Essential oils may be extracted from exotic plants such as sandalwood or ylang ylang, or from more common plants like lavender and chamomile, but each one has its own characteristics and properties. Try to get used to a few oils at first, understand their effects, and enjoy their fragrance!
Essential oils are concentrated substances; while the skin of citrus fruits such as lemon or orange may yield a fair amount of oil, flowers such as roses only contain tiny amounts of the precious essence about 5,000 roses may be needed to obtain 5 ml (1 tsp) of pure essential oil. This concentration emphasizes the importance of only using drop doses of the oils, in a suitable dilution, as a little goes a long way.
Oils are extracted from many different parts of plants. Each contains powerful healing properties, to be enjoyed but also respected. Nature provides an abundance of therapeutic compounds to help us regain health and vitality.
1) Anise (Pimpinella anisum)
The character of anise oil is dominated by the content of 97 percent anethole and its strong calming effect on the nervous system. It acts estrogen-like and can be used for amenorrhea. It minimizes overexcitement and has stabilizing effects following a hangover.
2) Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlanticus)
Moroccan atlas cedar oil is valued not for any unique medicinal properties, but more for its ability but persistently stimulate circulation and metabolism. It counteracts the storage of excess moisture and fat in tissue, and stimulates their elimination. When combined with certain oils, it is the strongest weapon against cellulite.
Atlas cedar oil is very useful when a composition is desired that has a strong stimulating effect but is not too aggressive or irritating. The stimulating power of atlas cedar oil does not manifest itself as quickly as phenol-containing oils, such as thyme or oregano, but its effects are deeper and longer lasting. With atlas cedar in a certain mixture the desired effect is produced without having to deal with the dominant and somewhat crude aromas of thyme or oregano. The aroma of atlas cedar offers an elegant alternative.
3) Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
The variety of species, subspecies, and chemo-types of basil offer us virtually the entire arsenal of aromatic substances. Basil oil is made in many regions of the world: France, Egypt, Thailand, Nepal, Tanzania, and on the islands in the Indian Ocean. The Comoro Islands and Reunion Island produce a basil oil with a very high estragole content, known as exotic basil oil. An antispasmodic, it has a balancing effect on the autonomic nervous system. The French aroma therapy literature recommends it for Hepatitis A, B, non-A, non-B, and C, as well as yellow fever and tropical viral infections. European basil, in contrast to exotic basil, has a fresher scent due to its higher linalol and lower estragole contents. The European oils are therefore less "harsh", but have less dramatic effects(Schnaubelt, 1998).
4) Benzoin (Styrax benzoin)
This Asiatic tree produces a gum which is usually dissolved in a solvent to produce the oil. It has a wonderful fragrance of vanilla, and is widely used in inhalation mixtures. It relaxes the airways and can be used whenever tension leads to a tight chest or restricted breathing. Traditionally used in inhalations.
## Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)
Useful in massage to relax tired muscles. A general tonic and stimulant with a penetrating aroma.
5) Calophyllum (Calophyllum inophyllum)
The fact that we use the botanical name for this oil, as no common English name is available, indicates that this oil has not been in use long in either conventional medicine or aromatherapy. This oil was introduced to aromamedicine in france, and it is not an essential oil but something of a hybrid, a cross between fatty and aromatic oils- an aromatic fatty oil. It is produced by pressing the fruit of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree. It has a blue-green color and an aroma somewhat similar to lovage.
People on the coasts of the Indian Ocean use calophyllum oil as a panacea. It finds its main application as an immune-modulating component in skin-care products, which benefit from its phagocytosis-stimulating qualities. Phagocytosis is a function of our immune system which serves to eliminate unwanted substances. In simpler terms, phagocytosis helps take out the trash.
This oil is recommended in cases of skin conditions accompanied by a buildup of pus. A mixture of equal parts Ravensare aromatica and calophyllum oil is an effective treatment for shingles.
6) Carrot (Daucas carota)
Carrot seed oil is used (because of its sesquiterpene alcohol content- 50% carotol) to stimulate regeneration of liver cells. It revitalizes dry, pallid skin.
7) Chamomile (Matricaria recutita [German] or Chamaemelum nobilis [Roman])
Roman and German chamomile are both used to obtain essential oils with very similar properties. Chamomile is relaxing and antispasmodic, helping to relieve tension headaches, nervous digestive problems or insomnia, for instance.
(1) German chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
(2) Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobilis)
8) Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylancium)
Cinnamon bark oil provides ideal, fast-acting relief for infections, enzymatic deficiency in the digestive tract, and bacterial bladder infections. A general tonic to soothe a worried mind. It is an invigorating oil with a distinctive, spicy aroma. In caution, not to be used externally.
9) Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)
Clary sage impresses with its aroma. When applied to the wrists or temples, it is relaxing in a gentle, effective manner. Newcomers to aromatherapy often react to this with a light euphoria and giddiness. Robert Tisserand was the first aromatherapist to describe the occurrence of these euphoric effects during massage.
This oil has intense effects on some individuals and more moderate effects on others. Through its sclareol content clary sage has an estrogen-like quality and is used to ease premenstrual syndrome.
This oil gives a definite euphoric uplift to the brain; do not use too much, however, as you can be left feeling very spacy! Like ylang ylang and jasmine, its antidepressant and relaxing qualities have contributed to its reputation as an aphrodisiac.
10) Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata)
Clove bud oil is used in dentistry and has a broad spectrum of action against bacteria. In aromatherapy it is used for viral hepatitis, amebiasis, tuberculosis, and asthenia. Clove bud oil can be sensitizing.
Clove bud oil is a spicy, piercing and highly antiseptic oil that is both stimulating and uplifting.
11) Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
Because of the high linalol content, this oil is tonyfying and strengthening. In addition, a series of coumarin compounds together with linalol provides a mild euphoric effect.
12) Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
In all of aromatherapy there is perhaps no oil more effective than cypress oil to counteract an infection of either the throat, nose, or bronchi in its early phase. Used at the very first signs of sore throat, it is typically sufficient to arrest the process and prevent the development of subsequent bronchitis or a cold.
This application is simple: one drop is taken as soon as scratchiness or soreness in the throat point to a beginning infection. As the admittedly disagreeable turpentine taste develops in the mouth, any soreness in the throat will become overshadowed by this pervasive taste. After a few minutes, the taste changes, taking on a relatively pleasing character. As the sore throat sensation returns, another drop of cypress oil is taken. This procedure is repeated until one gets somewhat used to the taste. After the third, fourth, or fifth application, the soreness typically will not return. Without the prompt of the sore throat, one generally forgets to continue taking cypress oil, which is the desired, self-regulating effect.
13) Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
One of the finest oils for respiratory complaints, found in most commercial inhalants. Well diluted (never use more than 1 per cent) in a base vegetable oil, it can be applied to the forehead to help relieve a hot, tense headache linked with tiredness.
14) Everlasting (Helichrysum italicum)
The high content of anti-inflammatory, calming sesquiterpene hydrocarbons is complimented by the presence of approximately 40 percent spasmolytic esters and approximately 8 percent regenerative diketones(found only in everlasting). The pain reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect of everlasting is unique: if applied in time, it prevents hemorrhaging. It is also very effective for joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
15) Frankincense (Boswellia carteri)
Frankincense consists primarily of terpene hydrocarbons, in addition to small concentrations of complex molecules with two functional groups. The oil is used for weakened immune system, asthma, and depression. A soothing and balancing oil that is emotionally comforting. Particularly beneficial in skin-care preparations.
16) Geranium (Pelargonium odorantissimum)
The rose-scented geranium has very useful properties, not least being its ability to bring a blend together, to make a more harmonious scent. Geranium has a refreshing, antidepressant quality, good for nervous tension and exhaustion.
Interestingly, the antimycotic effect of geranium is not linked- as is the case with many other oils- to an antibacterial effect; this means geranium acts against yeasts without affecting bacterial flora. In addition, geranium stops bleeding, stimulates the functions of the liver and pancreas, and applied topically, soothes pain in the breasts before and during menstruation.
17) Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens)
Hyssop oil has perhaps the strongest antiviral effects and is therefore especially suitable for treating herpes and fever blisters. Combined with Khella (Ammi visnaga), it is used to prevent asthma attacks. Used for nervous depression it has an uplifting effect and helps an individual to lighten up.
Hyssop oil is a strong, penetrating oil that brings comfort to emotional distress.
18) Inula graveolens
Inula graveolens is generally only found on the French aromatherapy market, and even then at a very high price and only in years with a very good harvest. Despite its uncertain availability, it is recommended for all bronchitis conditions, for which its usefulness cannot be overestimated. It is so effective that a family of four using it correctly will certainly not need more than 5 milliliters in one year.
This oil is most effective when it comes to loosening mucus. The effect is so pronounced that it occurs even at concentrations below odor threshold.
The best method of use is in a diffusor at night, with the output of the diffusor set at the lowest possible level. Otherwise, one can simply put a drop of oil on a pillow.
This oil is most effective against all catarrhal illnesses of the upper respiratory tract, against chronic bronchitis, and also against spasmodic conditions.
19) Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)
One of the most wonderful aromas, jasmine has a relaxing, euphoric effect, and can greatly lift the mood when there is debility, depression and listlessness. Use in the bath or in massage oils, or use jasmine flower water for oily skin.
20) Khella
This oil has a dilating effect, especially on the coronary blood vessels, the bronchi, and the urinary tract. It is used for asthma and gallbladder and kidney colics.
21) Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
One of the most well-known scents, lavender has been used for centuries to refresh and add fragrance to the home, and as a remedy for stress-related ailments. It is especially helpful for tension headaches, or for nervous digestive upsets; use in a massage oil or in the bath for a deeply relaxing and calming experience.
The finest oil is produced from the true lavender, and is one of the safest and most versatile of all oils. Its uses range from first-aid treatment of burns, to skin care products, oils for muscular aches and pains, smelling salts for shock, and a host of stress-reducing applications.
22) Lemon Verbena (Lippia citriodora)
Lemon verbena's scent is gentler and more pleasant than that of all other oils with a high citral content. It works strongly on the psycho-hormonal level. It is strongly anti-inflammatory and calming and used to treat depression. Aromamedicine uses this oil as a supplemental treatment for malaria, multiple sclerosis, and Hodgkin's disease.
) Linden Blossom Absolute (tilea europoea)
Linden Blossom has a delicate, sweet and luxurious fragrance with deeply relaxing properties.
23) Marjoram (Origanum marjorana)
Marjoram has a calming and warming effect, and is a good for both cold, tight muscles and for cold, tense people who might suffer from headaches, migraines and insomnia. Use in massage blends for rubbing into tired and aching muscles, or in the bath, especially in the evening to help to obtain a good night's sleep.
Helpful for muscular fatigue, this oil has a warm, woody fragrance. It has a fortifying and warming effect.
24) Melissa (Melissa officinalis)
The way in which melissa oil combines an excellent antiviral component with a soothing but pervasive power is difficult to imagine; it has to be experienced. In its complexity, power, and gentleness, melissa oil perfectly illustrates how nature time after time works better than one dimensional synthetic medicines.
Melissa oil appears to be one of the strongest antiviral agents available in aromatherapy. With only a few topical applications a herpes outbreak can be ended and the blisters dried up.
25) Myrrh (Commiphora molmol)
Myrrh has a antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It is primarily used for diarrhea, but also as a mouthwash in dental care.
# Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Useful for muscular fatigue, this oil is an uplifting with a fresh aroma.
26) Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini)
One could say that this oil is the dream of every aromatherapy enthusiast. It is inexpensive and combines an impressive variety of desirable qualities. It is effective against viruses, yet it is mild and nontoxic, and has a very attractive scent. This oil is perfect as a central, reasonably priced component for antiseptic skin care compositions.
27) Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
For the aromatherapy user, peppermint oil is as indispensable as it is problematic: indispensable due to its healing properties; problematic due to the many different qualities and compositions in which it is offered.
This oil is another classic ingredient in inhalations for relieving catarrh, although commercially menthol (a major part of the oil) may be used. Peppermint's analgesic and antispasmodic effects make it very useful for rubbing on to the temples to ease tension headaches; ideally dilute a drop in a little base cream or oil before applying.
28) Pine (Pinus pinaster)
There are a few species of pine that produce oils, notably the American long-leaf pine which is a commercial source of oil of turpentine. However, the pine oil used in aromatherapy generally comes from the Scots pine. It helps to clear the air passages when used as an inhalation, and is also good for relieving fatigue. Tired, aching muscles can be eased with massage using diluted pine oil.
29) Rose (Rosa X damascena, Centifolia)
Rose is a probably the most famous of all oils, prized since the beginning of time both as a marvellous fragrance and as a valuable remedy for many ailments. There is probably more symbolism attached to roses than any other flower, and their scent can evoke a general sense of pleasure and happiness.
Several kinds of roses have been used to extract the oil, notably the damask rose and cabbage rose. Each one is slightly different, but the overall actions are sedating, calming and anti-inflammatory. Not surprisingly, rose oil has a wide reputation as an aphrodisiac, and where anxiety is a factor, it may be very beneficial. Use in the bath for a sensual, unwinding experience, or add to a base massage oil to soothe muscular and nervous tension.
30) Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
With a very penetrating, stimulating aroma, rosemary has been used for centuries to help to relieve nervous exhaustion, tension headaches and migraines. It improves circulation to the brain, and is an excellent oil for mental fatigue and debility.
31) Sage (Salvia officinalis)
The main ingredient of sage oil is thujone(20∼70 percent). Besides that it contains a great number of active molecules which provide a diverse range of complex effects. It is effective against Staphylococcus aureus and bacteria of the genus Streptococcus and has an antiviral effect. Sage is also used to stimulate bile production.
32) Sandalwood (Santalum album)
Probably the oldest perfume in history, known to have been used for over 4,000 years. Sandalwood has a heavy scent, and often appeals to men as much as to women. It has a relaxing, antidepressant effect on the nervous system, and where depression causes sexual problems, sandalwood can be a genuine aphrodisiac.
33) Tea Tree(Melaleuca alternifolia)
The Australian wonder, this oil is renowned for its unbelievable antimicrobial qualities. Its wide spectrum of action makes it perfect for the traveler's first-aid kit. It is the oil perfect for treating infections of the mucous membranes of mouth and gums, for acne and herpes, and for bacterial, candida-related, or viral intestinal infections. Tea tree oil is also effective for infections of the genital area, especially chronic candida-related vaginitis, as well as infections with trichomonads.
34) Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
This oil is often distilled, in whole or in part, from another plant, Thymus Zygis. Genuine Thymus vulgaris is not as readily available as one might think. Through its natural content of thymol and carvacrol, Thymus vulgaris oil has an extremely broad spectrum of action against infectious illness. In its genuine state, it has a significantly more pleasant scent than most oils with an upward-adjusted phenol content.
A highly antiseptic oil that is reviving and fortifying. It has an elevating effect on the emotions.
35) Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides)
This oil is often used as a fixative. Because of its active sesquiterpene alcohols and ketones it provides sustained stimulation for endocrine glands and circulatory system. Aromamedicine recommends vetiver for a weakened immune system.
36) Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow oils are often of deep blue color, because of a high chamazulene content. Interestingly, this is not always the case- it also often has a light yellow or green color. Yarrow oil is applied externally for neuralgia or tendinitis.
37) Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata Var. Genuina)
This tropical tree, native to Indonesia, produces an intensely sweet essential oil that has a sedative yet antidepressant action. It is good for many symptoms of excessive tension such as insomnia, panic attacks, anxiety and depression. It also has a good reputation as an aphrodisiac, through its ability to reduce stress levels. Ylang Ylang oil's narcotic scent is its dominant characteristic. It is used for heart palpitations, for which even the smallest amounts, applied topically, have a remarkable effect.
38) Citrus Oils
Many citrus fruits yield essential oils, and they tend to have similar properties. In general they are refreshing, stimulating oils, good for the morning bath, leaving you feeling cleansed and alive. Citrus oils are great tonics, having a fresh, stimulating aroma to lift the mood and spirits.
(1) Bergamot (Citrus Bergamia)
The peel of the ripe fruit yields an oil that is mild and gentle. It is the most effective antidepressant oil of all, best used at the start of the day. Its leaves give the distinctive aroma and flavour to Earl Grey tea. The oil can be used on a burner for generally lifting the atmosphere. Do not use on the skin in bright sunlight, as it increases photosensitivity. Bergamot refreshes, relaxes, and helps relieve insomnia.
(2) Bitter Orange (Citrus Aurantium Var. Amara)
The bitter, or Seville, orange is the source of not one but three different oils, from the fruit, the blossom (also called neroli) and the leaf (also called petitgrain). These have overlapping effects; neroli is especially good as a tonic and mood lifter, raising the spirits and may be the libido.
Bitter orange, the oil from the rind of the fruit, is used as a calming component in fresh aroma mixtures.
Neroli, the oil from the flowers, is valued for its aroma alone- a drop on the wrist or temples is an effective remedy for anxiety and nervous depression.
The oil from the leaves, petitgrain, also has a stabilizing effect on the nervous system.
(3) Grapefruit (Citrus X Paradisi)
Oil of grapefruit is very helpful in the digestion of fatty foods and helps to combat cellulite and congested pores. It has an uplifting effect and will soothe headaches and nervous exhaustion.
(4) Lemon (Citrus limon)
This oil with the refreshing scent stimulates the liver, has a gentle, calming effect(despite its high terpene hydrocarbon content), and is perhaps the most effective oil for disinfecting room air using a diffusor.
Possibly the most cleansing and antiseptic of the citrus oils, useful for boosting the immune system and in skin care. It can also refresh and clarify thoughts.
(5) Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemongrass is a stimulating oil with a fresh fragrance. Excellent in relieving muscular fatigue.
(6) Limes (Citrus aurantifolia)
Oil of lime is good for stimulating a sluggish system and may be used when a tonic is needed, in massage or in the bath.
(7) Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
This scent of mandarin is as sweet as candy. The presence of the highly sedative anthranilic acid ester makes this oil the first choice for use with children suffering from anxiety, nervousness, or stress. Mandarin oil can be taken internally and can be used to freshen indoor air.
Refreshing and cleansing, this sweetly scented oil is especially good for skin problems such as acne. It also helps digestion, soothing heartburn and nausea.