which happened to be a large container of lavender essential oil. The burn he suffered healed quickly and left no scar. Gattefossé is credited with coining the term aromatherapy in 1928 within an article where he supports the use of using essential oils in their whole without breaking them down into their primary constituents. In 1937, Gattefosse wrote a book called Aromatherapie: Les Huiles essentielles hormones vegetales that was later translated into English and named Gattefosse's Aromatherapy. It is still in print and widely read.Other highly respected 20th century aromatherapists include Jean Valnet, Madam Marguerite Maury, and Robert B. Tisserand. Jean Valnet is most remembered for his work using essential oils to treat injured soldiers during the war and for his book, The Practice of Aromatherapy, originally entitled Aromathérapie in French. Austrian Madam Marguerite Maury is remembered as a biochemist that avidly studied, practiced and taught the use of aromatherapy for primarily cosmetic benefit. Robert B. Tisserand is an English aromatherapist who is responsible for being one of the first individuals to bring knowledge and education of aromatherapy to English speaking nations. He has written books and articles including the highly respected 1977 publication The Art of Aromatherapy. The Art of Aromatherapy was the first aromatherapy book published in English.The modern era of aromatherapy dawned in 1930 when the French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse coined the term aromatherapy for the therapeutic use of essential oils. He was fascinated by the benefits of lavender oil in healing his burned hand without leaving any scars. He started investigating the effect of other essential oils for healing and for their psychotherapeutic benefits.During World War II, the French army surgeon Dr. Jean Valnet used essential oils as antiseptics. Later, Madame Marguerite Maury elevated aromatherapy as a holistic therapy. She started prescribing essential oils as remedy for her patients. She is also credited with the modern use of essential oils in massage.Aromatherapy works the best when it works on the mind and body simultaneously.From the late 20th century and on into the 21st century, there is a growing resurgence to utilize more natural products including essential oils for therapeutic, cosmetic and aromatic benefit. The use of essential oils never ceased, but the scientific revolution minimized the popularity and use of essential oils in one's everyday life. Today's heightened awareness regarding the use of synthetics coupled with the increased availability of aromatherapy information within books and the Internet has refueled the use of essential oils for therapeutic, cosmetic, fragrant and spiritual use.

The history of aromatherapy

The history of aromatherapy essential oils dates back to centuries ago to ancient civilizations such as those of Egypt, India, China and Greece. Different cultures had different uses for essential fragrant oils and while aromatherapy candles had not yet been developed, ancient aromatherapy products India included herb-based incense sticks that were used for religious practices.
The phrase, 'essential oils' itself however was not coined till sometime in the sixteenth century in some part of the Western world.It was in that era that a German physician catalogued the main essential oils that we know of today. Public interest in the healing properties of essential oils was revived in the early twentieth century in France when a French chemist accidentally discovered the soothing properties of lavender oil while working in his laboratory. The chemist had burnt his hand and dipping it instantaneously into lavender oil, which just happened to be lying close at hand, not only helped to soothe his pain but also prevented scarring. This motivated the French chemist, named Gattefosse to research and write on the subject of Aromatherapy.Today, items like aromatherapy diffusers and a variety of aromatherapy oils and candles are manufactured to use essential oils to their maximum advantage. Essential oils that are popular today include the following.
Angelica essential oil - used to treat digestive and respiratory ailments
Bay Laurel oil - used to treat problems associated with the lymphatic system
Basil oil - strengthens and supports the nervous system
Bergamot oil - relieves depression and has calming properties
Pepper oil - improves digestion and stimulates circulation
Aromatherapy or the use of essential natural oils to heal the body and spirit is an ancient practice which was appreciated by many cultures of the world. Historical records reveal that the use of fragrant oils to treat ailments was popular in the ancient civilizations of India, China, Egypt, Rome and Greece to name a few. However, each culture used different methods to derive aromatherapy benefits. For example, in India the traditional use of essential oils was in the form of massage oils and medicinal concoctions while Egyptians used essential oils for bathing and in ancient Greece records one can even read about the use of aromatherapy incense.The primeval use of essential oils was revived in the early part of the twentieth century when a French chemist burnt his hand and reflexively immersed it into a bowl of lavender oil which happened to be close at hand. The chemist, named Gattefosse realized that the liquid had prevented scarring as well as soothed his pain instantaneously. This sparked off his interest in essential oils and Gattefosse went on to research and write on the subject of the medicinal values of different essential oils.Today, the health benefits of essential oils is well-documented and these oils are used in many different ways such as one may use aromatherapy candles or incense sticks, while others may prefer to use massage oils. This form of therapy is also available for children and aromatherapy for babies can offer relief from colds and fever even at the stage when pharmaceutical medicines are not advisable.

Respiratory Aromatherapy Recipes for small pains

Respiratory Aromatherapy Recipes
Chest and Sinus Congestion:
2 drops lavender
2 drops tea tree
2 drops eucalyptus
Boil a pot of water and remove from the stove. While still steaming, add 2 drops eucalyptus, 2 drops lavender and 2 drops tea tree. Cover bowl and head with towel and inhale for at least 3 minutes. KEEP EYES CLOSED
Colds:
2 drops lavender
2 drops rosemary
2 drops eucalyptus
Add 2 drops lavender, 2 drops rosemary and 2 drops eucalyptus to 2 teaspoons milk or cream. Pour into a warm bath, stir water and soak.
or
Mix 2 drops lavender, 2 drops eucalyptus and 2 drops tea tree oil. Place in a diffuser and diffuse into your room.
To Ease Sinuses:
2 drops Eucalyptus
2 drops Peppermint
2 drops Tea Tree
Boil a pot of water and remove it from the stove. While it is still steaming, add 2 drops peppermint, 2 drops eucalyptus and 2 drops tea tree. Immediately cover the pot and head with a towel and inhale for 3 minutes. Keep eyes closed.

To Ease Coughs:
2 drops Eucalyptus
2 drops Lavender
Boil a pot of water and remove it from the stove. While it is still steaming, add 2 drops eucalyptus and 2 drops lavender. Immediately cover the pot and head with a towel and inhale for 3 minutes. Keep eyes closed.

To Ease Coughs throughout the day:
2 drops Eucalyptus
2 drops Lavender
Add 2 drops eucalyptus and 2 drops lavender to 4 teaspoons of our massage base oil and apply to the throat and chest (this will make enough for several applications).

Aromatherapy Candle Making -

Aromatherapy Candle Making -

How to Get Started!Aromatherapy candle making is a relaxing and rewarding hobby. Not only can you enjoy the process of making the candles, but aromatherapy soy candles also have great benefits to your mind and spirit.
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Burning an aromatherapy scented candle can help you to feel more relaxed and calm even when experiencing a stressful lifestyle.
Needed SuppliesIf you are interested in making aromatherapy candles, there are several supplies you will need to have handy. You will want to have candle jars and wicks easily accessible so that you always have them ready when you want to make a candle. You will also need some sort of base for the candle. You may choose to make the candle out of beeswax or soy. Many candles include paraffin, which you can purchase at most craft stores. You can even add aromatherapy oils to gel candles and make floating candles out of them. The most essential ingredients for aromatherapy candle making are the essential oils you will use to make the scent for your candles.
Types of Essential OilsOne of the most popular essential oils used in aromatherapy scented candles is lavender. Lavender relieves stress and helps people to relax, and it has a pleasant, sweet aroma. Eucalyptus is another popular essential oil, and it has properties that help breathing and also boost the immune system. Geranium is a popular oil used in aromatherapy, particularly with women, as it helps balance their hormones. Those who suffer from joint trouble will enjoy a candle scented with peppermint, as it takes away aches and pains, as well as helps the digestive system. Ylang Ylang is a popular oil used as an antidepressant, and rosemary also has properties that lift the mood. Sage and chamomile are used to help you sleep. Keeping small amounts of the natural essential oils on hand is essential when making aroma therapy candles. You will also want to have a double boiler to use when melting the wax. If you are not using a jar for your candle, then you will need a mold that is disposable. A paper cup works well to make votive sized candles. Frozen juice containers make a good option for a pillar candle. A cooking thermometer and crayons for coloring the candle are the final things you will need.

Grow Aromatherapy Herbs at Home!

Grow Aromatherapy Herbs at Home!Learning how to grow herbs is a rewarding and healthy activity. When you grow herbs at home, you can save money by using the herbs for cooking or for creating aromatherapy essential oils. These edible plants are not only useful, but also quite beautiful and a real enhancement to your garden, patio or deck. Successfully raising herbs at home begins with selecting the right plants for your setting and climate.
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What Herbs Can You Grow?Not all plants grow well indoors. While you can opt for a strictly outdoor herb garden, it's nice to have at least some plants inside where you can enjoy them and their benefits year round. (If you are interested in incorporating herbs into your yard or garden, talk to a professional at your local plant nursery to find out which herbs will survive well in your native climate, how much sunlight and water the herbs require, and how to protect the plants during the winter months.)So, what herbs grow inside? For the beginner, good choices include mint, basil, rosemary, and oregano. Mint and rosemary have particular healing properties that you can use for aromatherapy and both are excellent when used in your favorite recipes. If you are going to grow herbs indoors, it's a good idea to start with one or more of these four plants since they are almost guaranteed to be successful and will give you greater confidence in your abilities when you're ready to add more herbs to your containers.Another good reason to grow your own herbs indoors is the fact that the plants do require some special care that your normal garden plants may not need. For instance, if you want your herbs to grow year round, with some plants you will need to reseed and to "deadhead" the plants to keep them from dying in the winter. These things are more easily done in a container garden where you can bring the pots up to a good working level than outdoors where you'll be spending a lot of time on your knees bending over. Also, you can provide the proper drainage in a container garden as herbs are bad to get "water logged." In fact, you can buy "grow your own herbs" kits from most plant nurseries or home improvement stores that will help you to accomplish all the basics of indoor herb gardening with with less work -- and they come with helpful instructions.
Materials You Will NeedIf you are going to grow herbs indoors, you will need certain materials including:
eight inch clay jars
potting mix that does not contain soil
some pottery shards
selected herbs as starter plants
liquid fertilizerOnce you have assembled these materials, you're ready to begin preparing your indoor garden.