Copyright © 2007-2010 All rights reserved
Sedona Aromatherapie is an Oak Creek Enterprises Incorporated Company
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona Aromatherapie is an Oak Creek Enterprises Incorporated Company
Sedona, Arizona
The Greeks capitalized on the gardens of the Egyptians and brought back this knowledge to the Greek Empire. Amongst the Greeks, with regard to fragrant gardens and their plants and uses, were Herodotus, Democrates and Hippocrates. Later in time, Discorides (40 - 90 AD) produced the De Materia Medica which details the medicinal use of a huge number of plants.
The healing power of scent and scented gardens
‘The greatest gift of the garden is the restoration of the five senses.’ Hanna Rion
There can be no doubt that gardens are seen as a haven of relaxation. All of our senses are stimulated by the sights, sounds, smell, touch (and even taste!) of a garden.
Vincent Van Gogh spent time (at his own admission) at the Asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole in Saint-Remy, France and this was where he painted one of his most famous series of paintings, ‘Iris’. He was apparently inspired and ‘healed’ by the surrounding gardens of the Asylum.
Hospitals are realising the benefits of providing a garden for their patients’ recovery and many are putting money into providing a garden because of this. In a study, the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Hospitals Organization, found: ‘Patients and visitors need connections with nature through exterior spaces, plants, halls and TL (therapeutic landscaping)’ (1999). (Source: Journal of Mediterranean Ecology Vol. 8 2007)
In the course of my research for this article, I discovered there is even an organisation that provides relief for cancer patients by providing gardens free of charge at the homes of breast cancer patients (see www.hopeinbloom.org for further information). I am sure that there are a number of similar organisations out there too.
Smell is drawn in through the nose to the limbic part of our brains (the part that governs our moods and emotions) and will trigger a response and thus a reaction in us. Memories are re-created by a reaction to the smell, be it good or bad.
An aromatherapy garden focuses on the scents of the plants and flowers in it. Walking through a garden on a summer’s day will usually make you feel intoxicated and happy, absorbing those pleasant smells of various plants and flowers around you, perhaps without you even realising it! The ‘smells’ released from plants, trees and flowers are the basis for the essential oils used in aromatherapy. Essential oils are volatile (from the Latin volare - to fly), which means they evaporate at or above room temperature. Heat releases the fragrance of the oils (essentially the plant's perfume or flavor), hence the more noticeable fragrances generated by a walk through a summer garden, as we smell the roses! In the winter these fragrances are less noticeable as the cooler air prevents easy evaporation of the oils from plants.
Smell is one of the most basic of our senses and a lot of animals identify and are attracted to each other (including humans!) by it. Indeed, it is reported that Napoleon, when returning home from battle, would send orders home to his beloved Josephine to not wash, as he loved the 'sweet' smell of her. It is also said that women emit different 'smells depending on whether they are a redhead (violets), brunette (musk) or blonde (ambergris). Whether this is true or not, it is thought that women have a better sense of smell than men (although pregnancy decreases this ability) and those who are dark-haired have a keener sense of smell than those who are fair-haired.
Whatever the observations are of others, smell is a personal thing and different people are sensitive to different smells. To the same degree, there a wide variety of plants and flowers which may provoke different responses in different people. These are just a few of my own personal favorites.
Flowers for an aromatherapy garden
I'd rather have roses on my table than diamonds on my neck. Emma Goldman
There are any number of flowers which you can choose for an aromatic garden, depending on your location, size of space and personal preferences.
Rose (rosa damascena) – Rose is perhaps my most favorite of flowers (and most expensive of essential oils!) and also reminds me of England (although it is a true native of the Far East, brought to England in the trading of spices and other exotic goods). Some hardier varieties tolerate the sub-zero temperatures of our Arizona winter and provide lasting color throughout the summer and fall. Extraction of the essential oil is difficult and thus costly, making it subject to adulteration by some suppliers. It takes about 60,000 rose petals to produce one ounce of essential oil, so enjoy the natural fragrance of rose in your backyard for a fraction of that cost!
Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) – probably the most well known essential oil and a popular addition to your backyard. There are many varieties of lavender (including hybrids) and the best plants for extracting essential oils are still grown in the South of France. However, purely for scent purposes in your backyard, you can choose any of the fragranced varieties available at your local garden center. It will provide you with a feel good fragrance all summer long. It is a good choice for the hot and dry climate of an Arizona summer.
Rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) – its Latin name (rosmarinus) literally means dew of the sea, as it was commonly found growing by the ocean, particularly in the Mediterranean region of Europe. However, its aromatic scent has been popular throughout the centuries, as quoted by William Shakespeare (of England): "There's Rosemary, that's for remembrance. It prefers the sun to cooler climes. As it's good for mental alertness, it is a good addition to the garden of those who like to be stimulated in their garden!
Trees for an aromatherapy garden
"Of the infinite variety of fruits which spring from the bosom of the earth,
the trees of the wood are the greatest in dignity." Susan Fenimore Cooper
Again, there are a large number of fragrant trees from pine forests and cedar woods to the more exotic fruity fragrances of the citrus trees to choose from for your aromatherapy garden.
Orange (citrus sinensis) – this is my most favorite of citrus trees/essential oils, simply because it is so uplifting and nearly every part of the tree is used for aromatherapy uses (leaves – petitgrain (citrus aurantium var amara), flowers - orange blossom/neroli (citrus aurantium var amara) fruit – sweet orange (citrus sinensis)), as well as being able to eat and drink the fruit! It also reminds me of Spain, where there a lot of orange trees growing, but it is also grown in other Mediterranean countries as well as world wide including the USA. It was an original native of China, however. An orange tree grows to about 2 ft. Sweet orange essential oil is usually liked by children, pregnant women and the elderly due to its gentle nature, so the fragrance of the addition of this tree to your garden should be well received by all!
Pine (pinus sylvestris) – there are a number of varieties of pine tree but the Scotch Pine is usually the favorite for aromatherapy use. A native of Eurasia, it prefers cooler climes and can be found in the Eastern USA, Europe, Russia and a number of the Baltic States as well as the Scandinavian countries such as Finland. Pine trees can reach 131 ft so unless you have a large garden that already has Pine trees, it may not be a choice for many! It takes it name from Scotland, where it is thought to have covered a lot of the countryside at one time. The fragrant aroma of the Pine tree is known for its many healing properties including respiratory, sinus, anti-viral and anti-bacterial.
Cyprus (cupressus sempervirens) – an ancient species of tree, the Cypress truly takes its Latin name (sempervirens – evergreen) to heart, as some trees are thought to be over 2,000 years old. Consequently, a number of folklore and traditions are associated with it. It is a highly aromatic tree found in a number of European countries, although other species of the Cyprus tree are found throughout the world, for non-aromatherapy purposes, including the Arizona Cypress tree. Its properties for aromatherapy use include calming the nervous system, circulatory problems, antiseptic and astringent properties. Again, it is a tall tree, so unless you are lucky enough to have one in a large garden, it may not be the choice of everyone.
Plants for an aromatherapy garden
A number of plants are highly aromatic and are used for aromatherapy and/or for culinary uses.
Peppermint (mentha piperita) – cultivated worldwide, peppermint is a favorite of all herb gardens and has been used for centuries. Its minty fragrance will add a new dimension to your aromatherapy garden! Its aromatherapy uses include those for respiratory, digestive and skin care, as well as being useful for the nervous system. Although not a colorful addition, its high aromatic scent will make up for its lack of show.
Geranium (pelargonium graveolens) – often referred to as the poor man's rose because of its similarities in fragrance to a true rose, geranium is a worthy plant in its own right. Its essential oil is actually extracted from the leaves of the plant and not the flowers. It is a popular choice for women in treating a lot of 'women's' problems (including PMS, menopausal problems and excellent for skin care for all ages) so may be a calming influence in your life if chosen for your backyard! Available in a large variety of colors and species, Geranium will continually bloom throughout the summer and right through fall in the state of Arizona.
Thyme (thymus vulgaris) – there are a number of species of thyme but sweet or common thyme (thymus vulgaris) was one of the earliest known medicinal plants in Western herbal medicine. It grows extensively throughout the world including the Mediterranean region, the USA, China, Russia and Turkey. Its leaves emit a pleasant aromatic aroma and is used in culinary uses also. Its aromatherapy uses include digestive, respiratory, antiseptic and antibacterial uses. Growing to a height of 18 inches, it will fit into the smallest of aromatherapy gardens!
Finally
"I perhaps owe having become a painter to flowers." Claude Monet
An aromatherapy garden or yard is a truly wonderful addition to everyones life, be it 50 acres of lavish, ornamental gardens or a humble window box. The visual and sensual treats will enrich you for years to come.
After all,
"A garden is a friend you can visit any time." Anonymous
If you would like to experience the scents of an aromatherapy garden and its healing qualities don't forget to visit us in my shop.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
copyright © Sharon Falsetto 2008 All Rights Reserved
References:
Lawless, Julia (1995) The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils Thorsons London
Lawless, Julia (2001) The Aromatherapy Garden Kyle Cathie Limited, London, UK
Squire, David (2002) The Healing Garden Vega, London, UK
Journal of Mediterranean Ecology Vol. 8 2007
Articles on:
www.healinglandscapes.org
www.britainexpress.com/History/english-gardens.html
www.hopeinbloom.org
The healing power of scent and scented gardens
‘The greatest gift of the garden is the restoration of the five senses.’ Hanna Rion
There can be no doubt that gardens are seen as a haven of relaxation. All of our senses are stimulated by the sights, sounds, smell, touch (and even taste!) of a garden.
Vincent Van Gogh spent time (at his own admission) at the Asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole in Saint-Remy, France and this was where he painted one of his most famous series of paintings, ‘Iris’. He was apparently inspired and ‘healed’ by the surrounding gardens of the Asylum.
Hospitals are realising the benefits of providing a garden for their patients’ recovery and many are putting money into providing a garden because of this. In a study, the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Hospitals Organization, found: ‘Patients and visitors need connections with nature through exterior spaces, plants, halls and TL (therapeutic landscaping)’ (1999). (Source: Journal of Mediterranean Ecology Vol. 8 2007)
In the course of my research for this article, I discovered there is even an organisation that provides relief for cancer patients by providing gardens free of charge at the homes of breast cancer patients (see www.hopeinbloom.org for further information). I am sure that there are a number of similar organisations out there too.
Smell is drawn in through the nose to the limbic part of our brains (the part that governs our moods and emotions) and will trigger a response and thus a reaction in us. Memories are re-created by a reaction to the smell, be it good or bad.
An aromatherapy garden focuses on the scents of the plants and flowers in it. Walking through a garden on a summer’s day will usually make you feel intoxicated and happy, absorbing those pleasant smells of various plants and flowers around you, perhaps without you even realising it! The ‘smells’ released from plants, trees and flowers are the basis for the essential oils used in aromatherapy. Essential oils are volatile (from the Latin volare - to fly), which means they evaporate at or above room temperature. Heat releases the fragrance of the oils (essentially the plant's perfume or flavor), hence the more noticeable fragrances generated by a walk through a summer garden, as we smell the roses! In the winter these fragrances are less noticeable as the cooler air prevents easy evaporation of the oils from plants.
Smell is one of the most basic of our senses and a lot of animals identify and are attracted to each other (including humans!) by it. Indeed, it is reported that Napoleon, when returning home from battle, would send orders home to his beloved Josephine to not wash, as he loved the 'sweet' smell of her. It is also said that women emit different 'smells depending on whether they are a redhead (violets), brunette (musk) or blonde (ambergris). Whether this is true or not, it is thought that women have a better sense of smell than men (although pregnancy decreases this ability) and those who are dark-haired have a keener sense of smell than those who are fair-haired.
Whatever the observations are of others, smell is a personal thing and different people are sensitive to different smells. To the same degree, there a wide variety of plants and flowers which may provoke different responses in different people. These are just a few of my own personal favorites.
Flowers for an aromatherapy garden
I'd rather have roses on my table than diamonds on my neck. Emma Goldman
There are any number of flowers which you can choose for an aromatic garden, depending on your location, size of space and personal preferences.
Rose (rosa damascena) – Rose is perhaps my most favorite of flowers (and most expensive of essential oils!) and also reminds me of England (although it is a true native of the Far East, brought to England in the trading of spices and other exotic goods). Some hardier varieties tolerate the sub-zero temperatures of our Arizona winter and provide lasting color throughout the summer and fall. Extraction of the essential oil is difficult and thus costly, making it subject to adulteration by some suppliers. It takes about 60,000 rose petals to produce one ounce of essential oil, so enjoy the natural fragrance of rose in your backyard for a fraction of that cost!
Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) – probably the most well known essential oil and a popular addition to your backyard. There are many varieties of lavender (including hybrids) and the best plants for extracting essential oils are still grown in the South of France. However, purely for scent purposes in your backyard, you can choose any of the fragranced varieties available at your local garden center. It will provide you with a feel good fragrance all summer long. It is a good choice for the hot and dry climate of an Arizona summer.
Rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) – its Latin name (rosmarinus) literally means dew of the sea, as it was commonly found growing by the ocean, particularly in the Mediterranean region of Europe. However, its aromatic scent has been popular throughout the centuries, as quoted by William Shakespeare (of England): "There's Rosemary, that's for remembrance. It prefers the sun to cooler climes. As it's good for mental alertness, it is a good addition to the garden of those who like to be stimulated in their garden!
Trees for an aromatherapy garden
"Of the infinite variety of fruits which spring from the bosom of the earth,
the trees of the wood are the greatest in dignity." Susan Fenimore Cooper
Again, there are a large number of fragrant trees from pine forests and cedar woods to the more exotic fruity fragrances of the citrus trees to choose from for your aromatherapy garden.
Orange (citrus sinensis) – this is my most favorite of citrus trees/essential oils, simply because it is so uplifting and nearly every part of the tree is used for aromatherapy uses (leaves – petitgrain (citrus aurantium var amara), flowers - orange blossom/neroli (citrus aurantium var amara) fruit – sweet orange (citrus sinensis)), as well as being able to eat and drink the fruit! It also reminds me of Spain, where there a lot of orange trees growing, but it is also grown in other Mediterranean countries as well as world wide including the USA. It was an original native of China, however. An orange tree grows to about 2 ft. Sweet orange essential oil is usually liked by children, pregnant women and the elderly due to its gentle nature, so the fragrance of the addition of this tree to your garden should be well received by all!
Pine (pinus sylvestris) – there are a number of varieties of pine tree but the Scotch Pine is usually the favorite for aromatherapy use. A native of Eurasia, it prefers cooler climes and can be found in the Eastern USA, Europe, Russia and a number of the Baltic States as well as the Scandinavian countries such as Finland. Pine trees can reach 131 ft so unless you have a large garden that already has Pine trees, it may not be a choice for many! It takes it name from Scotland, where it is thought to have covered a lot of the countryside at one time. The fragrant aroma of the Pine tree is known for its many healing properties including respiratory, sinus, anti-viral and anti-bacterial.
Cyprus (cupressus sempervirens) – an ancient species of tree, the Cypress truly takes its Latin name (sempervirens – evergreen) to heart, as some trees are thought to be over 2,000 years old. Consequently, a number of folklore and traditions are associated with it. It is a highly aromatic tree found in a number of European countries, although other species of the Cyprus tree are found throughout the world, for non-aromatherapy purposes, including the Arizona Cypress tree. Its properties for aromatherapy use include calming the nervous system, circulatory problems, antiseptic and astringent properties. Again, it is a tall tree, so unless you are lucky enough to have one in a large garden, it may not be the choice of everyone.
Plants for an aromatherapy garden
A number of plants are highly aromatic and are used for aromatherapy and/or for culinary uses.
Peppermint (mentha piperita) – cultivated worldwide, peppermint is a favorite of all herb gardens and has been used for centuries. Its minty fragrance will add a new dimension to your aromatherapy garden! Its aromatherapy uses include those for respiratory, digestive and skin care, as well as being useful for the nervous system. Although not a colorful addition, its high aromatic scent will make up for its lack of show.
Geranium (pelargonium graveolens) – often referred to as the poor man's rose because of its similarities in fragrance to a true rose, geranium is a worthy plant in its own right. Its essential oil is actually extracted from the leaves of the plant and not the flowers. It is a popular choice for women in treating a lot of 'women's' problems (including PMS, menopausal problems and excellent for skin care for all ages) so may be a calming influence in your life if chosen for your backyard! Available in a large variety of colors and species, Geranium will continually bloom throughout the summer and right through fall in the state of Arizona.
Thyme (thymus vulgaris) – there are a number of species of thyme but sweet or common thyme (thymus vulgaris) was one of the earliest known medicinal plants in Western herbal medicine. It grows extensively throughout the world including the Mediterranean region, the USA, China, Russia and Turkey. Its leaves emit a pleasant aromatic aroma and is used in culinary uses also. Its aromatherapy uses include digestive, respiratory, antiseptic and antibacterial uses. Growing to a height of 18 inches, it will fit into the smallest of aromatherapy gardens!
Finally
"I perhaps owe having become a painter to flowers." Claude Monet
An aromatherapy garden or yard is a truly wonderful addition to everyones life, be it 50 acres of lavish, ornamental gardens or a humble window box. The visual and sensual treats will enrich you for years to come.
After all,
"A garden is a friend you can visit any time." Anonymous
If you would like to experience the scents of an aromatherapy garden and its healing qualities don't forget to visit us in my shop.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
copyright © Sharon Falsetto 2008 All Rights Reserved
References:
Lawless, Julia (1995) The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils Thorsons London
Lawless, Julia (2001) The Aromatherapy Garden Kyle Cathie Limited, London, UK
Squire, David (2002) The Healing Garden Vega, London, UK
Journal of Mediterranean Ecology Vol. 8 2007
Articles on:
www.healinglandscapes.org
www.britainexpress.com/History/english-gardens.html
www.hopeinbloom.org
Vincent Van Gogh, summer 1889, on his time spent at the Asylum of Saint Paul de mausole, Saint Remy, France.
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Gardens, or ‘yards’ as they are more commonly known in the USA, have been around for literally thousands of years and are seen as a place of tranquillity and relaxation, a place to unwind from the stresses of life. It may be a large public garden, a historical garden or our own patio or window box. Whatever shape, size or form they take, they all have many things in common. The visual stimulation of a bright array of flowers; the feel of the cool shade of a welcome tree in the heat of the midday sun; the sound of a trickling fountain or waterfall; the fragrant aroma of roses; all these things touch one or all of our five senses.
A walk in the garden may be more beneficial to your health than you may realize...
A brief history of gardens
‘If one way be better than another, that you may be sure is nature’s way.’ Aristotle
The Egyptians show evidence of gardening on tombs dating back to 1500s BC. The Egyptians were known to use many aromatic plants and herbs for both medicinal and perfumery uses. ‘Kyphi’ was a well know Egyptian fragrance blended from plants such as juniper, peppermint, myrrh, cinnamon and saffron.
Persia was also renowned for its fragrant gardens as far back as 2,500 years ago. Indeed, the most famous of these gardens must surely be the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. They were built in the 6th century BC by Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife, Mayitis, who was apparently homesick for her native country, although other writings suggest that they were built by another Persian King, Cyrus, for a courtesan. Whichever is true, descriptions concur that these gardens were visions of water, cool terraces and an exotic blend of fragrant trees, flowers and herbs.
The Romans learnt mainly from the Greeks, notably from Discorides, but were also aware of the Egyptian ideals. They were in the habit of building large gardens and devoted a lot of reverence to the Rose. Banqueting guests were showered with rose petals in an attempt to combat any drunken shenanigans; Nero apparently had his banqueting floors strewn with rose petals. The Rose was seen as somewhat of a ‘status’ symbol in the Roman garden. The ancient wall paintings in Pompeii in Italy, lain undiscovered under the lava of Mount Vesuvius for centuries, also show the elaborate gardens that were prevalent at that time and the number of aromatic plants and herbs which were in everyday use.
The Roman Empire extended to the conquest of Great Britain and consequently the Romans introduced a number of now well known plants and trees such as cherry, peach, parsley, fennel, rosemary, sage and thyme. Those herbs introduced were an essential part of the medieval monastery gardens and remain today an integral part of an English ‘country’ garden.
Gardens in England varied over the different historical periods; for example the Tudors were heavily influenced by the Italians, whereas the Stuarts were more influenced by the French style. Large gardens were normal for huge, stately country piles; however even small cottage gardens were crammed with herbs and aromatic plants, used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It was only with the onset of the Industrial Revolution, when people left the country for the cities in search of their ‘fortune’ that gardening declined to a lesser scale and the medicinal value of plants were ‘forgotten’ for a period of time.
Today, gardens are beginning once again to revert back to a more ‘aromatic’ style, as people seek a traditional approach to their way of life…
A walk in the garden may be more beneficial to your health than you may realize...
A brief history of gardens
‘If one way be better than another, that you may be sure is nature’s way.’ Aristotle
The Egyptians show evidence of gardening on tombs dating back to 1500s BC. The Egyptians were known to use many aromatic plants and herbs for both medicinal and perfumery uses. ‘Kyphi’ was a well know Egyptian fragrance blended from plants such as juniper, peppermint, myrrh, cinnamon and saffron.
Persia was also renowned for its fragrant gardens as far back as 2,500 years ago. Indeed, the most famous of these gardens must surely be the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. They were built in the 6th century BC by Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife, Mayitis, who was apparently homesick for her native country, although other writings suggest that they were built by another Persian King, Cyrus, for a courtesan. Whichever is true, descriptions concur that these gardens were visions of water, cool terraces and an exotic blend of fragrant trees, flowers and herbs.
The Romans learnt mainly from the Greeks, notably from Discorides, but were also aware of the Egyptian ideals. They were in the habit of building large gardens and devoted a lot of reverence to the Rose. Banqueting guests were showered with rose petals in an attempt to combat any drunken shenanigans; Nero apparently had his banqueting floors strewn with rose petals. The Rose was seen as somewhat of a ‘status’ symbol in the Roman garden. The ancient wall paintings in Pompeii in Italy, lain undiscovered under the lava of Mount Vesuvius for centuries, also show the elaborate gardens that were prevalent at that time and the number of aromatic plants and herbs which were in everyday use.
The Roman Empire extended to the conquest of Great Britain and consequently the Romans introduced a number of now well known plants and trees such as cherry, peach, parsley, fennel, rosemary, sage and thyme. Those herbs introduced were an essential part of the medieval monastery gardens and remain today an integral part of an English ‘country’ garden.
Gardens in England varied over the different historical periods; for example the Tudors were heavily influenced by the Italians, whereas the Stuarts were more influenced by the French style. Large gardens were normal for huge, stately country piles; however even small cottage gardens were crammed with herbs and aromatic plants, used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It was only with the onset of the Industrial Revolution, when people left the country for the cities in search of their ‘fortune’ that gardening declined to a lesser scale and the medicinal value of plants were ‘forgotten’ for a period of time.
Today, gardens are beginning once again to revert back to a more ‘aromatic’ style, as people seek a traditional approach to their way of life…
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‘For one’s health it is necessary to work in the garden and see the flowers growing’
Introduction
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