Magickal Aromatherapy

The many uses of perfumes, essential oils, and inscense...



Welcome to my Aromatherapy Center. Here I have gathered together all of the information I have regarding the magickal uses of scented oils, perfumes and incenses. As per usual, all of these have been gathered from outside sources, I have credited the authors where I have the information:

  • Aromatherapy: An explanation to a question I asked on a mailing list
  • Properties of Various Essential Oils



     Aromatherapy: An Explanation

    Oh Thyme, this one's right up my alley, but where to start ?!?!

    OK - this is gonna be a long ramble - you ready for this ??? *grin*

    Firstly, I'll throw it right back at you !!! Think of an aroma that you like ...
    could be anything at all - some of my favourite smells are roses, fresh baked
    bread, rain on hot earth, roses, running my fingers through the herb patch,
    whatever they used in Lux soap in the 50s & 60s, roses (did I mention ?!) ....
    now, think about WHY you like those smells - do they trigger memories for you,
    take you back to an event, a person, a feeling ?

    Our olfactory system (our smellery !) is pretty amazing - it has the only cranial
    nerve whose messages don't get dissected & interpreted before hitting the brain,
    and it works with the limbic system, which is the oldest, in evolutionarly terms,
    part of the brain. What our sense of smell really is, is an ability to collect,
    detect molecules given off as vapour from something, take those molecules into
    the brain & use them to trigger the production of all sorts of chemicals that our
    bodies respond to .... like stimulating hormonal production that then effects
    both our endocrine & exocrine systems, which determine how well our bodies do
    their daily stuff of processing our food, our emotions, our thoughts, etc.

    So there's a beginning. Now, ever heard the term 'oils ain't oils' ? Well,
    essential oils ain't oils !! When steam distilling is used to process plant
    matter, there are 2 products formed ... the oil soluble molecules which are small
    enough to evaporate & reform in the distilling process become the essential oil.
    The water soluble parts of the plant will end up in the water, and this is called
    a hydrosol. Also known an floral waters, but what passes for floral waters is
    often not the real stuff. Hydrosols are also used for healing & maybe I'll go
    into them in another rave !!

    But the stuff which we call the essential oil, is in fact a mixture of
    hydrocarbon molecules & derivatives which are very powerful substances, and are
    too often abused these days in ignorance of their real potential. Aromatherapy
    has become trendy, as as such, everyone & their dog is jumping on the bandwagon &
    using the word 'aromatherapy' on their products, when they have very little to do
    with therapy of any kind. (hmm ... can 'o worms in that one - i'll leave it go
    for the mo' !!....). There is more research being done these days on just what
    these substances can do to/for our bodies, and a lot of the myths-become-hype is
    slowly being dispelled, so that the real uses can be accepted by the greater
    world at large, and, importantly, by the healing profession (and I include the
    medical profession in that, although they don't collectively seem to understand
    what healing is all about yet).

    Too wafty? Ok, I'll get a bit more specific .... how about some examples ....
    The most popular essential oil would have to be lavender. There are many
    different lavender's on the market .... there's lavandula officinalis as the most
    common, but it will have different composition (ie, different hydrocarbon
    molecules & in different proportions) depending on where the plant was grown, &
    how. The stuff grown in high altitudes is preferred by a lot of the
    aromatherapists I know of. The stuff grown in Tasmania is different from the
    stuff grown in France - and there are a number of other varieties of lavender
    used to produce essentail oils & they will all have their differences.
    But essentially (*groan* pun unintended!!), lavender is the First Aid oil. This,
    along with Rescue Remedy in the Bach Flowers, is an essential item in any
    'natural' first aid kit. Use it on burns, on insect bites, for headaches, for
    calming .... to list everything that has been claimed for this oil would be to
    make it sound like the universal panacaea & that it ain't. (There IS a universal
    panacaea, but no-one's been able to bottle it up yet. It's called Love. Yes, with
    a capital 'L' :-) ).

    Some people have can't use lavender. Some people shouldn't use any essential oils
    at all .... being 'natural' does NOT necessarily mean being safe, and people have
    been known to have reactions to some of the substances that are in essential
    oils. I think anyone who has a bad reaction to lavender is really really unlucky
    (I know, I know, luck has nothing to do with it ;-) ) but it's important to stop
    using ANY oil which gives a bad reaction, as some people can becomes sensitised
    to substances that seem harmless & when that happens, each contact gives a worse
    reaction that the last time .... sort of the way it works with people who are
    allergic to bee stings. The safety issue with essential oils is a bit one, &
    unfortunately, something that is ignored by a lot of the aromatherapy writers &
    sellers out there. That's changing, but as long as the aromatherapy gravy train
    has momentum, there'll be the hangers-on who regurgitate old information, so it's
    good to question all the time for new answers.

    So, anyway, back to your question (hehehe!! you all know me for the rambling rose
    that I am by now, so ...). Essential oils can be used to change/enhance a
    particular mood - the citrus oils, for example, are very uplifting for the spirit
    - they are light & stimulating.
    Some of the citrus oils are:
    lemon - wonderful cleanser, both for things around the house - I put a drop or
    two in the washing sometimes & it's in my dishwashing stuff. A couple of drops in
    a vapouriser will cleanse the room. It's also good for the respiratory system,
    as is orange ..... which is great for bringing you up from down in the dumps -
    very good for lightening the mood - goes great in anti-depressent blends. Also
    good for the respiratory system & one that seems to be particulary useful for men
    for lifting the spirits.
    grapefruit is a beautiful mood brightener ... blended with vetiver, it has a very
    stabilising effect on the emotions .... the vetiver is grounding & the grapefruit
    uplifting - nice combo!
    bergamot is another cleanser - really clears out a stale-smelling room - does a
    bit the same for the emotions, too !! And it's great for cold sores (herpes
    simplex).
    and neroli ! well, neroli is the antspants for depression & despondency -
    there's lots of others in the citrus family - they all have similar properties,
    but each with it's own character. Beware, though - most of them are phototoxic,
    which means that the UV light from the sun can react with the oils to burn the
    skin badly .... don't use them on skin that's going to be exposed to the sun ....
    very important!! ALWAYS check the safely information on any oils you are going
    to use - they SHOULD be on the bottle. If not, then the company is doing a
    disservice - buy the good oils - I can nearly always help find a good supply,
    brand etc for almost anywhere in the world, so if anyone ever needs help finding
    stuff in their area, let me know .....

    Then there's the meditation oils (my term) ...... these are the ones which we can
    use to reach beyond the mind, beyond the physical .... they include stuff like
    frankincense, vetiver, cinnamon, spikenard, elemi, myrrh, angelica, sandalwood.
    All of these have areas of the physical body which they work very well on too,
    though I really love their higher energies. If you want to use essential oils for
    their spiritual beauty, drop the amount you use by half .... example, if you've
    got an oil burner & you put in 6 drops of a blend to help clear the air when
    there's flu in the house (hmm ... lemongrass, oregano, thyme, melissa,
    frankincense, eucalytus, teatree ...) you're using a physical dose. Half the
    amount of oil will have it's effect at more on the emotional & astral bodies
    before the physical. For some people, this is the best way to change their
    physical state, because of their own senstivity. If I want to have a ritual bath,
    for example, I will use half the oils than if I just felt like having a pampering
    relaxing bath. For meditating, I will sometimes only have one drop of oil in the
    burner, or on a tissue sitting next to me. That's all it takes sometimes .... did
    I say that these are VERY powerful substances ?!!

    For illnesses, there are essential oils that will work with just about every part
    of the body, helping our bodies to heal themselves. They can be used to clear
    fungal infections (elemi, german chamomile, oregano, teatree, lavender), to break
    down respiratory mucous buildup (lemon, eucalytus, rosemary, teatree, orange,
    frankincense) and to ease arthritis (german chamomile, black pepper, ginger). For
    mouth ulcers (myrrh, geranium) and headaches (lavender, peppermint), for upset
    digestive systems (peppermint, spearmint, ginger) and aching muscles (rosemary,
    black pepper, helicrysum), for bruising (helicrysum, arnica) & scarring
    (helicrysum, rosehips,carrot).

    And for our oh so human emotions, there is my beloved rose - for grief, old &
    new, for any trauma, for dispair & despondency, for lost hope & feeling worthless
    - for all these things & more ..... I use rose whenever I feel something coming
    at me that's distressing, or confusing ... it is the essential oil of Love, it
    stimulate the heart chakras, it opens us to allowing love in & helps us let it
    back out again. Wonderful stuff. A true Gift. Every heart should have some :-))

    I could go on, but I think I've rambled enough already !!! I haven't even
    mentioned the sensuous stuff like jasmine & ylangylang, or the oils for
    reproductive changes like clary sage (euphoric!!) or geranium. But I will another
    time....

    If you want to know what oil to use for anything specific, just ask ...... I've
    already got some stuff half way ready to send on thyme (I promised this a long
    time ago!)- growing it, using the herb, using the essential oil, cooking with it.
    But later, 'cos there's a cuppa coffee calling me (it's been calling me for a
    coupla hours now !!!) and I gotta get moving for the day, 'cos it's a busy one
    today.

    Hope this has stimulated more questions that it's answered, Thyme !!! And if
    there are any budding aromatherapists out there, feel free to correct anything
    I've got in here that you think I've got wrong ... didn't go to my books for this
    one, so it's all just straight from the fingertips !

    Love & Blessings, Jane :-))

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    Properties of Various Essential Oils

    Arjowan

    Good for circulation and muscular problems. Due to slight toxicity use sparingly, especially if you have sensitive skin.

    Allspice Berry

    Often used in potpourris. And to flavor beverages and foods. Sense enhancing. Avoid use in Sun.

    Ambrete Seed

    Has a sweet, musky, aroma that improves after storage. Used in Muscle aches and pains related to fatigue and poor circulation. Can be used as an anti-depressant.

    Amyris

    Calming and an aid to stress relief. It has sedative properties and helps meditation.

    Angelica Root

    An earthy aroma with excellent staying power. Used in anchoring, restorative, strengthening, and depression. Oil can also come from the seed. Avoid use in Sun.

    Aniseed

    Used as an aid to digestion. any cramping, indigestion, or digestive problems, (though not internally), and coughs. Do not use during pregnancy.

    Anise

    Mildly euphoric. Added to perfumes for a rich, sweet fragrance. Aids relaxation and emotional balance.Could cause skin problems in the very sensitive.

    Balsam Peru

    Used to soothe chafed skin, anchoring, strengthening. Exotic aroma.

    Basil

    Invigorates body and spirit: helps refresh the mind allowing concentration, especially when tired. A good nerve tonic after a stressful day.Do not use during pregnancy, can be a skin irritant.

    Bay Leaf

    Uplifting. A good scalp and hair tonic, and for respiratory disorders and depression. Can be stimulating to the memory.Can be a skin irritant

    Benzoin Tincture

    Soothes, stimulates, comforts and warms. Add to carrier oil/cream for protecting skin against chapping or cracking.

    Bergamot

    Relaxes and refreshes and is good for confidence building. Useful for caring for oily and blemished skin. Use in vaporiser to disperse unpleasant odors. Do not use in the sun.

    White Birch

    Can help to clear the skin and help with psoriasis and ezcema. Assists in removing toxins and boosting the circulation.

    Black Pepper

    Stimulates, warms, and tones. Good for massaging on muscles. Use in pre-sports rubs to help maintain suppleness.Can be a skin irritant

    Cajaput

    Improves mood, increases resistance to infections. A good 'unwinding' oil. Can be used in a Steam inhalation to help clear the nasal passages, also helpful when treating oily skin and spots.A stimulant and an irritant and must be used with care

    Calendula

    Good for skin infections, wounds, rashes, bites and inflammations, hemorriods and Rheumatism.

    Camphor White

    Can be used to care for oily or spotty skin and also as an insect repellent. Also used in detergents, soaps, disinfectants, deodorants, room sprays etc. Camphor should be used sparingly and completely avoided by those suffering from epilepsy.

    Caraway

    An oil sometimes included in "Love Potions". Can help circulation and intestinal problems. Good for the skin and decreases bruising.Can be irritating on some skins

    Cardamom Seed

    Can be used as an aid to digestion and makes an excellent bath oil as a tonic which refreshes and invigorates.

    Carrot seed

    Considered to be particularly beneficial for dry, mature skin-types and can help to restore elasticity to the skin.

    Cassia

    Used to flavour all kinds of food and toothpaste, mouthwash and chewing gum. Can be very irritating to the skin and can cause an allergic reactions.

    Cedarwood Virginia

    Soothes and harmonises. An astringent oil useful for protection and caring for oily and blemished skin. As an inhalant relieves mucous coughs and colds. Helps to combat cellulite, use in wardrobe to repel moths. Use in moderation during pregnancy

    Celery Seed

    It may stimulate milk flow, balance hormones, relieve liver and elimination system problems.

    Chamomile, German

    The blue color is from azulene which is formed during the distillation of the oil. All the Chamomiles are used in massage oils and herbal mixtures.

    Chamomile Roman

    Well known for its strong soothing effect on mind and body. They are excellent for protecting dry skin. Can be used to treat nerve, headache, insomnia, menstrual disorders and is a comforting oil during high pollen count. A gentle oil suitable for the young and fragile. One of the few essential oils that can be used on inflamed skin conditions.

    Cinnamon

    Warms and stimulates. A strong antiseptic, it has a cleansing effect. Used as a comforting oil during the cold season, A powerful irritant that must not be used on the skin.

    Citronella

    This uplifting oil is a natural deodoriser, and is also useful as an insect and cat repellent.

    Clary Sage

    Soothes, relaxes and warms. uplifts the spirit. Contains a hormone-like compound similar to estrogen that regulates hormonal balance. Massage on muscles and on abdomen before and during menstruation. Induces feeling of wellbeing. Can provoke dramatic and colorful dreams.... helpful with oily hair and skin, dandruff and treating wrinkles. Sensual properties. Do not drink alcohol or drive when using. Do not use during pregnancy.

    Clove

    An antiseptic and stimulating oil useful in mouthwash and gargle. Traditionally used to relieve toothache. Can be an effective mosquito repellent.A powerful skin irritant and should not be used during pregnancy.

    Coriander

    It makes a good massage blend to relieve stiffness and muscle ache. In the bath it is refreshing and stimulating.

    Cumin

    May be be used for those who have mental or physical exhaustion. Could stimulate the metabolism of those who are obese and/or have excessive fluid. May be slightly irritating to some skins.

    Cypress

    Refreshes, restores and tones. An astringent oil useful for refreshing and caring for oily and blemished skin, As an anti-perspirant it is good for sweaty feet. Massage on abdomen during menstruation and where there is cellulite. Good menopausal oil. Natural deodorant.

    Dill

    Can reduce appetite.

    Eucalyptus

    Powerful antiseptic, widely used in baths and massage during the cold season. Blend oil in chest rubs and use in a vaporiser to keep air germ free in sick room.

    Evening Primrose

    Excellent for face and body massage blends, especially to combat dry, devitalized skin and eczema, Used by PMT sufferers, internally in small amounts, to ease the symptoms.

    Fennel

    For massage where there is cellulite and for the digestive system. Good for breast firming massage and to promote milk production, though use sparingly.Can be a skin irritant. Do not use it on young children. if pregnant, or if suffering from epilepsy.

    Frankincense

    Soothes, warms and aids meditation. Comforting oil, by slowing down breathing and controlling tension it helps to focus the mind. Has rejuvenating qualities, and is excellent for toning and caring for mature/aging skin.

    Geranium

    A balancing oil for the mind and body. It relaxes, restores and maintains stability of the emotions. An astringent oil excellent for all skin types. Used in skin care products for both its fragrance and cleansing properties. Useful insect repellent. For massage where there is cellulite and treating eczema and psoriasis.

    Ginger

    Comforting oil for massaging on the muscles. Good for nausea and sickness.

    Grapefruit

    Refreshes and uplifts the spirit. Lovely fresh aroma which can help with nervous exhaustion. it relieves congested and oily skin, having a toning effect on both skin and tissues. Do not use on the skin in direct sunlight

    Hyssop

    Warm and vibrant, can promote alertness and clarity of thought. Can protect rooms from infection. Used to treat colds and flu, helps heal bruised skin.Not to be used when pregnant, suffering from epilepsy, or high blood pressure

    Jasmine

    Emotionally warming. Relaxes, soothes, uplifts and helps self confidence. Good for stress and general anxiety. Perfect skincare oil, excellent for hot, dry skin. Sensual properties and reputedly an Aphrodisiac. Only needs to be used in very small quantities.

    Juniper

    Tones and stimulates. an antiseptic and astringent oil for bath and massage where there is cellulite. Restores psychic purity. Fresh woody aroma. Has a cleansing effect on the body, used in many masculine perfumes, after shaves and colognes, and has a calming effect on the emotions. Reputed to strengthen the immune system. Should not be used when pregnant.

    Lavender

    Undoubtedly the most versatile and useful oil. Relaxes, Soothes, restores and balances your body and mind. Calms or stimulates according to your bodies needs. Excellent for refreshing tired muscles, feet and head. Add a drop to the pillow/sheet before peaceful sleep. Treats burns and reduces scarring.

    Lavandin

    Used in many types of perfumes, soaps and detergents. Refreshing, purifying, gently clarifying.

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