PROFILE OF ESSENTIAL OILS (Glossary)
AQUILARIA CRASSNA - AGARWOOD
ORIGIN: Native to Southeast Asis - Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of wood.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Linayl acetate, linalool, limonene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • anti-asthmatic • anti-depressive • astringent • anti-asthmatic • aphrodisiac • anti-inflammatory • carminative • stimulant • sedative • Tonic
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skeletal / Muscular: relieves muscle pain, alleviates rheumatism and clears uric acid in joints.
Digestive: relieves gastric, aids diarrhoea, especially dysentery.
Nervous: may help with paralysis, lifts depression, anxiety, strengthens and tones the nerves.
Skin: tonic effect on acne, smooths fine lines and wrinkles.
CAUTION: Non-toxic and non-irritant.
IN A NUTSHELL: A natural aphrodisiac, Agarwood encourages positive thinking and may increase libido.
OCIMUM BASILICUM - BASIL
ORIGIN: Cultivated throughout Europe - France, Italy, Bulgaria, Hungary and it's native to tropical Asia and the Middle East.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the flowers and leaves.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Linalool, methyl chavicol, eugenol, limonene and citronellol.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • antiseptic • antispasmodic • cephalic • emmenagogue • prophylactic
• tonic • uplifting • warming
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: reduces inflammation of wasp stings; a tonic effect on acne.
Muscular: relieves muscle tightness and spasms.
Digestive: helps to relieve painful digestion, flatulence, gastric spasms and nausea.
Reproductive: amenorrhoea or irregular /scanty menstruation.
Respiratory: extremely useful for sinusitis, head colds, asthma and whooping cough.
Nervous: relieves depression, soothes insomnia and calms stress; eases migraine, fainting spells as well as neuritis. It also helps to focus the mind and aids concentration.
CAUTION: Use in low concentrations on sensitive skin. Avoid during pregnancy.
IN A NUTSHELL: Sweet and spicy, Basil is excellent for clearing the mind of clutter, aids concentration which make it a must have essential oil for students and it awakens the spirit.
CITRUS BERGAMIA - BERGAMOT
ORIGIN: Native to tropical Asia. Cultivated in Corsica, Italy and Ivory Coast.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Cold expression of the rind.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Linayl acetate, linalool, limonene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • anti-inflammatory • antiseptic • antiviral • relaxing • cooling • digestive stimulant • verfimuge • calmative
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: useful for treating inflamed, sore skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.
Urinary: use in early stages of cystitis, vaginal discharges, thrush and itching.
Digestive: relieves flatulence, colic, painful digestion and helps in regulating appetite.
Respiratory: relieves symptoms of colds, flu and bronchitis as well as reducing inflammation and infections such as tonsillitis and sore throats.
Nervous: reduces anger, frustration, anxiety and depression.
Immune: strengthens systems.
CAUTION: Phototoxic. Avoid contact with direct sunlight or sunbed rays.
IN A NUTSHELL: Uplifting and cheerful, bergamot suppports and encourages the release of pent up feelings.
PIPER NIGRUM - BLACK PEPPER
ORIGIN: Native to Greece, India, Indonesia.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of dried berries.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene, camphene, pinene, thujene and S-esquiterpenes.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • analgesic • antispasmodic • depurative • expectorant • rubefacient • stimulant • tonic
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Circulatory/lymphatic: prevents and relieves chilblains; stimulates circulation and lymphatic system.
Digestive: stimulates appetite and digestion; relieves constipation by aiding peristalsis.
Muscular: relieves aches and pains as well as improve performance if used before sporting activities.
Nervous: stimulates the nerves and mind while simultaneously strengthening it.
Respiratory: relieves catarrh, coughs and cold due to its expectorant properties.
CAUTION: Should not be applied neat on the skin and is not compatible with homeopathic treatments.
IN A NUTSHELL: Black Pepper encourages bravery, increases stamina and relieves aches and pains.
ELETTARIA CARDAMOMUM - CARDAMOM
ORIGIN: Native to Sri Lanka, South India.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene, cineole, pinene, terpinyl acetate, zingiberene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • anticatarrhal • antispasmodic • anti-infectious • calmative • carminative • stomachic • expectorant • stimulant • tonic
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Circulatory/lymphatic: stimulates circulation and detoxifies the lymphatic system.
Digestive: stimulates appetite and digestion; relieves spasmodic pain, flatulence, constipation and nausea.
Urinary: aids fluid retention.
Skeletal / Muscular: relieves aches, pains and cramps; helpful for scistica.
Nervous: fights mental fatigue, tonic for nerves, aids memory loss and depression.
Respiratory: relieves catarrh, coughs and cold due to its expectorant properties.
CAUTION: Non-toxic, non-irritant.
IN A NUTSHELL: A household spice in Asia, Cardamom works well to combat digestive issues .
DAUCUS CAROTA - CARROT SEED
ORIGIN: Native to Asia, Europe, North Africa.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the dried seeds.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: carotol, daucol, limonene, pinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • antiseptic • depurative • diuretic • emmenagogue • tonic • vasodilatory
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: tones and rejuvenates, targets wrinkles, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and rashes.
skeletal: relieves gout, arthritis and rheumatism due to its diuretic properties.
Muscular: rids toxin build-up.
Reproductive: regulates menstruation, aids PMS.
Digestive: tonifies gall bladder and liver.
CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy.
IN A NUTSHELL: Cleans up the skin and aids digestion.
CEDRUS ATLANTICA - CEDARWOOD
ORIGIN: Algeria and Morocco.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the wood and stumps.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: himachalene, atlantone, deodarone, himachalol, isocedranol.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • antiseptic • antispasmodic • tonic • regenerative • expectorant • antibacterial • anti-infectious • arterial regenerator • lymphatic • catarrhal • cicatrisant
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: fights cellulite; balances sebum - helps oily skin, acne and chronic skin conditions.
Urinary: eases vaginal discharge, infections as well as fluid retention, itching and burning sensations.
Respiratory: breaks up catarrh and expels mucus.
Nervous: instills peace and tranquility thus relieves nervous tension; fights mental lethargy.
Immune: strengthens systems.
CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy. Unsuitable for babies and young children.
IN A NUTSHELL: Sweet and balsamic, Cedarwood is strengthening and fortifying.
MATRICARIA RECUTITA / ANTHEMIS NOBILIS - CHAMOMILE
ORIGIN: German - Hungary, Bulgaria & Germany. Roman - USA, England, France & Belgium.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the flowers.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: German - chamazulene, t-erpene, farnesol. Roman - angelic acid, isobutyl angelate, chamazulene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • analgesic • antispasmodic • antiseptic • anti-inflammatory • bactericidal • emmenagogue • sedative • stimulant • stomachic • tonic • vulnerary • vermifuge
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: Skin: soothes and calms various skin conditions - eczema, skin allergies, bruises, blisters, psoriasis, acne.
Muscular: relieves pain particularly in lower back.
Skeletal: relieves arthritis, imflammed joints and toothaches.
Nervous: relieves stress, insomnia, anxiety and lifts depression.
Reproductive: · curbs period cramps and pains, relieves symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Digestive: aids IBS, relieves indigestion, nausea, diarrhoea.
Urinary: useful for cystitis and UTI.
CAUTION: No known contra-indications. However, avoid during early stages of pregnancy.
IN A NUTSHELL: Versatile chamomile helps to release excessive resentment and expectations. It is able to calm to hyperactive child or restless and frail elderly.
CINNAMOMUM ZEYLANICUM - CINNAMON
ORIGIN: Native to Sri Lanka, India and Madagascar.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of leaves and bark.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Benzyl benzoate, aldehyde, eugenol.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • anaesthetic • antiseptic • antispasmodic • aphrodisiac • haemostatic • cardiac • stimulant • emmenagogue • insecticide
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: tightens, effective on acne, psoriasis and eczema, reduces inflamed skin from allergic reactions and has a mild astringent effect.
Circulatory: stimulates circulation and improves immune system.
Nervous: fights mental fatigue, exhaustion and depression.
Respiratory: eases colds, breathing difficulties, fights viral infections and restores body heat.
Digestive: relieves indigestion, flatulene, dyspepsia, calms spasm, combat constipation and stimulates appetite.
Endocrine: eases period pain and vaginal discharges, regulates menstruation and may help with impotence.
Muscular/Joints: eases spasm, rheumatic pain, inflamed tendons.
CAUTION: Irritating to the skin and mucous membrane. Use in low concentration. Avoid during pregnancy and on young children.
IN A NUTSHELL: Cinnamon essential oil warms the body, lifts the spirit and adds a dash of Christmas joy all year round.
CYMBOPOGEN NARDUS - CITRONELLA
ORIGIN: Southeast Asia especially, Sri Lanka.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of leaves.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Citronellol, geranoil, citronellyl acetate, linalool, camphene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: : • insecticide • anti-depressant • deodorant • tonic • stimulant
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: curbs perspiration, insect repellant and softens skin.
Nervous: lifts extreme fatigue, exhaustion and clears the mind.
Muscular: relieves aches and pains.
CAUTION: Avoid on hypersensitive skin.
IN A NUTSHELL: It lifts a depressed mind and heart.
SALVIA SCLAREA - CLARY SAGE
ORIGIN: England, Russia, Morocco, France, Italy, Spain.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the flowers and leaves.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Linalyl acetate, linol and terpenes such as pinene and myrcene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • anti-inflammatory • antispasmodic • relaxing • sedative • tonic • euphoric • hypotensive
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: reduces inflammation as well as balance oily skin; prevents wrinkles and stimulates hair growth.
Muscular: relaxes muscles, reduces spasms, cramps and fibrositis.
Circulatory: lowers blood pressure and counteracts heart palpitations.
Immune: strengthens the immune system thus useful for the weak/convalescent.
Reproductive: balances hormones, relieves PMS,fluid retention and painful cramps; helps during menopause.
Nervous: suitable for all stress related disorders; uplifts and promotes feelings of euphoria, soothes nervous tension and panic; as a sedative, it relieves headaches and migraines.
CAUTION: Should not be used when drinking alcohol as it may induce a narcotic effect. A strong sedative which may effect concentration and bring about headaches if used in large doses.
IN A NUTSHELL: Clary sage is relaxing and uplifting. It helps banish unwanted thoughts, calms an overactive mind and is overall euphoric.
EUGENIA CARYOPHYLLATA - CLOVES
ORIGIN: Molucca Islands & Indonesia. Cultivated in Zanzibar, Madagascar, Java and Sri Lanka.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of bud.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Eugenol, isoeugenol, methyl salicylate, pinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • analgesic • antiseptic • antineuralgic • antispasmodic • anti-infectious • aphrodisiac • carminative • stimulant • stomachic • vermifuge
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: alleviate infectious wounds and sores; helpful to lupus.
Nervous: strengthens memory, stimulutes a lethargic mind.
Digestive: relieves colic, effective against diarrhoea, intestinal spasms, dyspesia.
Muscular: pain relieving properties on rheumatism and arthritis.
Respiratory: relieves respiratory problems, tuberculosis, asthma and bronchitis.
CAUTION: potent oil, use sparingly. Avoid during pregnancy.
IN A NUTSHELL: Effective in relieving tootaches and mouth sores, clove oil stimulates emotional healing.
CUPRESSUS SEMPERVIRENS - CYPRESS
ORIGIN: France, Spain, Italy, Portugal and also parts of North Africa.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of leaves and cones.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Cineol, limonene and pinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • astringent • antiseptic • depurative • haemostatic • diuretic • tonic • uplifting • vasoconstrictive
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: controls water loss, oil and sweat production.
Circulatory: narrows blood vessels which ease varicose veins, haemorrhoids and heavy bleeding.
Cells & Tissues: astringent, acts as a diuretic, combats cellulite and reduces water retention.
Reproductive: regulates problems related to heavy periods, PMS, hormones and menopause.
CAUTION: Safe and non-irritating. However, not recommended for use during pregnancy.
IN A NUTSHELL: The oil of transformation, Cypress helps us cope with moving on. It's strong astringent and depurative properties assist in controlling excess sweat.
EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS - EUCALYPTUS
ORIGIN: Native to Australia. Grown in Spain and Portugal.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of leaves and twigs.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Cineol, limonene and pinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: analgesic • antiseptic • antiviral • antispasmodic • depurative • expectorant • prophylactic • stimulant • uplifting
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: infections and dull, congested skin; burns, wounds and pimple spots.
Immune: stimulates immunity against infection.
Nervous: clears the head, calms emotions.
Respiratory: fights colds, flu and infections - throat, catarrh, sinusitis, asthma.
Muscular: relieves aches and pains. skeletal: eases rheumatism.
Urinary: cystitis.
CAUTION: Incompatible with homeopathic treatments. Use in low dilutions on hypersensitive skin.
IN A NUTSHELL: Eucalyptus guard and protect the whole body against viruses by strengthening the immune system.
BOSWELLIA CARTERI - FRANKINCENSE
ORIGIN: Red sea region, Africa - Somalia, Ethiopia.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the resin of the shrub.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene and pinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: expectorant • haemostatic • relaxing • rubefacient • sedative • tonic • vermifuge
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: balances oily skin as well as smooths wrinkles and dry skin.
Nervous: enables the mind to focus.
Respiratory: aids asthma, bronchitis, coughs, laryngitis; clears mucus and catarrh and calms breathing.
Urinary: eases symptoms of cystitis, nephritis and genital infections.
CAUTION: Frankincense is non-toxic and non-irritant.
IN A NUTSHELL: Emotionally balancing, Frankincense brings a sense of calm.
PELARGONIUM GRAVEOLENS - GERANIUM
ORIGIN: Native of South Africa, it's now grown all over the world especially, Egypt, Russia, Morocco and China.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the flowers, leaves and stalks.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Geraniol, citronellol, limonene, menthone.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS:• anti-inflammatory • diuretic • balancing • haemostatic • vulnerary • vermifuge • stimulant • tonic • uplifting
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: benefits all skin types, balances sebum, helps keep skin supple, tonifies dull, congested skin, prevents chilblains as it improves circulation.
Circulatory/Lymphatic: improves circulation, helpful for varicose veins and stimulates the lymphatic system.
Endocrine/Reproductive: balances hormones, regulates PMS, alleviates depression during menopause and heavy periods.
Nervous: lifts the spirit and relieves anxiety, stress, nervous tension.
CAUTION: Do a test patch on overly sensitive skin. Otherwise it is suitable and completely safe.
IN A NUTSHELL: Emotionally uplifting, Geranium balances the mind, body and spirit. It also stimulates circulation.
ZINGIBER OFFICINALE - GINGER
ORIGIN: Asia and tropical countries such as India, China, Jamaica, West Indies and Africa.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the rhizomes.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Zingiberene, gingerol, gingerone and citronellal.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS:• stimulating • tonic • analgesic • laxative • warming
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: stimulates circulation hence helps heal bruises and chilblains.
Skeletal: eases joint pains, arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Muscular: relieves cramps, muscle spasms and sprains.
Circulatory: stimulates circulation which helps to ease blood vessel issues such as varicose veins.
Digestive: stimulates appetite, alleviates nausea, motion sickness and aides digestion.
Respiratory: eases symptoms of flu and cold - sore throat, fever, catarrh.
Nervous: heightens sense, improves memory, warms the emotions especially when feeling lethargic or fatigued.
CAUTION: Use in low concentrations on hypersensitive skin.
IN A NUTSHELL: Warm and spicy, ginger stimulates circulation and removes toxins from the body.
CITRUS PARADISI - GRAPEFRUIT
ORIGIN: Tropical Asia, West Indies, California, Israel and Brazil.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Cold expression of the peel of the fruit.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene, paradisiol, neral.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS:• astringent • depurative • diuretic • stimulant • tonic • uplifting • antidepressant
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: astringent for dull, oily skin and acne; has a tonic effect on the scalp.
Lymphatic: diuretic hence reduces water retention and oedemas, combats cellulite and helps in unclogging the lymphatic system.
Immune: stimulates immunity and helps to prevent colds and flu.
Nervous: uplifting and refreshing thus revives depressed and stressed minds, induces euphoria as well as dispels feeling of resentment and bitterness.
CAUTION: It is only phototoxic when distilled. Otherwise it is safe and not an irritant.
IN A NUTSHELL: Grapefruit is a refreshing tonic with an uplifting effect. It cleanses and tones as well as wards off lethargy and depression.
HYSSOPUS OFFICINALIS - HYSSOP
ORIGIN: Tropical Asia, West Indies, California, Israel and Brazil.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Cold expression of the peel of the fruit.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene, paradisiol, neral.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS:• astringent • depurative • diuretic • stimulant • tonic • uplifting • antidepressant
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: astringent for dull, oily skin and acne; has a tonic effect on the scalp.
Lymphatic: diuretic hence reduces water retention and oedemas, combats cellulite and helps in unclogging the lymphatic system.
Immune: stimulates immunity and helps to prevent colds and flu.
Nervous: uplifting and refreshing thus revives depressed and stressed minds, induces euphoria as well as dispels feeling of resentment and bitterness.
CAUTION: It is only phototoxic when distilled. Otherwise it is safe and not an irritant.
IN A NUTSHELL: Grapefruit is a refreshing tonic with an uplifting effect. It cleanses and tones as well as wards off lethargy and depression.
JASMINUM OFFICINALE - JASMINE
ORIGIN: China, North India, Egypt, France, Mediterranean countries.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Solvent extraction of flowers.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Benzyl acetate, linalol, jasmone.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS:• antispasmodic • galactagogue • relaxing • sedative • tonic
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: heals scar tissues, reduces stretch marks, cell renewal; hydrates and soothe dry itchy skin, increases elasticity thus ideal for mature skin.
Reproductive/Endocrine: balances hormones in PMT and menopause; eases child labour pains.
Nervous: lifts depression, instils optimism and self-confidence, eases nerve pain and warms emotions.
CAUTION: Not recommended during first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Suitable for end of pregnancy.
IN A NUTSHELL: Jasmine rejuvenates the skin and soul.
JUNIPERUS COMMUNIS - JUNIPER BERRY
ORIGIN: Canada, Siberia and Scandinavia. Oils are mainly produced in France, Italy, Slovakia, Hungary and Czeh Republic.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of dried berries.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: T-erpenes - pinene, myrcrene, sabinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS:•analgesic • antispasmodic • antiseptic • sedative • tonic • depurative • diuretic • stimulant • warming • relaxing
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: detoxifies clogged pored, targets acne and oily skin; soothes dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema.
Skeletal: warming effect calms symptoms of arthritis, rheumatism and gout.
Circulatory: combats cellulite.
Nervous: clear and stimulates cluttered mind, relieves stress and tension.
Urinary: aids fluid retention and cystitis.
CAUTION: As an abortifacient, it should never be used during pregnancy. Avoid use on those with kidney disease or suffering from nephritis.
IN A NUTSHELL: Juniper detoxifies the body, mind and spirit of toxins and anxieties.
KUNZEA AMBIGUA - KUNZEA
ORIGIN: Canada, Siberia and Scandinavia. Oils are mainly produced in France, Italy, Slovakia, Hungary and Czeh Republic.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of dried berries.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: T-erpenes - pinene, myrcrene, sabinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS:•analgesic • antispasmodic • antiseptic • sedative • tonic • depurative • diuretic • stimulant • warming • relaxing
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: detoxifies clogged pored, targets acne and oily skin; soothes dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema.
Skeletal: warming effect calms symptoms of arthritis, rheumatism and gout.
Circulatory: combats cellulite.
Nervous: clear and stimulates cluttered mind, relieves stress and tension.
Urinary: aids fluid retention and cystitis.
CAUTION: As an abortifacient, it should never be used during pregnancy. Avoid use on those with kidney disease or suffering from nephritis.
IN A NUTSHELL: Juniper detoxifies the body, mind and spirit of toxins and anxieties.
LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA - LAVENDER
ORIGIN: France, England and native to the Mediterranean countries.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of the flowers.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Linaly acetate, lavandulyl, linalol, lavandulol.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • anti-inflammatory • analgesic • antiseptic • antispasmodic • antiviral • balancing • cooling • detoxifying • fungicidal • relaxing • sedative • tonic • uplifting
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: effective for use on all skin types and conditions; balances sebum in oily skin, promotes cell growth and rapid healing of scars and stretchmarks, antiseptic for insect bites and stings, soothes sunburns, burns, wounds and healing for psoriasis and dermatitis.
Skeletal: eases rheumatism.
Muscular: soothes and relieves aches and sprains.
Circulatory: lowers blood pressure and other stress -related conditions.
Nervous: balances emotions, lifts depression, relieves stress, insomnia and anxiety; relieves headaches, migraine and shock.
Respiratory: eases breathing, bronchitis, laryngitis; antiviral effect on colds and flu.
CAUTION: It is neither toxic nor irritating.
IN A NUTSHELL: The most versatile out of all essential oils. An all- rounder, useful for treating numerous conditions.
CITRUS LIMON - LEMON
ORIGIN: Grows wild in Spain, Portugal and Mediterranean countries. Native to Asia and India and, it's also cultivated all over the world.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Cold expression of the rind.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene, pinene, citronellol, citral.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • anti-acid • antiseptic • antiviral • detoxifying • fungicidal • stimulant • tonic • tonic
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: useful for acne, boils, warts and other seborrhoeic conditions.
Circulatory: tones the blood to improve circulation, lowers pressure on varicose veins, hypotensive so it reduces high blood, works to slow external bleeding.
Digestive: aids dyspepsia and lowers risk of ulcers as it reduces high levels of gastric acid.
Respiratory: lowers temperatures, protects against infections.
Immune: strengthens systems.
CAUTION: Phototoxic. Avoid contact with direct sunlight or sunbed rays. To avoid irritation, use in low concentrations on sensitive skin.
IN A NUTSHELL: Lifts the emotions and protects the body's system as well as stimulate it.
CITRUS MEDICA - LIME
ORIGIN: Asia and cultivated in Italy, West Indies and the Americas.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Cold expression of the peel of the fruit.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene and pinene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • astringent • antiseptic • antiviral • tonic • febrifuge • uplifting • hypotensive
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: astringent and tonic for acne, boils, oily skin and warts.
Immune: stimulates immune system.
Nervous: uplifting, ideal for fatigue and tired minds.
Circulatory: tonifies blood and improves circulation, combats cellulite, lowers blood pressure and slows external bleeding including nose bleeds.
Digestive: dyspepia; stimulates appetite and relieves indigestion.
Respiratory: fights colds, flu and infections; lowers temperatures.
CAUTION: Phototoxic - avoid strong sunlight after use.
IN A NUTSHELL: Lime is stimulating and activating particularly where there is apathy, anxiety and depression.
MELISSA OFFICINALIS - MELISSA
ORIGIN: France, Spain and Germany.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of leavers and flowers of herb.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Citral, geranoil and citronellol.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • antispasmodic • antiviral • cooling • emmenagogue • relaxing • sedative • tonic • vermifuge • nervine • uplifting
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: anti-allergic - prevents and soothes allergic reactions such as eczema and dermitis, insect bites and stings.
Circulatory: reduced high blood pressure and slows down heartbeat.
Nervous: reduces anxiety and depression, calms the nerves.
Reproductive: eases depression associated with PMS and menopause; helps regulate menstruation.
CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy. Use in weak dilutions.
IN A NUTSHELL: Melissa is uplifting and extremely helpful for stress-related conditions.
CITRUS SINENSIS - ORANGE
ORIGIN: Native to China but extensively grown in California, Florida, Spain, France, Italy.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Cold expression of the peel of the fruit.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Limonene.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • antidepressant • antispasmodic • antiviral • hypotensive • sedative • stimulant • stomaich • uplifting
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: tonic for dull and oily skin, refreshes and detoxifies.
Lymphatic: relieves oedema and fluid retention.
Circulatory: lowers blood pressure as it's a hypotensive.
Nervous: encourage positive outlook, refreshes the mind, lifts and relieves depression, stress and tension.
Digestive: calms the stomach, aids peristalsis, helps relieve diarrhoea and constipation.
Immune: helps protect against infections, flu and colds.
CAUTION: It is generally safe unless distilled.
IN A NUTSHELL: A member of the citrus family, orange essential oil is like a burst of sunshine, uplifting, warm
and restorative.
ROSA CENTIFOLIA / ROSA DAMASCENA - ROSE
ORIGIN: Morocco, France, Italy, Tunisia and also China.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Rose Otto - steam distillation of petals. Absolute - solvent extraction.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Citronellol, geranoil, nerol, phenyl, ethyl alcohol and stearopten.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • astringent • antidepressant • antiseptic • antiviral • antispasmodic • bactericidal • depurative • emmenagogue • haemostatic • relaxing • sedative • laxative • tonic • vasoconstrictive
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: vasoconstrictor thus reduces inflammations, broken capillaries and thread veins; moistens and softens dry, mature skin, reduces wrinkles.
Nervous: effective anti-depressant, alleviates grief, anger, jealousy and combats psychological pain.
Reproductive: regulates menstrual problems and uterine disorders,eases PMS, increases semen production.
CAUTION: No known contraindications. However, as a precautionary it should be avoided during pregnancy.
IN A NUTSHELL: Both cabbage and damask rose have similar properties but cabbage rose is said to be more aphrodisiac and relaxing than damask.
ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS - ROSEMARY
ORIGIN: Native to Spain, Italy, France.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of leaves and flowers.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Pinene, camphene, limonene, linalol, borneol and camphor.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • astringent • antispasmodic • antiseptic • analgesic • cephalic • diuretic • emmenagogue • hypertensive• rubefacient • stimulant • nervine • vulnerary • tonic • uplifting
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: astringent, eases puffiness and clears congested dull skin.
Nervous: clears and refreshes the mind; improves memory, relieves mental fatigue and lethargy; stimulates nerve endings thus useful for stroke patients, relives headaches, migraines and vertigo.
Respiratory: fights flu, colds, sinusitis and chest infections.
Skeletal: aids arthritis, rheumatism and bursitis.
Muscular: pain relief.
Circulatory: stimulates poor circulation, tonifies heart, improves low blood pressure.
General: diuretic as such aids fluid retention and obesity.
CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy. Not suitable for anyone with high blood pressure or suffers from epilepsy.
IN A NUTSHELL: Similar to Lavander, it is an efficient all-round oil.
SANTALUM ALBUM - SANDALWOOD
ORIGIN: East India, Sri Lanka and Australia.
METHOD OF EXTRACTION: Steam distillation of timber, inner heartwood and roots.
CHEMICAL MAKE-UP: Steam distillation of timber, inner heartwood and roots.
THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: • antidepressant • antispasmodic • antiseptic • bactericidal • expectorant • relaxing • sedative • tonic
How it works - SYSTEMS AND CONDITIONS:
Skin: soothes dry, irritated, chapped skin; eczema; sensitive skin, calms redness of broken capillaries.
Nervous: soothes tension, relieves stress, insomnia and anxiety.
Respiratory: aids throat and chest infections, bronchitis; lessens dry, itchy coughs.
CAUTION: No known contraindications.
IN A NUTSHELL: Generally used in perfumes, Sandalwood works to calm irritations.