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Care should be used with essential oils. As a general rule they should not be used on babies and children under the age of 12 years, pregnant women and those with sensitive skins. Some of the citrus based oils can react to exposure to sunlight and bring blotchiness to the skin. Pure essential oils need to be diluted in a carrier oil (Sweet Almond Oil or other vegetable based oil) before use. There are many books available giving recipes for the making up and blending of oils. Follow instructions carefully.
If in doubt do NOT self-treat.
Basil Oil of basil is distilled from the culinary herb and it an excellent nerve tonic. It clears congestion in the head, is an aid to concentration and a stimulant for the mind. Best administered by a qualified Aromatherapist.
Bergamot. Oil of bergamot is extracted from the rind of an Italian orange-type fruit. It aids depression, anxiety and stress and is used for skin care.
Cedarwood. Oil of cedarwood is especially good for catarrh and bronchial conditions. If used as an inhalant it has soothing tendencies.
Chamomile Roman Oil of roman chamomile is anti inflammatory and is useful for arthritis and painful joints. It is also used to calm an overactive mind.
Clary Sage This oil in made from the whole plant. It is a good muscle relaxant and a key oil in the treatment of PMT.
Clove Oil of clove comes from a Madagascan evergreen. It is a powerful antiseptic and is used to relieve toothache.
Cypress Oil of cypress is distilled from the cones and leaves of the cypress tree. It is extremely useful for dry coughs. Bronchitis and chestiness.
Eucalyptus Oil of eucalyptus is obtained from the eucalyptus tree. It is a powerful antibiotic. It is used as an inhalant and chest rub and is known for its properties that relive the congestion of colds.
Fennel Oil of fennel combats obesity. It is an aid to flatulence, wind and other types of digestive disorders.
Frankincense. Oil of frankincense is extracted from the gum of an African tree. It is useful in times of difficulty, bereavement, during panic attacks, nightmares and times of insecurity. It is also a useful aid to meditation. It is also know as Olibanum.
Geranium. Oil of Geranium comes from Madagascar. It is a good balancing oil. It is useful for skin conditions and it stimulates the lymphatic system.
Jasmine. Oil of jasmine is extremely expensive. It has a delightful fragrance and it is a very relaxing massage oil bringing physical and emotional balance.
Juniper Oil of juniper is made from juniper berries ( as is gin!). It cleanses and purifies the blood and is particularly helpful for rheumatism and arthritis.
Lavender Oil of lavender is the most versatile of all the oils. It is one of the few oils that can be used neat. It has powerful antiseptic properties and is very soothing. It is particularly useful for burns, bites, bruises, cuts, sprains, headaches, insomnia etc.
Melissa Also know as Lemons Balm. This oil is has a gentle lemony fragrance. It is helpful for allergies.
Myrrh Ancient oil used in religious ceremonies. It is useful for mouth and throat infections and a dry cough.
Neroli Neroli comes from Orange Blossom and is very fragrant. It is excellent fo shock, stress and those suffering from bereavement.
Patchouli Patchouli comes from India and is rather musky and sweet in fragrance. It is useful for cracked and sore skin.
Peppermint. Peppermint is excellent for digestive problems. It is also soothing for tired feet.
Rosemary Rosemary increases blood pressure and should be avoided by anyone who suffers from this condition. It stimulates both physical and mental abilities.
Sandalwood Sandalwood comes from Indian. It is useful for skin conditions and conditions of the throat.
Tee Tree Tee Tree has anti-bacteria and anti-fungus properties and many preparations are made using this oil. It is useful for teenage acne. It also stimulates the immunes system
Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang has a strong and distinctive fragrance. It is helpful relinquishing anger and for instilling confidence and self esteem.
© Scatz 2002 |
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