Aromatherapy

About Aromatherapy

What is Aromatherapy?

The term aromatherapy describes the centuries old practice of using essential oils to promote health and well-being. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was quoted as saying: “the way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage everyday”.

Essential oils are not perfumes but pure extracts taken from herbs, flowers and plants. Essential oils contain antiseptics, antiviral agents, vitamins and hormones which have been shown to have amazing properties. The oils can be used as a pure and natural way to help relieve stress, encourage relaxation, increase energy and rejuvenate the body.

 

How does it work?

Aromatherapy is a way to improve the quality of life on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. Aromatherapy is already a part of our lives, although we may not have associated the name with the experience. Everyone has emotional responses, both pleasant and unpleasant, to certain scents. The idea behind aromatherapy is, first, to find the scents, unique for each individual, that evoke positive sensory feelings and emotions; and then to introduce those scents into our everyday life to enhance well-being. Natural scents keep us connected to the earth – sparking good memories and emotions.

 

Essential Oils Guide

Pure essential oils are best used in the form of massage oils, bath oils or inhalations if you are a beginner. This simple therapy leaves you uplifted, stimulated, relaxed, or invigorated depending upon the oil used. Used in bath or massage, essential oils are absorbed through the skin and into the body where they will stimulate cellular renewal, enhance your emotions and rejuvenate your spirit. When inhaled, the aroma penetrates the bloodstream through the lungs to cause physiological change. These changes affect the limbic area of the brain which is related to emotions and memories. The brain has total recall for scent – it never forgets! Because the sense of smell is so immediate, the fragrance from an oil will affect the body’s chemical balance quickly.

Lavender is one of the most important essential oils. It blends well with most other oils and has a sweet, floral smell. It is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant, sedative and detoxifier. Lavender helps to balance and normalize emotions and mood swings. Lavender has many other uses and it is also a great cure for headaches. Touch a bit of oil on the end of your nose (so that you can smell it for a while), and rub it into your temples – Ahhh, instant relief.

Lemon has strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It aids in the prevention of infectious diseases, and in the treatment of colds, bronchitis, fever, sore throat, insect bites, varicose veins, and heartburn. Psychologically it is energizing, strengthening, and refreshing.

Using Essential Oils

(Dilution rates for normal, healthy adults)

Massage or body oil

Use 10 – 15 drop per oz. (30 mL) of carrier oil. Do not shower off the oils afterwards, allow them to remain on the skin for better penetration. Essential oils can take 6 – 12 hours to fully penetrate the skin.

Bath

Use 4 – 10 drops of a blend of oils per tub of water. Add just before getting in abd agitate to disperse. You can also put the oils into almond or another carrier oil to make a more moisturizing bath. Use about 4 – 10 drops essential oil in ½ oz. carrier oil per bath. For real luxury add about 4 – 10 drops of essential oils to 1 pint of fresh, full fat milk and pour this into a bath. Avoid Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Fennel or other highly stimulating oils if you suffer from high blood pressure or seizure disorders.

Inhalation

Use 2 – 4 drops of essential oils in a bowl of hot water. Place a towel over your head and, keeping the eyes closed, inhale the steam. Be careful because the oils are extremely strong when used in the way. Continue inhaling deeply for 5 – 10 minutes then place the bowl of water and oil near a radiator so that the oils continue to evaporate into the air. Avoid Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Fennel or other highly stimulating oils if you suffer from high blood pressure or seizure disorders.

Sitz bath

Use 2 -3 drops of essential oil per pint of warm water and soak for 20 minutes in a large basin or small tub filled to cover the hips and pelvis. An excellent way to treat genito-urinary conditions.

Hand or foot soak

Use 3 – 5 drops of essential oil per pint of warm water. Soak for 15 – 20 minutes.

Facial oil

Use 5 – 10 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of Jojoba or Hazelnut oil. This can be used as a cleanser or a moisturizer.

Facial compress

Use 2 – 5 drops of essential oil in a bowl of warm water. Wring out a washcloth in the water and apply to face. Repeat several times. Alternatively simply splash the face with the water, being sure not to get in the eyes.

Body compress

Use 3 – 6 drops of essential oil in a bowl of water. Warm compresses can be used for muscle stiffness and to increase local blood flow. Cool compresses can be used to reduce irritation and inflammation.

Air freshener

Use in a diffusor or put 20 – 30 drops of essential oils in 1 oz vodka, shake well and add 4 oz. water. Use this in a spray bottle as a mister.

Note:

They are extremely strong and are not recommended for topical use unless diluted. Do not use internally unless directed by a qualified practitioner. Avoid contact with eyes. If skin irritation occurs, apply almond, grapeseed or olive oil to dilute the oil and then wash with warm soapy water. Repeat until irritation subsides.

Caution!

Always research your oils before use. Some oils are much stronger than others. Eg. Thyme, Orange or Basil oils may cause skin irritation in quite small amounts. If in doubt try out just a little bit first on the wrist, cover with a band aid and wait an hour then observe for redness, heat or irritation. If none occurs it is safe for topical use in a diluted form.

For babies, children up to 14 years, the elderly, pregnant women or people with serious medical conditions, special considerations are advised for choosing oils, dilution rates and methods of application. A consultation with a qualified aromatherapist is advised in these special circumstances.

Essential Oil Descriptions

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Balsam, Peru
Extraction Method: High vacuum dry distillation
Botanical Name: Myroxylon balsamum
Fragrance: Sweet, rich vanilla like
Emotions, Psyche: Comforting, warming
Topical Usage: Dry and chapped skin, eczema, rashes, sores and wounds.
Safety Information: Non-toxic, non irritant
Mixes well with: Ylang-Ylang, patchouli, petitgrain, sandalwood, rose, spices
Uses: Dry and chapped skin, eczema, rashes, sore, low blood pressure, asthma, bronchitis, cough, colds, nervous tension, stress. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils(Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995), ]
Bergamot Oil
Extraction Method: Cold expression (peel)
Botanical Name: Citrus bergamia (Italy)
Fragrance: Citrus, floral
Emotions, Psyche: Balancing, Encouraging, Uplifting
Specific Topical Usage: Varicose veins, sores, burns (light), blemished (bleached) skin, eczema. It is also used to Europe as a suntan oil (mixed with aloe vera especially).
Warning: Do not apply to the skin before going out into the sun – It can increase the susceptibility of the skin to severe burning.
Safety Information: Warning photo toxic
Mixes well with: Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Ylang Ylang, chamomile, neroli
Uses: Acne, abscesses, anxiety, boils, cold sores, cystitis, depression, halitosis, itching, loss of appetite, oily skin, psoriasis, stress. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995), ] Essential Oil Safety Click Here
Blue Cypress
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Calistris intratropica
Fragrance: smoky, sweet-balsamic odor
Topical Usage: Oily and over hydrated skin, excessive perspiration, insect repellent, varicose veins, wounds.
Safety Information: Non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitive
Mixes well with: Cedarwood, pine. lavender, mandarin, clary sage, lemon, juniper, bergamot, orange, marjoram, and sandalwood.
Uses: Excessive perspiration, insect repellent, varicose veins, wounds, muscle cramps, edema, poor circulation, asthma, bronchitis, menopausal problems, nervous tension, stress. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995), ] Essential Oil Safety Click Here

 

Carrot Seed
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Daucus carota
Fragrance: warm, dry, woody, earthy aroma
Topical Usage: Dermatitis, eczema, rashes, mature complexions,
Safety Information: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing does not indicate any special precautions when using this oil. [Robert Tisserand, Essential Oil Safety (United Kingdom: Churchill Livingstone, 1995), 204.]
Mixes well with: Cedarwood, geranium, citrus and spice oils
Uses: Antiseptic, dermatitis, eczema, rashes, arthritis, gout, edema, anemia, anorexia, liver congestion. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils(Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995), ] Essential Oil Safety Click Here
Citronella
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Cymbopagon nardus
Fragrance: Fresh, powerful, lemony, woody-sweet aroma.
Topical Usage: Deodorant, insecticide, fungicidal
Safety Information: Non-toxic, non-irritant, Warning Avoid during pregnancy.
Mixes well with: Geranium, lemon, bergamot, orange, Cedarwood, and pine.
Uses: Excessive perspiration, oily skin, insect repellent. Cold, flu, minor infections, fatigues, headaches, migraine, neuralgia. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995), ] Essential Oil Safety Click Here
Cedarwood Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (sawdust, wood)
Botanical Name: Juniperus virginiana (USA)
Fragrance: Balsamic, soft, woody
Emotions, Psyche: Calming, Comforting, Strengthening, balancing, grounding, energizing
Mixes well with: patchouli, vetiver, sandalwood
Chamomile
Extraction Method: steam distillation
Botanical Name: Chamaemelum nobile or Anthemis noblis
Fragrance: fruity, herbal, sweet
Emotions, Psyche: calming, tension relieving
Specific Topical Usage: muscle relaxant, skin conditioner
Mixes well with: galbanum, eucalyptus, rosemary
Uses: muscle relaxant, skin conditioner, shampoo, pain relieving, fever reducing, digestive stimulant, wound healing, cramp relieving. Essential Oil Safety Click Here
Clary Sage Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (flowers)
Botanical Name: Salvia sclarea (USA)
Fragrance: Sweet, nutty-herbaccous
Emotions, Psyche: Purifying, Vitalizing
Specific Topical Usage: General skin care – especially inflame skin conditions, general hair and hair loss.
Mixes well with: Bergamot, Geranium, Lavendar, Lemon, Pink Grapefruit, Sandalwood.
Uses: Amenorrhea, asthma, coughing, dysmenorrhea, exhaustion, gas, labor pains, sore throat, stress. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils(Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995),]
Eucalyptus Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (leaves)
Botanical Name: Eucalyptus globulus (Spain)
Fragrance: Penetrating, camphor-like
Emotions, Psyche: Balancing, Cleansing, Stimulating
Specific Topical Usage: Skin cleanser and antiseptic, wounds, cuts, sores and blisters.
Mixes well with: Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint, Pine Needle, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme.
Uses: Antiseptic, antiviral, anti-fungal, respiratory problems, congestion, joint and muscle pain, migraines. Room spray, diffuser, massage inhalation, sauna, bath
Fennel Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (fruit)
Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare (Mediterraniean)
Fragrance: Warm, sweet
Emotions, Psyche: Calming, Relaxing
Safety information: slight dermal toxicity; use ½ recommended dilution or less Warning Fennel can be a skin irritant. Do not use it on young children. Do not use if pregnant. Do not use if suffering from epilepsy.
Uses: Massage, bath, bodycare
Frankincense Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (resin)
Botanical Name: Boswellia carteri (South Arabia)
Fragrance: Spicy, woody
Emotions, Psyche: Calming, Fortifying
Mixes well with: Bergamont, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Patchouli, Pine Needle, Rosemary, Sandalwood.
Uses: Diffuser, bodycare, skincare, massage, perfume, inhalation
Geranium Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (leaves, flowers)
Botanical Name: Pelargonium graveolents (Egypt)
Fragrance: Rosy-sweet
Emotions, Psyche: Uplifting, Romantic
Specific Topical Usage: General cosmetic skin care – especially oily skin, eczema, cuts and skin inflammations, tonic for slow healing sores.
Mixes well with: Bergamot, Frankincense, Lavender, Patchouli, Rosemary, Sandalwood.
Uses: Skin disorders (dry/eczema), herpes (topical), lymphatic decongestant (especially mamary glands), vaginal/uterine tonic (as a douche). Diffuser, massage, bodycare, bath, perfume.
Ginger Root
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale
Fragrance: Warm slightly green, fresh, woody-spicy aroma
Safety Information: Non-toxic, non-irritant(except in high concentrations), slightly phototoxic, may cause sensitization in some individuals.
Mixes well with: Sandalwood, vetiver, patchouli, frankincense, rosewood, cedarwood, coriander, rose, lime, orange blossom, and other citrus oils.
Uses: Aching muscles, arthritis, nausea, poor circulation. Diarrhea, Colic, cramp, flatulence, congestion, coughs, aches and pains, arthritis fatigue. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995),]
Grapefruit Oil, Pink
Extraction Method: Cold expression (peel)
Botanical Name: Citrus paradisi (USA)
Fragrance: Fresh, sweet citrus aroma
Emotions, Psyche: Refreshing, Cheering
Specific Topical Usage: Herpes, stimulates surface metabolism.
Mixes well with: Bergamot, Geranium, Lavender, Rosemary, Thyme.
Safety information: Warning
Uses: Cellulitus, edema (water retention), detoxifying. Diffuser, inhalation, massage, bath.
Lavender Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (flowering tops)
Botanical Name: Lavandula officinalis (France)
Fragrance: Floral, fresh, clean
Emotions, Psyche: Balancing, Relaxing, Soothing, Calming
Specific Topical Usage: General cosmetic skin care – especially dry skin, burns, dermatitis alpaca (hear loss), as a skin tonic.
Mixes well with: All other essential oils.
Uses: Antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, cicatrizing (stimulaates skin and wound healing without scarring – the best), anti-vemon/poison (betes, stings and contact dermatitis), headaches (vaso-constrictive), hypertension. Diffuser, bath, massage, perfume, body/hair care, inhalation, room spray.
Lemon Oil
Extraction Method: Cold expression (peel)
Botanical Name: Citrus linomum (USA)
Fragrance: Strong, citrus, fresh lemon
Emotions, Psyche: Refreshing, Uplifting, Stimulating
Specific Topical Usage: Oily and congested skin, varicose veins, skin cleanser, stimulates excretion and waste through skin pores.
Mixes well with: Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Peppermint, Pine Needle, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, Thyme, Ylang Ylang.
Safety Information: Warning Do not use lemon on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.
Uses: Antiseptic, astringent, oily skin. Bath, sauna, perfume, diffuser, inhalation.
Lemongrass Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (sweet grass)
Botanical Name: Cumbopogon flexuosus (East India)
Fragrance: Sweet, grassy, lemony
Emotions, Psyche: Refreshing, Stimulating
Safety Information: can cause skin irritation Warning Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.
Uses: Bath,diffuser, perfume, room spray, body care.
Marjoram Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (leaves, flowering tops)
Botanical Name: Marjorana hertensis (Spain)
Fragrance: Warm, spicy
Emotions, Psyche: Relaxing, Calming, Appeasing
Safety Information: Warning Do not use during pregnancy. Care must be taken due to its sedative action, so use sparingly!
Uses: Bath, massage, inhalation, diffuser
Myrrh Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (bark or resin)
Botanical Name: Commiphora abyssinica (East Africa)
Fragrance: Hot, smoky, bitter
Emotions, Psyche: Fortifying, Stimulating
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less WarningDuring pregnancy use Myrrh only in moderation.
Uses: Skincare, massage, diffuser, perfume
Orange Oil
Extraction Method: Cold expression (peel)
Botanical Name: Citrus aurantium (USA)
Fragrance: Fresh, lively, fruity
Emotions, Psyche: Relaxing, Cheering, Calming
Safety Information: Do not use on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 2% and use only 4/5 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.
Uses: Bath, diffuser, massage, room spray, perfume
Oregano
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Oreganum compactum
Fragrance: Warm, spicy-herbaceous, camhoraceous aroma.
Safety information: Dermal toxin, skin irritant, mucous membrane irritant, Warning; Avoid during pregnancy.
Mixes well with: Lavandin, pine, spike, lavender, citronella, rosemary, camphor and cedarwood.
Uses: Aching muscles, arthritis, nausea, poor circulation. Diarrhea, Colic, cramp, flatulence, congestion, coughs, aches and pains, arthritis fatigue. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995),]
Patchouli Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (leaves)
Botanical Name: Pogstemon cablin (Indonesia)
Fragrance: Hot, musty, penetrating
Emotions, Psyche: Uplifting, Calming, Appeasing
Specific Topical Usage: General skin care – especially aging skin, wrinkles, and closes purulent wounds.
Mixes well with: Bergamot, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Pine Needle, Sandalwood, Tea Tree.
Uses: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-fungal (one of the best), chapped skin, mildly cicatrizing (skin and wound healer), moth repellant (put on cedar chips). Perfume, massage, bath, skincare.
Peppermint Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (whole plant)
Botanical Name: Mentha piperita (USA)
Fragrance: Menthol, strong, penetrating
Emotions, Psyche: Refreshing, Stimulating, Invigorating
Specific Topical Usage: Congested skin conditions, invigorates tired skin, acne, refreshing hear rinse (especially blended as tea tree (2 parts) and peppermint (1 part)).
Mixes well with: Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon, Pine Needle, Pink Grapefruit, Rosemary, Thyme.
Safety Information: can cause skin irritation
Uses: Antiseptic, analgesic, headaches (vaso-constrictive), congestion, digestant (stimulates gastric activity while balancing) acid/alkaline balance – especially when used with lemon), remaneralizer. Bath, inhalation, massage, compress, diffuser.
Pine Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (needles, twigs, cones)
Botanical Name: Pinus sylvestris (East Europe)
Fragrance: Fresh, strong, penetrating
Emotions, Psyche: Comforting, Uplifting
Specific Topical Usage: Foot Odors.
Mixes well with: Frankincense, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon, Patchouli, Rosemary, Tea Tree.
Safety Information: Warning
Uses: Antiseptic, balances circulation, decongestant. Bath, massage, inhalation.
Rose Oil
Extraction Method: Cold expression (flower petals)
Botanical Name: Raso demascena (Grasse France)
Fragrance: Fresh rose
Emotions, Psyche: Sensual, Euphoric
Safety Information: Warning Avoid using during the first four months of pregnancy.
Uses: Rose water, bath, diffuser.
Rosemary Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (flower tops)
Botanical Name: Rosmarinus officinalis (Spain)
Fragrance: Fiery, pine-like, camphorous
Emotions, Psyche: Rejuvenating, Strengthening, Uplifting
Specific Topical Usage: Oily skin, hear loss, skind parasites, used in dark hair rinses.
Mixes well with: Bergamot, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint, Pine Needle, Pink Grapefruit, Tea Tree, Thyme.
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less
Warning Do not use Rosemary when pregnant, having high blood pressure, or suffering from epilepsy. It may cause irritation of the skin.
Uses: Antiseptic, respiratory problems, oily skin and hair (especially for male pattern balding), stiff and sore muscles (especially combined with Eucalyptus and thyme). Bath, hair/skin/bodycare, massage, diffuser, perfume, inhalation.
Rosewood Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (wood)
Botanical Name: Aniba rosaeodora (Brazil, Peru)
Fragrance: Warm, woody, floral
Emotions, Psyche: Calming, Enlivening, Sensual
Uses: Bath, massage, skincare, perfume, diffuser
Sage Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (dried leaves)
Botanical Name: Salvia officinalis (Spain)
Fragrance: Harsh, strong, aromatic
Emotions, Psyche: Balancing, Strenghtening
Safety Information: should be avoided by pregnant women Do not use Sage when pregnant or suffering from epilepsy.
Uses: Diffuser, bath oil, compress.
Sandalwood Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (wood billets, root)
Botanical Name: Santalum album (Malaysia)
Fragrance: Sweet, warm, woody
Emotions, Psyche: Arousing, Harmonizing, Relaxing
Specific Topical Usage: General skin care – especially dry skin, eczema, acne and rejuvenates skin.
Mixes well with: Frankincense, Lemon Patchouli Ylang Ylang.
Uses: Antiseptic, expectorant (drying), bronchitis, dry skin, lack of libido. Bath, skincare, diffuser, perfume, massage, inhalation, compress.
Spearmint
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Mentha cardiaca
Fragrance: Warm spicy, minty aroma
Safety information: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.
Mixes well with: Lavender, lavandin, jasmine, eucalyptus, basil and rosemary and peppermint.
Uses: Used to relieve hiccoughs, colic, nausea, indigestion and flatulence. Calming, soothing, muscle relaxant. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils(Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995),]
Spikenard
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale
Fragrance: Warm slightly green, fresh, woody-spicy aroma
Safety information: Non-toxic, non-irritant(except in high concentrations), slightly phototoxic, may cause sensitization in some individuals.
Mixes well with: Sandalwood, vetiver, patchouli, frankincense, rosewood, cedarwood, coriander, rose, lime, orange blossom, and other citrus oils.
Uses: Aching muscles, arthritis, nausea, poor circulation. Diarrhea, Colic, cramp, flatulence, congestion, coughs, aches and pains, arthritis fatigue. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995),]
Tea Tree Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (foliage, branchlets)
Botanical Name: Melaleuca alternifolia (Australia)
Fragrance: Strong, powerful, fresh
Emotions, Psyche: Cleansing, Stimulating
Specific Topical Usage: Acne, fungal infections, stimulates scalp circulation.
Mixes well with: Lavender, Lemon, Pine Needle, Patchouli, Pink Grapefruit, Rosemary, Thyme.
Safety Information: Warning May cause irritation to sensitive skins.
Uses:

Antiseptic, anti-fungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, respiratory (expandedin warmth), serous burns (especially with lavender oil), bitesand stings (especially with lavender). Bath, diffuser, sauna, massage, skincare, bodycare, room spray.

Essential Oil Safety Click Here

Thyme Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (partially dried herb)
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris (Spain)
Fragrance: Intense, herbal, pervasive
Emotions, Psyche: Stimulating, Appeasing, Strengthening
Specific Topical Usage: Mouth & gum car, antiseptic for wounds, fungal infections, athletes foot.
Mixes well with: Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon, Peppermint, Pine Needle, Rosemary, Tea Tree.
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less; can cause skin irritation Warning Do not use Thyme when pregnant or having high blood pressure. Dilute to no more than 2% Thyme before use. It may cause irritation to sensitive skins.
Uses: Antiseptic, antiviral, anti-fungal, antispasmodic, upper respiratory aid. Bath, massage, diffuser.
Vanilla
Extraction Method: Solvent Extraction from pure vanilla beans
Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia
Emotions, Psyche: Calming, relaxing, softens anger, frustrations and irritability.
Fragrance: Rich sweet, balsamic, vanilla like odour.
Safety information: Non-toxic, sensitizing agent. Widely adulterated
Mixes well with: Sandalwood, Vetiver, Benzoin, Balsams, and spice oils.
Uses: Vanilla has powerful uses as an aphrodisiac, in perfume blends, and to flavor and fragrance anything. The fragrance calms, relaxes, and softens anger, frustrations and irritability. Vanilla may be used in creams, body lotions, bath oils, perfumes and in aroma lamp. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils(Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995),]
Vetiver Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (dried rootlets)
Botanical Name: Vetiveria zizanoides (Reunion Island)
Fragrance: Earthy, musty, spicy
Emotions, Psyche: Embracing, Balancing, Comforting
Uses: Massage, perfume, diffuser, skincare, bath.
Yarrow
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Botanical Name: Achillea millefolium
Fragrance: Fresh sweet slightly camphoraceous aroma.
Safety information: Non-toxic, non-irritant except in high concentrations), slightly photo toxic, may cause sensitization in some individuals.
Mixes well with: Cedarwwod, pine, chamomile, valerian, vetiver and oakmoss.
Uses: It is used mainly for menstrual problems, also used for rheumatism, It is also used for skin complaint including acne, reducing scaring for burns and cuts. [Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Rockport, MA: Element Books, 1995),]
Ylang-Ylang Oil
Extraction Method: Steam distillation (Fresh blossoms)
Botanical Name: Cananga odorata (Reunion Island)
Fragrance: Sweet, flowery, erotic
Emotions, Psyche: Arousing, Sensual, Uplifting
Specific Topical Usage: Oily, ageing skin.
Mixes well with: Bergamot, Lavender, Lemon, Sandalwood.
Uses: Antispasmodic, cardio-tonic, hypertension, lack of libido (for women specifically). Massage, bath, perfume, diffuser, haircare, skincare.

Essential Oil Safety

Main safety considerations

  1. Always store oils out of the reach of children.
  2. Keep flamable oils away from flames.
  3. Always consult with your healthcare proffesional before starting any therapies with essential oils.
  4. Dilute oils as recommended.
  5. Never take oils internally.
  6. Always test oils on a skin patch first.

Mixing and using safely

  1. Always wash your hands before and after using essential oils.
  2. Make sure you are in a well ventilated area.
  3. Mix away from the client.
  4. Use recommended dilution at all times.
  5. Use small quantities for babies, small children and the elderly.
  6. Handle oils carefully to prevent contact with skin and cross-contamination.
  7. Keep out of contact with the eyes.
  8. Avoid prolonged or excessive exposure.
  9. Take frequent breaks.
  10. If prescribing oils for a client’s home use, ensure that they understand the instructions for use.
  11. Keep accurate records of treatment and blends.
  12. Lavender and Tea tree are the only oils that can be applied directly on to the skin undiluted. Always skin test first.

Prohibited oils

The following oils have been reported to be potentially harmful. Many are toxic, narcotic, capable or causing miscariage, and likely to produce epileptic type effects, and others, such as cinnamon bark and clove bud are powerful irritants if misused by untrained therapists. These oils are considered very dangerous to be used in aromatherapy. Some present more than one hazard. The following oils if you decide to use them. They must be used with caution under the direction of an aromatherapist, there are a lot of valuable oils but need to be carefully used with an understanding of the undesirable effects they may cause.

Almond bitter Mustard
Aniseed Origanum
Arnica Pennyroyal. European
Boldo leaf Pennyroyal, North American
Calmus Pine, dwarf
Camphor, brown Rue
Camphor, yellow Sage
Cassia Sassafra
Cinnamon bark Savin
Clove bud Savory. Summer
Clove leaf Savory, winter
Clove stem Southernwood
Costus Tansy
Elecampane Thuja (cedarleaf)
Fennel, bitter Thuja plicata
Horseradish Wintergreen
Hyssop Wormseed
Jaborandi leaf Wormwood
Mugwort (armoise)

Oils that should not be used by people with epilepsy

Fennel (Sweet) Foeniculum vulgare
Hyssop Hyssopus officinalis
Rosemary Fosmarinus officinalis
Sage
Wormwood

The Following oils shoud not be used during pregnancy

Basil
Birch
Cedarwood
Clary Sage
Cypress
Geranium
Hyssop
Jasmine
Juniper
Marjoram
Myrrh
Nutmeg
Peppermint
Rosemary
Tarragon
Thyme

The Following oils shoud not be used during the first trimester of pregnancy, and used with caution during the remainder of the pregnancy. Use in small amounts and well diluted (1-2 % for massage: 3-4 drops added to a carrier oil for baths. If you have a history of miscariage DONT USE AT ALL.

Chamomile
Geranium
Lavender
Rose

Contraindications

Pure essential oils are very strong and should only be used in the recommended dilution and application. Some oils are toxic, some are skin irritants. Many oils have contraindications to their use and may exacerbate existing health problems. There are local and general contraindications to practice. These must be identified during a preliminary consultation before any oils are used on a client.

Local contraindications

Local contraindications are localized areas on the body that should be avoided and include:

  1. Recent operations, fractures or sprains
  2. Severe bruising
  3. Swelling
  4. Varicose veins
  5. Cuts, new scar tissue
  6. Local skin infections/conditions (eczema etc.).

General contraindications to practice

  1. Fever
  2. Influenza
  3. Migraine
  4. Infectious skin disorders

Permission from the clients’ GP should be sought before treating people with the following conditions:

  1. A history of thrombosis or embolism
  2. High or low blood pressure
  3. Epilepsy
  4. Diabetes
  5. Major system dysfunction (renal, hepatic, digestive, etc.)
  6. Nervous system dysfunction
  7. Fatal illnesses (cancer, etc.)
  8. Recent severe hemorrhage
  9. If client on medication or homeopathic preparations

Special care is needed for:

  1. Allergies and skin disorders
  2. Pregnancy
  3. Babies, children and the elderly
  4. Sensitive skin
  5. People with disabilities

What Are Carrier Oils?

Carrier oils are vegetable, nut or seed oils used to dilute and “carry” essential oils for use on the body. You may choose from a variety of bases depending on your individual needs and preferences. Select a base that is as high quality as your pure essential oils. There is no sense in putting therapeutic grade essential oils into a synthetic or mineral oil base. It is recommended that you always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before using on your skin. Exceptions are lavender and tea tree oil that may be used “neat”. Most essential oils are too concentrated to be used directly on the skin. Diluted in a carrier oil, they can be massaged or rubbed directly onto the skin.

Methods for Using Essential Oils & Blends

Our authorization is required for any returns.

Credit must be requested within 7 days of receipt of goods.

A restocking fee of 25% may be charged for returns and the customer will be responsible for any return shipping charges.

Proof of purchase is required for all product returns.

The returned product must be unopened (unbroken seals on essential and carrier oil bottles) be in re-saleable condition, and not contain price stickers other than our own.

Bulk product and quantity purchases must be returned in full to qualify for refund.

Shipping charges are NOT refundable.

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