Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the art of treating the body, mind and spirit with natural aromatic substances harvested from nature's rich store. “Aroma” refers to the aromatic substances that give essential oils their characteristic smell. “Therapy” refers to the fact that essential oils have been used for healing for centuries. Aromatherapy also refers to the use of essential oils for beauty and body care treatment. Aromatherapy is one of the most popular beauty treatments used worldwide in clinics and spas throughout Europe. Finally, aromatherapy refers to the use of essential oils for personal home use of essential oils and products containing pure unadulterated essential oils.

Essential Oil Properties

Anise – This oil has a scent similar to licorice and is useful in the treatment of digestive and respiratory ailments.

Basil – Basil acts as a nerve tonic and helps with fatigue, depression, increases alertness, aids in concentration, relieves headaches, head congestion, migraines and muscular aches and pains. Also used as an anti-inflammatory agent, insect repellent, and antibacterial and antispasmodic properties. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY AND ON BABIES AND CHILDREN.

Bergamot – Floral citrus scent that is uplifting, rejuvenating, and balancing. It helps alleviate fatigue due to stress, restores appetite, combats colic, strengthens the immune system, reduces fever, and is generally calming. Bergamot is known to help relieve skin irritations, and is helpful in the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, acne, wounds, ulcers & herpes. It balances an oily complexion and helps repel insects. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY AND ON BABIES AND CHILDREN.

Black Spruce – Uplifting oil that is recommended for exhaustion, mental tension, muscle aches and stiffness and respiratory congestion.

Cajeput – Cousin to Tea Tree and as such, is a powerful antiseptic useful in the treatment of chronic pulmonary diseases, asthma, sinus trouble, gingivitis, earaches and cystitis. It can be used to clean wounds and relieve muscular aches and pains. POWERFUL STIMULANT – DO NOT USE BEFORE BEDTIME. CAN CAUSE SKIN IRRITATION.

Camphor – Camphor is a powerful antiseptic that aids in the treatment of respiratory ailments, opens blocked nasal passages, relieves congestion, reduces muscular aches, pains, stiffness.

Cardamom – It is said to treat digestive problems, coughs, loss of appetite and muscle pain. It is considered to be an aphrodisiac in India. USE SPARINGLY .

Carrotseed – Not used for its aroma but more for its healing properties and effects on the skin. It stimulates circulation, repairs and tones skin, adds elasticity, reduces the formation of wrinkles and scars. Good for balancing oily and dry skin.

Cedarwood – Use cedarwood oil to treat respiratory congestion, dandruff, oily skin, eczema, acne, athlete's foot, cystitis, nervous tension and kidney and bladder infections. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY OR ON BABIES .

Cinnamon Leaf – Cinnamon leaf is a warming, highly aromatic, spicy oil that should not be used directly on the skin but works wonderfully to cleanse and purify air, killing germs and bacteria. Taken internally, cinnamon stimulates blood circulation and warms the body.

Citronella – Has a lemony aroma and is well known as an effective insect repellent.

Clary Sage – Clary sage is a beautiful smoky floral that calms and balances the spirit. It reduces stress and brings a feeling of tranquility. It is especially balancing on female hormones and can be used to treat PMS, menstrual cramps, postnatal depression, menopause and irregular cycles . DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY.

Clovebud – Clove is a very warm, spicy aromatic oil, which is most effective as an antiseptic when diffused and is a wonder for toothaches and abscesses when dabbed on the tooth (very, very carefully). Clove is a “hot” spice and can burn if used on the skin undiluted. It is stimulating to the mind, enhances concentration and can act as an aphrodisiac. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY AND DO NOT USE ON BABIES OR YOUNG CHILDREN .

Coriander – Coriander is a warm, sweet spice with a very unique, pleasant scent that has antibacterial properties and is a good oil to diffuse during cold season. It can be used in muscle rubs.

Cypress – Cypress is an evergreen oil that is safe to use as a massage oil or inhalant. It has an astringent effect and is good for oily skin. It is used to relieve stress and is emotionally comforting, increases concentration, assists with varicose veins and circulation in general, is detoxifying when used in a bath, a good diuretic, and is helpful for asthma, hay fever, coughs and bronchitis.

Dill Seed – A warm spicy oil generally used to aid in digestion and to relieve flatulence and colic. DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT .

English Chamomile – English chamomile is a wonderfully relaxing oil. Used to promote sleep, relaxation and calmness. Great for little ones who need help unwinding before bedtime. In a massage oil, it helps ease aches and pains. Good for menstrual cramps and headaches.

Eucalyptus – Best known for its respiratory effects and relief for congestion. It is highly anti-microbial and a must have for the winter months. Use in a diffuser to keep cold away. Stimulates circulation and warms the body, increases concentration, and is useful in relieving rheumatic aches and pains. Dabbed on with a Q-tip, it can stop the irritation of a bug bite. A good insect repellent and treatment for lice and athlete's foot . USE AT HALF STRENGTH AS A DIFFUSER FOR CHILDREN'S ROOMS.

Fennel – Fennel has a sweet licorice like aroma and is best known for its usefulness as a digestive aid. Relieves gas and indigestion. A good diuretic, cleansing oil useful in baths for detoxification. Eases stress, comforts and has a mild sedative effect but is uplifting. Can be a bit overpowering so use in small amounts. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY AND ON BABIES AND SMALL CHILDREN. DO NOT USE IF YOU SUFFER FROM EPILEPSY.

Fir – Fir is typically used to help loosen a tight chest, dry cough and congestion. Can also be useful in massage oils for rheumatism and arthritis. This oil is grounding and balancing.

Frankincense – ancient oil that has been used for centuries for meditation and spiritual practices. It helps center the mind and calm the spirit. It is also a good expectorant and can help relieve asthma and other bronchial congestive problems.

Geranium – This oil has a beautiful rose scent. Geranium is said to be a woman's scent due to its hormone balancing effect. It has been used to treat menstrual, menopausal, and fertility problems. Helps relieve mastitis. Heals wounds and burns. Good oil for skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis and shingles. Emotionally balancing and a good insect repellent. USE AT HALF STRENGTH DURING PREGNANCY .

German Chamomile – German chamomile has a high content of azulene, which is an effective anti-inflammatory agent and the oil of choice in treating skin inflammations, infections, dry, itchy skin, insect bites, acne and other irritations. USE WELL DILUTED DIRECTLY ON AFFECTED AREAS.

Ginger – Ginger is highly used as a natural remedy. It is a warm oil that is relaxing, helps relieve nausea, indigestion, alleviates soreness and stiffness in muscles, increases circulation and strengthens the immune system during cold season. Use carefully on the skin and in the bath because it can irritate if not properly diluted. USE WITH CAUTION DURING PREGNANCY.

Grapefruit (Pink & White) – Grapefruit is a fresh, clean, uplifting scent that can help treat mood swings, anger, depression and stress. It acts on the lymphatic system, detoxifying the liver, works as a diuretic, works to reduce cellulite, good astringent for balancing oily skin and hair, and is an overall good toner . DO NOT APPLY TO THE SKIN BEFORE GOING INTO THE SUN.

Jasmine – A beautiful rich, sweet aroma considered to be an aphrodisiac.

Juniper – Juniper berry oil has a warm, woodsy, peppery, pine smell that is uplifting and strengthening. Native Americans use it for purifying the air. It is highly antiseptic and can be diffused during illness. Also used as an astringent for the skin and hair and in anti cellulite massage blends. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY .

Lavender – Enough can't be said for the used and properties of lavender. It can be used to relax and relieve stress and headaches, reduce high blood pressure and heal burns and wounds. It kills germs and can be used in a diffuser to purify the air and reduce the spread of colds and viruses. Reduces cramps. This is the safest oil to use for babies and children. AVOID IF YOU HAVE LOW BLOOD PRESSURE.

Lemon – Lemon oil smells like fresh lemon and is used as a strong germicidal, air purifier and disinfectant. The astringency of lemon makes it good for oily skin and hair. It can help with bronchial problems and asthma. It stimulates concentration and reduces cellulite when used in body massage oils. USE WITH CAUTION ON THE SKIN BECAUSE OF PHOTOSENSETIZING EFFECT .

Lemongrass – Stimulating, refreshing, increases alertness and concentration, relieves fatigue, aids in digestion, relieves aching muscles, soothes gastric infections and acts as an insect repellent. Used on the skin in a highly diluted form, it is astringent and helps treat acne and oily skin. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY OR NEAR MUCOUS MEMBRANES. DO NOT USE BEFORE GOING INTO THE SUN .

Lime – Same properties and cautions as lemon.

Marjoram – marjoram has a warm, spicy scent and is a strong sedative and antispasmodic. It can relieve muscle pain, cramps, headaches, migraines and stiffness. It helps normalize blood pressure and can help ease emotional suffering. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY.

Myrrh – A powerful antiseptic and astringent and can be used to heal infected wounds. It helps clear mucous from the lungs and is useful for chronic bronchitis. It can also help with weeping eczema, gum disease and makes an excellent mouth wash. It strengthens the immune system and has a good effect on the digestive system. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY.

Neroli – Neroli oil is distilled from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree. The oil has a distinct floral citrus scent that can calm anxiety, relieve depression, and uplift spirits. Neroli is a very balancing oil for the skin and hair, and can help control overproduction of sebum when diluted with jojoba. It is one of the best oils for the face as it helps regenerate skin cells.

Nutmeg – Nutmeg is a warm, spicy oil that is stimulating, and aids in sluggish digestion. In massage oil, it has anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce the pain and swelling of arthritis and rheumatism. AVOID USE DURING PREGNANCY AND USE WITH CAUTION.

Orange – Orange is an uplifting, refreshing oil that is used to aid in digestion, flatulence and nausea. It relieves stress and anxiety and will help with colic in babies. It also reduces fever and headaches. PHOTOSENSITIVE – USE WITH CAUTION .

Palmarosa – Very similar in scent to geranium. It helps calm the nervous system and acts as a natural balancer. It aids in digestion, helps with skin problems, treats acne, rejuvenates mature skin, is said to be good for stretch marks and is good for both oily and dry skin. Emotionally, palmarosa is said to help in the release of anger and grief. AVOID USE DURING PREGNANCY AND DO NOT USE ON BABIES .

Patchouli – Patchouli has a warm, mellow scent that was most popular in the ‘60s. It is an effective anti-inflammatory, anti depressant and stress reliever. Patchouli helps tighten the pores of the skin and is used to combat wrinkles. It regulates oily skin and dandruff and reduces cellulite. When used in a diffuser, patchouli helps break up mucous and reduces fever. It is also used for the treatment of acne, eczema psoriasis, sores and burns. It has a sedative effect when used in small quantities.

Peppermint – Peppermint will relieve a headache or indigestion, reduce mental fatigue, increase alertness, relieve nausea and itching, and help you stay awake when necessary. Used to cool and soothe achy tired feet and treat athlete's foot or fungal problems. It also repels insects effectively. NOT FOR BABIES .

Rose Oil – Aside from its intoxicating fragrance, rose oil is also known for its balancing effect on female hormones, it's ability to calm the mind and treat the grief stricken. It is commonly used as an anti depressant and helps with dry, maturing skin and wrinkles.

Rosemary – The oil of rosemary is a stimulant and should be used with caution. It can

Help increase circulation and relieve pain in the joints. It can help control dandruff, oily scalp and skin, acne, and is said to encourage hair growth. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY OR IF YOU SUFFER FROM HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE OR SEIZURES.

Rosewood - Rosewood has a floral aroma that is very balancing. It helps quit the mind and works as an anti depressant. It is also useful in balancing combination skin and is said to have a balancing effect on hormones.

Sage – Recommended for use in gargles and mouthwashes for general oral care and in cases of throat infections and mouth ulcers. Use well diluted for oily skin problems. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY AND LACTATION. DO NOT USE ON BABIES AND CHILDREN .

Spearmint – Slightly milder, sweeter aroma than peppermint, spearmint is a great invigorating, wake me up oil. It increases alertness, opens up the respiratory system, and lifts the spirit. It is better suited for children and is good for tummy upsets, nausea and fever.

Tea Tree – Tea tree has gained immense recognition as the strongest anti fungal, anti viral, anti bacterial oil in aromatherapy. Diffuse it during cold season to keep germs from spreading. Use it to combat acne, fight cold sores, heal wounds and keep infection from setting in, and treat oral disease. Using this oil undiluted may cause skin irritations.

Vanilla – The warm sweet aroma of vanilla eases stress, brings a feeling of comfort and puts a smile on your face.

Vetiver – Vetiver is a thick amber colored essential oil that has a subtle but sweet, resin-like smell. It is very grounding, balancing and relaxing.

Ylang Ylang – The jasmine-like aroma of ylang ylang makes this oil an irresistible aphrodisiac, anti