Essential oils are used in aromatherapy to bring about healing, a sense of well-being and relaxation. They are created through the process of either the distillation, or the extraction of the essence, from plants and flowers, and are thought to have been made and used by the ancient Egyptians. The oils can be use in a number of ways, in diluted form for massage, in bathing, and through inhalation.
Lavender
Lavender (Latin name Lavendula Angustifolia), is the most versatile of all the essential oils. Commonly regarded as the first aid oil, it is one of the safest oils to use. It is the oil most aromatherapists turn to first as it is extraordinarily versatile. It is used in many skincare products, is a digestive aid, helps respiratory conditions and all the other major body systems. It is an uplifting oil, and inhalation helps to lift the mood and lighten depression, one of the reasons why it is also used as a constituent of many commercial perfumes.
Lavender is one of the few oils which can be safely added to food (in very small quantities) and has been used to flavour ice cream and children's candies.
Lavender is one of the few oils which can be safely added to food (in very small quantities) and has been used to flavour ice cream and children's candies.
Tea Tree
Tea tree (Latin name Melaleuca Alternifolia) is another popular and versatile oil. Compared to other oils, Tea tree is a fairly new oil and is only grown in Australia, where it has a long tradition of use by the aboriginal people.
Tea Tree is a powerful oil and is used in the prevention and treatment of infection, being not only anti-viral but also antibiotic. For this reason it is commonly used in toothpaste, herbal shampoo, and treatments for skin conditions. Inhalation, or use of a few drops in the bath help to stimulate the body's immune system and is very helpful in the fight against colds and flu.
Tea Tree is a powerful oil and is used in the prevention and treatment of infection, being not only anti-viral but also antibiotic. For this reason it is commonly used in toothpaste, herbal shampoo, and treatments for skin conditions. Inhalation, or use of a few drops in the bath help to stimulate the body's immune system and is very helpful in the fight against colds and flu.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood (Latin name Santalum Album) is one of the oldest known essential oils. Native to India it has long been used as incense and as perfume, and was one of the key constituents used by the Egyptian embalmers. Known as a bass oil, one which anchors the scent when mixed with other oils, it is often used in men's toiletries, most notably aftershave and cologne.
As a health aid, sandalwood is effective in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions, and inhalation is beneficial for a dry persistent cough and laryngitis. Singers often inhale this oil before concerts to keep them in good voice.
As a health aid, sandalwood is effective in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions, and inhalation is beneficial for a dry persistent cough and laryngitis. Singers often inhale this oil before concerts to keep them in good voice.
Another mixing:
Bitter Orange
Bitter orange, also referred to as neroli, has a citrus fragrance and is used as an inhalant or in a diffuser or bath in the treatment of nervousness, depression and anxiety. Bitter orange oil is also useful as a massage aid when blended with a base oil such as sweet almond oil. It may boost the immune system during times of stress, or when used as an inhalant during sickness such as the flu or common cold. According to the National Institute of Health's Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, bitter orange oil has also been used as a topical application to cure athlete's foot and fungal infections such as ringworm.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil is a scent many people are familiar with, as it is a popular ingredient in products such as mouthwash. It has an almost medicinal-like smell, which aids in the treatment of respiratory ailments such as bronchitis or colds, and is particularly well-suited for use as an inhalant or in a diffuser. It is excellent as a massage aid when blended with a base oil, and can relieve muscle aches and pains. The Mayo Clinic suggests that using topical arthritis products containing eucalyptus oil can provide temporary pain relief. Eucalyptus has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Chamomile
Chamomile is popularly used in relaxation and most commonly is used in tea. There are two distinct types of chamomile oil--German and Roman--which have unique healing properties. German chamomile oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, while Roman chamomile has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. Both are used in the treatment of PMS symptoms and as a calming aid. The UMMC states that chamomile is also effective in the treatment of irritated skin, such as eczema or psoriasis.