Aromatherapy: Greek Mythology

Incense, oils, votives and other offerings have been used in religious practices in nearly every world religion. Olfactory oblations adorn homes, temples and other public spaces with objects that are affiliated with or pleasing to a particular spirit or divinity.

The pantheon of the Ancient Greek religion has captivated people since its inception and many people today can still list members of the Olympians, the twelve most significant gods and goddesses. Unlike other faiths, whose representatives are immaculate, the Olympians' behavior could be arbitrary, selfish, ignorant or magnanimous. They were very human-like and presided over worldly interests such as war, marriage, abstract concepts, and were sometimes used to explain geography, meteorology and astronomy. Their archetypes are relatable and still make their way into popular books, films and games.

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Essential oils are indispensable components to home remedies, aromatherapy and body fragrance. Carefully diluted with a suitable carrier oil such as grapeseed, almond or jojoba, they can infuse your life with some adaptogenic magic. Oil mixtures are perfect substitutions for those sensitive to perfume or cologne. We recommend the NOW Foods brand based upon quality, low cost and wide variety of oils, which are all available on Swanson Health Products.

Oils generally can be diffused, such as in oil burners, at their full concentration, however they cannot be applied to the body at full strength for risk of irritation. Guidelines for topical mixtures call for two ounces of carrier oil and only one milliliter of essential oil. Measuring that little of liquid is easily accomplished with baby oral syringes, that can be picked up for free at supermarket pharmacies. Two-ounce spray bottles can be purchased at Sprouts or other nature's markets in the health and vitamins department.

Below is a list of some of the Greek gods with oils and scents connected to them. Those with sensitive skin should be cautious around "balsamic" and "spicy" oils. "Musky" and "floral" oils are typically safest for everyone.

Balsamic:
Artemis:
Carrier: castor
Essences: camphor, eucalyptus, hyssop, marjoram, oregano
Aids protection, freedom, empowerment.

Dionysus: 
Carrier: grapeseed, walnut
Essences: cedar, cypress, fir, pine
Refreshes senses, creativity and musty attitudes.

Citrous:
Apollo: 
Carrier: hazelnut, macadamia
Essences: bergamot, grapefruit, orange, tangerine
Cultivates cheerfulness, inspiration, masculine energy.

Hermes: 
Carrier: almond, pecan
Essences: citron, citronella, lemon, lemongrass, lime
Ensures success in business, games and travel.

Floral:
Aphrodite: 
Carrier: apricot kernel, avocado
Essences: cardamom, geranium, jasmine, rose
Enhances beauty, erotic love, feminine energy.

Demeter: 
Carrier: evening primrose
Essences: chamomile, lavender, juniper
Calms mind, body and nerves. Aids sleep and restlessness.

Hera: 
Carrier: cocoa butter, shea nut
Essences: caraway, catnip, vanilla, ylang ylang
Fosters friendship and loyalty.

Herbal: 
Athena: 
Carrier: olive
Essences: rosemary, sage, tea tree, thyme
Stimulates memory, mental agility and longevity.

Hephaestus: 
Carrier: jojoba
Essences: pennyroyal, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen
Soothes the body and spirit from wounds and fatigue.

Musky:
Hestia: 
Carrier: coconut
Essences: frankincense, myrrh, patchouli, sandalwood
Repels negative or unwelcome energy, fortifies spirit and resolve. 

Spicy:
Ares: 
Carrier: sesame
Essences: basil, carrot, ginger, parsley, pepper
Manifests courage, strength and action.

Zeus: 
Carrier: borage
Essences: anise, cinnamon, clove, fennel, nutmeg
Increases luck, prosperity, good fortune.

Tried-and-true Recommendations
2 oz. grapeseed oil + .5 ml frankincense + .5 ml rose 
2 oz. fractionated coconut oil + .5 ml patchouli + .5 ml lavender
2 oz. sweet almond oil + .5 ml lavender + .5ml lemongrass