Synthetic Chemicals, Good or Bad?
The question of synthetic chemicals in natural products is a difficult one. Firstly, for a product to truly be "natural", it shouldn't contain synthetics, although there are some that argue all things are technically natural.

I personally refuse to use petroleum-derived substances in the body products I make - not only for the questionable safety of some of them, but also because petroleum is a non-renewable resource. It takes millions of years to form and we are gobbling it up at an incredible rate, which doesn't combine well with the fact that there is only so much to be had.

As is mentioned on this site, it is very important to note that just because something is natural does not mean that it is safe. Some of the most toxic things around are considered natural. Essential oils, in particular, need to be used with a healthy amount of respect, caution and knowledge. When it comes to herbs, I don't think they should be sold at Longs, Safeway, et cetera because the only people who buy herbs there are not very educated about them. The quality is generally low (so people think they don't work) and those purchasing them do not have enough herbal knowledge to keep themselves away from potential harm, in particular the elderly. The example that comes to mind is the situation where someone on prescription anticoagulants takes Gingko because somewhere (TV and advertising) they heard it is good for your memory.

The one area that troubles me the most in the synthetic vs. natural debate is when it comes to the fragrances of over-harvested, endangered or otherwise compromised plant species. I don't use sandalwood or rosewood in my products for this reason. Would it be appropriate to use sandalwood fragrance as a replacement? Possibly so, although it is obviously not equivalent, nor would it have the therapeutic qualities of the real thing. Though, if it is well enough crafted, it might make a pleasant scent. I also wonder if it is appropriate to cut down entire trees so that I can have a nice smelling lotion or bath salt?

My dad asked me one day, if we switched all of the scented body and other products around to natural fragrances, what would become of our plant populations? To be honest, I don't know. Maybe the more fitting question is why do we need everything to be so smelly? Most people's sense of smell has been burnt out by overload. For a dose of what we're dealing with, just walk down the cleaning isle of your local grocery store. I like what Mindy Green (aromatherapist) said in a class I took from her - the purpose of perfume is not to fill up a room, but to have just enough scent to draw someone closer in to you.

For the record, I love wonderful smells, but I have an equal distaste for unpleasant or conventionally perfumy ones. Despite my love of natural fragrance, I still don't need to have every single product I buy for myself and my home to have an overwhelming scent to it.

I guess the gist of my entry is that there are pros and cons to both sides on many levels. Those of us that have interest in such things need to seriously consider the arguments and make up our own minds. As you see, I choose not to use synthetic chemicals or petroleum products in anything I make, but it is something I have thought about at great length and will continue to. It is important not to be puritanical, simply for the sake of doing so. When presented with new information, our opinions should be reevaluated and adjusted, if appropriate.

The best thing I can do is educate those around me and get them to thinking about their purchases. They can buy as they like, but at least they will be doing it consciously.

Erika Barnes
Sequoia Botanicals

Man verus Nature
Topic: Ingredient Learning
Overview

There are actually people who argue that chemical ingredients are better for people that natural ones. This may seem strange, that, even a super strong supporter of natural care, I believe this can be true in some cases. Some cases.

So, let me begin by saying that there are pros and cons to both. Natural ingredients have more pros, while chemical ingredients have more cons. Feel free to post your thoughts.

Misconceptions about Natural Products

There are alot of people who claim that a natural product is great for everyone, at all times.

Though natural is generally the best alternative it isn't safe to assume that just because something is natural, it's safer for your skin and body.

Don't be fooled into thinking that essential oils are safe, just because they're natural. There are many essential oils that cause skin reactions on both normal and sensitive skin. Most can be used in very small amounts, but don't go smothering yourself in oil, just because it's natural. Talk to a professional or do some safety research on that product. Scent related reactions are uncommon in essential oils.







Vitamin E, which is generally an amazing product, is actually an allergen for a surprisingly large number of people. It is hardly an epidemic, but, it is still an interesting fact.






Come back soon, I'll be talking about other natural and chemical products regularily.

Website: www.oriana-naturals.com
Blog: http://oriana-naturals.com
Yahoo Group: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/younaturally/

Neroli Essential Oil (Citrus aurantium)
Topic: Ingredient Learning
I have decided to begin this blog with Neroli one the most precious and beautiful oils available.

I am deeply passionate about all essential oils, but, for some reason the mystery and subtly of this oil intrigues me to the point of elation. It has been saod that those who are private, somewhat reserved and seemingly calm and cool are generally attracted to it. Perhaps this is why?

Like all oils I could do a PhD on it, and could spend countless years studying its origins, its life, it's growth and change over the years, and it's impact on societies and the people in them. Read the below entry for valuable and wonderful information.

Symbolism:
It represents purity, as it is always loving and giving.

Where does it come from?
The Orange Blosson, the flower from which Neroli is distilled or extracted from, grows on an evergreen that can grow up to 10 feet tall. These trees are native to China, but are now grown in France, Italy, Morocco, Tunisia, and parts of the USA.

Interesting History
There is one theory that claims that the name Neroli was derived from the name of Emperor Nero. However, the more popular and interesting belief is that it came from Anne-Marie, Princess of Neroli. She was the wife of an Italian prince who lived in the 16th century. She used it to perfume her gloves and bath water. Her glove perfume became very popular and gloves scented with it were known as "guanti Neroli".

Historical Uses:
Through history, it has been used as a natural deodorant, a perfume, an ingredient in make-up, an antiseptic, a germ killer, a gentle aphrodisiac, and an antidepressant. There was a recent study that found after 5 days of massage all candidates noticed a positive change in their mood.

Neroli in skin care:
Neroli is an excellent option for skin-care products.
- It is gentle and toning.
- Known to regenerate skin cells.
- Improves the skin elasticity.
- Can prevent acne, scarring and stretch marks.
- Can improve broken capilliaries.
- It is soothing and balancing to dry and/or mature skin.

Neroli for emotional healing:
For those who seem calm and collected on the outside but suffer from considerable worry and stress, you can turn to Neroli to relax and become more in touch with your heart. It can let you get in touch with your true emotions.
- With its calming effect on the nerves, it is used to relieve depression, stress, shock and panic.
- It seems to encourage a sense of lightness while lifting sorrow. It brings joy, understanding, calm, peace, and a sense of loving guidance.
- It is an excellent for those who have suffered form sexual trauma, resulting in a fear of or a distrust in love.

Having one of the highest vibrations in essential oils, Neroli is an oil to be respected, trusted, and loved.

*Neroli should never be used during pregnancy.

Check out the Oriana Naturals Website
www.oriana-naturals.com