Also known as deadly nightshade, Belladonna is a source of the poisonous drug atropine. In minute quantities, atropine, in the form of a sulfate, is used to dilate the pupils of the eye, to relieve pain, to diminish secretions, and to relieve spasms. In greater quantities, it was used to kill. Belladonna was believed to have been used in flying potions.
Think of the Whole Person
MASSAGE
This is the most effective method of using the oils, combining their properties
with the therapeutic power of touch. The skin absorbs the oil over a large
surface area and because there are many small blood vessels, (capillaries),
close to the surface of the skin, the oils, diluted to 5% in a carrier oil, are
carried into the blood stream and then to the relevant parts of the body quickly and effectively.
The oils should not be used undiluted, but should be diluted with an odorless
carrier oil, (see section on carrier/base oils), such as grapeseed, sweet almond
or peach kernel. A dilution of 3% essential oil to carrier oil is a recommended
starting point. (Less if using on sensitive skin such as babies). This is
approximately one drop essential oil to two milliliters of carrier oil. (6 drops
in two teaspoonfuls). But in all cases less can be definitely more!
BATHS
Using oils in baths is a simple, effective and pleasant way to relax and receive
the therapeutic effects. – Water itself has therapeutic value which enhances the powers of the oils. To use, add 6 to 10 drops of essential oil, (or a blend), to the surface of the water which has already been run, add no other substances, e.g. foam or bath oil, then immerse yourself for about 20 minutes. The heat of the water aids absorption through the skin, whilst you inhale the vapor. (Again reduce the amount of oils used in baths for babies).
Take care with plastic baths as some oils may cause staining.
COMPRESSES
Add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil to 100ml of warm water then soak a piece of
clean cotton in the water, wring out the excess and place the cloth on the
affected part.
INHALATIONS
Add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil into a bowl of steaming water, then place a
towel over your head and the bowl and inhale the vapor for a few minutes.
VAPORIZATION
All essential oils are antiseptic and evaporate easily, so they make very good
air-fresheners. Different oils create different atmospheres, so experiment! For example, relaxing Sandalwood or Clary Sage are good for parties; or Peppermint clears your mind when you need to work. There are many vaporizers on the market, from the simple bowl of water on the radiator with a few drops of oil on the surface, to vaporizer light bulb rings and specially made vaporizer bowls which sit above candle holders. There is even the “Aromastone”TM which is an effective electric vaporizer dispensing fragrance from a low heat source, thereby making the water and the oils last longer than usual.
The best way of dispersing essential oils is to use a diffuser or the
Aromastream TM, as most other forms of vaporizer drive off the most volatile
“high notes” first, leaving the slowly evaporating “base notes” to linger.
I personally believe that vaporizing rings on light bulbs should be used
cautiously, though I have not heard off anyone having a fire through using one.
PERFUMES
Make your own distinctive “Natural” perfume by blending different oils. (Many commercial perfumes use synthetic concoctions for their scent.) Try
experimenting with different combinations, which can be mixed with a carrier oil or non-fragrant alcohol.
The Witchcraft Chronicles 
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