Pine essential oil may be natural insect repellent

As the weather warms, we spend more and more time outside. Whether you have a family camping trip planned, or just plan to hang out in your backyard, mosquitoes can make outdoor living pretty uncomfortable. However, there is another reason to use insect repellent. "Human diseases caused by blood-feeding ticks and mosquitoes represent a serious threat to public health worldwide," according to the website ScienceDaily.com.

Agricultural Research Service scientists have discovered that a naturally-occurring compound made from pine oil seems to deter the biting of mosquitoes more effectively than the widely used synthetic chemical repellent DEET.

"Many natural-product chemicals isolated from plants and essential oils have proven to have repellent effects," reports the article "Tick and Mosquito Repellent Can Be Made Commercially From Pine Oil." "This newly-discovered repellent can be prepared inexpensively from pine oil feedstock in ton quantities for large-scale commercial applications, giving it a significant advantage over many of the other natural-product repellent chemicals."

In the meantime, however, pine Pinus sylvestris essential oil has been shown to have natural insecticide properties. The essential oil has a sweet, woody fragrance with a somewhat balsamic undertone, which sweetens as it evaporates. Used externally, the Recommended Daily Dose is 1-3 drops, or diffuse into the air.

*A skin patch test is recommended. Avoid use on sensitive or damaged skin.

Obama sees alternative medicine as a practical avenue for prevention

During an April 29 Town Hall meeting in Arnold, MO, President Barack Obama said, "We should do what works," expressing his openness to including complementary alternative medicine (CAM) in the U.S. healthcare system.

Obama went on to say, “I think it is pretty well documented through scientific studies that acupuncture, for example, can be very helpful in relieving certain things like migraines and other ailments—or at least as effective as more intrusive interventions.”

According to a press release on the Nutraceuticals World website, "The response followed a question posed by a licensed acupuncturist and massage therapist, who asked the president how alternative medicine would fit into his new healthcare system."

The press release goes on to say:

"'I think one basic principle that we know is that the more we do on the prevention side, the more we can obtain serious savings down the road,” he added after commenting directly on acupuncture. President Obama also stressed the importance of changing the current logic of the healthcare system, which focuses only on reducing costs in the near-term.

“Reimbursement for healthcare provided by CAM practitioners not only would support the health of the public,” said Michael McGuffin, president of the American Herbal Products Association, Silver Spring, MD, “it represents a significant opportunity for products used and prescribed by CAM practitioners and a major step forward in the development of an innovative and wellness-based healthcare system.'"

To read the original press release on the Nutraceuticals World website, click here.

Earth Day is a celebration of life and health

In honor of Earth Day, a celebration of life and health, ACHS wants to support your choice to live well. Now through April 26, 2009, we are offering 20% off your entire purchase of earth friendly products made through the ACHS Apothecary Shoppe College Store.

When you purchase sustainable products, you protect the environment, but you also take a further step toward protecting your personal health. Help your body to thrive. Purchase organic, spray and synthetic-free products whenever possible.

Stock up on EcoCert organic, sustainably wildcrafted herbs and essential oils, do-it-yourself natural body care kits, health reference texts, flower essences, gardening supplies, and a wide variety of holistic health resources.

CLICK HERE for 20% off your entire purchase of earth friendly gifts.
Offer expires April 26, 2009.

Did you know...
In 1970, 20 million celebrated the first Earth Day. Founded by John Gardener, Founder of Common Cause, Earth Day started as a grassroots celebration of the planet, which continues today.

Reduce stress at home with essential oils

Aromatherapy is a very effective tool for stress management. But, if you’re on the go, it can be a challenge to schedule time for a relaxing aromatherapy bath or to blend your own soothing essential oil scent. Don’t worry. Incorporating essential oils into your busy lifestyle is easier than you may think.

Here are four tips for using essential oils at home. They’re simple. They’re effective. And above all, they’re relatively inexpensive. Use essential oils while:

1. Cleaning.
Place two or three essential oils drops onto your vacuum cleaner’s filter pad, and the inhale the fresh aroma as you do your cleaning. Essential oils known for their energizing properties include: bergamot, eucalyptus, and grapefruit.

2. Room freshener.
To keep the aroma fresh and alive, place a few drops of essential oil directly into a light bulb scent ring. These rings are easy to find at most local grocery or drug stores. Essential oils known for their calming properties include: chamomile, lavender, and neroli.

3. Laundry.
Replace your synthetically fragranced detergent with a fragrance-free, natural variety. Then add a few drops of the essential oil of your choice to the wash cycle. Essential oils known for their stress-relief properties include: anise, jasmine, and sandalwood.

4. Drains.
To clear musty smells from around the home, add a few drops of essential oil to drains, the bottom of trashcans, and the inside of toilet paper rolls. Essential oils known for their antibacterial properties include: cedarwood, peppermint, and tea tree.

To learn more about aromatherapy diffusers, click here. For a selection of certified organic, therapeutic essential oils, click here.

Lemon hand and nail butter keeps the gardener's hands fresh

Lemon hand and nail butter keeps the gardener's hands fresh

Working in the garden often means a lot of digging, soil work, and exposure to water. Taken separately, these garden tasks can be very rewarding. But together, they can wreak havoc on your hands.

It may be the price you pay for a lush garden and fresh fruits and veggies, but overdried or cracked skin can be painful. Keep your hands in mint condition with this recipe for lemon essential oil hand and nail butter.

Lemon Citrus limonum essential oil is a pale-yellow color and has a light, though fresh aroma. As an aromatherapy oil, lemon essential oil, when inhaled, has a soothing effect. When applied topically, such as in the hand and nail butter recipe below, lemon essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties.

To keep your hands healthy, moisturized, and active in the garden, try this all-natural, do-it-yourself lemon hand and nail butter recipe. (This recipe can also be used to soften chapped lips, and rough knees, elbows, and feet.)

For free aromatherapy and natural body care downloads, visit the Apothecary Shoppe.

Ingredients
Beeswax 1-T Cocoa butter 2-T. Sweet almond oil 4-T Lanolin, anhydrous 1-T Lemon essential oil 50- drops

Directions
In a small saucepan over low heat or in a double boiler, warm all ingredients, except the lemon essential oil until the wax and cocoa butter are just melted. Remove from heat and stir a few times to blend. Add essential oil, stir, and pour into container(s). Cover container(s) lightly with a paper towel, and cap when cooled. Leave the butter at room temperature for 12 hours prior to use to allow cocoa butter to set up completely. The finished formula should have a soft paste wax consistency. It requires no refrigeration, but for maximum potency and reshness, use within one year. Store in plastic or glass jars or tins. Yields approximately 1/2-cup.

Problems with air travel use homeopathic Rhus tox

Homeopathy is based on the Law of Similars, or “like cures like.” In other words, homeopathics are minute doses of medicines, which, if given in larger doses, would produce similar symptoms to what the client is already suffering from.

However, in small doses, homeopathics have been shown to cure what they also cause. When homeopathic medicines are tested on healthy humans, symptoms appear. This is known as a “ medicine induced state of disease,” and the symptoms can be related to the symptoms of many natural disease states, whether of an emotional or physiological nature, or a mixture of both.

A homeopathic practitioner, then, is trained to link the natural disease state with homeopathic medicines, and to choose a homeopathic which, in minute doses, will relieve the specific symptoms of their client and bring about a curative effect.

Did you know...homeopathics are:

• Natural and holistic medicines
• Effective in crisis situations (In 1801, Hahnemann, the Father of Homeopathy, used Belladonna to treat and prevent scarlet fever.)
• Fast-acting for trauma situations, both emotional and physical

Homeopathy Travel Tip: The homeopathic Rhus tox has been shown effective for use with air travel, especially when there is nausea.

For more information about at-home use of homeopathy, check out Homeopathic Self-care by naturopathic doctors Robert and Judyth Reichenberg-Ulman.

World Homeopathy Awareness Week, April 10-16, is sponsored by the World Homeopathy Awareness Organization to create an international network of support for homeopathy and homeopathic practitioners. For more information, click here.

How-to aromatic massage guide and recipes

Our sense of smell not only helps to protect us, it is also one of the ways we communicate. Therefore, blending smell with touch massage can create a very romantic and intimate experience.

To create a sensual atmosphere:
1. Create a private space.
2. Fill your space with your favorite colors and fabrics, including pillows and/or blankets.
3. Minimize outside noise.
4. Details: relaxing music, aromatherapy candles, and fresh flowers.

To enhance aromatic massage:
1. Diffuse the essential oil of your choice into the room (essential oils can also be added directly into massage oils and bath water; see the recipes below).
2. Focus on comfort and intent.
3. Communicate through all of your senses; don’t focus on conversation only.
4. Play. Laugh. Enjoy yourself.

Aromatic Massage Recipes

For massage, essential oils are best added into a base oil like jojoba, almond, or avocado.

1. Basic Massage Oil
Sweet almond oil: 4-oz
Rose Rosa damascena oil: 1-2-drops
Jasmine Jasmine grandiflorum: 1-2-drops

2. Rose Water Ointment
Sweet almond oil: 1-oz
Beeswax: ½-oz
Rose water: 7-oz
Rose Rosa damascena: 8-drops

Melt the beeswax and almond oil over a water bath. Remove from heat and cool until lukewarm. Beat in the rose water until the ointment emulsifies, and then add the 8-drops of rose essential oil.

Once relaxed head to toe, follow your sensuous massage with another sensory indulgence:

Chocolate, best shared by two.

1. Liquid Chocolate (makes four servings)*
3-T unsweetened cocoa powder
Stevia: 10-drops
Pinch of salt
3-cups 1% milk
½-t vanilla extract
Ice cubes

Instructions: Slowly warm the milk on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent scalding. In a medium bowl, stir together the cocoa powder, Stevia, and salt. Slowly pour in 1-cup of the milk and whisk until smooth. Whisk in remaining 2-cups of the milk and vanilla. Fill four 8-oz mugs with Liquid Chocolate and serve warm.

For a taste of the exotic (and increased libido), add cinnamon to flavor, or add a few drops of rose essential oil.

CLICK HERE to download a free aromatherapy ambiance blend recipe.

*Recipe provided by ACHS graduate Maureen Jeanson, author of Squeaky Gourmet.

5 stress-relief tips to protect your health

For some people exercise is relaxation. It is difficult to worry and fret about the mistakes and decisions of the day when you are coordinating arms and legs in a dance movement or running that extra mile up a hill. What’s more, relaxation is doing something you enjoy, absorbing yourself in the moment, and nothing else.

Emotional and mental relaxation is as fundamental to your health program as the food you put into your mouth. Do not neglect this aspect of your health regime, regardless of how busy you are.

For easy, at-home, do-it-yourself stress relief and health support, try these techniques:

1. Diffuse your favorite essential oils in your office and home. Lavender, neroli, and anise are pleasant, yet effective stress-reducing aromas.

2. Soak in a fragrant bath, scented with lavender or rose essential oils. Play some relaxing music, light an aromatherapy candle, read a book, and relax. Remember not to have the water too hot, and add the essential oils just before you get in, as they evaporate quickly.

3. Eat a good meal full of fresh vegetables and health-supporting herbs, like rosemary, which enlivens both the senses and digestion.

4. Remember to enjoy life. Do something fun: Walk in the park, watch a comedy, or savor a great meal.

5. Every night, before you go to sleep, write down five things you are grateful for in your life that day.

CLICK HERE for a free download about the history of aromatherapy.

Rosemary is a natural antibacterial herb

Native to the Mediterranean, rosemary is a needle-like evergreen with a camphor-like scent and a fresh, somewhat bitter taste. When used topically, rosemary has antibacterial, antiseptic, nervine (sedative), and stimulant properties, among others. As a culinary ingredient, rosemary imparts flavor and aroma, and helps to facilitate digestion.

In addition, Rosemary officinalis, is one of the earliest and most renowned of the English medicinal herbs. A powerful antibacterial herb, rosemary is often used in hair preparations and as an ingredient in soaps and toiletries and is best know as a memory and circulation support.

Discover the power of practicing sustainable wellness with simple solutions like adding herbs into your everyday diet.

Join our Herb of the Month Club and have high quality, organic, healing, therapeutic grade herbs delivered to our kitchen once a month. Each month an 8-oz package of the featured herb will automatically arrive, including an informational description of the herb and recipes and formulas to help promote your natural health lifestyle. Or, call (800) 487-8839 for information.

Aromatherapy Can Help PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event. Typically, this event threatens serious physical danger or involves physical violence. Following this experience, it would not be out of the ordinary for someone to feel scared, confused or angry. However, if these feelings continue long-term and become disruptive to your daily activities, you may be suffering from PTSD.

In a given year, about 7.7 million American adults suffer from PTSD. Although it was first brought to public attention in relation to war veterans, PTSD can result from common events, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or personal assault.

It is estimated that among veterans, the rate of PTSD is somewhere between 14 percent and 33 percent. Not every person who experiences a traumatic event will experience PTSD, and not every Soldier will either, but being aware of possible symptoms and stressors could help with treatment and prevention.

In the past, PTSD has commonly been treated with pharmaceuticals or some type of mood management therapy. Today, information about alternative treatments is becoming more widespread and research has substantiated the historical use of aromatherapy for depression. Why not for PTSD?

Aromatherapy means: the use of aromas for their healing properties. The documented use of essential oils goes back to Egyptian times, where herbs were burnt in public squares to purify the air. Today we know that lemon essential oil, for example, can be used to lift mild depression. We also know that aromatherapy is a natural, less invasive treatment for chronic afflictions. And compared to most pharmaceuticals, aromatherapy is typically less expensive and more accessible.

Many people with PTSD get better over time, but about 1 out of 3 experience PTSD as a recurring challenge. Use of aromatherapy has many advantages in these cases. If used correctly, they have minimal to no adverse effects when used over time. Aromatherapy is also a healthy alternative for those opposed to long-term use of prescription drugs, and essential oils, when diluted and applied to the skin (or inhaled), can be absorbed into the bloodstream for almost immediate results.

Essential oils are distilled directly from plants. The term “essential” is applied to these oils because they contain the fragrant part of the plant. Essential oils are powerful and concentrated. Many should not be applied to the skin in their undiluted form. Rather, essential oils should be diluted with almond or apricot oil, which lend additional nutrient and antioxidant health benefits.

Aromatherapy expert, Dorene Petersen, President of the Australasian College of Health Sciences, said her college store carries organic certified oils because “it’s important to have the highest quality oils available. Essential oils are extracted from plants, which absorb toxins in their environment. Certified organic essential oils are free of contaminants and pesticides; a purer oil means greater health benefits.”

When treating chronic challenges like PTSD, a consistent routine is important. The recommended solution is a combination of wellness protocols such as holistic nutrition and aromatherapy. A balanced, natural foods diet is the greatest tool we have to maintain healthy physical and psychological functions. When regularly added into the diet, aromatic herb plants that contain essential oils will boost immunity, circulation, and metabolism, among other things. For example, chamomile, which has been found to soothe low levels of stress and depression, can be made into a tea, and geranium, which is commonly used to stabilize emotions, can replace vanilla in baking recipes.

To complement a healthy diet, here are some suggestions for simple, yet effective uses of aromatherapy at home. First, undiluted essential oils can quickly be diffused into the air on a room-by-room basis. Second, you can drop essential oils directly into a relaxing bath or foot soak. (Some oils are more potent than others; until you know how the oil will react with your system, less is more.) Or, try replacing commercial cleaners and air fresheners with essential oils and sprinkling a few drops in and around drains, trashcans, and pillowcases.

Before using aromatherapy as a PTSD protocol, consult with a Registered Aromatherapist, which can be located through the Aromatherapy Registration Council Web site: www. aromatherapycouncil.org.

The Australasian College of Health Sciences is the only DETC-accredited, fully online college offering continuing education, certificate, diploma, and degree programs in complementary alternative medicine with aromatherapy and holistic health majors. For more information about aromatherapy and the college, visit www.achs.edu.

CLICK HERE to download a PDF of the complete article.

© 2009 Article originally appeared in the February edition of Military Spouse Magazine

Cajuput: Oil of the Month

Cajuput, Melaleuca leucadendron, is distilled from the leaves of the cajuput tree, and is known for its highly aromatic aroma. Full of stimulating properties, the aroma is similar to camphor or rosemary; the taste is bitter.

Traces of copper may be found in the oil, if it has a greenish tint. The oil should be stored in a colored bottle out of direct sunlight.

Therapeutic actions of cajuput include: antispasmodic, diaphoretic, stimulant, antiseptic, and anthelmintic. When diluted, according to the Recommended Daily Dose, and taken internally, the oil has a warming sensation, which can increase the pulse and perspiration. When applied externally, the oil is a stimulant and has a mild counter-irritant property. It is suggested that the oil be diluted in olive or similar base oil in a 1-part cajuput to 2-part oil ratio.

Cajuput is January’s featured essential oil for ACHS’s Oil of the Month Club. As member, each month you will receive 5 ml of the featured oil and an informational insert, as well as formulas and tips for healthy living. Oil of the Month is available through the Apothecary Shoppe at: www.apothecary-shoppe.com.

More hospitals offering CAM programs

Hospitals across the nation are responding to patient demand and integrating complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) services with the conventional services they normally provide, according to the results of a new survey released [September 15, 2008] by Health Forum, a subsidiary of the American Hospital Association (AHA). The survey shows that more than 37 percent of responding hospitals indicated they offer one or more CAM therapies, up from 26.5 percent in 2005. Additionally, hospitals in the southern Atlantic states led the nation in offering CAM services to the patients they serve, followed by east north central states and those in the middle Atlantic.

CAM is not based solely on traditional western allopathic medical teachings, and can include acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy, diet and lifestyle changes, herbal medicine, massage therapy and more. CAM services also reflect hospitals' desire to treat the whole person-body, mind, and spirit.

"Complementary and alternative medicine has shown great promise in supporting and stimulating healing," said AHA President and CEO Rich Umbdenstock. "It's one of the many tools hospitals look to as they continue to create optimal healing environments for the patients they serve."

According to the survey, 84 percent of hospitals indicated patient demand as the primary rationale in offering CAM services and 67 percent of survey respondents stated clinical effectiveness as their top reason.

"Today's patients have better access to health information and are demanding more personalized care," said study author Sita Ananth. "The survey results reinforce the fact that patients want the best that both traditional and alternative medicine can offer."

Other survey results include:

* Massage therapy is in the top two services provided in both outpatient and inpatient settings;
* The majority of hospitals that offered CAM were urban hospitals (72 percent) and were medium-sized (100-299 beds); and
* Most CAM services are not reimbursable by insurance and are paid for out-of-pocket by patients.

The third biannual survey was mailed in November 2007 to 6,439 U.S. hospitals. The report is available online at www.healthforumonlinestore.com or by calling (800) 242-2626.

© 2008 American Hospital Association: http://www.aha.org/aha/press-release/2008/080915-pr-cam.html

Do-it-Yourself Skin Care a Must, Recipes for Health

Our bodies are comprised of up to 70% water. But, we still need to moisturize daily. Why? Moisturizing keeps water in our skin, and a good, natural moisturizer will also shield your skin from environmental irritants like dust, toxins, and winter weather.

To help keep water in, our bodies produce a natural moisturizer called sebum. But sebum is no longer enough. Most people don’t drink enough water, eat properly, or avoid pollution enough to not need an additional moisturizer.

Remember, even the best or most expensive moisturizers will fall short if you don’t drink enough water. Our skin draws moisture from our bodies, and without it, the skin dries, shrinks, and wrinkles with age. Water also flushes toxins from the system, which results in healthier body systems, and hydrates, which helps with concentration and stress relief.

CLICK HERE for more do-it-yourself natural skin care. Download the ACHS Holiday Recipe Book for personal use or include with your holistic health gifts this holiday season.

To make Body Moisture Oil:

Mix 90 ml of sweet almond oil and 5 ml of jojoba oil. Then add about 20 drops of your favorite essential oils. We suggest:

Pain Free Oil
Essential Oil of Lavender 10 drops
Essential Oil of Rosemary 8 drops
Essential Oil of Peppermint 4 drops
Essential Oil of Ginger 4 drops
Essential Oil of Black pepper 4 drops

Muscle Toner
Essential Oil of Grapefruit 8 drops
Essential Oil of Ginger 4 drops
Essential Oil of Lemon 3 drops
Essential Oil of Cypress 3 drops
Essential Oil of Juniper 2 drops

To print the Body Moisture Oil recipes CLICK HERE.

Complete your one-stop shopping at the Apothecary Shoppe. Do you already receive Apothecary Shoppe emails? If not, call 800-487-8839 to sign up and ask about your $25 gift certificate, available through December 20, 2008.

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Combat Stress and Winter Blahs, Recipes for Health

Relaxation is as fundamental for good health as the food you eat. It is important not to neglect relaxation, regardless of how busy you are.

Attitude and emotion have a significant influence on our health. We live in a stressed out world—just driving to work or reading the newspaper can cause stress. And although we cannot always control what causes us stress, we can control how we deal with stress.

Be proactive. Reacting to stress typically causes more stress. Negative thoughts and worry accumulate in the body, which can lead to aches and pains, dysfunction, and premature aging. What to do? Let go of stress. Aromatherapy is an easy-to-use, at-home technique for stress relief. A few moments of daily Me Time will help you to be your best at all other times.

CLICK HERE for quick and easy aromatherapy suggestions.

Combat your Stress and Winter Blahs with this bath salts recipe—a treat for you and a simple, natural gift for friends and family.

Winter Blahs Bath Salts (more recipes available HERE)

Mix together in a bowl and sift. Add 4T to one full bath.

1c or 8oz Epsom Salts
1/2c or 4oz Sea or Mineral Salts
1/8c or 1oz White Clay
3 drops Essential Oil of Geranium
3 drops Essential Oil of Lavender
2 drops Essential Oil of Lemon
2 drops Essential Oil of Sandalwood

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To Sleep, Perchance to Smell?

To Sleep, Perchance to Smell?
Odors can affect the emotional tone of dreams, study finds

By Serena Gordon
Reproduced from HealthDay Reporter




SUNDAY, Sept. 21 (HealthDay News) -- Can the smell of rotten eggs or roses change the type of dream you have?

Quite possibly, new research suggests.

German researchers are reporting that when people smelled the scent of rotten eggs while sleeping, the nature of their dreams turned decidedly negative, while those who got a whiff of the scent of roses had more positive dreams.

"We were able to stimulate the sleeper with high concentrations of positively and negatively smelling odors and measure if the stimuli were incorporated into the dreams and changed the emotional tone of dreams," said the study's lead author, Dr. Boris Stuck, a professor of otorhinolaryngology at Heidelberg University.

"We found that the sleeper hardly ever dreamed of smelling something. Nevertheless, the emotional tone of the dream did change depending on the stimulation," he said.

Stuck said that previous research had shown that other types of stimulation, such as sound, pressure or vibration, could influence the content and the emotional tone of dreams.

The difficulty in conducting such research, he said, is finding the point where you can introduce a stimulus that's strong enough to influence a dream, but not so strong that it wakes the sleeper. Certain odors, such as peppermint, not only stimulate the sense of smell, but can irritate the nasal passages as well.

To overcome this, Stuck and his colleagues used chemicals that simulated either the smell of roses or the smell of rotten eggs.

The study included 15 young, healthy females. As the women entered rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep, when dreaming occurs, they were exposed to either a non-odorous control smell, the rose smell or the rotten egg smell. Each woman underwent three REM "awakenings," so they were exposed to each test once.

Once awakened, they were asked to report the content of their dreams. In 40 of the 45 awakenings, dreams were reported.

The researchers asked the women to assess the content of their dream on an emotional "coloration" scale that measured the tone of their dream. They were asked to rate the positive or negative coloration of their dream on a scale of 0 to 3. Zero was no coloration and 3 was strong coloration.

After the control stimulation, there was a slightly positive average coloration of 0.5; after the rotten egg smell, the coloration averaged -0.4; and after the rose smell, the coloration was +1.2, according to the study.

"When stimulating the subject with a positive smell, the emotional coloration was positive in nearly every case, while with negative stimulation, the emotional tone was shifted to negative," Stuck said.

The findings were expected to be presented Sept. 21 at the American Academy of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery Foundation annual meeting, in Chicago.

Pamela Dalton is an expert on odor perception and a sensory psychologist at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia. She said, "We are aware at some level of our odorous ambient environment at all times, and I don't think we appreciate that. At some level, our brains are always aware. If this study shows that we can alter the emotional content of dreams, think about what an odor can do to your mood without you even being aware."

Dalton said the study findings could be a first step in finding a way to change people's perceptions of emotionally disturbing places, such as hospitals or nursing homes. But, she added, it's also possible that a reverse association could occur, and people might simply begin linking the good smell with the bad place.

"Odors become associated with good and bad very readily," she said.

More information

Learn more about your sense of smell from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.





SOURCES: Boris Stuck, M.D., professor, otorhinolaryngology, Heidelberg University, Germany; Pamela Dalton, Ph.D., sensory psychologist, Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia; Sept. 21, 2008, presentation, American Academy of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery Foundation annual meeting, Chicago



Last Updated: Sept. 22, 2008

ACHS Featured in AHHA's Good News Column

ACHS's announcement of achieving the first and only accredited and state approved online Associates and Masters degrees in Complementary Alternative Medicine was featured in the May 2008 issue of the American Holistic Health Association's (AHHA) newsletter.

Read about ACHS's achievement in the Good News column of AHHA's newsletter online here.

ACHS Announces New English Composition Courses

New English Composition Courses at ACHS

ACHS is delighted to announce the launch of its new English Composition courses, with the first class starting November 17, 2008.

“Required for the ACHS Associate of Applied Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine degree program, English composition is also vital for anyone in the holistic health industry,” says Co-Education Director Erika Yigzaw. “Many graduates have enjoyed success authoring books, magazine articles, blogs, e-magazines, and newsletters. The English Composition classes will strengthen students’ skills for their career and provide vital life skills in English composition.”

The English Composition classes use ACHS’s dynamic online classroom format, with extensive interactive multimedia activities and peer to peer and instructor interaction. ACHS has worked with international publisher Pearson Education to develop the online content for these user-friendly yet content rich courses, and we are sure they will delight both new and existing ACHS students.

View more information about these accredited, fully online English Composition courses online:

ENG 101 English Composition I
ENG 201 English Composition II

ACHS is also delighted to welcome new faculty to ACHS to teach the English Composition classes, the first of which is Sarah Louise.

Sarah Louise holds an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, an LL.B., and 24 graduate hours toward a Ph.D. in English/Creative Writing. She also teaches online writing courses at DeVry University and Baker College and comments that “these online classes have been among the most enjoyable experiences of my career.” She has developed and taught courses in English Composition, Literature, Technical Writing, Writing the Research Paper, Developmental English courses, Business Writing, and Creative Writing at Northern New Mexico College as well as the University of New Mexico. She has also directed the writing lab at Northern New Mexico College, which provides computer-assisted learning, individualized tutorial aid, mentoring, and study groups.

Additional faculty appointments to meet the expected demand for these courses are pending and will be announced shortly.

ACHS Welcomes Susan Belsinger & Tina Marie Wilcox's Creative Herbal Home Workshop to the ACHS Campus

The Creative Herbal Home Workshop featuring Susan Belsinger & Tina Marie Wilcox

Wednesday, September 10, 11 am to 3 pm.

So, you know about using essential oils for aromatherapy. Wouldn’t you like to learn many other ways to use herbs and essential oils in your everyday life? Then this fun and inspiring class is just what you need!

Join authors Susan Belsinger and Tina Marie Wilcox, authors of The Creative Herbal Home, while they discuss using herbs and essential oils to create “green” household cleaning products, insect repellents, care for the gardener, first aid preparations and how to make herbal spa products.

This workshop is divided into two parts:

• The use of herbs in everyday life, where Susan and Tina will show you some of their favorite herbs and demo how to make a variety of products. Includes hands-on experience of making an herbal sugar scrub, preparing an herb-infused oil (featuring Herb of the Year Calendula) , and blending your own herbal bath bag.

• Demo and lecture about using essential oils to create herbal spa products as well as how to use essential oils for household uses. You'll create your own blends for an aromatic spritzer, an apple cider vinegar for cleaning house or toning skin and also therapeutic bath salts.
  

This enthusiastic, entertaining and exciting workshop will give you confidence and know-how to lead a healthier, happier, and greener lifestyle! Recipes and handouts are included with the workshop. A book signing will follow the workshop and the Apothecary Shoppe will be open offering herbs, essential oils, equipment and supplies that we used in class.

Don't miss the opportunity to learn in-person with Susan Belsinger & Tina Marie Wilcox.

Class cost: $50, includes supplies. Space is limited. Be sure to register by calling 503-244-0726 or register securely online here to reserve your place today!

Note: This is a non-credit workshop.

an Aromatherapist's inspiration

Aromatherapy is a powerful healer. How do I know? Well… put a scent in your burner, relax, and I’ll tell you a story.

Years ago my life was at a stressful high. As a result I developed dreadful insomnia. It would take hours to fall asleep and I would wake up often during the night. I tried the suggestions from my doctor and the health food store clerks. Nothing really worked.

As luck would have it, I received a gift that included a lavender massage oil. Curious, I went to the store it came from to learn more. I skimmed an aromatherapy book and later, based on an idea in the book, put the massage oil on a cotton ball and placed it in my pillowcase. That night I fell asleep in five minutes for the first time in six weeks.

This turn of events impressed me so much that I was inspired to study essential oils further. I developed a blend that did wonders at keeping insomnia at bay. That blend has seen little change over time and has become my best selling item. People have brought friends to me so they can try it. It works.

That brief introduction to essential oils started me on the path to where I am now… helping myself and others find relief from stress and common ailments. If you have a minor health problem, want to pamper yourself, or just want your room to smell nice, aromatherapy can help. No matter where it takes you, it is sure to be a wonderfully aromatic journey.

Introducucing new blog author Lynda Byington RA

Welcome to our newest blog author, Linda Byington!

Linda is a Registered Aromatherapist and ACHS Graduate, and is the founder of Elemental Aromatherapy LLC. Her interest in aromatherapy and healing modalities began in 1990. In 2003 she became a Registered Aromatherapist ("RA") through the national exam written by the Aromatherapy Registration Council. Linda then received a Diploma in Aromatherapy, with Honors, from the nationally accredited Australasian College of Health Sciences. She is certified in Swiss Reflex Therapy by Shirley Price of England, and has studied the Ingham Method of Reflexology

Career highlights include lecturing on aromatherapy topics, teaching hands-on workshops, custom formulating, and manufacturing aromatherapy personal care products. As a therapist she offers Ingham Method Reflexology, Swiss Reflex Therapy, and Aromatherapy Consultation.

Linda is a member of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, the Reflexology Association of Oregon, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, and the Women Entrepreneurs Organization.

Oregonian A&E Features ACHS and Lavender UPick

The A&E in the Friday Oregonian featured a delightful article about the College urban herb garden and our lavender u-pick. you can see an online version here http://www.oregonlive.com/entertainment/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/entertainment/121563871737280.xml&coll=7

Be sure to go to page two to read the full story!

Featured Herb of July

The open house may have passed (and was great fun) but we don't stop there! :) Be sure to take a look at the featured herb of the month!

July Herb of the month:
Uva Ursi
Uva Ursi is a common plant in the Northern hemisphere, being found in barren, mountainous locations in Europe, Asia and America. You have to go above 3000 feet to find this indigenous herb growing wild in the US. The Native Americans used this herb for a smoking mixture, called kinnikinnik. It is of the same family as the Strawberry tree, Arbutus unedo, and Trailing Arbutus, Epigaea repens.

When you order the Featured Herb of the Month you will receive a new herb of the month package. This package includes 8 oz bag of the herb of the month and an insert, describing your oil in detail with recipes and other fun ideas to incorporate into your natural healing lifestyle.

You also may wish to become a prepaid member of the Herb and/or Oil of the Month Club lasting 20 months:
Herb of the Month Club
Oil of the Month Club
You will receive a beautifully designed 3 ring binder. Each month you will receive a new herb or oil of the month package including 8 oz of the herb of the month or 5 ml of the oil as well as an insert for your personal binder, describing your herb or oil in detail, including recipes and other fun ideas to incorporate into your natural healing lifestyle.

Be sure to continue to visit our Apothecary Shoppe as well for all our specials and products:
ACHS Apothecary Shoppe

For information about Herbalism, or any of our programs at ACHS, please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Special Savings during our open house week

Its that time of the year... There is so much going on here at ACHS!

If you haven't noted we are having our Lavender Open House:
Lavender Open House Link

Plus our Lavender U-Pick:
See our previous blog post just below.

In addition we also are having a special savings of 20% off limited through July 16!
Open House Savings Special

In celebration of the ACHS 5th Annual Lavender Open House, the Apothecary Shoppe is extending you a limited Open House additional savings to total 20%* off your order when placed by the end of day Wednesday, July 16th.

So, if you're not able to join us on-campus for this fun event, you can still take advantage of this great special saving by placing your order online!

Start shopping online now to receive this limited time special savings. Stock up on all your natural health needs or take advantage of this special savings while purchasing your holiday gifts! Be sure to add this promotion to your cart before checkout. Your additional discount will be taken off your order total during processing.

*May be combined with student or graduate discount to total 20% discount. Available in-store, online and orders by phone. Cannot be used with Recommended Reading Book Sets or Study Kits. Back ordered items will ship at a later date for a minimal shipping fee. Not to be combined with any other offer. Not valid in states where prohibited.

And yet there's one more special... All Organic Seeds are 30% off while supplies last!
Organic Seeds Sale Link
With over fifty great organic seed varieties from which to choose from, click on the link to order yours while they last.

We hope you are all enjoying your summer!

For information about Aromatherapy, or any of our programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

U-Pick Lavender!

The ACHS is having its yearly Lavender U-Pick!

Come to the Australasian College's garden and harvest lavender for your own use! $6/bunch or $10 for 2 bunches. (size of bunch is determined by zip tie and a bunch can be a quite a nice bit)




To U-Pick Lavender come by the college during our business hours of Monday through Friday 8:30 - 5:30 pm. We are located just off Macadam in Johns Landing.

Here is a link to directions to our campus:
Where is the ACHS campus

This is a great deal for fresh lavender and bunches can go quickly, drop by soon. :)

While at the college be sure to visit our Apothecary Shoppe for other items or specials.

Interested in Holistic Health education? Be sure to speak with one of our Admissions Advisors about all of our programs when you stop by.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

ACHS Lavender Open House listed in The Asian Reporter

The Asian Reporter Community Calendar lists ACHS's Lavendar Distillation demo and Open House on Wednesday July 16 from noon - 4:00pm at the college, 5940 SW Hood Ave. Portland, OR 97239.

At the Open House, you can learn about harvesting and distilling lavender into its essential oils, take a tour of the Botanical Teaching Garden, and learn how to grow different types of lavender with Master Gardener and ACHS SVP Erika Yigzaw.

The first five guests to the Open House will receive one free bunch of fresh picked lavender, so reserve your place today!

ACHS Graduate Laura Lamun on Raw Vegan Radio

On the June 25 installment of Raw Vegan Radio:

Interview with Laura Lamun, ACHS Graduate and owner of Little Moon Essentials!

She shares ideas and stories from her upcoming book "Raw Aromatherapy". You can hear the interview on iTunes by subscribing to Raw Vegan Radio, or by going to the website http://www.rawveganradio.com

Enjoy!


For information about Aromatherapy, or any of our programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

June Herb & Oil of the Month

We hope you are enjoying June. Here in the northwest for a while it was dubbed Juneuary from the cool and gray days. Here's hoping we've moved beyond that. Regardless of the weather we have our Herb and Oil of the Month!

This month's featured herb:
Yellow Dock
Rumex crispus, a common perennial garden weed differing from the more common broad-leafed Dock in that it has long tapering leaves with a wavy leaf margin. Widely distributed throughout the US, New Zealand, and Australia, including Tasmania.

Each month we will introduce you to a new herb. When you order the Featured Herb of the Month you will receive a new herb of the month package. This package includes 8 oz bag of the herb of the month and an insert, describing your oil in detail with recipes and other fun ideas to incorporate into your natural healing lifestyle.

June's Oil of the month is:
Black Pepper
Black pepper is one of the oldest and most important spices. It was used as part of the embalming process by the Egyptians. The Greeks used it in the 4th century B.C. and the Romans imported it from the East. It is one of the first spices to travel the spice route and perhaps one of the most expensive and treasured. To protect the source the traders said it came from a “sacred mountain top occupied by the gods”. Pliny spoke of it as “more expensive than gold”.

Each month we will also introduce you to a new oil. When you order the Featured Oil of the Month you will receive a new oil of the month package. This package includes 5 ml of the oil of the month and an insert, describing your oil in detail with recipes and other fun ideas to incorporate into your natural healing lifestyle.

You also may wish to become a prepaid member of the Herb and/or Oil of the Month Club lasting 20 months:
Herb of the Month Club
Oil of the Month Club
You will receive a beautifully designed 3 ring binder. Each month you will receive a new herb or oil of the month package including 8 oz of the herb of the month or 5 ml of the oil as well as an insert for your personal binder, describing your herb or oil in detail, including recipes and other fun ideas to incorporate into your natural healing lifestyle.

Be sure to continue to visit our Apothecary Shoppe as well for all our specials and products:
ACHS Apothecary Shoppe

For information about Herbalism, Aromatherapy, or any of our programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Greece Summer School 2008 - Day 2

This morning we met at 7:30 for breakfast at the Taverna on the beach, then boarded the bus to take us to the Medieval city of Ano Syros. The 700 year old town was built as a fortress on the highest central point of the island. We had a fun time admiring the quaint houses and wandering the narrow streets - too narrow for vehicles, donkeys are still used to transport goods.


At the very highest point of the town is the Catholic cathedral of St. George. Still in use today, the original church was built in A.D. 1200 and was rebuilt three times, with the current one dating 1834.



We walked back down the narrow streets to our bus, which took us into Ermoupoli, the capital and main city of Syros. We explored the street markets and the neo-classical architecture of the Vaporia quarter.

Greece Summer School 2008 - Day 1

Welcome to Summer School in Greece - The adventure begins!

Students, faculty, and staff met up at 1:00 p.m. on June 10 in the town of Ermoupoli on the beautiful island of Syros. After brief introductions and signing in with "Camp Mom" Alison, the luggage was loaded and we boarded the bus to our villa in Abela.

We had some time to unpack and get to know our roommates, then met up at the outdoor classroom for orientation and a workshop on preparing natural insect repellants with essential oils. These repellants came in very handy during our stay!There was an hour break before dinner, and some diligent students took advantage of the time to do some studying to prepare for tomorrow's classes!


Then we walked down to the Taverna by the beach for our first "family-style" meal together, and afterwards enjoyed some traditional Greek dancing.

Sow your Savings!

Feel the need for some seeds? The ACHS Apothecary Shoppe is having an Organic Seeds special!!

30% off of all organic seeds through 6/8/08!
Click on the links below for details:
30% off seeds link
Ashop Organic Seeds list

For information about holistic gardening or any of our programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Grilling with Nutrition Instructor Deryl Gulliford

Memorial Day, and that means grilling for me. I'm doing tuna steaks, a recipe which I've shared before, but wanted to share these side dish recipes which I'm pretty enthused about today:

Ratatouille on a Skewer

MAKES 8 SIDE-DISH SERVINGS

You can grill these skewers alongside your tuna steaks.

1 small eggplant, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

2 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks

2 green and/or yellow sweet peppers, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces

2 small onions, peeled and quartered

1/2 cup low-fat French salad dressing

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped dry bread crumbs

16 cherry tomatoes

Alternately thread the eggplant, zucchini, peppers and onions onto 8 skewers. Brush the vegetables with the salad dressing. In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs; place the cheese mixture on a piece of waxed paper. Roll the kabobs in the crumb mixture until the vegetables are coated evenly.

Grill the kabobs directly over medium-hot coals, if using a charcoal grill, 10 to 12 minutes, or until the zucchini is crisp-tender, turning frequently. (If using a gas grill, grill the kabobs over indirect heat for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the zucchini is crisp-tender, turning frequently.) Place the tomatoes on the end of the skewers during the last 2 minutes of grilling. Serve warm.

Herbed Grilled Tomatoes

SERVES 4

4 small tomatoes

3 tablespoons yogurt

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil

1 tablespoon finely chopped dry bread crumbs

1 tablespoon finely grated Parmesan cheese


Remove the cores from the tomatoes; cut them in half crosswise. Spread the cut side of each tomato with the sour cream or yogurt. Sprinkle each tomato half with basil. Sprinkle the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese on top of the tomatoes. Arrange the tomato halves in a foil pie pan.

If using a charcoal grill, arrange the preheated coals around a drip pan in a covered grill. (If using a gas grill, place a drip pan over indirect heat.) Test for medium heat above the pan. Place the foil pan containing the tomatoes on the grill over the drip pan. Cover and grill the tomatoes for 10 to 15 minutes or until the tomatoes are heated through. Serve warm.

For information on Holistic Nutrition or any of our programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Why Online Learning is the Green Choice

My Two Cents: Why Online Learning is the Green Choice
By Erika Yigzaw, Senior Vice President, www.ACHS.edu

At ACHS, we’re all about environmental sustainability and we do all we can as an institution to reduce, reuse and recycle. (See our sustainability summary at www.achs.edu)

However, I have recently had the opportunity to see first hand how “green” online learning is.

I recently completed the Master Gardener program through Oregon State University. First, let me say how much I enjoyed the class, which ties nicely in with my “day” job here at the college, but also with my hobby’s of gardening, green living, agriculture, and sustainability. It is an on campus program, meaning one day each week, I drive 19 miles in my car, sit in a basement classroom with no windows and listen to people lecture from 9 to 4, with short breaks.

It has been an eye opening experience for me. First, because of the subject, we study ecology and ecosystems, so we actually discussed in class the carbon footprint of attending this class, and it was quite shocking:

- Every student drives to the location (yes I drive a Jeep, so its not gas friendly – but I live up a long bumpy driveway in the country so a Prius could not make it and the cost of a new hybrid SUV is just insane!)
- We park in a large parking area that has been converted from farm land (this class is held at the Extension Research center, so lots of it is still farmed)
- OSU converted the basement into a classroom with all the associated construction impact (the facility used to be a house so its not new construction)
- The rooms are heated and lit, since there are no windows and no natural light
- We sit at particle board tables, on metal folding chairs, all of which took resources to manufacture and off gas
- We read a 400+ page printed manual and various printed handouts

We are talking about a big carbon footprint here!

Inconvenience
Not only is there a significant green impact, but the personal impact has been quite significant also. Of course, it’s a great program and sometimes we have to inconvenience ourselves to get a good education, but lets look at what happened during class...

In January, we had several weeks of very nasty ice and snow. The news was warning against driving if it could be avoided, but no, I had to get dressed in multiple layers and head out onto the slick roads to get to my class. Contrast that with the fifteen steps to my nice warm home office, warmed by my super efficient wood burning fireplace fueled by wood from our woodlot to log into my online classes.

Unfortunately my daughter and I both developed Pneumonia as a result of a nasty flu bug in February. Although I was still not well enough, I could only take two weeks off class and pass, so I had to drag myself into class on the third week of my illness, still feeling weak and against doctors orders. Whereas I had been logging into my online classes most of the time I was sick, sitting in bed with my laptop, and actually enjoying the sensation of interacting with people even though I was contagious! I had to arrange my sister to stay home with my daughter, as she was not cleared to return to preschool, otherwise I would have had to pay a nanny (which would have been difficult to find anyway, since temporary nannies are not that keen on looking after sick four year olds!). So there are direct as well as indirect costs, as well as health impacts and sheer inconvenience.

Educational Goals
So aside from the environmental and personal convenience factors, what about the education? Was this on campus program meeting my needs better than an online class would have?

On campus:
- The course is based on a large printed course manual, with assigned reading for each week.
- Each presentation is a PowerPoint, with a person talking along to it.
- We get copies of some PowerPoints, but not others, so we must furiously take notes of any important details.
- Some PowerPoints contain web links, but the presenters have no web access, so we must write down the URL and remember to go look at it when we get home
- There is limited opportunity for questions at the end, usually truncated due to time.
- There is no or little application of what we have been talking about and few if any practical examples
- To be honest, I don’t retain much of the information until I go home and do my own study. Which surprises me to some extent, since most of the materials is fairly familiar and I work in a related field.
- There are no performance objectives, so no one is quite sure what is important, and the only assessment is a test in the 10th week of this 11 week program and a five minute talk we each give.

So given all that, am I benefiting by personally meeting the people in my class?
- We have short breaks (10 minutes) between each lecture – but by the time you line up to use the bathroom, its straight back into it.
- At the lunch break, they have additional lectures that are valuable and most people listen to, so there is not much meaningful peer interaction, although from our brief chats, it is clear that there are some fascinating people with a lot of relevant and interesting background in our class. The few people I have had the chance to chat with are lovely and I am looking forward to getting to know them outside of class. However, unless you happen to sit next to them or stand next to them in the line for the loo (toilet!), you may not find out about them!


In contrast, with ACHS online classes:
- We provide learning objectives up front, so you know what you need to learn.
- You get lectures to read in the manual and online (more and more online) and lectures online can be updated throughout the class, so students do not need to make personal notes of new information
- Students also access a range of resources and learning tools depending on the course including PowerPoint presentations, but supplemented with multimedia presentations such as animations, videos, audio lectures, and interactive activities
- There are tests in each module so students can ensure they are meeting the learning objectives in small chunks, not waiting till the last week of the class to discover perhaps that they misunderstood a key point
- There is meaningful authentic assessment in the form of various projects, essays, and labs to complete in each module to help different learners internalize the concepts and theory
- There is extensive peer to peer interaction through the discussion boards and personal interaction through the cyber cafe, which allow students to connect with fellow students with similar interests
- There are unlimited opportunities to ask questions via the discussion boards and instructor Q&A.
- Plus, ACHS is working on ways to create audio files of instructors discussing lectures in file sizes small enough for all students to access, so soon just about every aspect of the on campus version will be covered.

Of course, education is never just about the carbon footprint, but clearly, when the educational objectives are being equaled or in my opinion exceeded by a well put together online class, why not take the opportunity to walk a little more softly on the earth and take your classes online. My two cents!

For information on any of our programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

ACHS You Tube!

Did you know that ACHS is on You Tube?!?

You can see videos on Lavender Distillation, as well as videos of the ACHS Outstanding Graduate of the Year 2008 Stephen Hawk and ACHS Famous Alumni Kim Sharples

Take a look!
ACHS TV

For information on any of our programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Oil of the Month May - Bay

Besides the Herb of the Month, we also have our May oil of the month - Bay!
Bay is used by some in massage blends; it helps with lymphatic congestion and strengthens the immune system, and helps alleviate muscle aches and pains.

Oil of the month link: Bay

You can sign up for the ACHS newsletter to receive emails about the Herb & Oil of the month as well as other information of what is happening at the college at:
ACHS Newsletter

Remember to also visit our online apothecary shoppe to order any herb or oil of the month and also to review our specials:
ACHS apothecary specials

For information about Aromatherapy courses or any of our other programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Updated Herb of the Month

Wow, this year is going by quickly. Our previous posting on Friday we listed St Johns Wort as the herb of the month. Well that was April's herb. Its time for May! :)

We are proud to introduce this month's Featured Herb - Rosemary!
The link is here:
ACHS Herb of the Month - Rosemary

When you order the Featured Herb of the Month you will receive a new herb of the month package. This package includes 8 oz of the herb of the month and an insert, describing your herb in detail with recipes and other fun ideas to incorporate into your natural healing lifestyle.

Rosemary officinalis, a native to the Mediterranean Region, is one of the earliest and most renowned of the English medicinal herbs. There are numerous varieties. The botany of rosemary is rather complicated with a number of varieties and forms. It is a tender perennial and will thrive best in a Mediterranean-type climate of sunny mountain slopes and dry arid lands.

For information about Herbal courses or any of our other programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Has Spring Finally Sprung?!

Well finally it feels as if we may have turned the corner to spring here in the northwest. Its been a wet 21 of 30 days with measurable rain here - amazingly we are still behind in monthly totals! Guess it just drizzled all the time.

However today is beautiful and sunny. It feels like we may have turned a corner. From the ACHS herbal garden the Catnip is blooming and the flax is well um flaxing.
So tell me everyone... How does your herb garden grow?
Be sure to check out our products for herb gardening in our online store:
Apothecary Shoppe Link
You can also find a new herb of the month there each month
Herb of the month - St Johns Wort
as well as join our
Herb of the Month Club

For information about Herbal courses or any of our other programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

Spring Clean with Essential Oils!

A great way to help with sweeping away the winter into that spring clean is by using essential oils in your cleaning!

Have you tried using a few drops of Eucalyptus on a wet towel on the counters? Or with a damp cloth add a few drops of essential oil (of your choosing) to it and putting in the dryer with your laundry? It refreshes, smells better than costly drier sheets, and is a green way to spruce up the laundry. There are a number of things you can do with essential oils in cleaning that are green and avoid using harsh chemicals.

Right now the ACHS apothecary shoppe has a special Spring Cleaning Kit! Offered at 20% savings to the normal cost while supplies last! Contains a mister, a selection of essential oils, and a recipe card.
Here is the link to the kit: Spring Cleaning Kit

For further information about Aromatherapy courses or any of our other programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our AA and MS Complementary Alternative Medicine degree programs!

How Citrus Scents Lift Moods

Here is a great web link to how Citrus scents lift moods, a discussion with ACHS President Dorene Petersen:

How Citrus Scents Lift Moods

The ACHS apothecary shoppe: http://www.apothecary-shoppe.com/ has many essential oils and other products available, including our herb and oil of the month. Here are the links to this months':
ACHS Herb of the month - St Johns Wort
ACHS Oil of the month - Basil
You can order your herb/oil of the month from the Apothecary Shoppe and learn about a new herb/oil every month!


For further information about Aromatherapy courses or any of our other programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our upcoming AA and MS degree programs.

Carb Calculator

Hello everyone,

ACHS instructor Deryl Gulliford shared a link to a carb calculator that might interest some.

Carb Calculator

For further information about Holistic Health programs or any of our other programs at ACHS please contact an admissions advisor today! Call 800.487.8839 or email admissions@achs.edu. Be sure to ask about our upcoming AA and MS degree programs.