 | |  | qualities and uses of essential oils |
References:
Julia Lawless – The Encyclopaedia of Essential oils
Jan Balkam – Aromatherapy and Herbal Remedies
Wanda Sellar – Directory of Essential Oils |
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African Chamomile
Main Qualities:
Azulene (the chemical which makes the oil blue) is a highly effective anti-inflammatory and benefits the immune system; antibacterial, antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic. Helps tremendously with insomnia, especially when blended with lavender.
Can Benefit:
Acne, bruises, burns, chickenpox, dry/sensitive or inflamed skin, eczema, nappy rash, normal skin, pruritis (itching), psoriasis, thread veins • asthma, colds, coughs, sinusitis • colitis, stomach cramps, tummy aches, indigestion • dry hair • fever • headache, earache, migraine, toothache • high blood pressure • muscular aches & pains • period pain, premenstrual syndrome, scanty periods, menopause • sleeplessness, anxiety, fear, nervous tension, restlessness, depression, irritability.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, hair care, inhalation, massage, perfume, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations.
Warnings:
Although very mild, chamomile can promote menstruation and therefore should be avoided in early pregnancy if there is a history or serious risk of miscarriage. |
| Buchu
Main Qualities:
Antiseptic (especially urinary), diuretic, diaphoretic & stimulant tonic, anti-inflammatory, insecticide.
Can Benefit:
Kidney & urinary tract diseases, cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis • rheumatism • wounds & bruises (external application in folk medicine in the form of 'buchu vinegar’).
How to Use:
Tinctures and infusions.
Warnings:
Although buchu has been used for generations in traditional medicine, official scientific research on the properties of buchu is bringing to light new qualities all the time. Consult an aromatherapist before using this oil at home. |
| Cape May
Main Qualities:
Antiseptic, deodorant, diuretic (increases urine flow), insecticide, sedative (calming), restorative (reviving).
Can Benefit:
Colds, flu, sore throat • nervous tension • water retention • insect repellent • eases tension, clears the mind of negative or fearful thoughts, encourages positive communication.
How to Use:
Bath, massage, room fragrancer, inhalation.
Warnings:
Avoid in early pregnancy |
| Cape Snowbush
Main Qualities:
Antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, balsamic (healing, soothing & softening phlegm), carminative (expulsion of gas from intestines), cephalic (stimulates & clears the mind), decongestive, digestive, diuretic, haemostatic (stops bleeding), restorative, sedative, stomachic, styptic (stops external bleeding), tonic, vulnerary (prevents tissue degeneration & wound bleeding).
Can Benefit:
Colds, coughs, flu • diarrhoea, flatulence, dysentery • menstruation • muscular pain • hair tonic • insomnia • depression & treatment of addictive personalities.
How to Use:
Bath, massage, room fragrancer, mixed into shampoo.
Warnings:
Avoid in early pregnancy. |
| Eucalyptus
Main Qualities:
Antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, deodorant, expectorant, insect repellent.
Can Benefit:
Arthritis, muscular aches and pains, sprains • Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, chest infections, colds, coughs, flu, sinusitis • boils, chilblains, cold sores, shingles, skin infections, skin ulcers, wounds • chickenpox, fever • diarrhoea • high blood sugar • low blood pressure, poor circulation.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, insect repellent, massage, room fragrancer, steam inhalation.
Warnings:
Not suitable for babies or young children. May be skin irritant, use in low dosages (1% in massage oil & 3 drops in bath). Use moderately & with care. N.B. If taken internally it is toxic & has proved fatal – keep out of children’s reach. |
| Grapefruit
Main Qualities:
Antibacterial, antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, detoxifying. Helps to stimulate fluid loss by promoting urination; has stimulant and tonic actions; generally revives and refreshes on an emotional level. Its high limonene content helps break down small kidney and gall stones. Relieves migraines, PMT and jet lag.
Can Benefit:
Acne, congested skin, oily skin • anxiety, depression, mental exhaustion, nervous tension, stress-related ailments • build up of toxicity, drug withdrawal • digestive problems, hangovers, liver & gall bladder problems • fluid retention, cellulitis • poor muscle tone, muscle fatigue.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, massage, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations.
Warnings:
Skin irritation could occur if exposed to strong sunlight after treatment. |
| Khaki Bush (Tagetes)
Main Qualities:
Anthelmintic, antispasmodic, bactericidal, carminative (expulsion of gas from intestines), diaphoretic, emmenagogue (promotes & regularises menstrual flow), fungicidal, stomachic (relieves gastric disorders), insect repellent.
Can Benefit:
Bunions, calluses, corns, fungal infections.
How to Use:
Bath, insect repellent, massage, room fragrancer.
Warnings:
Use with care in moderation. Some reported cases of dermatitis with the tagetes species. |
| Lavender
Main Qualities:
Antibacterial, antidepressant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, deodorant, insect repellent.
Helps to: Relieve pain, stimulate new cell growth, encourage fluid loss by promoting urination, stimulate menstruation, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, increase sweating , strengthen and relax the nervous system, tone muscles, generally calms emotions and can induce sleep.
Can Benefit:
Acne, all skin types, athlete’s foot, boils, burns, bruises, cuts, eczema, grazes, inflamed skin, insect stings and bites, itching, minor wounds, psoriasis, rashes (nappy), ringworm, scalds, scars, sores, sunburn, stretch marks, ulcers • anxiety, depression, hysteria, insomnia, nervous tension, stress-related ailments • arthritis, aches & pains (muscles), cramp, gout, sciatica, sprains • asthma, bronchitis, colds coughs (tickly), croup, flu, laryngitis, sinusitis, sore throats, whooping cough • cellulite, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, gall bladder problems, indigestion, nausea, tummy ache • dandruff, head lice • earache, headache, migraine • engorged breasts, labour pain, leucorrhoea, period pain, premenstrual syndrome, thrush • urinary tract infections. How to Use:
Bath, compress, douche, hair care, insect repellent, massage, perfume (neat, but 1 drop only), room fragrancer, skin-care preparations.
Warnings: Probably the only oil that can safely be used neat (in very small amounts) and during pregnancy – HOWEVER, as Lavender promotes menstruation, it must be avoided in early pregnancy if there is a history or serious risk of miscarriage. |
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Lemon
Main Qualities:
Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, astringent, detoxifying, insect repellent. Helps to heal wounds; stimulate fluid loss by promoting urination; reduce fever; lower blood pressure; boost the immune system; strengthen the stomach & liver; tone the skin; energises while refreshing and reviving on an emotional level.
Can Benefit:
Acne, chilblains, cuts, gum infections, insect bites, mouth ulcers, oily skin, spots, over-hydrated skin, warts • asthma, catarrh, colds, coughs, flu, sinusitis, sore throats • cellulite, gout, poor circulation, varicose veins • depression, lethargy, nervous tension, stress-related ailments • flatulence, gall bladder and liver problems, hangovers, heartburn, indigestion, nausea • greasy hair • kidney stones (small).
How to Use:
Bath, compress, hair care, insect repellent, massage, mouthwash, perfume, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations, steam inhalation.
Warnings:
May irritate sensitive skin – use in low dilution only – 1% in a massage oil or 3 drops in a bath. Not suitable for babies or young children. Do not use lemon oil on skin which is to be exposed to the sun or ultraviolet light as it is phototoxic (it can cause skin discolouration). |
| Lemon Balm
Main Qualities:
Sedative, carminative, spasmolytic, antiviral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal.
Can Benefit:
Calming, soothing treatment for sleeplessness • Nervous stomach disorders in adults& children • appetite stimulant • topical use for bacteria, fungi & viruses (including herpes).
How to Use:
Tea, ointments & creams.
Warnings:
On-going scientific research into the properties of lemon balm is revealing hugely beneficial qualities, including the possibility of providing a cure for skin cancer. Consult an aromatherapist before using this oil at home. |
| Lemon Grass
Main Qualities:
Analgesic, antidepressant, antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, antipyretic, antiseptic, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, febrifuge, fungicidal, galactagogue, insecticidal, nervine, sedative (nervous), tonic.
Can Benefit:
Acne, athlete’s foot, excessive perspiration, insect repellent (fleas, lice, ticks), open pores, pediculosis, scabies, tissue toner • Muscular pain, poor circulation and muscle tone, slack tissue • colitis, indigestion, gastroenteritis • fevers, infectious disease • headaches, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, insect repellent, massage, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations, steam inhalation.
Warnings:
A rather harsh essential oil and could irritate sensitive skins. Low dosage is best. |
| Lemon Verbena
Main Qualities:
Anti-microbial, analgesic, antidepressant, antipruritic (prevents itching), antiseptic, bechic (eases coughs), deodorant, disinfectant, emollient (soothes & softens skin), expectorant, febrifuge (cools high body temperature), haemostatic (stops bleeding), insecticide, restorative. Helps to clear mental confusion & gives relief from irritability.
Can Benefit:
Asthma, bronchitis, colds, influenza, pleurisy • fevers, malaria • nose bleeds • measles, skin ailments, scalp tonic, insect bites and stings • muscular pain • headaches.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, inhalation, massage, room fragrancer.
Warnings:
Do not put on your skin neat – photosensitive. |
| Mandarin
Main Qualities:
Antiseptic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, detoxifying. Being a mild oil, it can be used safely in pregnancy and for children’s ailments such as tummy ache, hiccups and for gas or wind pains. Its mildness makes it useful for other people needing gentle care such as older or convalescing people. Particularly effective for stomach and digestive problems, especially if they are of a nervous origin. Encourages the elimination of waste products from the body. Relaxes anxious, restless states of mind.
Can Benefit:
Acne, congested skin, gum & mouth infections, oily skin, over-hydrated skin, stretch marks • anxiety, depression, fear, lack of confidence, insomnia, stress-related illness • cellulite, fluid retention, poor circulation • constipation, flatulence, griping pains, heartburn, hiccups, indigestion, nausea, tummy ache • cramps • premenstrual syndrome.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, massage, perfume, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations.
Warnings:
May be phototoxic (it can cause skin discolouration), so best not to use before going out into strong sunlight. |
| Marjoram (sweet)
Main Qualities:
Analgesic, anaphrodisiac, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, cephalic, cordial, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, fungicidal, hypotensive, laxative, nervine, sedative, stomachic, tonic, vasodilator, vulnerary.
Can Benefit:
Anxiety, depression, insomnia, restlessness, stress-related illness • arthritis, aching muscles, cramp, rheumatic pain, sprains, stiff joints, strains, overtired muscles • asthma, bronchitis, colds, coughs, flu, sinusitis • bruises, chilblains • constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion, flatulence, griping pains • excessive sexual desire • headaches, migraines • high blood pressure, poor circulation • irregular periods, period pain.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, inhalation, massage, room freshener, vaporiser.
Warnings:
Not suitable in pregnancy, for babies, young children or people with very low blood pressure. Not to be confused with Spanish Marjoram which is from the thyme family and should only be used by qualified aromatherapists. |
| Orange (sweet)
Main Qualities:
Antibacterial, antidepressant, antifungal, antiseptic, antispasmodic, detoxifying. Helps to expel gas; stimulate fluid loss by promoting urination; lower blood pressure; strengthen the stomach and digestion; sedate the nervous system; generally uplifting and refreshing yet calming on an emotional level – quells the proverbial butterflies.
Can Benefit:
Acne, congested and oily skin, gum and mouth infections, tones all skin types • anxiety, depression, insomnia, nervous tension, stress-related disorders • bronchitis, chills, colds, coughs, flu • cellulite • constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, indigestion, nausea, spasmodic pain.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, massage, mouthwash, perfume, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations, steam inhalation.
Warnings:
Prolonged use and high dosage may irritate sensitive skin. Do not use orange oil on skin which is to be exposed to the sun or ultraviolet light as it is phototoxic (it can cause skin |
| Peppermint
Main Qualities:
Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiphlogistic, antipruritic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, cordial, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hepatic, nervine, stomachic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor, vermifuge.
Can Benefit:
Acne, dermatitis, ringworm, scabies, toothache • neuralgia, muscular pain, palpitations • asthma, bronchitis, halitosis, sinusitis, spasmodic cough ("When inhaled in steam it checks catarrh temporarily, & will provide relief from head colds & bronchitis; its antispasmodic actions combines well with this to make it a most useful inhalation in asthma.") • colic, cramp, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea • colds, fever, 'flu, • fainting, headache, mental fatigue, migraine, nervous stress, vertigo.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, insect repellent, massage, mouthwash, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations, steam inhalation.
Warnings:
Peppermint is a skin irritant so use in low dilution only – 1% in a local massage oil or 3 drops in a bath. Not suitable in pregnancy, for babies or young children. |
| Rose Geranium
Main Qualities:
Antidepressant, antihaemorrhagic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, cicatrisant, deodorant, diuretic, fungicidal, haemostatic, stimulant (adrenal cortex), styptic, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary.
Can Benefit:
Acne, bruises, broken capillaries, burns, congested skin, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, haemorrhoids, lice, oily complexion, mature skin, mosquito repellent, ringworm, ulcers, wounds • cellulite, engorgement of breasts, oedema, poor circulation • sore throat, tonsillitis • adrenocortical glands, menopausal problems, PMT • nervous tension, neuralgia, stress related conditions.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, hair care, insect repellent, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations, massage.
Warnings:
Not suitable in pregnancy. |
| Rosemary
Main Qualities:
Antibacterial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, expectorant, insect repellent.
Helps to:
Relieve pain, stimulate the mind, promote new cell growth, encourage fluid loss by promoting urination, stimulate menstruation, raise blood pressure, strengthen liver and nervous system, stimulate the immune system, produce warmth and redness when applied to the skin, generally stimulates and clears the mind, energises the emotions. Can Benefit:
Aching, overtired muscles, arthritis, gout, rheumatism, sports injuries, sprains, strains • acne, bruises, chilblains • apathy, exhaustion (mental & physical), fainting, stress-related ailments • catarrhal conditions, colds, coughs, fever, flu, sinusitis • cellulite, fluid retention, low blood pressure, poor circulation, varicose veins • constipation, flatulence, liver & gall bladder problems • dandruff, hair loss, head lice • headaches How to Use:
Bath, compress, hair care, insect repellent, room fragrancer, skin-care preparations, steam inhalation.
Warnings:
Not suitable in pregnancy or for people suffering from high blood pressure. |
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Spearmint
Main Qualities:
Antipruritic, antispasmodic, carminative (expulsion of gas from intestines), emmenagogue (promotes & regulates menstrual flow), insecticide, parturient (helps ease delivery in childbirth), restorative, stimulant.
Can Benefit:
Digestive problems (vomiting, flatulence, constipation & diarrhoea). Relaxes stomach muscles, relieves hiccups & nausea (may help with travel & sea sickness). Helps with urine retention & the dissolving of kidney stones. Can stem the flow of heavy periods & leucorrhoea. Said to promote easier labour during childbirth. Good for headaches, bad breath & sore gums. Stimulates a tired mind.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, inhalation, massage, room fragrancer.
Warnings:
Massage in local areas is preferable to total body massage. Possibility of irritating the eyes & sensitive skin. Best avoided in pregnancy. |
| Tea Tree
Main Qualities:
Anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal, balsamic, cicatrisant, diaphoretic, expectorant, fungicidal, immuno-stimulant, parasiticide, vulnerary. "Generally a remarkable healing oil."
Can Benefit:
Abscess, acne, athlete’s foot, blisters, burns, cold sores, dandruff, herpes, insect bites, oily skin, nappy rash, ring worm, spots, veruccae, warts, wounds (infected) • asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, sinusitis, tuberculosis, whooping cough • thrush, vaginitis, cystitis, pruritis • colds, fever, 'flu, infectious illnesses such as chickenpox.
How to Use:
Bath, compress, gargle, hair care, massage, mouthwash, neat (1 drop only), room fragrancer, skin-care preparations, steam inhalation.
Warnings:
Small amounts of neat oil can be used, but it is recommended that a skin patch test be carried out first to check for skin irritation or allergic reaction. |
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Thyme
Main Qualities:
Anthelmintic, antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, antiputrescent, antirheumatic, antiseptic (intestinal, pulmonary, genitor-urinary), antispasmodic, antitussive, antitoxic, aperitif, astringent, aphrodisiac, bactericidal, balsamic, carminative, cicatrisant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, fungicidal, hypertensive, nervine, revulsive, rubefacient, parasiticide, stimulant (immune system, circulation), sudorific, tonic, vermifuge.
Can Benefit:
Abscess, acne, bruises, burns, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, insect bites, lice, gum infections, oily skin, scabies • arthritis, cellulitis, gout, muscular aches and pains, obesity, oedema, poor circulation, rheumatism, sprains, sports injuries • asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis, sinusitis, sore throat, tonsillitis • diarrhoea, dyspepsia, flatulence • cystitis, urethritis • chills, colds, 'flu, infectious diseases • headaches, insomnia, nervous debility and stress-related complaints. "Helps to revive & strengthen both body & mind."
How to Use:
Inhalations may be preferable to massage or baths, as it could irritate the skin.
Warnings:
A very potent oil, one of the strongest antiseptics and toxicity is possible with prolonged use. Not to be used in cases of high blood pressure or pregnancy. |
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