Essential Oil Data
Sources:
Aromatherapy, a Complete Guide to the Healing Art, Kathi Keville & Mindy Green, Medical AROMATHERAPY, Kurt Schnaubelt, Healing with Essential Oils, Kurt Schnaubelt, and other generally accepted publications on therapeutic aromatherapy. Disclaimer
ANGELICA ROOT
Angelica archangelica, G&A, Root, Europe
Lifts nervous depression, improves outlook on life. Digestive tonic, calms
spasmodic cough, hormonal regulation of menstruation Contra: May over-stimulate
nervous system, photosensitizing. Avoid if pregnant or diabetic. External use
only.
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. External use only.
BALSAM of PERU,
Myroxylon
balsamum var. Pereirae,
W, SD, Resin, El Salvador Appreciated for it's rich vanilla-like aroma. Calms
emotional crisis and provides emotional protection.
Contra: Skin sensitizing. External use only.
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. External use only.
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). External use only.
BIRCH, Sweet,
Betula
lenta, W, SD, Bark, Canada
Relieves muscular and arthritic pain, diuretic, circulatory stimulant.
Skin care: soothes irritation and psoriasis. Prevents dandruff.
Contra: For minimal use. Store away from children (smells sweet). External
use only.
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. External use only.
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. External use only.
CARDAMOM SEED,
Elettaria
cardamomum, G&A, SD,
Seed, India. Emotionally invigorating, an aphrodisiac. Physically, treats
indigestion, diarrhea, coughs, muscle spasms, poor appetite. Contra: External
use only.
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). External use
only.
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. External use only.
CHAMOMILE, German,
Matricaria
recutita, G&A,
SD, Flowers, Hungary. Treats 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. Contra:
External use only.
CHAMOMILE, Maroc,
Ormenis
multicaulis, G&A, SD,
Flowers, Mediterranean. Physically an anti-inflammatory. Not a true chamomile,
but has similar properties. Contra: External use only.
CHAMOMILE, Roman,
Anthemis
nobilis, G&A, SD,
Flowers, France. Emotional antidepressant. Physical stimulatant, aids digestion,
an antispasmodic for constipation. Treats insomnia. Contra: External use only
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. Contra: External use only
CITRONELLA,
Cymbopogon
nardus, G&A, SD, Leaves,
Java. Effective insect repellent. Physically an antispasmodic and anti-inflammative.
Relieves arthritis pain. Contra: External use only.
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. Overuse may produce
headache. External use only.
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% or less). External
use only.
CORIANDER,
Coriandrum
sativum, G&A, SD, Seeds,
Russia Uplifting and motivating, relieves stress. Aphrosidiac. Soothes inflammation,
rheumatic pain, headaches, flu, urinary inflammation, intestinal distress.
Contra: External use only.
CYPRESS,
Cupressus
semperivirens, G&A, SD, Needles,
France. 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. Contra: External use only
EUCALYPTUS, Citriadora,
Eucalyptus
citriodora,
G&A, SD, Leaves, Brazil.
Emotionally relaxing. Physically anti-inflammatory, effective against streptococcus.
Best for treating thirst, dryness, thick mucous and fever. Specific for herpes,
cystitis and arthritis. Contra: External use only
EUCALYPTUS, Globulus
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. Contra: External use only
EUCALYPTUS, Radiata
Eucalyptus
radiata, G&A, SD, Leaves, Australia.
Increases energy and physical vitality. Treats ear, nose, throat and upper
respiratory ailments, acne, vaginitis and herpes. Action is cooling and anti-inflammatory.
Contra: External use only
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. Contra:
External use only.
FRANKINCENSE,
Boswellia
carterii, G&A, CO2, 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. Contra:
External use only.
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. Contra:
External use only.
GINGER,
Zingiber
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. Contra: External
use only
GRAPEFRUIT,
Pink,
Citrus paradisi, G&A, CP, Peel, Israel.
Emotionally uplifting, counters depression. Invigorating, use with jet lag.
Very useful as an air disinfectant. Detoxifying, diuretic. Skin astringent.
Contra: External use only
HELICHRYSUM,
Helichrysum
italicum, CO, SD, Flowers, France.
Lifts depression, lethargy, nervous exhaustion and stress. A superior anti-hematoma
and skin regenerating oil. Believed to regulate cholesterol and stimulate liver
cells. A good mucolytic and natural antioxidant. Calms inflammation. May help
detoxify. Contra: External use only.
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.
External use only.
JASMINE ABSOLUTE,
Jasminum
grandiflorium, 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. Contra: External use only
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. External
use only
LAVENDER Bulgaria,
Lavandula
angustafolia., 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. Contra: External use only
LAVENDER Northwest,
Lavandula
angustafolia., G&A, SD, Flowers, USA.
High in linalol and linalyl acetate (@ 70%), this lavender is exceptional for
treating emotional and physical issues. See properties of Lavender
Bulgaria.
Contra: External use only
LAVENDER Spike,
Lavandula
spica, G&A, SD, Flowers, Spain. Physically, higher
in camphor, appropriate for relieving congestion. Treats acne.
LAVENDER Vera,
Lavandula
angustafolia, G&A, SD, Flowers, France.
Used typically (see properties of Lavender Bulgaria), this lavender bouquet
is preferred by some. Contra: External use only.
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. Contra: may irritate
sensitive skin, photosensitizing. External use only.
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. External use only.
LIME, distilled,
Citrus
aurantiifolia, G&A, SD, Peel, Mexico.
Emotionally uplifting, counters depression. Uplifting and clarifying.
Contra: External use only.
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. Contra: slightly photosensitizing. External use only.
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. Exernal use only.
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. Contra: External use only.
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. Contra: External use only.
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. Contra: External use only.
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. External use
only.
OREGANO,
Oregano
vulgare, G&A, SD, leaf, N. Africa
Effective against respiratory, genital/urinary and intestinal infections.
Contra: May be irritating and hot. External use only
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). Conta: External use only.
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. Contra: External use only
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. External use only.
PETITGRAIN,
Citrus
aurantium, G&A, SD, Leaves, Paraguay.
Emotionally uplifting, counters depression. Properties similar to Orange.
Contra: Phototoxic. External use only.
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. Contra: External use
only
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. Contra: External use only
ROSE ABSOLUTE,
Rosa
centifolia, G&A, SE, Flowers, Morocco.
Lifts depression, boosts confidence. Inspires love and romance. Use in relationship
conflict, envy and intolerance. Comforting, supportive during chaos, an aprodisiac.
Treats asthma, hay fever, liver problems, nausea, male and female issues. A
cellular rejuvenator, soothes and heals burns, good for all complexion types.
Contra: may irritate sensitive skin. External use only.
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. Contra: may overstimulate, increase blood
pressure. External use only.
ROSEMARY, ct verbenone,
Rosmarinus
officinalis, CO, Leaves, SD, France. Physically
mucolytic, treats sinus infections, anti-spasmodic, balances the endocrine
and nervous systems. A cellular regenerator. Contra: contains ketones. External
use only.
ROSEWOOD,
Aniba
rosaeodora, G&A, SD, wood chips, So. America
Lovely aroma that lifts depression, eases headaches. Used to treat colds and
fever. Cellular regenerator, good for all skin types. Contra: External use
only
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.
External use only.
SANDALWOOD,
Santalum
album, G&A, SD, Wood, India (Mysore).
Premium quality for aroma. Treats depression, anxiety, insomnia. Used to promote
spirituality, 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. Contra: External use only.
SANDALWOOD,
Santalum
spicatum, G&A, Wood, Indonesia or Australia.
Lighter aroma quality. Same attributes as Indian Sandalwood.
Contra: External use only.
SPEARMINT,
Mentha
spicata, G&A, SD, Leaves, USA.
Calming yet uplifting. Counters morning sickness, gentler than peppermint and
appropriate for children. Contra: External use only.
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. Contra: External use only.
SPRUCE NEEDLE,
Picea
mariana, W, SD, Needles, Canada.
Emotionally uplifting. Connects to memories. An adrenal stimulant, bronchial
decongestant, endocrine balancer, treats hyperthyroidism and adrenal depletion.
Has hormone mimicking effects. Contra: External use only.
TANSY, Blue,
Tanacetum
annuum, G&A, SD, flowers, Morocco, France
A pain reliever and nerve sedative. Anti-inflammatory properties.
Contra: External use only. If pregnant, avoid use.
TARRAGON,
Artemesia
dracunculus, G&A, SD, Leaves, France
A tummy soother. Used to calm arthritis. Balances PMS.
Contra: External use only. Avoid use if pregnant or epileptic.
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. External use only.
THYME, ct Linalol,
Thymus
vulgaris, CO, SD, Leaves, France.
Emotionally gently uplifting. Treats candida, bronchitis, acne, nervous fatigue,
psoriasis, urinary tract infections and prostate problems. Gentle enough for
children. Contra: External use only.
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.
Contra: External use only.
WINTERGREEN,
Gaultheria
fragrantissima, G&A, SD, Leaves, Nepal.
Anti-inflammative and analgesic for rheumatoid arthritis in low concentrations.
Contra: Skin irritant in high concentrations. External use only.
YARROW,
Achillea
millefolium, W, SD, Flowers, Europe and USA
Anti-inflammatory. Digestion aid, Cellular regenerator that helps with scars.
Promotes healing. Brings harmony, may be used during meditation. Supports intuition.
Contra: External use only. Avoid if pregnant.
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. Contra: External use only.
ABBREVIATION KEY GROWING & HARVESTING METHODS
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.
EXTRACTION METHODS CP = Cold pressed. Generally used for 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. Used if the plant contains aromatic molecules not released in steam distillation. SD = Steam distillation. This 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.
CARRIER OILS The best carrier oil is an expeller pressed nut or vegetable oil that serves to dilute the 100% full strength essential oil prior to application to the body. It serves well as a massage base, as well.
SHEA BUTTER From Central Africa, this natural butter is wonderful in hair and skin care. Try it on dry, cracked feet. It has anti-inflammatory and many beneficial properties. Because of its crude native processing, this shea butter has been filtered to a clean, pure white color.