Summary:
Essential oils are used in many preparations, from room sprays and soap to inhalants and massage treatments. For many years now, aromatherapists have used essential oils in their practice believing that the oils’ properties help provide a holistic treatment, aiding mind, body, and spirit. This article gives details of some of the more common essential oils and their reported benefits.

Details or Sample:
Essential oils are generally extracted by distillation. The oil is derived from a single part of a plant, or in the case of some oils, from several parts of a plant. Because of their concentrated nature, essential oils should always be handled with care. As a general rule, they should not be applied directly to the skin, although there are a small number of oils that can be. Before use, however, it’s always prudent to check your individual sensitivity to any oil by placing a smear on the underside of your forearm and if any reaction develops, wash off immediately. There are many uses for oils, and they are most often blended with a “carrier” oil (also known as a “base” oil), such as olive or grape seed when used on the skin. Anyone suffering from serious skin allergies or in the first months of pregnancy should avoid using essential oils.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Bergamot has a delicate, clean, and slightly floral scent, and is reported to help relieve anxiety, stress, and loss of appetite. It is believed to have uplifting properties, and is used to create a relaxed feeling, dispelling anxiety and depression. Bergamot has antiseptic properties, and is recommended for the treatment of psoriasis, acne, and cold sores.

Cardamom (Elletaria cardamomum)
Cardamom’s fragrance is sweet and spicy. Its reported properties are stimulating and uplifting. Cardamom is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, and to help with digestion and combat nausea. Cardamom is recommended for sensitive skins, and in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)
Clary sage has a musky, sweet, nutty scent with floral notes. It is reported to be a good relaxant, and to help with easing depression, and nervous exhaustion. It is also reported to be very beneficial to women in easing menstrual cramps, and helping with pre-menstrual syndrome. It is recommended for skin and hair treatments, as it is reported to have cell regenerating properties, as well as being a natural antiseptic and deodorizer.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
The scent of Eucalyptus is sharp and clear. It is believed to help strengthen the nervous system, and have cleansing qualities. It has strong antiseptic and antifungal properties, and is recommended for relief from catarrh, respiratory ailments, acne and facial blemishes.

Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
Frankincense has a spicy, woody fragrance. It is reported to have a soothing and comforting effect on the mind, easing anxiety and nervous tension. With antiseptic and revitalizing qualities, it is good for oily or aging skin, scars, and stretch marks. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Geranium (Pelargonium roseum)
Geranium has a sweet, heady fragrance. It is reported to have anti-depressant qualities, and to balance the mind and spirit. It is also reported to help boost the immune system, and heal wounds, chilblains, and skin disorders. It is recommended for relief from eczema and dermatitis.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger’s scent is spicy, sharp and citrus. Ginger is reported to have analgesic qualities, so aids headaches, and aching muscles. It is also reported to help combat nausea, and to have aphrodisiac properties. It has antiseptic qualities and can help with poor circulation.

Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum)
Jasmine has an exotic, sweet fragrance. It is reported to have relaxing properties, and to combat depression, and help boost self-confidence. It is believed Jasmine can ease childbirth pain, and help tone and improve the skin, and reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. Jasmine is good for dry, oily and irritated skin, and can help treat dermatitis.

Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)
With its flowery, woody, slightly spicy fragrance, lavender is one of the most versatile of all essential oils. If you buy just one oil then make it this one. Its reported properties are calming, balancing, and relaxing, and as such lavender is reported to help with insomnia. Lavender has antiseptic and antibiotic qualities, and is recommended for greasy and sensitive skin. It gives soothing relief from burns, including sunburn, and from insect bites. Lavender can also act as an effective insect repellent.

Lemon (Citrus limonum)
Lemon has a clear, sharp, and tangy fragrance. It is reported to improve concentration and aid clarity of mind. It has anti-fungal and astringent qualities, and is good for greasy skin. It can also help with weak nails, chilblains, athlete’s foot, and varicose veins. This oil is a photosensitizer, and should not be used before exposure to the sun, as it will make the skin more sensitive.

Marjoram (Origanum marjorana)
Marjoram’s scent is warm, peppery, and slightly sweet. It is reported to have calming properties, and to help when suffering from grief or loneliness. Marjoram is good for greasy skins due to its antiseptic qualities, and is reported to help with muscle aches and sprains, arthritis, and rheumatism.

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
Patchouli’s fragrance is probably easily recognized by anyone over the age of 40! It has a warm, earthy, smoky fragrance. It is reported to be beneficial in combating fatigue, and calming anxiety. It is also reported to have sedative, pain relieving properties, and to help with headaches. Patchouli’s antiseptic qualities are recommended for relief from acne, eczema, and chapped skin. It is also reported to be good for combating dandruff, and fungal infections.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Peppermint has a sharp, menthol aroma. It is reported to act as a mental stimulant, clearing the head. It’s also reported to aid mental fatigue, and help with memory lapses. Peppermint has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities, and acts as a good insect repellent. It can also help with oily skin and hair.

Pine (Pinus sylvestris)
Pine has a fresh, woody fragrance. It is reported to help combat mental, physical, or sexual fatigue. It can clear a tired and overworked mind. Pine can improve circulation, and is good for sore muscles, and stiff joints. It also acts as a flea repellent, and is recommended for psoriasis and skin irritations.

Sandalwood (Santalum album)
Sandalwood’s scent is warm and woody. It is reported to lift depression and ease stress, aid the respiratory system, and help with urinary tract infections. With its antiseptic and astringent qualities, it is good for both oily and dry skins, and is recommended for skin irritations and inflammations.

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Tea tree’s scent is sharp, and somewhat medicinal. This is the oil found in most home medicine cabinets. It is refreshing and vitalizing, and is reported to help with shock, and nervous exhaustion. It has antiseptic and cleansing qualities, and helps combat spots, blemishes, acne, itchy skin, insect bites, and athlete’s foot. It is also reported to have a stimulating effect on the immune system.

Ylang ylang (Canananga odoratum)
Ylang ylang has a sweet, heady scent. It is reported to have a calming effect on the mind, alleviating stress, and to help with pre-menstrual tension due to its ability to help balance hormones. It has antiseptic properties, and is good for insect bites. Ylang ylang is recommended for all skin types, especially oily, and is reported to promote hair growth.

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