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Recognized internationally as a premiere essential oil school, Aromahead Institute seeks to make the study and therapeutic use of essential oils widely accessible to everyone. Aromahead Institute is changing the Aromatherapy educational paradigm through an inspired approach to online education and creating community through social media. Aromahead is known for its free innovative blending videos on YouTube, where we teach you to make baby powder, beeswax candles, incense sticks, cleaning products, facial cleansers, and much more. YouTube link: http://bit.ly/18qzu9V

Aromahead Institute is approved by the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) and the Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIIA)

A path back to your center.Harvested from the sacred Boswellia trees, frankincense (Boswellia sacra) is an invitation in...
12/11/2025

A path back to your center.

Harvested from the sacred Boswellia trees, frankincense (Boswellia sacra) is an invitation inward.

When Boswellia trees are wounded, they respond by sending out resin—an aromatic offering that seals, protects, and restores. In that slow, golden healing, we glimpse a lesson: being strong isn’t about bracing… it’s about connecting with our inner resilience.

Frankincense essential oil (rich in α-pinene) carries this wisdom into our lives. Distilled from that protective resin, it’s renowned for its ability to soften the nervous system—encouraging slower breathing, emotional ease, and a more grounded presence. Its warm, balsamic aroma invites us inward, where clarity and calm can take root.⁠
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On the skin, frankincense is celebrated for supporting healthy cellular repair. Its gentle, restorative nature helps smooth and nourish, making it a beloved ally in mature skin care and recovery after irritation.⁠
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And for the breath, frankincense offers quiet support—easing tension in the chest, clearing blockages, and encouraging deeper respiration.⁠
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As the tree heals its own wounds with resin, frankincense reminds us to do the same: to meet life’s pressures with a peaceful pause, and to let the healing unfold at its own pace.⁠

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Abridged references (let us know if you’d like the unabridged list):
Awadh Ali et al. (2009) – Activity of Boswellia. Natural Products
Battaglia (2019) – The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy
Da Silva et al. (2012) – Activity of α-pinene & β-pinene. Molecules
Han et al. (2017) – Frankincense effects on dermal fibroblasts. Biochimie
Kotb et al. (2023) – Frankincense protects skin. PLOS One
Mikhaeil et al. (2003) – Effects of frankincense. Z. Naturforsch

Pick 3 essential oils for sleep!We live in a culture that glorifies motion. Yet in this endless striving, we forget one ...
10/11/2025

Pick 3 essential oils for sleep!

We live in a culture that glorifies motion. Yet in this endless striving, we forget one of the body’s oldest and most essential rhythms: sleep.

Many essential oils for sleep can calm our nervous system. Different people respond to different aromas. There’s no definitive list of which oils work, and which don’t. That said, some oils are more popular than others. They work in various ways. Some balance the HPA axis (the central stress response system) (Ramadan et al. 2022). Others help lower pulse rate, blood pressure, or cortisol (Hwang, 2006; Hongratanaworakit & Buchbauer, 2006). Yet others help modulate GABA receptors (Yang et al., 2016).

And some help us feel safe to rest simply because we love their aromas.

This post is an invitation for you to create your own sleep blend with some of the best aromatherapy oils for sleep! Pick 2 or 3 and share them in the comments. (If your favorite isn't on our list, feel free to share!)

Sandalwood (Santalum album)
Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Linden Blossom CO₂ (Tilia cordata)
Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
Melissa (Melissa officinalis)
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii or sacra)
Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana)
Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides)
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

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Abridged references:
Hongratanaworakit, T. and Buchbauer, G. (2006) Relaxing effect of ylang ylang on humans after transdermal absorption.

Hwang, J.H. (2006) The effects of the inhalation method using essential oils on blood pressure and stress responses of clients with essential hypertension.

Ramadan, B., Cabeza, L., Cramoisy, S., Houdayer, C., Andrieu, P., Millot, J. L., Haffen, E., Risold, P. Y., & Peterschmitt, Y. (2022). Beneficial effects of prolonged 2-phenylethyl alcohol inhalation on chronic distress-induced anxio-depressive-like phenotype in female mice.

Yang H, Woo J, Pae AN, Um MY, Cho NC, Park KD, Yoon M, Kim J, Lee CJ, Cho S. (2016). α-Pinene, a Major Constituent of Pine Tree Oils, Enhances Non-Rapid Eye Movement Sleep in Mice through GABAA-benzodiazepine Receptors.

07/11/2025

Diffuser blend with 3 essential oils for sleep

A good night’s rest begins long before you slip under the covers. It starts with slowing the rhythm of the body, signaling to the nervous system that it’s safe to soften. This Calm Restful Sleep Diffuser Blend helps create that gentle transition.

Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) opens the blend with its tender, sweet brightness, an invitation to unwind. Cape chamomile brings its quieting, heart-soothing presence, and rosewood offers grounding strength with a subtle floral lift. Together, this sleep aromatherapy blend shifts the atmosphere of a room, creating a cocoon of ease that supports real rest.

3 drops Green Mandarin Oil (Citrus reticulata)
2 drops Cape Chamomile Oil (Eriocephalus punctulatus)
2 drops Rosewood Oil (Aniba rosaeodora ducke)

Begin diffusing about 15 minutes before bed. You don’t need it running all night. A short session is enough to help the body settle. Then turn it off, dim the lights, read a few pages, or listen to soft music or a meditation. Gentle rituals like these guide the mind toward sleep.

Just three oils. A few deep breaths. And the gift of enough stillness to let your mind settle.

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Get our in-depth guide to essential oils for sleep! Find the link in the first comment below.

6 Ways Clove Bud Oil Fights VirusesTraditionally used in herbal medicine for its warming, purifying qualities, clove bud...
05/11/2025

6 Ways Clove Bud Oil Fights Viruses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its warming, purifying qualities, clove bud oil (Syzygium aromaticum) was often diffused in sickrooms or added to steam inhalations to help clear the air and support the body’s defenses. Its rich, spicy aroma signaled strength and protection—and modern research now echoes that wisdom.

These findings come from a new review published in 2025 (Chen et al.) on the antiviral potential of eugenol, the main component in clove bud oil. Researchers reviewed a wide collection of studies and compiled their findings. They found:

1. It blocks viral entry: Eugenol can attach to viral proteins—the parts that normally bind to our cells—and prevent the virus from getting inside. This means it can stop infection before it begins.

2. It slows viral replication: Once a virus is inside the cell, it hijacks the cell’s machinery to make copies of itself. Eugenol interferes with that process, weakening the virus’s ability to multiply.

3. It calms inflammation: Many viral infections cause inflammation—sometimes dangerously so. Eugenol can tone down this overreaction by blocking key inflammatory pathways in the body, especially the NF-κB pathway, which controls the release of inflammatory molecules.

4. It reduces oxidative stress: Viral infections often create oxidative stress—a flood of unstable oxygen molecules that damage tissues. Eugenol’s antioxidant power helps neutralize these free radicals and protect cells from harm.

5. It induces autophagy—the cell’s cleanup process: “Autophagy” is a normal process where cells recycle damaged parts. Some viruses hijack this process to help themselves replicate. Eugenol helps restore balance, preventing viruses from turning this system to their advantage.

6. It protects tissues from viral damage: Eugenol helps shield the body’s tissues from damage caused by infection. It can protect the heart, lungs, and other organs from viral inflammation and cell injury by stabilizing cell membranes, improving blood flow, and supporting the repair of damaged tissue.

Research is still evolving, but it’s fascinating to see modern science affirm what herbalists have known for centuries: the clove bud carries protective wisdom within its aromatic heart. While it doesn't replace medical care when it's needed, clove bud essential oil can be an important addition to your winter wellness routine.

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Share this post with a friend who loves natural remedies!

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Safety Note: Because eugenol is a phenol, clove bud oil can easily irritate the skin or mucous membranes. Always dilute it well in a carrier oil before topical application, typically at no more than 0.5% for general applications. That’s about 2–3 drops per 1 fl oz (30 ml) of carrier.

- We prefer to avoid using this oil for children under 10, or any person with sensitive skin.
- Avoid if you have a clotting disorder, are taking an anticoagulant drug, and after surgery.
- Avoid if you have impaired liver function.

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Chen, M., Nie, Y.-K., Liu, X.-Y., Liu, Y., & Guo, D.-Y. (2025). Antiviral properties of the natural product eugenol: A review. Fitoterapia, 185, 106674

Ylang ylang & alpha brain waves.A single breath can change the way the mind moves.Ylang ylang essential oil (Cananga odo...
03/11/2025

Ylang ylang & alpha brain waves.

A single breath can change the way the mind moves.

Ylang ylang essential oil (Cananga odorata) has a lush, velvety aroma that soothes the senses, inviting the brain into a quieter rhythm. In several small human studies, simply inhaling the oil lowered heart rate and blood pressure, gentle markers that the body was shifting into a calmer state. Researchers also noted a reduction in measured stress levels and an increase in alpha brain waves—the same waves that rise when we slip into rest, meditation, or creative flow (Tan et al., 2015).

Ylang ylang is an amazing essential oil for sleep. But unlike heavier relaxants, ylang ylang doesn’t pull you into drowsiness. Instead, it softens tension while keeping your awareness active. The heart rate slows. The mind steadies. Thoughts untangle. There’s space to breathe again. This is an excellent aromatherapy oil if you have racing thoughts that won’t let you sleep.

Try diffusing ylang ylang while you journal, meditate, or wind down at day’s end. A simple inhale may be enough to guide your body toward ease and your mind toward peace.

Save this post to explore the quiet power of ylang ylang when you need a reset.

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Ylang ylang essential oil has a very strong floral aroma. Too many drops can shift from soothing into overwhelming (sometimes even leading to a headache). We suggest only using 1 or 2 drops at a time—in your aromatherapy diffuser, inhaler, or in a 1 fl oz (30 ml) topical blend.

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Tan, L. T., Lee, L. H., Yin, W. F., Chan, C. K., Abdul Kadir, H., Chan, K. G., & Goh, B. H. (2015). Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Bioactivities of Cananga odorata (Ylang-Ylang). Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM

31/10/2025

Aromatherapy potion for protection! No broom required... just a little botanical plant magic!

This is a diffuser blend that can protect the energy in your space and invite positive vibes. These essential oils are popular in rituals around the world, and are often used to relieve anxiety naturally, reconnecting us with the calm steady center of peace that awaits within to guide us. Diffuse this blend to calm your heart, awaken intuition, and tap into your higher spiritual awareness.

- 5 drops Frankincense Oil (Boswellia carterii)
- 2 drops Vetiver Oil (Vetiveria zizanoides)
- 1 drop Clove Bud Oil (Syzygium aromaticum)

Happy Halloween! 🎃

Pro tip for diffusing these oils: Combine them first in a separate dish. Clove bud and vetiver can be heavy oils, and may sink in your diffuser. Blending them first with frankincense can help ensure the oils actually diffuse.

Do you have a ritual blend you like to use for energetic support?

29/10/2025

Essential Oils for Pain in Your Muscles

When you go “all out” at the gym and your muscles remind you they have limits… I had a great workout, but maybe goint "all out" was going a little too far! By the time I got home, one muscle was definitely overworked. My go-to essential oils for pain relief were spearmint (Mentha spicata) and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) in a simple lotion. The cooling, soothing blend brought instant comfort and helped my recovery time in such a big way.

These two essential oils smell amazing together and they can help ease tension, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing process.

What do you do for sore muscles?

Karen & Jenny are home from a trip to Greece! They love traveling around the world and meeting small-scale distillers, p...
28/10/2025

Karen & Jenny are home from a trip to Greece! They love traveling around the world and meeting small-scale distillers, people they may choose to source essential oils, carriers, hydrosols, or other aromatic products from. We’re so happy to have them back in Montana—and full of inspiration from an unforgettable journey.

Here's a note from Jenny about their trip...

"Our very favorite part of the trip was meeting potential new essential oil distillers and an organic olive oil producer. In the photo, you’ll see Karen smelling some of the most stunning oils we encountered. They were distilled by a woman who, along with her husband (and their little baby!), has dedicated her life to growing sustainable crops on a thriving permaculture farm. Several years ago, they pitched a tent on untouched land, guided by a dream to create something meaningful and in harmony with nature. Today, that same land is alive with purpose and aromatic abundance.

"It’s in places like this, where the soil, the plants, the sun, the rain, and the dedication of the growers and distillers come together, that truly exceptional oils are born. The patience and care they bring to their work remind us that the difference between a great product and an extraordinary one begins long before distillation ever starts.

"We are so honored to bring this level of passion and excellence to you. And this is just one story among hundreds we could share about our producers. We told this beautiful family that we would share their journey with our communities at Aromatics, the Natural Living Club, Aromahead, and The Thriving Aromatherapist because their values align so beautifully with yours and ours.

"I cannot emphasize this enough: The difference between small-scale, regenerative plant work and large-scale monoculture is profound. Large-scale producers often take from the land to maximize yield and profit. We exclusively work with producers who give back, who cultivate balance, and who honor the plants and the earth that make our work possible. And, the difference shines through in aroma and chemical analysis."

Welcome home, Jenny & Karen!

Clove Bud: Quieting Pain at Its SourceClove bud (Syzygium aromaticum) is one of the most potent essential oils for pain ...
27/10/2025

Clove Bud: Quieting Pain at Its Source

Clove bud (Syzygium aromaticum) is one of the most potent essential oils for pain relief we have. The component eugenol is behind much of its benefits. When the body burns with pain, inflammation is whispering beneath the surface—a chorus of molecules sending out distress calls. Prostaglandins, cytokines, and enzymes rise up, amplifying our sensitivity, making the world feel sharp and raw.

Eugenol—the warm, spicy heart of clove bud essential oil—has been shown to ease the storm by lowering the body’s signals that ignite inflammation—COX-2, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6, PGE2, and the pathways that drive them (NF-κB, MAPK) (Barboza et al., 2018; Park et al., 2006).

In simpler terms: it helps turn down the volume on the body’s pain messengers. It’s much like how ibuprofen works—but through gentler, overlapping mechanisms, bringing about natural pain relief.

When we work with aromatherapy thoughtfully, we borrow that intelligence to help our own bodies return to balance.

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—> What’s your favorite blend of essential oils for pain relief?

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Safety Note: Because eugenol is a phenol, clove bud oil can easily irritate the skin or mucous membranes. Always dilute it well in a carrier oil before topical application, typically at no more than 0.5% for general applications. That’s about 2–3 drops per 1 fl oz (30 ml) of carrier.

- We prefer to avoid using this oil for children under 10, or any person with sensitive skin.
- Avoid if you have a clotting disorder, are taking an anticoagulant drug, and after surgery.
- Avoid if you have impaired liver function.
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Barboza, J. N., da Silva Maia Bezerra Filho, C., Silva, R. O., Medeiros, J., & de Sousa, D. P. (2018). An Overview on the Anti-inflammatory Potential and Antioxidant Profile of Eugenol. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity

Park, C. K., Li, H. Y., Yeon, K. Y., Jung, S. J., Choi, S. Y., Lee, S. J., Lee, S., Park, K., Kim, J. S., & Oh, S. B. (2006). Eugenol inhibits sodium currents in dental afferent neurons. Journal of dental research

Clove Bud Oil & Cancer ResearchResearchers are discovering that eugenol—the main compound in clove essential oil (Syzygi...
25/10/2025

Clove Bud Oil & Cancer Research

Researchers are discovering that eugenol—the main compound in clove essential oil (Syzygium aromaticum)—has shown promising anticancer activity in early lab studies.

In one study, scientists found that eugenol helped prevent the development of skin cancer in lab models by reducing inflammation (lowering levels of cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α) and by boosting the body’s antioxidant defenses. These effects seem to protect cells from oxidative stress, one of the key drivers of cancer formation (Barboza et al., 2018).

Other studies have looked at eugenol’s effects on cervical and breast cancer cells, showing that it can slow cancer cell growth and even enhance the effects of chemotherapy drugs such as gemcitabine and cisplatin—potentially reducing their side effects.

Researchers believe this happens because eugenol helps the body’s natural “cell cleanup” processes (like apoptosis) work more efficiently and blocks NF-κB, a signaling pathway that drives inflammation and tumor growth.

While these studies are still in early stages and mostly limited to lab and animal research, they point toward eugenol as a promising natural compound for future cancer research—one that may complement conventional treatments or help scientists design gentler, more effective therapies.

This research is exciting, but it’s important to remember that lab studies often use much higher concentrations of clove bud oil than are safe in aromatherapy, or apply it in ways we can’t (like directly to cancer cells in test tubes). Clove bud oil isn’t a replacement for medical treatment, but it can still offer gentle support for wellness, balance, and prevention as part of a holistic lifestyle.

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---> Clove bud oil has so many benefits for us!
---> Get my full profile of the essential oil: comment CLOVE and I’ll send you a link.

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Safety Notes: Because eugenol is a phenol, clove bud oil can easily irritate the skin or mucous membranes. Always dilute it well in a carrier oil before topical application, typically at no more than 0.5% for general applications. That’s about 2–3 drops per 1 fl oz (30 ml) of carrier. We prefer to avoid using this oil for children under 10, or any person with sensitive skin. Avoid if you have a clotting disorder, are taking an anticoagulant drug, and after surgery. Avoid if you have impaired liver function.

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REF
Barboza, J. N., da Silva Maia Bezerra Filho, C., Silva, R. O., Medeiros, J., & de Sousa, D. P. (2018). An Overview on the Anti-inflammatory Potential and Antioxidant Profile of Eugenol. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2018, 3957262.

Shared by popular request! The castor oil pack is a classic home remedy. It has long been trusted for the digestive syst...
23/10/2025

Shared by popular request!

The castor oil pack is a classic home remedy. It has long been trusted for the digestive system, especially when cramps, bloating, or constipation are an issue. The combination of gentle heat and ricinoleic acid from castor oil helps relax the intestinal muscles and stimulate smooth movement through the bowels.

Why it works:
Castor seed oil contains ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid shown to increase circulation and stimulate the body’s natural detox and lymphatic processes. When used with heat, it helps soften tissues, calm inflammation, and support smoother elimination. Castor oil is deeply grounding—warming, heavy, and nurturing. It encourages release on both physical and emotional levels, helping the body let go of what it no longer needs.

How to use it:
Apply a thin layer of warm castor oil directly to the abdomen.

Cover with a piece of flannel or a soft cloth, then apply a warm heating pad on top for 20–30 minutes.

You can use castor oil alone, or as a carrier for essential oils. Combine it with antispasmodic or digestive-stimulating oils.

Try this blend!
- 1 fl oz (30 ml) Castor Oil (Ricinus communis)
- 3 drops Ginger Oil (Zingiber officinale)
- 3 drops Roman Chamomile Oil (Chamaemelum nobile)
- 3 drops Sweet Orange Oil (Citrus sinensis)

Directions
Follow the same directions for a castor oil pack.

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Do not ingest castor oil unless directed by a healthcare provider. Topical use is generally considered safe.
Avoid use on broken skin or during pregnancy without medical supervision.

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---> Have you ever used a castor oil pack?

How Ginger Calms NauseaAcross 10 clinical trials, ginger showed real natural benefits for easing nausea and vomiting. It...
21/10/2025

How Ginger Calms Nausea

Across 10 clinical trials, ginger showed real natural benefits for easing nausea and vomiting. It even performed well compared to a placebo (Tóth et al. 2018). How does it work? Studies show it helps the stomach move smoothly and gently quiets the brain’s “nausea” signals—much like prescription anti-nausea drugs, but softer (Lete & Allué, 2016).

It works on both the digestive system and the nervous system, which are closely linked by the vagus nerve. (That’s why stress and anxiety often lead to an upset stomach or digestive issues).

Ginger has been a healer’s friend for millennia—warm, golden, and grounding. From seasick sailors to new mothers to patients waking after surgery, its steady fire brings the body back to balance. We love when modern research catches up to what tradition already knew.

In aromatherapy, we can use ginger essential oil (Zingiber officinale) in essential oil blends for nausea and an upset stomach. It’s one of our favorites for motion sickness, morning sickness, and indigestion. Ginger oil is natural and effective, but can sometimes feel a bit harsh on mucous membranes. So if you’re making an inhaler, try blending it with gentle, soothing oils like sweet orange (Citrus sinensis). We also like using lower dilutions when applying it to skin.

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—> Have you ever blended with ginger oil?

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REFS:
Lete, I., & Allué, J. (2016). The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy. Integrative medicine insights

Tóth, B., Lantos, T., Hegyi, P., Viola, R., Vasas, A., Benkő, R., Gyöngyi, Z., Vincze, Á., Csécsei, P., Mikó, A., Hegyi, D., Szentesi, A., Matuz, M., & Csupor, D. (2018). Ginger (Zingiber officinale): An alternative for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting. A meta-analysis. Phytomedicine

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Our Story

Founded in 1998, Aromahead Institute enjoys an extensive international network of graduates – and many of our alumni have gone on to pursue successful careers and businesses in Aromatherapy and the Healing Arts.

Andrea Butje, LMT, Clinical Aromatherapist – and recipient of the Alliance of International Aromatherapists Lifetime Achievement Award for her notable career contributions as an educator, entrepreneur and author – serves as the Institute’s director and lead instructor.

Before forming the Aromahead Institute, Andrea co-founded the acclaimed Finger Lakes School of Massage and the popular Aromatherapy retail supplier Aromatics International.

As a consultant to importers of high-quality Essential Oils, Andrea has traveled the world building relationships with distillers and small organic farms – personally ensuring the integrity of the oils recommended by Aromahead Institute.