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Buy your prescription tincture blend here. Select the size that you need. At 5ml three times a day: 100ml will last a...
Ease and relax your hardworking joints and muscles Napiers warming cream is used to comfort muscles, joints, backs an...
Quick moisturising relief from dry, irritated, itchy skin Moisturises and soothes dry, itchy skin Cools and calms ho...
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A complete blend of friendly bacteria, vitamin D, digestive enzymes & prebiotic fibres
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Alan is a fully qualified Five Element Acupuncturist and has been practising this wonderful system of medicine at Napiers Clinic in the West End of Glasgow for the past 18 years.
Angela practices Herbal Medicine at Napiers Bathgate, Edinburgh & Glasgow, as well as with the Napiers CLAID Clinic.
Ania is a face massage therapist. I also work as a fitness instructor teaching yoga and other disciplines. I studied Public Health and Health Promotion in Poland and HND Sports Coaching course at Dundee College.
Audrey is a Medical Herbalist, graduating in 2007 with a BSc (Hons) in Herbal Medicine & Phytotherapy from Edinburgh’s Napier University and is a registered member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (MNIMH).
As a fully qualified, experienced Holistic Therapist, Bettina works with clients on a one-to-one basis to establish an optimal treatment plan or therapy to best support your skin health and well-being.
Cat offers a range of massage including holistic, deep tissue, trigger point therapy, advanced sports stretching and pregnancy massge.
Claire is an experienced Western Medical Herbalist (BSc), a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH) and works at Napiers online clinic.
Clare is an experienced medical herbalist based in the West Highlands of Scotland, home to deer, livestock, ticks, and Lyme disease. She works for the Napier's CLAID clinic on a Thursday morning.
Clare began training at Edinburgh’s Napier University in 2005, gaining a Bachelor of Science Degree in Herbal Medicine in 2009. She joined the Napiers Clinic team shortly after her graduation, initially working in the dispensary before beginning her herbal practice in 2010. Since then she has been a key member of our clinical team, working alongside Dee Atkinson in running the general herbal clinics, as well as heading the Baby & Child Clinic.
Cybele is a passionate Sophrologist and founder of Chamapola, Healing Yourself - Healing Together.
Dean is a Naturopathic Practitioner experienced in Nutrition and Herbal Medicine. With interests in nerve problems, cardiovascular health, digestive disorders as well as male and female reproductive system wellbeing.
Dee is the senior herbal practitioner at Napiers the Herbalists in Edinburgh. She runs a general medicine clinic with a special interest in women’s health, managing hormonal health and ageing. More recently, Dee set up the Napiers Long Covid Clinic to facilitate an integrated approach between doctors, herbalists and nutritionist to this new disease.
Isabelle has over 20 years helping individuals and couples achieve their fertility goals through nutrition.
Jill is a fully qualified and insured Advanced Clinical Massage Therapist offering Outcome Based Treatments
John is a friendly and experienced counsellor offering 1-1 sessions on Fridays at Napiers Clinic in Edinburgh city centre and online via FaceTime/Skype. He has worked in private practice supporting people for over 18 years and brings a wealth of experience.
Kate is a BANT registered Nutritionist who owns and runs the Edinburgh Clinic of Nutrition. She trained for three and a half years at Patrick Holford's renowned Institute of Optimum Nutrition in London and is currently studying with The Institute of Functional Medicine in the US.
Kim is qualified in Aromatherapy Massage and Indian Head Massage. Working with the needs of her massage clients led to a deeper interest in their health and Kim studied the BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine degree at Napier University, Edinburgh.
Kirstin is a fully qualified member of the Society of Homeopaths and holds an RSHom distinction in Classical Homeopathy. Kirstin qualified from the Northwest College of Homeopathy's four-year training course in Manchester.
Lynn is a registered osteopath and has been practicing osteopathy for nineteen years. She studied osteopathy and cranial sacral therapy at the European School of Osteopathy and graduated in 1991. Lynn has a background in physiotherapy and is trained in structural, craniosacral, functional, fascial and visceral osteopathy.
Malgorzata graduated from the College of Naturopathic Medicine where she studied Western Herbal Medicine and Naturopathic Nutrition /Diplomas in Herbal Medicine (2017), Naturopathy (2017), and Naturopathic Nutrition (2020). She is also qualified in KORE Therapy, Anmo-fu - 5 Element Abdominal Massage, Craniosacral Balance and Stress Release Therapy and Cupping. Her first degree is a PhD in History.
Margaret practices Naturopathic Nutritional Therapy at Napiers Edinburgh.
Mark runs the podiatry clinic, offering diagnosis and treatment of various disorders relating to the feet, ankles, legs and lower back. He offers podiatry, chiropody, orthotics and nail surgery.
Mary is a qualified therapist in Swedish, Indian and Thai Foot Massage.
Mary trained in Edinburgh, and has been working as a complementary therapist since 1999, holding diplomas in Clinical Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Therapeutic Massage and Hopi Ear Candling gained from the International Therapy Examinations Council (ITEC). She is a member of, and is fully insured to practice with, the Complementary Therapists Association (CThA).
Mike is a body worker and NLP Practitioner who is passionate about working with the person as a whole; offering treatments that integrate body and mind.
Monica has a Masters degree in herbal medicine from the University of Central Lancashire. She is the research herbalist heading up the Napiers Lyme Clinic. The Lyme Clinic specialism is Lyme disease Borrelia burgdorferi and co-infections - crypto-infections Bartonella, Babesia, Rickettsia, Erlichia, Anaplasma, Mycoplasma, etc. A research herbalist is not the same as a medical herbalist and Monica does not run a general clinical practice. This allows her to focus on Lyme disease and bacterial and viral infections.
Natasha is an experienced and qualified medical herbalist in Western herbal medicine, a forager and mycotherapist.
Nikki was awarded a first class honours degree in Herbal Medicine from the University of East London and trained at clinics in Glasgow and London. She was also awarded the Arthur Barker prize for her final examination grades. Nikki also has ITEC Diplomas in Holistic Massage and Aromatherapy. She is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists which is the UK’s leading professional body representing herbal practitioners. NIMH members follow a strict code of conduct and are committed to ongoing and continual practitioner development and training.
Pearlyn is a licensed acupuncturist and a registered member of the Acupuncture Society, and is fully insured to practice acupuncture, tuina, cupping and moxibustion.
Rebecca is an Associate Nutritionist, specialising in gut health and women's health, from hormone imbalance to fertility, pregnancy and beyond.
Sara is qualified Medical Herbalist, Ayurvedic Therapist and Yoga teacher, holding an MSc. in Western Herbal Medicine from Middlesex University.
Sheila is a Holistic Therapist who qualified in KCR in 2019 with the KCR Academy. After a long career in retail, an ankle injury led her to seek an alternative approach to healing.
Shona has worked at Napiers Clinic for 30 years where she has picked up a wealth of knowledge about various complementary therapies. She trained as a Food Sensitivity tester with The Health Partnership Company, where she was taught how to use the 3 point marker system.
Thanos is an experienced Medical Herbalist and practises as a Herbalist and Orthopaedic Acupuncturist at Napiers in Edinburgh and at Napiers Bathgate.
Wendy qualified in 2002 with a BSc(Hons) in Phytotherapy. Since then she has practiced in Fife, Angus and the Lothians. She is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists.
The use of essential oils dates back centuries, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks utilizing these fragrant extracts for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Today, essential oils continue to be popular remedies due to their p...
The use of essential oils dates back centuries, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks utilizing these fragrant extracts for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Today, essential oils continue to be popular remedies due to their powerful therapeutic benefits and all-natural properties. In this article, we will explore the history, science, and benefits of essential oils, highlighting some of the most popular oils and their uses.
Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks were among the first to recognize and utilize the powerful healing properties of essential oils. These oils were used as perfumes, cosmetics, and remedies for various ailments. The Egyptians are particularly known for their use of essential oils in the mummification process, while the Greeks used them in their baths, massages, and for medicinal purposes.
In ancient Egypt, essential oils were highly prized and regarded as sacred substances. The Egyptians used oils such as frankincense, myrrh, and cedarwood for embalming purposes and in personal care products, while the Greeks employed oils like lavender, rosemary, and peppermint for aromatherapy and herbal medicine.
Essential oils were also used by the Chinese and Indian civilizations. In China, essential oils were used in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, while in India, they were incorporated into Ayurvedic medicine. In fact, Ayurvedic medicine has used essential oils for over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest known systems of medicine in the world.
During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, essential oils gained popularity in Europe. They were used for their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, and as natural remedies for various illnesses. Essential oils were also used to mask unpleasant odours and to freshen the air in homes and public spaces.
In the 19th century, the use of essential oils declined as synthetic fragrances and medicines became more widely available. However, in the 20th century, the popularity of essential oils began to rise once again, as people sought natural alternatives to synthetic products.
Today, essential oils are used in a variety of ways. They are used in aromatherapy, massage therapy, personal care products, and even in some foods and beverages. Essential oils are also used as natural remedies for various ailments, such as headaches, anxiety, and insomnia.
As the popularity of essential oils continues to grow, so does the research on their benefits and uses. Scientists are discovering new ways to use essential oils in medicine and other fields, and the possibilities for these powerful substances are endless.
Essential oils are highly concentrated natural plant extracts that are derived from various parts of plants, including the leaves, flowers, roots, and bark. These oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties and are often used in aromatherapy, massage therapy, and topical applications.
Essential oils are known for their powerful and distinct fragrances. They contain the natural aroma and essence of the plants from which they are extracted. The oils are harvested through a process of distillation or expression, and contain the unique chemical profile of their respective plant sources. These chemical compounds are what give essential oils their therapeutic properties.
Essential oils are volatile compounds that are extracted from plants. They are highly concentrated and contain the natural essence and aroma of the plant from which they are derived. These oils are often used in aromatherapy, massage therapy, and topical applications, and can be used alone or blended with carrier oils for dilution.
Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties. They are believed to have a wide range of health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, relieving pain and inflammation, and boosting the immune system.
The most common method of essential oil extraction is through steam distillation. This involves passing steam through the plant material to release the volatile compounds. Once the steam has passed through the plant material, it is condensed back into a liquid, which separates the essential oil from the water. Some oils, such as citrus oils, are extracted through cold pressing, while others like patchouli and jasmine are obtained through solvent extraction.
The method of extraction used can affect the quality and purity of the essential oil. For example, steam distillation is the preferred method for extracting essential oils because it preserves the natural chemical profile of the plant material and produces a high-quality, pure oil.
The quality and purity of essential oils are crucial factors when it comes to their efficacy and safety. Pure essential oils should come from reputable sources and be tested for authenticity and quality. Additionally, essential oils should never be ingested without proper guidance and understanding of their potential health risks.
When purchasing essential oils, it is important to look for oils that are labelled as 100% pure and natural. Some oils may be diluted with carrier oils or synthetic fragrances, which can affect their therapeutic properties and potentially cause adverse reactions.
It is also important to store essential oils properly to maintain their quality and purity. Essential oils should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. They should also be stored in airtight containers to prevent oxidation and degradation.
In conclusion, essential oils are highly concentrated natural plant extracts that have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties. The quality and purity of essential oils are crucial factors when it comes to their efficacy and safety. By understanding the extraction process and proper storage methods, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your essential oils.
Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. They contain a complex mix of chemical compounds that interact with the body in various ways, providing therapeutic benefits for both physical and emotional health. Through inhalation and absorption into the bloodstream, essential oils can promote relaxation, enhance mood, and stimulate the immune system.
One of the most fascinating aspects of essential oils is the chemistry behind them. Essential oils contain a range of chemical compounds, including terpenes, esters, aldehydes, ketones, and phenols, each of which contributes to the unique therapeutic profile of the oil. For example, the terpene linalool found in lavender oil has been shown to have a calming and sedative effect, while the phenol carvacrol in oregano oil has potent antimicrobial properties.
Terpenes are the primary components of essential oils, and they are responsible for the distinctive scents of each oil. They are also responsible for many of the therapeutic effects of essential oils. Terpenes are hydrocarbons that are produced by a wide variety of plants, and they can have a variety of effects on the body. Some terpenes, like linalool, have a calming effect, while others, like limonene, can be uplifting and energizing.
Esters are another class of compounds found in essential oils. They are formed by the reaction of an alcohol and an acid, and they have a sweet, fruity scent. Esters are known for their calming and sedative effects, and they are often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Aldehydes are compounds that contain a carbonyl group, and they have a strong, pungent odour. They are often used in perfumes and fragrances, but they also have therapeutic properties. For example, citral, an aldehyde found in lemongrass oil, has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Ketones are compounds that contain a carbonyl group bonded to two alkyl groups. They have a strong, minty odour, and they are often used in aromatherapy to promote mental clarity and focus. However, some ketones, like camphor, can be toxic in large doses.
Phenols are compounds that contain a hydroxyl group bonded to an aromatic ring. They have a strong, medicinal odour, and they are known for their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. However, some phenols, like eugenol, can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.
Essential oils can be absorbed into the body through inhalation, ingestion, or topical application, where they can interact with receptors in the brain and throughout the body. When inhaled, essential oils can stimulate the olfactory system, which is responsible for our sense of smell. This can have a direct effect on the limbic system, which is involved in the regulation of emotions and the stress response.
When applied topically, essential oils can be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, where they can interact with cells and tissues throughout the body. Some essential oils, like tea tree oil, have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making them useful for treating skin infections and other conditions.
Essential oils can also be ingested, although this should be done with caution. Some essential oils can be toxic if ingested in large amounts, and they should always be diluted before use. However, when used properly, essential oils can provide a range of benefits, from reducing inflammation to improving digestion.
While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of their therapeutic properties, there is growing evidence to suggest that essential oils can be effective remedies for a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, pain, and skin issues. For example, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that lavender oil can be an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that peppermint oil can reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Overall, the science behind essential oils is complex and fascinating, and there is still much to learn about their therapeutic properties. However, there is no denying the benefits that these oils can provide, from promoting relaxation and reducing stress to improving physical health and well-being.
There are many essential oils available, each with their own unique properties and benefits. Here are five of the most popular oils and their uses:
Lavender oil is renown for its calming and relaxing properties. It can help promote restful sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, and soothe skin irritations and inflammation.
Peppermint oil is known for its minty, invigorating scent and its ability to promote mental clarity and focus. It can also be used to ease headaches, muscle pain, and digestive issues.
Tea tree oil is a potent antimicrobial oil that can help fight off infections and boost the immune system. It can also be used for acne-prone skin and to promote healthy scalp and hair.
Eucalyptus oil is ideal for respiratory issues, such as colds and coughs, due to its decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also be used as a natural insect repellent.
Lemon oil is known for its refreshing and uplifting scent. It can be used to boost mood, promote mental clarity, and improve skin health.
Essential oils are powerful tools for natural health and wellness. Whether you're seeking relief from stress and anxiety, or looking to boost your immune system, there's an oil to fit your needs. With proper knowledge and guidance, essential oils can be a valuable addition to your health and wellness routine.
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