| "In an era when people are increasingly suspicious of taking too many pills, age-old solutions like aromatherapy have seen renewed popularity." "Aromatherapy involves using the essential oils from plants and flowers to positively affect a person's mental or physical health. Particular scents often are recommended for specific illnesses or complaints." "Lansing resident Susan Stuhr is nationally certified in aromatherapy. The Michigan State University graduate has put her training to good use with her Earthwerkes Aromatherapy blends." ""(Aromatherapy) is all new to us in America, but it's known to our European relatives," Stuhr says." "Many people wrestle with depression in the winter. One of the best and least costly oils to treat the blues, Stuhr says, is lemon (around $2.50 per quarter-ounce)." "Lemon is also effective in stimulating the immune system and can be mixed with ylang ylang, which is derived from a tropical flower ($6.65 per one-third ounce)." "Essential oils can be used in many ways -- in an aromatherapy diffuser, as body oil, as part of a massage or in bath water. Mix 20 drops of oil in two tablespoons of water." "Any oil also may be combined with an unscented hand and body lotion, and 15 to 20 drops of oil per ounce of water makes a natural home fragrance spray." "With winter also comes colds and bronchitis. Eucalyptus is one solution. In addition to its decongestant properties, Stuhr says this
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