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[ aromatherapy ] |
UK Aromatherapy, candles, essential oils and therapeutic benefits
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[ aromatherapy ] |
Aroma-therapy is a natural healing alternative that uses the power hidden within oils extracted from flowers, herbs, fruits other plants including trees.
Always find out cause of ailments through medical assistance where neccessary,
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BASIL (herb)
Basil: Ocimum basilicum. Origin: Egypt. A fresh sweet herbal aroma. Basil is considered helpful for mental and physical fatigue, aids in mental alertness and concentration. It is a good “wake up” oil when used in moderation. Basil can help ease sinus congestion and headaches. It is helpful to fight against colds and general congestion as well as easing muscular aches and pains. Cautions: Basil must be used diluted in a carrier oil before applying directly to skin as it can be quite irritating to sensitive skin. Avoid use during pregnancy. Bay Laurel: Laurus nobilis. Origin: France. Herbaceous, fruity, and fresh! Uses: Amenorrhea, colds, flu, loss of appetite, tonsillitis. Cautions: It can have narcotic qualities, can cause dermatitis and also should not be used in pregnancy. Benzoin: Styrax benzoin. Origin: Sumatra. This is a thick resin and not technically an essential oil, but does have aromatherapy benefits. It has a sweet vanilla-like odor. It is used to relieve congestion, muscled aches and poor circulation. Emotionally it will ease anxiety and confusion. Cautions: Do not use on sensitive skin, must be diluted in a carrier oil for massage. Bergamot: Citrus bergamia. Origin: Italy. Bergamot is usually extracted via the cold press method. Its aroma features a lovely green, light, citrus and floral note. It is fruity and warm and used by perfumers as a top note. Encouraging and balancing to the spirit. This beautiful scent combats fatigue due to stress, tension and anxiety. It is said to strengthen the immune system. Bergamot is often the flavoring used in Earl Grey tea. May be blended with other citrus oils such as geranium and ylang ylang or even lavender. Cautions: When applied to the skin, it will cause photosensitivity. Cajeput: Melaleuca leucadendron. Origin: Australia. Fresh, campherous aroma with a fruity note. The oil is steam distilled from the twigs, leaves and bark. This oil is stimulating and clearing. I reach for it when fighting a cold or virus. It is useful for sore aching muscles, rheumatism, bronchitis and arthritis. I dilute it in a carrier oil and use it like "vapor rub" for bronchial problems. It is said to be good for oily skin and acne. It is one of the best immediate first aids for fire ant bites. It blends well with: bergamot, birch, cardamon, geranium, lavender, myrtle, nutmeg, rose, and thyme. Cautions: May cause skin irritation. Cardomon: Elettaria cardamomum. Origin: Turkey, Middle and Far East. The essential is a relative of ginger. The aroma is sweet and spicy with a hint of woody oak. Cardomon is used extensively in cooking and is quite effective for indigestion, loss of appetite, colic and halitosis (bad breath). Add a single drop to your coffee filter, just prior to brewing a pot of coffee, for a sweet morning surprise. This scent is excellent for mental fatigue and is considered an aphrodisiac. Cautions: None known. Cedarwood: Cedrus atlanticus. Origin: Morocco. This is an earthy rich aroma which promotes mental strength and endurance. It is thought to be stabilizing in nature and inspires emotional balance and oneness with nature. It can be used in blends to combat cellulite. It can calm anxiety and diffuse fear. It is also an excellent moth repellent. It blends well with Rosemary, Basil, eucalyptus and Chamomile. Cautions: People with high blood pressure or heart disease should avoid use. Chamomile: Anthemis Nobilis. Origin: Italy. This is a pleasant aroma that combines the scent of ripe apples with fresh herbs. It eases tension, anger and fear. It is wonderful for calming pain and relieving stress. Chamomile also has sedating properties as used in chamomile tea at bedtime. Cautions: Because of the sedating qualities, it should not be used if operating machinery or driving a car. Do not use if pregnant. Cinnamon: Cinnamomum zeylanicum. Origin: Madagascar and Sri Lanka. Much richer in aroma than the typical ground cinnamon used for cooking. Peppery, earthy, spicy and woodsy. This aroma will relieve tension, steadies nerves and invigorates the senses. In very small amounts cinnamon can be an aphrodisiac. This is a wonderful scent to use around the winter holidays as it stimulates memories of “home cooking,” and for that purpose can also be used by the homeowner who is in the process of selling a house to give a warmer homey perception of the home during the open house process. Additional essential oils to use in the home for a warm homey feeling are peppermint, sage, rosemary and vanilla. Cautions: Cinnamon bark oil is too strong and is considered hazardous, be careful to only use the oil of the cinnamon leaf. Avoid if pregnant. Do not use with children under 5 as it is too stimulating. Avoid in conditions of alcoholism, hemophilia, prostate cancer, kidney and liver problems. It can be quite irritating to the mucous membranes and skin, do not use neat/undiluted on the skin. Cistus: Cistus ladaniferus. Origin: Corsica and Spain. Sweet and refreshing. When used by a certified massage therapist it is excellent to promote lymph draining and toxin release. Emotionally is has a warming and comforting feeling and is used to treat those who have been traumatized in some way. It is meditating and comforting. Cautions: None known. Clary Sage: Salvia sclarea. Origin: Russia. This aroma is bright, earthy, herbaceous, with a subtle fruity note. It is sweet and warmly floral and may bring on feelings of euphoria, by stimulating the body’s natural production of endorphins, which are also know to ease fatigue and chronic pain. When used in a massage blend, this essential oil will ease menstrual cramps and bring on feelings of balance. It is used to combat stress related disorders and depression. Cautions: Do not use if drinking as it will potentiate the sedating effects of alcohol. Do not use if pregnant or breast feeding. Clove Bud: Eugenia caryophyllata. Origin: Madagascar. Spicy, warming yet slightly bitter, woody, like true clove buds, but richer. Possible Uses: Arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, rheumatism, sprains, strains, and toothache. Cautions: Mucous membrane and dermal irritant. Avoid in alcoholism, in haemophilia, in prostatic cancer, with kidney and liver problems and if taking anticoagulants. Cypress: Cupressus sempervirens. Origin: France and Greece. A fresh, herbaceous and slightly woody evergreen aroma. The essential oil is excellent for it’s earthy and meditating qualities. It has been used for grief therapy, insomnia, and when blended for massage, can be helpful for arthritis pain and general muscle pain. Cautions: None known. Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus globules. Origin: Australia. An invigorating, purifying aroma with a hint of woody sweetness. It is best know for its respiratory effects. It fights viruses and bacteria while easing respiratory congestion. It stimulates circulation and is therefore often used in sore muscle ointments. It is a powerful scent that revitalizes and clarifies the mind while it uplifts and cheers the spirit. Cautions: Use sparingly as it could irritate the skin if used in high dosages. Fennel: Foeniculum vulgare. This oil is known for its sweet, spicy, licorice-like aroma. A good oil to use on bruises and as an aid to decreasing the appearance of cellulite. Cautions: Cancer patients should avoid this oil. Can be a skin irritant -- a little, leterally goes a long way! Narcotic-like in large quantities. Avoid in epilepsy and in pregnancy. Frankincense: Boswellia carterii. Origin: Oman. This is a resin extracted via the CO2 method. Frankincense has a delightfully sweet and sparkling aroma. This oil’s incredible richness evokes a deeply meditative state and is helpful during meditation and prayer. It has just a hint of fresh lemon scent. It has traditionally been used for spiritual ceremony and it is believed to have a centering effect on the emotions. It’s properties have also been know to rejuvenate the skin. It blends well with orange and neroli. Cautions: Use in a carrier oil for direct contact with skin. Geranium: Pelargonium graveolens. Origin: Egypt. This scent is similar to lavender in action but not as relaxing. It has a softly floral and “green” smell and is thought to be in harmony with nature. Geranium has a hormonal balancing effect and traditionally has been used to alleviate problems associated with menopause and menstruation. It blends well with clary, rose, sandalwood, frankincense, lavender and chamomile. It can lower blood sugar and should be avoided if prone to hypoglycemia and any illnesses associated with blood sugar. Ginger: Zingiber officinale. Origin: China. The warm spicy and woody scent of ginger sharpens the senses and memory. It has an anchoring effect and promotes a comfortable, well-grounded feeling. It sooths achy muscles and joints and can calm an upset tummy. It is a wonderful ingredient in a massage oil mixed with honey and lemon. It is considered an aphrodisiac in teas and drinks. It blends well with citrus oils and woody scents. Cautions: It can be irritating to the skin and must be diluted in a carrier oil. Grapefruit: Citrus paradisi. Origin: United States. This is a wonderful light citrus aroma similar to lemon and reminiscent to the aroma of the grapefruit rind, but a bit more concentrated. Grapefruit can be used in a warm bath to help combat cellulite. If seeing a professional massage therapist, ask them to use a blend with grapefruit for cellulite, dull skin and toxin build up. Emotionally, this scent is uplifting and has an antidepressant quality. Cautions: Will cause phototoxicity, be sure to use a sunscreen. Jasmine: Jasminun officianalis sambac. Origin: India. Jasmine is considered the “King” of oils. It is a deeply relaxing, richly sensuous scent. Floral and exotic in nature. This aroma helps dispel mental blocks, nervousness and sadness while inspiring a sense of deep peacefulness. It has antidepressant properties and has been used as an aphrodisiac especially in the perfume and cosmetic industry. Cautions: Do not use in pregnancy. Do not use in excess. Juniper: Juniperus communis. Origin: Croatia. A clarifying, uplifting oil with a pleasant, fruity-forest aroma. Juniper oil’s sweet, woodsy scented undertone inspires mental focus and emotional strength. It has a crisp green odor. Juniper is used to give the environment a “clean fresh” smell and is therefore often used as an air freshener. It can aid in meditation and physically it acts as a diuretic and has some anti-cellulite properties. It blends well with lemon and sandalwood. Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy. Lavender: Lavender augustifolia. Origin: France. Lavender is considered one of the “essential” essential oils in aromatherapy because of it’s many uses and basic effects for relaxation. It is a very pleasant floral and herbal scent. It calms and balances the mind and spirit. It diffuses anger and tension. Lavender is easily grown in any herb or flower garden and can be easily harvested and used in floral waters, baths, room freshener sprays, fresh or dried arrangements, etc. It is extremely useful at night to promote a good night’s sleep. Cautions: Very few, this is one oil that can be applied in its essential form to promote healing of scars and burns. Always consult any treating physician first. Lemon: Citrus limon. Origin: United States (California). Lemon is a strong germicide and astringent and a wonderful air disinfectant and freshener. It can be used in cleaning solutions of water, 2-3 teaspoons of alcohol and a few drops of lemon. It is an uplifting fragrance and improves mental clarity. It has a fresh and invigorating aroma. It can be used to treat colds and flu by diffusing in the air or in a warm bath. Cautions: If used on the skin, it must be diluted as it will irritate when used neat. Causes photosensitivity, use with a sun-screen. Lemongrass: Cymbopogon citatus. Origin: Malaysia, West Indies, Brazil. Lemongrass has long been used in traditional Indian medicine to fight fevers and infectious illnesses. It is an invigorating and refreshing oil. It has antiseptic and antibacterial qualities and has been used as an insect repellent to help protect animals from fleas and ticks. Cautions: Use in low doses. Can be irritating to sensitive skin. Lemon Verbena: Aloysia triphylla. Southern Europe and Germany. Associated with the essential oil, Melissa, this is a less expensive alternative. It has also been called “lemon balm.” This aroma is light and refreshing and is that of strong fresh lemons. It is emotionally uplifting and clarifying of the spirit. It is a comforting fragrance and will therefore encourage both concentration and/or sleep. In a massage blend it may be used for oily complexions and to aid in digestion. None known. Lime: Citrus aurantifolia. Origin: Mexico. Its aroma is sharp, citrus, tart and sweet with some spice. It has antiseptic, antiviral, astringent, disinfectant, insecticidal and restorative properties. As it is very stimulating it is well suited to help with cases of apathy, depression and anxiety. Known to ease coughs and chest congestion. Encourages appetite, may assist in anorexia. Blends well with bergamot, geranium, lavender, rose and ylang ylang. Cautions: Phototoxic. Do not use if the area of application will be exposed to sunlight for 24 hours due to its phototoxicity. Mandarin: Citrus reticulata. Origin: Southern Europe. This essential oil is fresh, sweet, citrusy, fruity with a slight orange aroma, (mandarin orange.) It is uplifting to the spirit and energizing. It will increase concentration and ease overall feelings of fatigue. In blends applied to the skin, it is excellent for dull skin, scars, wrinkles and oily skin. It is a natural anti-stress oil. Cautions: None indicated. Marjoram: Origanum marjorana. Origin: Egypt. Best known for it’s use as a cooking spice, marjoram’s aroma is slightly spicy, warm and soothing. It blends well with orange and eucalyptus. It is an uplifting and stabilizing scent. It evokes mental balance and joy. Marjoram has been used to lower blood pressure and ease the pain of arthritis and muscle spasms. It is calming and has sedative properties. Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy or if on any blood pressure lowering medications. Mugwort: Artemisia vulgaris. A member of the sunflower family it is believed to assist in promoting vivid dreams. Used to regulate and balance female cycles. It is also believed to promote one's psychic powers. Myrrh: Commiphora myrrha. Origin: Somalia. Myrrh is a resin extracted via distillation. It is an ancient oil considered “sacred” and has been used as an astringent for thousands of years. It has been used as a decongestant for sinus and lung congestion. It can stimulate menstrual flow. It is a rich dense aromatic exotic oil which inspires calm and meditation or prayer. It has a sweet earthy fragrance and is thought to be stabilizing and grounding. Cautions: Do not use while pregnant. Do not use for chronic respiratory conditions. Myrtle: Myrtus communis. Origin: North Africa. This essential oil is expressed from a small tree. The scent is spicy and slightly camphorous. It is used to treat respiratory congestion and cough. When diluted for use on the skin, it is excellent for combating acne and oily skin conditions. Emotionally is has a balancing effect. Cautions: Caustic to the skin unless diluted. Neroli: Citrus aurantium var. amara. Origin: France, Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt. The oil comes from the blossom of the bitter orange and not the sweet orange blossom which produces the essential oil, orange. It is one of the best aromatic antidepressants, but at a cost which is usually prohibitive for the average person. Orange oil is a good substitute. It is good for nervous tension, stress, shock, anxiety, fear and lack of confidence. It is also an aphrodisiac. In massage blends it is used for circulation problems and high blood pressure. Cautions: May cause photosensitivity, use with sun-screen. Nutmeg: Myristica fragrans. Origin: Indonesia. The essential oil of nutmeg is richer, more fragrant and stronger in nature than the cooking spice. Nutmeg must be used sparingly as it has psychotropic effects and may cause hallucinations in large quantities. When used in appropriate and therapeutic amounts, nutmeg will ease mental fatigue and increases concentration. Can be used to treat nausea, vomiting and indigestion, but only under the guidance of a certified aromatherapist and/or doctor. Cautions: In large quantities will cause tachycardia, hallucinations, mental over-stimulation and possibly convulsions. Do not use if pregnant. Do not use with children under 12. Do not use with conditions of heart disease, epilepsy, mental illness. Orange: Citrus sinensis. Origin: Italy. Cold pressed from the peel of the orange, this wonderfully fresh citrus fruit odor inspires feelings of renewal and cheerfulness. It brightens and lightens the atmosphere. It blends well with almost any spice aroma and makes a beautiful holiday blend with cinnamon and sandalwood. Cautions: When applied to the skin, it causes photosensitivity. Palmarosa: Cymbopogon martini. Origin: Mediterranean. A softer fragrance than pure essential oil of rose, it is softly floral. Emotionally it is sensual and uplifting, giving feelings of romance and security. Used to de-stress and to reduce anxiety. In a massage blend it works to heal scarring and wounds. It softens the skin and can also be used for stomach disorders. Cautions: None Indicated. Patchouli: Pogostemon patchouli. Origin: East Indies. Considered the “oil of the 60’s,” patchouli is a richly scented tropical oil with deep earthiness which promotes a grounded and calm affect. It posseses a fresh herbal quality which helps to clarify the mind. It has been used in massage and bath oils to combat cellulite. It is useful as an appetite suppressant and has skin toning qualities. It is an excellent base note for perfume and has been considered an aphrodisiac. It has a mild sedating affect but if used in large quantities can be quite stimulating. Cautions: Do not use if experiencing any eating disorder. Do not use if operating large machinery or driving a car. Do not use during pregnancy. Peppermint: Mentha x Piperita. Origin: Wisconsin, USA. Midwestern peppermint is truly superior over mint essential oils found world-wide. Peppermint is a basic necessity for the essential oil first aid kit. It is known and often recommended for easing migraines, it helps with digestion and sour stomach, it clears head congestion and sinus congestion. Mentally it clears and invigorates the brain and concentration. It restores mental fatigue. Do not use peppermint in the evening as it will not promote rest. Peppermint has also been used in rubs and ointments for sore muscles. Cautions: Do not use excessively as it can irritate the mucous membranes and the skin. Avoid use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding as it could discourage milk flow. Should not be used when taking homoeopathic remedies. Pine: Pinus sylvestris. Origin: Bulgaria. This scent is fresh, woody, and earthy. It has been used to help with c Petitgrain: Citrus aurantium. Origin: Far East, France, Italy, North America. The name means "small grain." It is distilled from the leaves of the bitter orange tree. It helps relieve stress and nervous exhaustion and serves as a mood enhancer. It can calm indigestion and reduce muscular tension. Rose: Rosa damascena. Origin: Bulgaria. This is the ultimate female oil. Rose is calming and supportive. It has been used to treat grief, hysteria and depression. It is believed to help balance female hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle. It can also ease the discomforts of PMS and menopause. It has been used to create a sensual environment and ease tensions brought on by sexual difficulties. Cautions: Avoid use during pregnancy. Rosemary: Rosemarinus officinalis. Origin: Croatia. Distilled from the flowers and leaves of the plant; rosemary means “dew of the sea.” It is fresh, strong and earthy. Rosemary was originally used as incense for certain religious ceremonies. A branch of rosemary was traditionally richly gilded and tied with silk bands and presented to wedding guests to symbolize love and loyalty. Its rich fragrance can be used to purify the air. As an essential oil, rosemary has many therapeutic properties such as: stimulation of circulation, decreasing cellulite and edema, and reducing muscular and joint pain. It is often used cosmetically to combat acne and dandruff. It is an invigorating and stimulating scent and should not be used in the evening to promote rest. Cautions: Should not be used if there is a history of high blood pressure, epilepsy or pregnancy as it is too stimulating. Rosewood: Aniba roseaodora. Origin: South America. It is obtained from the rain forest and can be substituted with rose geranium for conversation purposes. It is tranquil and used as an antidepressant. In massage therapy it is used for headaches, colds, fever and general infections. It has cell rejuvenation properties for the skin. Cautions: None known. Sandalwood: Santalum album. Origin: India. Sandalwood is a rich and sweet scented oil known for it’s meditative and spiritual properties. It has also been used as an aphrodisiac. It is a tonic to the immune system and can be used to treat urinary tract problems. It can be used for acne and balancing dry and oily skin types. It relaxes stress and soothes irritation and can lift depression. Sandalwood essential oils are rare and difficult to harvest and therefore may be quite costly, so keep this in mind when purchasing a true sandalwood essential oil for therapeutic purposes. Several sandalwood fragrance oils can be used for baths and room fresheners as opposed to using the essential oil. Cautions: Do not self-treat serious medical conditions, seek the advice of a doctor. Tea Tree: Melaleuca Alternifolia. Origin: Australia. Tea tree has the reputation of a panacea in the world of aromatherapy and essential oils, a type of “cure all,” because of its strong antiviral and antibacterial properties. It can be used to kill athlete’s foot fungus and combat viral infections such as the flu. It is often used in anti-acne creams. Tea Tree has a clean, healing scent. Tea Tree is mentally invigorating and stimulating, it's been known to improve concentration and decrease mental fatigue. Cautions: Use only diluted in carrier oils for massage as it can be quite strong and irritating to the skin. Do not use if a history of high blood pressure or epilepsy. Do not use if pregnant. Seek a physician’s advice before using for any viral or bacterial illness. Thyme: Thymus vulgaris linalool. Origin: Europe. Much the same properties as tea tree but to a milder degree. Thyme is extensively used in the cooking and food industry. Vanilla: Vanilla planifolia. Origin: Tahiti, Java and Madagascar. Rich, warm and sweet, vanilla is actually a type of orchid which produces a bean pod. It is considered an aphrodisiac and is used extensively in the perfume and culinary industries. Who hasn’t experienced vanilla in their lifetime! Vanilla is a strong memory stimulant and can be used with the elderly who may be experiencing slight memory lapses. It is a friendly, soothing and relaxing scent. Use vanilla to scent the home for sale and it will certainly give a homey impression to any potential buyer. This scent is excellent to diffuse anger, pent up emotions, frustration and feelings of imbalance. Cautions: None known. Vetiver (or Vetivert): Vetiveria zizanoides. Origin: India/Indonesia. Vetiver's scent is uplifting, relaxing and comforting. It features smoky, rich, earthy characteristics which can release deep fears and reduce tensions. In East India, door and window screens (called tatties) are woven from the spindly roots. These are then placed over the same to aid in airing out odors and protecting the residence from insects. The essential oil is distilled from the root. Vetiver eases muscle pain and is a circulatory stimulant. Violet: Viola odorata. Origin: Tuscany, France, Egypt, and Morocco. The essential oil is actually distilled from the leaf and rarely from the flower itself. An extremely expensive oil used primarily in the perfume industry. Violet essential oil can be found as a hydrosol and in 10% dilutions to use for aromatherapy. It’s odor is green, leafy and peppery. The fragrance will help you to clarify emotionally, realize potential, dissipate confusion and reduce insomnia. Cautions: None indicated. Ylang Ylang: Cananga Odorata. Origin: Madagascar. Ylang Ylang’s scent is reminiscent of jasmine, the “flower of flowers,” and is sweet, exotic, floral and sensual. It is often used to stimulate sexual desires. It has been used as an antidepressant and is relaxing to both mind and body. It calms anger and releases tension. This is the true relaxation essential oil. Physically, it can lower blood pressure, ease muscle spasms, treat PMS, fight bacteria and combat acne. Mentally it can stabilize the mood. It is rich and intense and is a must for aromatherapists. Cautions: Can be irritating to the skin and therefore should be diluted in a carrier oil. If used in excess, it can cause headaches and nausea. Do not use if prone to migraines.
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[ aromatherapy ] |
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News Release By
Peter Yexley
Tel: 01707 646457 |
