In Tuesday’s blog I talked about terpenes and how vital these aromatic compounds are for all life on Earth. Today I’d like to take you on an olfactory journey that will allow you to experience familiar smells on a visceral level and give you a little information about the therapeutic value of terpenes.
Items to have on hand for our exploration: a journal to record your experiences and memories, a juicy orange, a bundle of lavender, and a handful of pine needles (fir, redwood, spruce- or any conifer you have access to).
If you don’t have these items handy, you can use essential oils of sweet orange (lemon, mandarin- any citrus really), lavender, and pine (or other favorite conifer)
1. Wash the outside of the orange and smell the peel. What does it smell like? Now slice 
into the orange. Take a deep breath. What emotions are evoked when you inhale the crisp, citrus aroma?
All citrus is high in limonene, a terpene that is known to have antispasmodic properties and is used for painful intestinal conditions. Limonene is also a potential anecdote for cannabis intoxication- so have that lemonade handy if you decide to partake!
Cleanse your pallet with a sip of water.
2. Crush the bundle of lavender and hold it under your nose. Inhale deeply. As you smell the familiar floral scent, what do you notice within your body?
All lavender varieties are high in linalool. The sedative and calming properties of linalool
have been extensively studied and recognized as a potent remedy against anxiety, nervous tension and stress.
Cleanse your pallet with a sip of water.
3.Boil a cup of water and place the pine needles into the hot water. Let the needles 
steep for a couple of minutes and then inhale the infused water. Take a small sip if you feel inclined. What emotion/sensation first comes to mind upon inhalation or taste?
All conifers contain the terpene pinene, that familiar smell of pine that many of us remember from childhood. Pinene is a powerful analgesic (pain-reliever) and can also help improve memory.
Cleanse your pallet with a sip of water.
4. Experiment with other aromatic plants (rosemary, sage, thyme) and see what feelings, sensations or memories they awaken within you.
As always when we are working with these plants, give thanks and gratitude for all they provide.
With love,
Jessica
When energy flows, wellness grows
Photo Credit: Pinterest