Discover the latest news and resources in the world of aromatherapy with our December 2024 newsletter.

Our December newsletter is packed with exciting content designed to inspire and inform our CAOA members and followers, like you.

View it here.

Canada's Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR) significantly impact aromatherapists, especially those who create and sell products. This guide will help you understand the key points and how they affect your practice.

Understanding the Basics

The NHPR primarily regulates products intended to treat, prevent, or diagnose disease or to maintain or improve health, not cosmetic applications (more on that below). While essential oils aren't regulated as drugs, their therapeutic use falls under the NHPR.

Key impacts for aromatherapists:

• Product Labeling: Pre-blended essential oil products must adhere to strict labeling requirements, including ingredient lists, health claims, and safety information.

• Health Claims: Making therapeutic claims about essential oils necessitates scientific evidence and compliance with specific guidelines.

• Professional Practice: Aromatherapists must stay informed about the NHPR to ensure compliance when providing advice or recommendations.

• Product Sourcing: Sourcing essential oils from reputable suppliers is crucial to guarantee quality and safety.

• Health Canada has developed a monograph for Aromatherapy preparation of Product Licence Applications (PLAs) and labels for natural health product market authorization.

The Difference Between Cosmetics and Natural Health Products

A key distinction lies in the intended use and claims made about the product.

Cosmetic Applications:

• Intent: Primarily for external use, such as skincare, hair care, or fragrance.

• Claims: Focus on sensory properties like scent, texture, or appearance.

• Regulation: Typically regulated under less stringent cosmetic regulations.

• Find out more about how Canada regulates cosmetics here.

Natural Health Products:

• Intent: To treat, prevent, or diagnose disease or to maintain or improve health.

• Claims: May make therapeutic claims, such as "relieves stress" or "promotes relaxation."

• Regulation: Subject to stricter regulations under the NHPR.

• Find out more about NHPR here.

Impact on Private Practice

While the NHPR regulates product sales of Natural Health Products, it can indirectly impact aromatherapists in private practice:

• Therapeutic Claims: Avoid exaggerated claims and encourage clients to consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.

• Product Labeling and Safety: Ensure clear labeling with accurate ingredient information and usage instructions, and advise clients about potential allergies and sensitivities. Refer to the monograph prepared by Health Canada for guideance.

• Professional Conduct: Adhere to ethical guidelines and professional standards and stay updated on the latest research and regulations.

Conclusion

By understanding the NHPR, aromatherapists can navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure compliance while providing safe and effective aromatherapy services. Remember to prioritize client well-being, avoid unsubstantiated claims, and stay informed about the evolving regulations.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney or legal professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. The author and publisher of this blog post disclaim all liability for any direct or indirect losses or damages caused by reliance on the information contained herein.

Discover the latest news and resources in the world of aromatherapy with our November 2024 newsletter.

Our November newsletter is packed with exciting content designed to inspire and inform our CAOA members and followers, like you.

Access it here.

Discover the latest news and resources in the world of aromatherapy with our October 2024 newsletter.

Our October newsletter is packed with exciting content designed to inspire and inform our CAOA members and followers, like you.

Access it here.

Discover the latest news and resources in the world of aromatherapy with our September 2024 newsletter.

Our September newsletter is packed with exciting content designed to inspire and inform our CAOA members and followers, like you.

Inside this issue, you'll find:

• Feature article: Explore the use of essential oils to enhance sleep quality and well-being. Also find guideance in assessing and assisting clients with sleep problems.
• Upcoming events: the CAOA presents a webinar Series for Aromatherapy for trauma and grief, focused on supporting clients experiencing these issues.
• And much more!

Missed the newsletter or want a copy for your reference?

No worries! We've made the PDF version of our September newsletter available for download. Simply click here to access it.

By Kelly Ablard, PhD, RA

Aromatherapy, as defined by the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, is “the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. It seeks to unify physiological, psychological and spiritual processes to enhance an individual’s innate healing process.”

Research conducted in Peru (Ablard, 2016) revealed compelling evidence that aromatherapy, as defined above, is a form of traditional medicine (TM) used often as a first-line treatment throughout Peru. Aromatic plant medicine (APM) was considered crucial to healing by 100% of the informants questioned; according to a Peruvian Elder, “the aromatic essence of the plant is very powerful.” These powerful essences were utilized by both males and females who ranged in age from 4 to 74 years and by healer and non-healers. A Shipibo teacher said APM is “all healing, mind-balancing, and a source of strength.” Aromatic plant medicine was used daily and was a critical part of their spiritual and healing practices.

The healing process for 50% of the Latin American population in both rural and urban settings begins and ends with TM as it is the only accessible and affordable medicine available. And it is often the preferred treatment; even those who can obtain allopathic medicine generally opt to protect and conserve their indigenous medical systems with their traditional knowledge of, and healing practices using TM (Alban, 1984; Bussmann et al., 2011; Jauregui et al., 2011; Bussmann, 2013).

Traditional medicine not only costs less than allopathic medicine, but it often works better and has fewer side effects. As a result, TM practice has gained the respect of government agencies and health providers in Peru, as well as those in developed countries (Bussmann, 2013; Caceres Guido et al., 2015).

Aromatic Plant Medicine Preparation

Each Peruvian informant knew something about naturally producing aromatic extracts from fresh plant material, and which methods produced less toxins. Extractions were done on the whole plant: leaves, resin, stems, roots, bark, wood, and flowers. Extraction methods included alcohol extraction (tincture), water extraction (infusion or decoction), heat extraction, lipid extraction (infusion), maceration (i.e. crushing) and steam distillation (Ablard, 2016).

Water extractions and maceration were the two extraction methods most frequently observed, solvent and heat extraction methods were the most frequently spoken about, and steam distillation was the least used method. Two reasons for this is that authentic stills are too expensive for communities to purchase, and they are not readily available in the jungles of central Peru. They are so rare that when introducing an Amazonian healer to an essential oil for the first time in his life, he spent hours examining it, questioning its therapeutic properties and applications, and connecting with the plant’s spirit (Ablard, 2016).

While carrying out this research, donated essential oils from Stillpoint Aromatics (Sedona, AZ, USA), were given to numerous remote Peruvian Shipibo communities. The elders and plant medicine healers were trained on how to safely use them. This form of TM was greatly desired, as it was shown to enhance the overall well-being of Shipibo individuals and community members.

Stainless Steel Still

A fundraising initiative was launched to collect the funds for the acquisition and shipping of a 30-litre stainless steel still, expertly designed by Dr. Benoit Roger at Alchemia Solutions (Figure 1). The still’s compact design was specifically intended for the convenience of our dear Shipibo colleagues, allowing for effortless transportation during their expeditions into the Amazon rainforest. Here, they will procure essential oils from a selection of distinctive, responsibly sourced, and ecologically safe Peruvian medicinal and aromatic plants. This endeavor is poised to significantly benefit the community by fostering economic, environmental, cultural, and public health sustainability.

The money was successfully raised for the still, which was received by the Shipibo in April 2024, and the first distillation was carried out on a Peruvian lemongrass with great success (Figures 2 and 3). We look forward to seeing what other aromatic treasures our Shipibo colleagues will create!

A significant donation toward this initiative was made by the Canadian Alliance of Aromatherapy. My dear Shipibo colleagues are most grateful to the CAOA for supporting them, helping preserve their plant medicine, and exploring how modern meets traditional practices. Supporting Indigenous communities should be integral to ethical sourcing, a commitment the CAOA has made as a valued and esteemed member of Airmid Institute.

About the author: Dr. Kelly Ablard is a skilled research and organizational leadership professional and the Founder and Executive Director of Airmid Institute, a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to the global education, research, and sustainable management of medicinal and aromatic plants. 

References

Ablard, K. (2016). Exploring Aromatherapy as a Form of Traditional Aromatic Plant Medicine in Peru. International Journal of Professional Holistic Aromatherapy, 5(5), 51-61.

Albán J. (1984). Plantas medicinales usadas en Lima para los trastornos digestivos.Thesis. Facultad de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, p190.

Bussmann R W, Malca G, Glenn A, Sharon D, Nilsen B, Parris B, Dubose D, Ruiz D, Saleda J, Martinez M, Carillo L, Walker K, Kuhlman A, Towne- smith A. (2011). Toxicity of medicinal plants used in traditional medicine in Northern Peru. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 137, p121–140.

Bussmann R W. (2013). The Globalization of Traditional Medicine in Northern Peru: From Shamanism to Molecules. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Available: doi:10.1155/2013/291903. Last accessed 15 May 2024.

Caceres Guido P, Ribas A, Gaioli M, Quattrone F, Macchi A. (2015). The state of the integrative medicine in Latin America: The long road to include complementary, natural, and traditional practices in formal health systems. European Journal of Integrative Medicine. 7, p5–12.

Jauregui X, Clavo Z M, Jovel E M, Pardo-de Santayana M. (2011). Plantas con madre: Plants that teach and guide in the shamanic initiation process in the East-Central Peruvian Amazon. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 134, p739–752.

National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA). (2016). Available: www.naha.org. Last accessed 20 January 2016.

By Kathleen Jagassar, MA, RA, CCC, RCC

Is Anxiety Normal? The Facts Behind This Common Feeling

At some point over the lifespan, most people will experience anxiety. Anxiety is an emotional-based fear response to a stress stimulus and is critical for human survival. Anxiety is an effective motivator. For example, someone might report feeling anxious over an exam; this is considered appropriate, especially when the exam is determinate of a goal (such as high school graduation, or an aromatherapy certification). Anxiety may motivate the individual to study before the exam, increasing the chances of successfully passing. However, some people experience anxiety that is not congruent with the circumstances. For example, someone might feel anxious most of the time, but they do not know why. When this happens, people in the medical profession refer to it as general anxiety disorder (GAD). In 2022, GAD was prevalent in 5.2% of the Canadian population, which is double the number of people who reported GAD in 2012.^[1]

How an Aromatherapist Can Help Manage Anxiety

Not all people who experience anxiety require interventions from counselling professionals or medical practitioners. Some people benefit from small changes to their lifestyle that can greatly impact their anxiety symptoms. Given the number of people who experience uncomfortable levels of anxiety and the potential for aromatherapy to reduce their symptoms,^[2] an aromatherapist is in a position to offer assistance.

Practical Strategies to Reduce Anxiety and Improve Wellbeing

I often use aromatherapy in my counselling practice to deepen interventions to relieve client anxiety. These interventions do not often happen when the client is in the counselling office but instead are assigned as activities for the client to incorporate into their lifestyle. Although each client will have unique needs that will inform their particular blend and application method, I first determine if the blend will be used as a critical intervention (during intense moments of anxiety), or as a proactive intervention (encouraging a calm state). Note that the options I will introduce below do not require formal counselling training, but remember to operate within your scope of practice and only with the interventions that you are comfortable employing.

Critical Anxiety Intervention: Breathe

As a critical intervention, most clients prefer an aromatherapy inhaler that they can utilize immediately to couple with breathing exercises. Box breathing,^[3] which promotes relaxation, or the “Long Exhale,” which is effective for activating the parasympathetic nervous system,^[4] are both helpful techniques. Doing either of these techniques with the client engages them in co-regulation, an extremely useful technique for helping anyone return to a calm state. 

Box Breathing

Box breathing requires equal times between inhales and exhales. For example, a client might inhale for a count of four, hold their breath for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, and hold their breath for a count of four. This technique is done three to five times before returning to an automatic breathing pattern. I let the client choose their count, but I often recommend a count of four to start.

The “Long Exhale”

The “Long Exhale”, which is my favorite technique (both personally, and professionally), requires a longer exhale than inhale, without holding the breath. The amount of time the client counts for is up to them, but I typically recommend starting with a four/six count. In this example, the client would inhale while they count to four, and then exhale while they count to six. This technique is done three times before returning to an automatic breathing pattern but can be repeated.

Essential Oils for Acute Situations

In her comprehensive handbook for aromatic therapy, Essential Oils, Jennifer Peace Rhind suggests the following essential oils for acute and stressful situations: clary sage, cypress, geranium, neroli, osmanthus, patchouli, and ylang ylang.^[5]

Proactive Anxiety Interventions: Working with the Body and Mind

As a proactive intervention, clients will benefit from activities that promote relaxation^[6] and mindfulness.^[7]Relaxation assists by regulating the central nervous system, and mindfulness helps calm the mind and bring it back into the present (people with anxiety fear what could happen). In this way, we target both the body and the mind to return it to a calm state. 

Relaxation Strategies

Progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, and guided imagery are good options to reduce anxiety symptoms.^[8] Numerous cell phone apps and scripts are available online. I suggest trying them before recommending them to clients; if you like them, then you can offer them from an experiential perspective. I have found that clients appreciate personal recommendations and are more likely to try something that I have found helpful. 

Options for Mindfulness

Mindfulness can take on many forms. Many clients find that meditation is too difficult, so having several methods to offer can be helpful. Mindfulness is most famously described as “the awareness that emerges through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally to the unfolding of experience moment by moment,” by Jon Kabat-Zinn.^[9] My favorite mindfulness recommendations come from the mindfulness skills group in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).^[10] Activities to practise mindfulness skills are easily found through a Google search, or you can purchase resources from several sources online. Activities that are popular among my clients are those that offer suggestions for accessing mindfulness through the five senses. Examples include walking slowly outside and observing what you see without any thought, stopping for a moment to just listen; when eating, noticing the smell of the food; noticing the action of eating and the sensation of taste; and scanning your entire body and noticing the sensations inside each part. The sky is the limit in how you could couple aromatherapy with these activities. Often my clients will pick an aromatherapy roller to utilize during their mindfulness activity. 

Essential Oils for General Anxiety

Jennifer Peace Rhind suggests the following essential oils for chronic anxiety: basil CT linalool, bergamot, black pepper, cannabis, cedarwood (Atlas), chamomile Roman, clary sage, coriander seed, cypress, eucalyptus olida, E. stageriana, geranium, grapefruit, hemlock spruce, hinoki, jasmine, juniperberry, lavender true, lemon balm, lemongrass, mandarin, marjoram (sweet), may chang, myrtle, Nepal pepper, neroli, orange (bitter, sweet), palmarosa, patchouli, pine (black, Scots, stone), rose, rosewood, sandalwood, spruce (white), Szechuan pepper, turmeric, vanilla, andss ylang ylang.^[11]

Final Thoughts

Aromatherapy offers a natural approach to managing anxiety symptoms that may be helpful for some people. Coupling aromatherapy with activities that have shown to be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms further empowers clients to gain control of their mind and body through evidence-based techniques. 

About the author: Kathleen Jaggassar is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, and received her aromatherapy certification in 2012 from the West Coast Institute of Aromatherapy. Kathleen's passion lies in helping individuals explore their inner landscapes and find pathways to deeper healing. She is particularly interested in the transformative potential of integrating evidence-based therapy techniques with holistic practices like aromatherapy and yoga. Kathleen has a small private practice in Prince George, BC.

^[1] Statistics Canada. (2023, September 22). Study: Mental disorders and access to mental health care [Press release]. Retrieved from https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-627-m/11-627-m2017019-eng.htm

^[2] Gong, M., Dong, H., Tang, Y., Huang, W., & Lu, F. (2020). Effects of aromatherapy on anxiety: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of affective disorders, 274, 1028-1040. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016503271933160X

^[3] Balban, M. Y., Neri, E., Kogon, M. M., Weed, L., Nouriani, B., Jo, B., ... & Huberman, A. D. (2023). Brief structured respiration practices enhance mood and reduce physiological arousal. Cell Reports Medicine, 4(1).

^[4] Magnon, V., Dutheil, F., & Vallet, G. T. (2021). Benefits from one session of deep and slow breathing on vagal tone and anxiety in young and older adults. Scientific reports, 11(1), 19267. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-98736-9

^[5] Rhind, J. P. (2019). Essential oils (Fully revised and updated 3rd ed.). Jessica Kingsley Publishers. ISBN: 9780857013439

^[6] Kim, H. S., & Kim, E. J. (2018). Effects of relaxation therapy on anxiety disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Archives of psychiatric nursing, 32(2), 278-284.Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0883941717304715

^[7] Fumero, A., Peñate, W., Oyanadel, C., & Porter, B. (2020). The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on anxiety disorders. a systematic meta-review. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education, 10(3), 704-719. Retrieved from https://www.mdpi.com/2254-9625/10/3/52

^[8] Toussaint, L., Nguyen, Q. A., Roettger, C., Dixon, K., Offenbächer, M., Kohls, N., ... & Sirois, F. (2021). Effectiveness of progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, and guided imagery in promoting psychological and physiological states of relaxation. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2021. Retrieved from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2021/5924040/

^[9] Kabat-Zinn, J. (2003). Mindfulness-based interventions in context: past, present, and future. Retrieved from https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2003-03824-002

^[10]Linehan, M. M. (2014). DBT skills training manual (2nd ed.). Guilford Publications

^[11] Rhind, J. P. (2019). Essential oils (Fully revised and updated 3rd ed.). Jessica Kingsley Publishers. ISBN: 9780857013439

By Lucas Anderson, RA^®, EOT^®

We just finished our 2024 spring CE event, packed with amazing information and speakers. We started the weekend with Jean-Claude Villeneuve from BoreA Canada, who shared the cyclical processes involved in the company’s distillation operation. He explained how it integrates with the local power plant to provide biomass for burning, producing steam used by BoreA to distill essential oils and generate electricity for the grid. They only harvest plants and trees from within a 50 km radius, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint and reducing it overall by up to 65% compared to traditional steam distillation setups.

On Saturday afternoon, Eric Scott Bessalsmith shared his process for distilling high-desert conifers, removing many machines to respectfully extract the oils. While presenting, he had a run of ponderosa pine distilling in the background.

Sunday started with Benoît Roger speaking primarily about oxidation in essential oils. He delved deep into the subject, explaining how oxidation products are tested, some of which can't be revealed through GC testing, and how some occur naturally in other essential oils. We saw a small test he conducted on five essential oils in the lab: orange, lavandin, balsam fir, lemongrass and patchouli. The results showed significant oxidation in all oils after 2.5 months of opening vial lids and being stored in clear glass vials in front of a bright window. He also briefly explained the GC test procedure.

We concluded the weekend with Mark Webb’s presentation on CO2-extracted lipids. While he explained the process and the use of CO2, he delved deeper into regular volatiles but spent most of the time covering lipid extracts, similar to carrier oils but with significant differences in price point and benefits. Due to the extraction nature, he pointed out their longer shelf life and reduced susceptibility to oxidation when stored properly.

The weekend event was fantastic, enlightening, and well-received. We’re grateful to the speakers for their presentations and appreciate everyone who attended. Once the videos are ready, we’ll make the recordings available for purchase to those who couldn’t join us for the live event.

About the author: About the author: Lucas Anderson, RA^®, EOT^®, with seven years' experience as an aromatherapist, has been focussing on men's health and helping men achieve freedom. He has a passion for health as close to nature as possible and currently works with more than 130 essential oils. Located in Edmonton, Lucas is past president of the CFA and is currently serving on the CAOA board of directors. You can learn more about Lucas at www.brotherhoodaromatics.com. 

By Shannon Bachorick, RA, EOT, CAHP, with responses from CAOA members

On July 12, 2012, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared that March 20 would be known as the International Day of Happiness to recognize the relevance of happiness and wellbeing around the world. In celebration of this day, we asked our members to share which essential oil made them happy.

As you can guess, citrus oils were found to be the happiest oils. “Sweet orange oil (Citrus sinensis) is still the most cheerful aroma around to my nose. However, it is followed veeerry closely by grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)and lemon (Citrus limon).” “Mandarin (Citrus reticulate) is so uplifting, and joyful feeling, warm and light.” Blood orange (Citrus sinensis) made the list as well as, of course, bergamot (Citrus bergamia).

This is a perfect answer for snowy winter days: “An oil that makes me happy is geranium (Pelargonium graveolens). Its heavy floral scent reminds me of being in a garden with scented flowers all around me. But minus the allergies.”

Jasmine made the list a few times. “I absolutely love Jasmine! I use 10% in Jojoba oil and wear it as a perfume. I find it so calming, soothing and joyful for my soul.”

Deanna Russell commented that “The first oil that came to mind was rosalina (Melaleuca ericifolia). It’s so soft and gentle, and instantly makes me feel better.” Birgit Salling said, “Currently, peppermint (Mentha piperita) makes me happy! The one I have is from India, organic and steam distilled. When I take an inhalation from my bottle of peppermint, I instantly feel energized and uplifted which makes me happy. I enjoy peppermint tea and the essential oil smells so delicious.”

One particularly thoughtful answer discussed how patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) makes a member feel. “As a Christian, I'm all about cultivating gratitude and finding joy in the blessings I've got. Patchouli oil helps me stay present and appreciate what I have, which totally aligns with my faith. Plus, it's got this grounding and balancing effect that helps me find balance in my body, mind, and soul. When I use patchouli oil in my self-care routine, it's like creating a chill and focused space for me to connect with God on a deeper level. It's a reminder of His presence and a way to calm my thoughts and open my heart to spiritual insights. So yeah, patchouli is my go-to for happiness and good vibes!”

I loved the story of how May Chang (Litsea cubeba) reminds Mayumi Wolters of her favourite soap growing up. “Bath time is pretty special for Japanese family as we take a bath together often when kids are young. It was a bonding time for my mom and I. It brings up good memories and puts me smile on my face all the time.”

This answer probably sums up the indecisiveness that most of us feel when having to pick just one oil: “Tough question - hard to pick only one - if you mean happy opposite of sad, then I look to the florals - rose (R centifolia, or especially R Damascena), jasmine (J. officinale), that sort of thing, also the vanillin in  benzoin (Styrax benzoin) is euphoric, if you mean uplifting then more citrus - bergamot (C. bergamia), if you mean peppy happy, then peppermint is always handy (Mentha pepperita), and as a general uplifting  tonic I like helichrysum (H. italicum) or melissa (M. officinalis) when needed.”

Other oils that were mentioned are marjoram (Origamum majorana), geranium (Pelargonium graveolens),lavender (Lavendula angustifolia), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga mensiesii), neroli (Citrus aurantium) and petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var amara). The most uncommon oil named was mimosa (Acacia decurrens), which is one I have yet to experience.

As for the oil that makes me happy, I would have to say clary sage (Salvia sclarea), but when blended with another oil. Somehow that makes the clary sage smell sweet and juicy.

Thank you to everyone who shared which oils make them happy!

About the author: Shannon Bachorick completed her aromatherapy certification studies in 2016 and went on to become a Registered Aromatherapist®. Essential Oil Therapist®, and Certified Aromatherapy Health Professional®. She practises in Regina, Saskatchewan, and is the founder of Santéssence Aromatherapy.