Essential Oils Information

ANISE SEED, Pimpinella anisum, G&A, SD, Seed, Spain. Inhale for relaxation and emotional balance. Relieves emotional stress, improves humor. Physically, reduces muscle spasms, indigestion, coughing. High estrogen content, increases breast milk.

Contra: May irritate sensitive skin. Overuse may stupefy.

BASIL, Ocimum basilicum, G&A, SD, Leaves, Comores. Emotionally uplifting, calms hysteria/mental stress. Gives confidence. Physically relieves headache, sinus congestion, head colds and loss of smell (anosmia). Treats herpes, shingles, nausea, indigestion, sore muscles.

Contra: Overuse may over-stimulate, stupefy.

BENZOIN, Styrax benzoin, W, SE, Resin, Cambodia. Releases emotional blocks, helps those feeling isolated, anxious or lonely. Emotionally protecting, use during life crisis. Physically, benzoin soothes coughs and lung congestion, improves circulation and muscular stiffness.

Contra: May irritate sensitive skin.

BERGAMOT, Citrus bergamia, G&A, CP, Peel, Corsica. Lifts depression or anxiety. May help with eating disorders, compulsive behavior. Balances emotions. Anti-inflammatory, an immunostimulant, anti-infectious, and a digestive aid.

Contra: Photosensitizing (bergapten).

BLACK PEPPER, Piper nigrum, G&A, SD, Fruits, India Emotionally stimulating and perhaps aphrodisiac. Physically improves circulation, treats fever, congested lungs, urinary-tract infections, cold, flu, indigestion, food poisoning. Use in liniment.

Contra: May irritate sensitive skin

CAJEPUT, Melaleuca cajuputti,,G&A, SD, Leaves, Malaysia. Physically may be used to decongest veins.

CAMPHOR, White, Cinnamomum camphora, W, SD, Wood, China. Physically known to stimulate circulation. Inhalation counters shock. For lymphatic massage.

Contra: Use with caution as it is believed to stimulate the heart. Do not use toxic Brown or Yellow Camphor.

CARDAMOM SEED, Elettaria cardamomum, G&A, SD, Seed, India. Emotionally invigorating, an aphrodisiac. Physically, treats indigestion, diarrhea, coughs, muscle spasms, poor appetite.

CARROT SEED, Daucus carota, G&A, SD, Seed, Hungary Physically stimulates liver function, increases circulation, improves skin tone and elasticity. Moisturizer for dry skin. Treats wrinkles, dermatitis, eczema, rashes and skin discoloration. Known to treat precancerous skin conditions and ulcerated skin.

Contra: Over-use may discolor skin (orange).

CEDARWOOD, ATLAS, Cedrus atlantica, W, SD, Wood, Morocco. Emotionally fortifying, increases self-respect, grounding. Enhances meditation, intuition. Relieves stress, tension, aggression and dependency. Physically may treat respiratory and urinary infections. Astringent for oily and congested skin, acne and dandruff. Relieves dermatitis, insect bites and itching.

Contra: Avoid during pregnancy.

CHAMOMILE, GERMAN, Matricaria recutita, G&A, SD, Flowers, Hungary. Emotionally important in treating depression, stress, anxiety, hysteria, insomnia or suppressed anger. Physically helps sore muscle inflammation, sprains, tendons and joints, headaches, diarrhea, digestive tract ulcers, asthma and allergies. Aids in treatment of PMS, menstrual pain, liver damage and hyperactivity. Also destroys various intestinal worms, improves immune system activity.

CHAMOMILE, MAROC, Ormenis multicaulis, G&A, SD, Flowers, Mediterranean. Physically an anti-inflammatory. Not a true chamomile, but has similar properties.

CHAMOMILE ROMAN, Anthemis nobilis, , G&A, SD, Flowers, France. Emotionally antidepressant. Physically, stimulates digestion, an antispasmodic for constipation. Treats insomnia..

CINNAMON LEAF, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, G&A, SD, Leaves, Sri Lanka. Emotionally relieves tension, steadies nerves and awakens the senses. Aphrodisiac in small amounts. Physically, calms menstrual cramping, treats indigestion, diarrhea, genital and urinary infections. Increases sweating, generates warmth in liniments.

CITRONELLA, Cymbopogon nardus, G&A, SD, Leaves, Java. Effective insect repellent. Physically an antispasmodic and anti-inflammative. Relieves arthritis pain.

CLARY SAGE, Salvia sclarea, G&A, SD, Flowers, France. Emotionally, used to treat PMS, postpartum depression, depression, mental fatigue, panic and paranoia. Treats stress related conditions. Relaxes children. Physically eases muscle and nervous tension, pain, menstrual cramps, PMS and menopause problems (hot flashes). Stimulates adrenals.

Contra: Do not combine with use of alcoholic beverages. Avoid long term use in cases of uterine fibroids, breast cysts or other estrogen related disorders. May produce headache.

CLOVE BUD, Eugenia carylphylata, G&A, SD, Buds, Madagascar Emotionally stimulating, combats mental fatigue, poor memory and nervousness. Physically relieves toothaches, flu, sore muscles, arthritis, colds and bronchial congestion. Treats intestinal parasites. Warms in liniments.

Contra: Skin and mucous membrane irritant (dilute to –1%).

CYPRESS, Cupressus semperivirens, G&A, SD, Needles, France. Emotionally increases emotional stability, eases insomnia and grief, helps one get beyond emotional crisis. Physically lowers blood pressure, treats poor circulation, varicose veins. Alleviates sore throat, spasmodic coughing, lung congestion. Diuretic.

EUCALYPTUS, Eucalyptus globulus, W, SD, Leaves, China. Emotionally and mentally clearing, lifts fatigue, increases energy. Physically treats respiratory issues as a decongestant, treats sinus and throat infection, fever, flu. Good for oily skin and acne. Antiseptic, treats lice.

EUCALYPTUS, Eucalyptus citriodora, G&A, SD, Leaves, Brazil. Emotionally relaxing. Physically anti-inflammatory, effective against ‘strep’, best for treating thirst, dryness, thick mucous and fever. Specific for herpes, cystitis and arthritis.

EUCALYPTUS, Eucalyptus radiata, G&A, SD, Leaves, S. Africa. Treats ear, nose, throat and upper respiratory ailments, acne, vaginitis and herpes. Action is cooling and anti-inflammatory.

FENNEL, sweet, Foeniculum vulgare, G&A, SD, Seed, France. Emotionally stimulating and revitalizing, uplifting and believed to increase self-motivation. Physically diuretic, treats obesity (inhibits appetite), indigestion aid. Estrogen-like properties increase breast milk. Stimulates adrenal glands.

Contra: Use carefully, may overexcite nervous system. Avoid use if epilepsy, nervous system problems or estrogen-related disorders are present.

FIR NEEDLE, Abies alba, W, SD, Needles, Canada. Emotionally releases energy and emotional blocks, increases intuition, grounds yet elevates. Physically soothes muscle and arthritis/rheumatism pain, increases circulation, reduces asthma and coughing, inhibits bronchial infections.

FRANKINCENSE, Boswellia carteri, G&A, Resin, Saudi Arabia. Emotionally enhances spirituality, mental perception, meditation, prayer and consciousness. Fortifies and soothes the spirit while slowing and deepening breathing. Physically, used often to treat lung, genito/urinary ailments, digestive tract ulcers and chronic diarrhea, breast cysts. Brings on menstruation.

GALBANUM, Ferula galbaniflua, G&A, SD, Oleoresin, Turkey. Emotionally relieves tension. Physically, soothes aches and pains in hands, feet, joints and muscles. Treats respiratory disorders and stimulates circulation. In skin care, a cellular regenerator, tones mature or irritated skin.

GERANIUM, Pelargonium graveolens, G&A, SD, Flowers, Egypt. Emotionally balances passive/aggressive, sedative, relieves anxiety, depression, discontent, stress. Physically an adrenal stimulant and hormonal balancer, treats PMS, menopause. Inhalation regulates blood pressure. Diuretic.

GINGER, Zzingiber officinalis, G&A, SD, Roots, China. Emotionally stimulating, aphrodisiac. Physically good for treating colds, fever, lung congestion, indigestion or nausea, genito/urinary infections. Treats intestinal parasites. Normalizes blood pressure and protects the liver.

GRAPEFRUIT, Citrus paradisi, G&A, CP, Peel, Israel. Emotionally uplifting, counters depression. Very useful as an air disinfectant.

HELICHRYSUM, Helichrysum italicum, CO, SD, Flowers, France. A superior antihematoma and skin regenerating oil. Believed to regulate cholesterol and stimulate liver cells. A good mucolytic and natural antioxidant. Calms inflammation.

HYSSOP, Hyssopus officinalis, G&A, SD, Leaves, Hungary. Emotionally a sedative, reduces grief and hysteria yet promotes mental clarity.

Contra: Large doses may trigger asthma or epilepsy, raise blood pressure.

JASMINE ABSOLUTE, Jasminum grandifloria, G&A, SE, Flowers, Egypt. Emotionally soothes headaches, treats insomnia, depression, anger and worry. Dissolves apathy, indifference and boosts self-confidence. An aphrodisiac. Physically helps calm menstrual cramps, may alleviate prostrate problems. Use for dry, sensitive or mature skin.

JUNIPER BERRY, Juniperus communis, W, SD, Berries, Italy. Emotionally counters mental fatigue, treats insomnia and anxiety while providing protection from others excessive neediness. Diuretic, treats cellulite. Used in treatment of rheumatic pain, general debility and varicose veins, hemorrhoids. A genito/urinary tract antiseptic, circulatory stimulant. Increases stomach acid.

Contra: Avoid use if kidneys are inflamed.

LAUREL LEAF, Laurus nobilis, G&A, SD, Leaves, Italy. Emotionally stimulating and may improve memory. Physically strengthening. A superior expectorant, mucolytic. Effective against candida and pathogenic bacteria. Stimulates lymphatic system.

Caution: Do NOT confuse with commercial Bay rum, Pimenta racemosa, used in perfumes, soaps, cosmetics and colognes.

LAVENDER Bulgaria, Lavandula off., G&A, SD, Flowers, Bulgaria. Emotionally calms nervousness, exhaustion, insomnia, irritability, depression. Specific for central nervous system problems. Physically treats lung and sinus ailments. Relieves muscular pain, headaches, insect bites and inflammation. Immunostimulant. Treats burns, sun damaged skin, wounds, rashes and skin infections, a cellular regenerator, prevents scarring, slows wrinkles . Suitable for all skin types.

LAVENDER Northwest, Lavandula off., G&A, SD, Flowers, USA. High in linalool and linalyl acetate (@ 70%), this lavender is exceptional for treating emotional and physical issues. See properties of Lavender Bulgaria.

LAVENDER, Sachet, Lavandula off., G&A, SD, Flowers, Pacific NW, USA. Used typically (see properties of Lavender Bulgaria) this bouquet is exquisite for perfumes.

LAVENDER SPIKE, Lavandula spica, G&A, SD, Flowers, Spain. Physically, higher in camphor, appropriate for relieving congestion. Treats acne.

LAVENDER VERA, Lavandula vera, G&A, SD, Flowers, France. Used typically (see properties of Lavender Bulgaria), this lavender bouquet is preferred by some.

LEMON, Citrus limon, G&A, SD, Peel, Italy. Emotionally uplifting, counters depression, increases humor and general well being. Physically antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial. May be used for hypertension, treats congested lymphatic system, an immunostimulant. A diuretic, may slow weight gain and increase mineral absorption. Good for oily skin and complexion impurities. Treats bruises and skin infections.

LEMONGRASS, Cymbopogon citratus, G&A, SD, Leaves, India. Emotionally sedating and soothing. Physically appropriate for stomach distress, muscle cramps, rheumatism, nerve conditions and headaches. An effective anticoagulant. Use on excessively oily hair and skin, acne, skin infections. A natural deodorant.

Contra: May irritate sensitive skin, dilute properly.

LIME, DISTILLED, Citrus limetta, G&A, SD, Peel, W. Indies. Emotionally uplifting, counters depression.

MANDARIN, Citrus reticulata, G&A, CP, Peel, Italy. Emotionally relaxing, soothes restlessness, especially in hyperactive children, used for insomnia. Antispasmodic for cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems.

MARJORAM, Sweet, Origanum marjorana, W, SD, Plant, Spain. Emotionally stabilizing when threatened with hysteria. Eases lonliness, rejection and lost love. Physically antibacterial with spasmolytic properties. A strong sedative, helps ease muscular spasms, cramps. Appropriate for treating migraine headaches, stiff joints. Helps normalize blood pressure. Treats spasmodic coughs, colds, flu.

Contra: not for asthmatics.

MYRRH, Commiphora myrrha, G&A, SE, Resin, N. Africa. Emotionally used in meditation and prayer; fortifies and revitalizes the spirit. Physically, improves digestion, an immunostimulant. Treats coughs, gum disease, wounds, candida, over-active thyroid. In skin care, for chapped, cracked or aged skin, eczema, bruises, varicose veins.

NEROLI, Citrus aurantium, G&A, SD, Flowers, Italy. Emotionally, uplifting, counters depression, shock, mental confusion, nervous strain, anxiety, fear and lack of confidence. An aphrodisiac. Physically calms high blood pressure. A cellular regenerator used in skin care for mature or couperose skin.

NIAOULI, Melaleuca quinquenervia viridiflora (MQV), G&A, SD, Leaves, Spain. An excellent expectorant. Effective anti-allergic and anti-asthmatic properties. Treats genital herpes, hemorrhoids, fibroids, hepatitis. Used to protect skin against radiation burns.

ORANGE, Sweet, Citrus sinensis, G&A, SD, Peel, Israel. Emotionally uplifting, anti-depressant, counters shock, hysteria and nervous tension. Sedative. Physically used to treat cold, flu, congested lymph, irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure.

Contra: Slightly phototoxic.

PALMAROSA, Cymbopogon martini, GO, SD, Leaves, India. Physically powerful but gentle antiviral oil, with broad antibacterial and antifungal activity. Useful for sinusitis, bronchitis, intestinal flu, acne, eczema (dry and weeping).

PATCHOULI, Pogostemon cablin, G&A, SD, Leaves, India. Emotionally counters nervousness and depression by bringing perspective and releasing built up emotions. Helps with insomnia. An aphrodisiac. Physically may reduce appetite, diuretic, counters exhaustion and reduces inflammation. A cellular regenerator, treats acne, eczema, inflamed or mature skin, dandruff. Antifungal.

PEPPERMINT, Mentha piperita, G&A, SD, Leaves, USA. Emotionally counters shock, insomnia, mental fatigue. Physically a digestive aid, antibacterial, antiviral. Treats muscular spasms, inflammation, sinus and lung congestion. Reduces fever.

Contra: May irritate the skin. Overuse may produce shock.

PETITGRAIN, Citrus aurantium, G&A, SD, Leaves, Paraguay. Emotionally uplifting, counters depression. Properties similar to Orange.

Contra: Phototoxic.

PINE NEEDLE, Pinus sylvestris, G&A, SD, Needles, Hungary. Emotionally balancing and calming qualities. Physically re-establishes hormonal balance in the pituitary, thyroid, adrenals and ovaries.

RAVENSARA, Ravensara aromatica, CO, SD, Leaves, Madagascar. Physically treats flu, bronchitis, viral infections, shingles, viral hepatitis, sinus congestion. Relieves muscle fatigue. In skin care, useful for treating acne.

ROSE ABSOLUTE, Rosa centifolia, G&A, SE, Flowers, Morocco. An extracted concentration.

ROSE OTTO, Rosa damascena, G&A, SD, Flowers, Bulgaria. Emotionally balancing, helps during grief and loss of a love or a loved one, lifts depression, helps during emotional conflict, supportive during crisis, an aphrodisiac. In skin care, a cellular rejuvenator, soothes and heals burns. Use for all skin types. Fights infection. This is the premium quality!

ROSEMARY, CT camphor, Rosmarinus officinalis, G&A, Leaves, SD, Spain. Improves memory, boosts confidence, increases perception and creativity. Balances mind with body. Counters nightmares. A vein decongestant, mucolytic, cardiac tonic and diuretic. Stimulates circulation nervous system, motor nerves, adrenals and sluggish gallbladder, lowers cholesterol, eases muscle and rheumatism pains. For lung congestion, sore throat.

ROSEMARY VERBENONE, Rosmarinus officinalis, CO, Leaves, SD, France. Physically mucolytic, treats sinus infections, anti-spasmodic, balances the endocrine and nervous systems. A cellular regenerator.

SAGE Dalmation, Salvia officinalis, G&A, SD, Leaves, France. Counters nervous debility, excessive sexual desire, grief, physical over-exertion and insomnia. Decongestant, treats throat and mouth infections. Estrogenic, regulates menstruation, decreases lactation and alleviates menopause symptoms. Reduces perspiration, treats oily skin. Believed to promote hair growth.

Contra: Avoid use if seizures have been experienced. Use in low dilutions on the skin.

SANDALWOOD, Santalum album, G&A, SD, Wood, India. Treats depression, anxiety, insomnia. Used to promote spirituality, in religious ceremony, peaceful relaxation and meditation. Comforts mourners. Physically treats genital and urinary infections, counters inflammation, hemorrhoids, persistent cough, nausea, throat problems. Appropriate for all skin types. Treats acne, chapped skin and inflammation.

SAVORY, Satureja montana, W, SD, Leaves, France. Uplifting and rejuvenating. An immunostimulant during times of increased risk of infection. Counters nervous exhaustion. Treats vaginitis.

SPEARMINT, Mentha spicata, G&A, SD, Leaves, USA. Calming yet uplifting. Counters morning sickness, gentler than peppermint and appropriate for children.

SPIKENARD, Nardostachys jatamansi, G&A, SD, Roots, Nepal. Relieves tension and insomnia - an extremely effective sedative. Treats nervous indigestion, insomnia, headache, hemorrhoids, heart palpitations. Use for inflamed skin, dry/mature complexion, rashes and psoriasis.

SPRUCE NEEDLE, Picea mariana, W, SD, Needles, Canada. An adrenal stimulant, bronchial decongestant, endocrine balancer, treats hyperthyroidism and adrenal depletion. Has hormone mimicking effects.

TEA TREE, Melaleuca alternafolia, G&A, SD, Leaves, Australia. Emotionally strengthening. An immunostimulant, treats lung, genital/urinary, vaginal, sinus and mouth infections. Counters fungal and viral infections such as herpes, shingles, chicken pox, candida, thrush and flu. Antiseptic, anti-viral, anti-bacterial. Treats skin inflammations, acne, wounds, insect bites. Protects skin during radiation treatments.

Contra: may irritate delicate skin, suggest diluting prior to application to facial area.

THYME, CT Linalol, Thymus vulgaris linalol, CO, SD, Leaves, France. Emotionally gently uplifting. Treats candida, bronchitis, acne, nervous fatigue, psoriasis, urinary tract infections and prostate problems. Gentle enough for children.

VETIVER, Andropogon zizanioides, G&A, SD, Roots, Java. Emotionally uplifting, relaxing, comforting, releasing deep fears and tensions. Cooling effect on body and mind. An immunostimulant, eases muscular pain, sprains and liver congestion. Stimulates circulation. Treats acne, wounds and dry skin.

WINTERGREEN, Gaultheria fragrantissima, G&A, SD, Leaves, Nepal. Anti-inflammative and analgesic for rheumatoid arthritis in low concentrations.

Contra: Skin irritant in high concentrations.

YLANG-YLANG III, Cananga odorata, G&A, SD, Flowers, Madagascar. Emotionally tempers depression, fear, jealousy, anger and frustration. In low doses, may be an aphrodisiac. Physically a strong sedative in low concentrations, also anti-spasmodic, lowers blood pressure.

ABBREVIATIONS

G&A = Genuine and authentic. Botanicals are specifically selected, grown, harvested, distilled or pressed for therapeutic use. Meets highest quality standards. Never standardized/ adulterated - NOT industrial/ commercial quality.

CO = Certified Organic. Third party certified, grown without pesticides or herbicides for therapeutic use. Meets highest quality standards. Never standardized or adulterated. NOT industrial/commercial quality.

W = Wildcrafted. Harvested in the wild, with care not to deplete the natural balance. Meets highest quality standards for therapeutic use. Never standardized or adulterated. NOT industrial/commercial quality.

DISTILLATION

CP = Cold pressed, generally citrus peels. Ground peels are hydraulically pressed without the use of heat to extract essential oil from plant material. Never standardized or adulterated. NOT industrial or commercial quality.

SE = Solvent extracted. Plant contains aromatic molecules not released in steam distillation.

SD = Steam distillation is the most practical method of separating essential oils from plant material through use of heat in a pressurized vessel. The plant cells explode, releasing liquids from cells which is carried into a chilling chamber via steam. In the cooling process, the essential oil separates from the water.

Sources for information on essential oils are Aromatherapy, a Complete Guide to the Healing Art, Kathi Keville & Mindy Green and Medical AROMATHERAPY, Healing with Essential Oils, Kurt Schnaubelt, and other generally accepted publications on therapeutic aromatherapy.