Love Life: Oils to put Romance in the air

The power of perfume to inspire Romance has been known since the ancient civilization of the Babylonians.. Perfume and flowers are still today the favorite gifts for lovers.
Cleopatra's seduction of Mark Antony was carefully staged with a carpet of rose petals and rare and exotic scents in every conceivable form- it was said that even the sails on her ship's barge were drenched in perfume to catch the breeze and announce her arrival...
This was probably among the earliest recorded uses of Natural Perfumery as we know it now

The sense of smell is fundamental to our Sensuality. Pheromones, chemicals secreted in sweat, act as the most basic triggers to attraction. The smell of flowers and plants are the plant equivalent of pheromones, irresistible to birds and bees and just as attractive to humans.
We can use natural aromatic plant oils to relax, heighten our awareness, excite the senses and create the mood for romance.

The Sensual Oils

Most of the Aphrodisiac oils combine with each other, but be careful not to use too many together or they may clash and work against each other. Subtlety is the key to the art of seduction.
Begin by using the oils sparingly, you can always work up to more, as you find the right blend that you and your partner are drawn to..
Always use Pure essential oils, not fragrance oils. Remember that fragrances while being pleasant may not work on your emotions like the way a pure essential can. It is the extract of a plant which depends on aroma for its survival and propagation..
Listed are the most often used oils, see Quick ref chart for other.

Clary Sage - sweet sensuous and slightly intoxicating, but be careful as in high doses its sedative effect will inhibit sex drive. Works well during PMS..

Geranium a strong and sweet floral that both relaxes and uplifts.

Jasmine this heady floral fragrance boosts confidence and creates a luxurious atmosphere.

Lavender pleasant and calming -this fragrance de stresses and switches off the days tensions. Just the thing after a hard day to tune in to our senses.

Neroli fresh and sweet, its fortifying effects help overcome shyness and inhibitions

Patchouli heavy and exotic, it is stimulating in small doses and heightens the senses.

Rose -the quintessential oil for lovers. Rare and powerful. Mentioned in the Kama Sutra for its aphrodisiac properties.

Sandalwood -woody, sweet and exotic. Ancient kings of India used it extensively.

Ylang Ylang this long lasting floral scent gives a feeling of relaxed well being, helpful for impotence and frigidity.

How to Use the Oils

Set the Scene
Create a calming and sensual atmosphere with scented candles or a few drops of essential oil evaporated in a fragrancer or lightbulb ring. Or put a few drops in a bowl of warm water. Add some rose petals if u can into it.
Dim the lights and turn up the heat.
Scent your lingerie or bed linen by adding 3 drops of your favorite oil to the final rinse, or store them in drawers with aromatic bags or scented balls. Sprinkle drops of Rose or Jasmine on the pillows.

Prepare your Body
Luxuriate in an aromatic bath , or share your hot tub wi ht your partner. After soaking, perfume your whole body with a rich body oil or use a strong concentration on pulse points such as wrists, temples, behind the ears and knees..

Massage
Use a massage oil blended from floral and spicy aphrodisiac essences; you can arouse the intimate senses of smell and touch simultaneously as you explore the skin and curves of your partner's body with strong soothing strokes. Let the heady scents work their spell on the senses and emotions..

We are all sensual beings and yet at times we may need help to switch off from everyday concerns and tune into our senses. The loving touch of a partner's massage is always enjoyable; it is relaxing and yet sensually stimulating- a total physical experience.
Use light kneading strokes, deeper for those tense areas near the shoulder blades and light feather strokes with your fingertips.
Remember to avoid the lymphatic drainage movements as these are distinctly unerotic...

Take time and pleasure in discovering your partner's erogenous zones.. Be tender and loving, playful and creative -let your imagination guide you...