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from The New Age Herbalist…
“For thousands of years, people have used aromatherapy as an aid to physical and emotional well-being. We can trace it’s use back at least as far as the ancient Egyptians, who recognized the therapeutic powers of essential oils, and there is also a long tradition of aromatherapy in the Far East, particularly in China. The oils, which are volatile compounds that occur naturally in plants, are important to the plant because they contribute to it’s characteristic scent, thus helping to attract pollinating insects. Oils are extracted (either by distillation or maceration) from the flowers of some plants and the leaves of others. Their use in aromatherapy is effective because it links two potent forces - the healing ability of the oils themselves and the receptivity of the human skin and sense of smell.”
Essential oils have a multitude of uses. Sometimes the choices of what and when to use can be overwhelming. Hopefully the information here will provide a quick and easy guide to the every day uses of essential oils.
I’ve been practicing Aromatherapy for over 20 years and I still refer to my books. Keep in mind that I am not a certified Aromatherapist and the information presented is intended to guide you with suggestions. Some of the information here is taken from my most referred to books, The New Age Herbalist, by Richard Mabey and The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, by Valerie Ann Worwood. If you are interested in learning more about Aromatherapy, I recommend to head to the bookstore and pick out the one that looks attractive to you. As you experiment, be sure to read about any possible side effects of particular essential oils. There are some contra-indications such as pregnancy. NEVER take essential oils internally. Be aware. “When in doubt, leave it out.” Consult with your health care practitioner if you are in need of medical help.
One more thing. All essential oils should be diluted with a “carrier”, This can be a base oil such as jojoba, almond, or olive. Or you can dilute with distilled water. Because of their potency, essential oils should not be used “neat” with the exception of tea tree.
THE BASIC KIT
“If I had to choose the ten most versatile and useful essential oils for the average home medicine cabinet, these would be they.” Valerie Ann Worwood
And I use them for cleaning the house too!
lavender
Every home should have a bottle of lavender. It is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative, and detoxifier which promotes healing and prevents scarring. It also stimulates the immune system and contributes to the healing process by stimulating the cells of a wound to regenerate more quickly. It is truly an indispensable oil.
tea tree
The Aborigines have been using this indigenous Australian tree in their medications for centuries. It’s impressive antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties make it useful in a wide range of conditions. It is used in the treatment of infections such as sunburn, acne, athlete’s foot, candida, and toothaches.
peppermint
The extremely useful health-promoting properties of peppermint have been used by many ancient cultures for centuries. It is an digestive (although drinking the tea is recommended for this. Remember, do not take essential oils internally!) it helps the respiratory system and circulation, it is an antiseptic. Peppermint is a good oil for bad breath, varicose veins, headaches and migraines, rheumatism, toothaches, and fatigue. It also keeps mice, fleas,and ants away!
chamomile
There are several types of chamomile essential oils. The two most common are German, characterized by it’s deep blue color. Also called azulene, this is commonly used in skin care products. I love it for after waxing! Roman chamomile is particularly good for the treatment of nervous conditions and insomnia. Although chamomile is antibacterial, antiseptic, and disinfectant, it is most valued for it’s anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile is used for the treatment of burns, including sunburn, psoriasis, eczema, asthma, hay fever, diarrhea, sprains, nausea, fever, and all nervous and depressive states.
eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a versatile and useful oil. It cools the body in summer and protects it in the winter. It is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibiotic, diuretic, analgesic and deodorizing. It is best known for it’s effectiveness against coughs and colds but is equally effective in the treatment of cystitis, candida, diabetes, and sunburn, as well as a great insect repellent.
geranium
The oil is not extracted from the familiar brightly colored geranium but from it’s furry leafed cousin found in nurseries. You can find different varieties, the most common being rose and lemon. It has the ability to constrict blood vessels, making it very useful with inflammation conditions like rosacea. It is also used as a nerve tonic. Geranium has many applications, from frostbite to infertility, and it’s antiseptic/astringent properties contribute to it’s general usefulness. It’s delightful floral fragrance makes it a pleasure to use, either on it’s own or in a blend.
rosemary
Both a physical and mental stimulant, rosemary is a good oil for the morning to awaken your senses. While also being excellent in the treatment of all muscular conditions, it is the perfect oil for a bath after a long, tiring day. This antiseptic oil is used in the treatment of muscular sprains, arthritis, rheumatism, depression, fatigue, memory loss, migraines, coughs, flu, and diabetes. It is also very useful in beauty treatments, used in hair care and acne treatments. Also good for cellulite!
thyme
There are many types of thyme, some of which can be used safely and others which should be avoided. Thyme linalol is the recommended type to use. It has strong antiviral properties but should be used with great care. Like many good things, it should be used in moderation. When the flu is around it is a wonderful oil to have in a room diffuser to kill germs in the air. It assists in the elimination of toxic wastes from the body and is used in the treatment of a wide range of conditions including warts, fatigue, and acne. Thyme is also an excellent insect repellent.
lemon
This antiseptic and antibacterial oil will perform many tasks when used in blends, including treating insect bites, warts, and tension headaches. It has a tonic action on the lymphatic system and a stimulating action on the digestive system. It will assist in dispersing cellulite and keep wrinkles at bay. It is particularly useful in blends due to it’s synergistic quality.
clove
Clove oil is antibacterial, antiseptic, and analgesic It is a great oil for the prevention of disease and infection, It is best known as a quick cure for toothaches, although it is equally useful in digestive problems and muscular disorders. It can be used in the treatment of asthma, nausea, and sinusitis, as well as a sedative. Clove is a powerful oil that has been used for the sterilization of surgical instruments, making it perfect for kitchen and bath cleaners.
Now you have the list for your basic kit. Go forth and smell….
massage
Essential oils are used in a variety of ways. One very common method is topically, diluted with a carrier oil.
Massage the oil blend onto the affected area.
The ratios are:
essential oil : carrier oil
1 drop : 1/5 teaspoon
2-5 drops : 1 teaspoon
4-10 drops : 2 teaspoons
6-15 drops : 1 tablespoon
8-20 drops : 4 teaspoons
10-25 drops : 5 teaspoons
12-30 drops : 2 tablespoons
1 teaspoon : 5 ml
2 teaspoons : 10 ml
1 tablespoon : 15 ml
When creating a blend, choose the appropriate carrier depending on what area of the body it will be used on. For example…
jojoba
pronounced, ho-ho’-ba. (not jo’-jo-ba)
Jojoba has a molecular structure similar to our own skin oil. This is a safe choice if you are making a blend to be used on the face or back as not to clog the pores. Unrefined jojoba has a deep gold color and is better for dryer skin types, while refined jojoba is clear, lighter weight and better for skin that tends to break out.
grapeseed
Extremely light weight. The best choice when you are looking for an oil that will penetrate the skin without any residue. It is easily obtained at the grocery store.
sweet almond
Great for blends to be used on the body. It has the added benefit of helping to relieve soreness, dryness, and inflammation. Some folks are allergic, so if you are making a blend for a friend be sure to find out if they have had any prior sensitivities.
argan
This valuable oil has been used for centuries in and around Morocco. The health benefits of Argan oil come from it’s high content of fatty acids, vitamin E and carotenes. An excellent choice for healing blends.
inhalation
Truly “aroma therapy”, essential oils can do their work as we smell their sweet, or not so sweet smells. Here are a few examples of blends and ways to get them into the air.
uplifting: grapefruit, lavender, lime, and basil
relaxing: geranium, clary sage, lemon, and bergamot
romance: ylang ylang, clary sage, nutmeg, and lime
bathroom: oregano, sage, thyme, and lemon
kitchen: lavender. lemon, bois de rose, and palma rosa
diffusers
The purpose of a diffuser is to heat the oils , allowing their molecules to be released into the air.
There are many different types, some heated by a candle flame and some by electricity. Be sure to wipe clean before adding a new aroma.
room sprays
Pour warm water and your essential oil blend into a glass spray bottle. Shake and use as a natural air freshener with therapeutic benefits.
water therapy
One of easiest way to get aromatherapy into your life. Just add 10-20 drops of your desired oils into a hot bath. Soak in the therapeutic benefits for 20 minutes or so.
some suggestions for what ails ya:
sore muscles: rosemary, ginger, camphor
energizing morning: pine, neroli, grapefruit
relaxing nighttime: sandalwood, chamomile, geranium
