Essential oils are used in ayurvedic therapeutic formulations for their yogavahi value--their ability to help transport the healing wisdom of herbs and herbal oils to the cells and tissues of the body. They play the same important role in transdermal formulations and skin care that spices do in cooked preparations and compound herbal formulations that we eat.

Beyond their role as yogavahis, many essential oils are important for their own healing wisdom. The oils help create balance through the sense of smell, and many offer targeted benefit for different subdoshas. The rose, for example, is renowned in ayurveda for its ability to pacify Pitta dosha, and in particular Sadhaka Pitta, the subdosha of Pitta that governs the emotional heart. Sandalwood is another aroma that helps pacify Sadhaka Pitta. Lavender helps pacify Prana Vata, the subdosha of Vata that governs the mind and nervous system, and thus helps promote restful sleep.

Like herbs, aromas need to be combined carefully for synergistic results. If used incorrectly, aromas can actually create imbalance and lead to irritation, headaches and the like.

Essential oils can be added to massage oils, facial oils, bath water and liquid cleansers, in homemade facials and masks and in floral waters and mists. Our aromatherapy Bath Salts are a convenient, relaxing way of enjoying aromatherapy. They can also be blended for a specific dosha and worn in personal aroma lockets or diffused in your home. To balance Vata dosha, pick from calming or warming essential oils such as ylang ylang, amber, sweet orange, frankincense, clove and rose geranium. For Pitta, choose from cooling or soothing aromas such as rose, sandalwood, fennel, mint, jasmine and vetiver. For balancing Kapha, choose from invigorating or warming oils such as rosemary, tulsi, eucalyptus, lemon, basil, juniper and coriander.

For a special treat to pamper your senses and enhance mind-heart-spirit harmony, try the unique Sacred Essence blend from Shankara. Rare, extremely precious essential oils of white rose (rosa alba), white lotus (nelumbo nucifera), rose absolute (rosa damascena), blue lotus absolute (nelumbo nucifera), frangipani (plumeria rubra), jasmine absolute (jasminum grandiflorum), nag champa (michela champaca) and sandalwood mysore (santalum album) combine to create an unforgettable balancing experience.

Essential oils are potent, so exercise great care in blending and use. Never apply essential oils directly to the skin--instead, mix the recommended amounts in a base oil or in water. Test all oils for sensitivity, and consult your physician before using essential oils if you are pregnant or nursing or have a medical condition.