USING INHALATIONS

above Ice cream scented with lavender makes a pretty and gently aromatic dish.

The fastest way to benefit from a fragrance is by inhalation: nerve pathways lead from the lining of the nose to the part of the brain that deals with memory and emotions.

tissue inhalation Sprinkle a few drops of essential oil on a tissue, keep it with you and sniff throughout the day. This is a particularly good way to simply and easily combat stress or work pressures in the office.

steam inhalation These are great for clearing blocked sinuses. Add 5 drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming water. Carefully lean over the bowl, cover your head and the bowl with a towel to make a tent and breathe in deeply.

sauna During winter, antiviral essential oils, such as eucalyptus and pine, work well in the sauna. Mix 3-4 drops of oil in the water bucket and splash on to the hot coals.

Nourishing The Body
Fragrant spices and herbs - even edible flowers - can add considerably to our enjoyment of food and drink and can be highly beneficial. It is not advisable to take essential oils internally without medical supervisions.

food and drink Use aromatic spices to pep up your cooking, eat fragrant herbs in salads and sauces, and make healthy herbal, fruit and spice drinks. Spiced and herbal oils and vinegars also make wonderful gifts.

infusions Herbal teas or tisanes are made by boiling in water the soft leaves, stems or flowers of a plant, and then straining off the liquid. Chamomile flowers combined with mint leaves makes a refreshing summer drink.

decoctions For a stronger, spicy brew, use the bark and roots of a plant. Use 25g/1oz whole spices to 900ml/11/2 pints / 33/4 cups water. Boil until the liquid is reduced to 600ml/1 pint/21/2 cups, then strain, discarding the spices.