Wednesday, August 16, 2017

For the Love of Lavender: A Chinese Tale of Aroma and Romance



In 1877 the Emperor of China was finally able to marry.

Xianfeng’s reign had been marked by civil unrest and massive floods caused by both the Yangtze and Yellow rivers. People said that the Emperor was unlucky, and thus brought misfortune on his people, because he was unmarried. The wise and the pious believed that without a proper consort, the Emperor would never restore true balance to his kingdom.

Of concubines and mistresses he had an abundance -- but of a beloved helpmeet and companion, he had none. Court historians noted that Xianfeng was both comely and sweet-tempered, but that his breath was “an ill wind that reeked of the charnel house.” Dental caries had left him with a corrupted mouth that drove away admirers and potential mates in equal proportion.

But then the French frigate Amelie docked in Shanghai with a most curious load of cargo -- something the Chinese had never seen before. Lavender oil. From the sun-caressed slopes of the Pyrenees in far off France. Double-distilled and bottled in crystal containers, the ship’s captain offered the essential oil to the apothecaries of Shanghai as a relief from melancholy, insomnia, and anxiety. The captain also whispered into certain ears that the oil of lavender was a charm that could lead women to display an abundance of affection.

As soon as Xiangfen heard of this wondrous oil he commanded his Mandarins to bring some to him. Which they did. But they neglected to find out how it was to be used. Was it to be eaten, or gargled, or smoked in a pipe? Did one bathe in it or soak feet in it?

It was decided to test things out on a few of the most important court Mandarins, before allowing the Emperor to be exposed to it. Thus it was discovered that lavender was not to be eaten with rice -- but was a wonderful overall stimulant and pacifier to be applied sparingly on the body and on clothes and linen, that gifted everyone who beheld its bouquet with peace and confidence.

Enveloped in a cloud of lavender scent, the Emperor felt at peace with the world for the first time. And the Princess Li Ping, his Quing cousin, discovered that her distaste for her Emperor cousin disappeared.

They were wed in a magnificent ceremony in the Forbidden City in Beijing, after the winter dust storms that howled in from Mongolia had dispersed.

In gratitude, the Emperor Xiangfen labeled lavender essence “The Oil of Communication.” It is still known by that name around the world today.

Today we know that lavender oil can calm feelings of insecurity and anxiety. It can release a person from inhibitions without encouraging any promiscuity. The oil is proven as a sleep inducer without any side effects.

With modern technology, lavender oil is no longer something restricted to Mandarins and Emperors. Everyone can enjoy its proven therapeutic benefits.

For further information, and for an absolutely free, no obligation, sample of three of the most commonly used oils, including lemon and lavender, contact Wellness Advocate Amy Snyder at http://bit.ly/2vHgrH6  She has used these superb essential oils for years herself and will be delighted to share her experiences with you in a professional and friendly manner!


NOTICE TO READERS: The information contained in this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any emotional or physical condition, illness, or injury. The author, publishers, and distributors of this blog shall have no liability or responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any and all alleged damage, loss, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by the information contained in this work. This work contains suggested uses of oils based on acceptable dosage amounts recommended by the manufacturer. The author makes no claim to have verified or validated these suggestions. The readers must validate acceptable dosage amounts from the manufacturer before application. The information in this book is in no way intended as a substitute for medical advice. We recommend that all readers obtain medical advice from a licensed healthcare professional before using essential oils for any reason.

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