Aromatics

Aromatics oils extracted from flowers, fruits, leaves, barks, resins and roots have been used throughout the countries for their healing properties and marvelous fragrances. Hundreds of essential oils are used today in such industries as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and perfumery. Modern-day aromas and applications is nonetheless remarkable. This section is a connoisseurs' guide to thirty-five of the most popular, versatile and safe oils. Get to know their individual character, their therapeutic values and discover your own favorites. Lavender, geranium and rosemary are excellent all-round oils and provide a good basis for any collection. Rose, though expensive, is also well worth the investment if you would like to explore the benefits and delight of aromatherapy.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Therapeutic effects: Ideal as a nerve tonic, to lift fatigue, anxiety and depression. Also good for bronchitis, colds, fever, bout and indigestion, and reputed to soothe snake bites.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. It has both hot and cold qualities. When used in the bath or smoothed over the body it has an invigorating effect - great for sluggish skin and pepping up circulation. Combined with other oils such as thyme it also acts as a powerful antiseptic.

Cautionary note: A powerful depressant if over-used. Also best to avoid during pregnancy.

Bay (pimento racemosa)

Therapeutic effects: As a pulmonary antiseptic, it helps relive bronchitis, colds and flu. Also used to aid digestion and sleep, to soothe rheumatic aches and pains, and as a general tonic.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Widely used in perfume and exotic bath essences for its uplifting effects.

Benzion (Styrax benzion)

Therapeutic effects: Valuable for treating urinary infections, it has a warming, relaxing, action suitable for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, coughs and colds. Also effective for relieving skin conditions, and for gout.

Uses: Inhalation, massage and in cough medicines. This is an energizing oil which can be used in one of two forms: simple tincture or compound - the former is not so toxic and is preferable for skin conditions.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Therapeutic effects: Has a powerful uplifting and refreshing action. As an antiseptic it has proved effective in the treatment of mouth and skin infections, and sore throats. Can lower fever, and helps with bronchitis and indigestion.

Uses: Bergamot blends well with most essences and is a popular top note in perfumery. Along with neroli and lavender it is a main ingredient in eu-de-Cologne and is commonly used in toiletries to refresh and relax. In massage it can stimulate or soothe depending on the oils with which it is mixes.

Cautionary note: In concentrations above one per cent it can irritate the skin. Also, even though it is sometimes added to commercial suntan agents to stimulate melanin production, it must never be used in home mixtures for tanning purposes.

Cendarwood (Juniperus virginiana)

Therapeutic effects: Used for skin complaints such as acne, alopecia, dandruff and eczema, and respiratory problems, especially bronchitis and catarrh. Also acts as a diuretic for help in urinary infection.

Uses: Inhalation and massage. Increases sexual response. Blends well with cypress, juniper and rose.

Cautionary note: Will irritate the skin in high concentrations.

Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)

Therapeutic effects: Particularly noted for its anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, it is excellent for childhood ailments (whether in children or adults!) from peevishness to earache. Also used for allergies, anaemia, burns, dermatitis, diarrhea, fever, indigestion, insomnia, menstrual and menopausal problems, rheumatism, toothache and ulcers.

Uses: Certain chamomile species are used for herbal infusions, but the oil is used in body, bath and hair products for its anti-allergenic properties. Use in dilute form for children.

Cinnamon (cinnamonum zeylanicum)

Therapeutic effects: Useful for fatigue and depression, it is also a tonic for the respiratory and digestive systems, especially useful for coughs, colds, flu, stomach ache and diarrhea. An aphrodisiac, it may also help impotence.

Uses: Inhalation and massage. Burn to prevent the spread of flu virus, or add bark or oil to spice up a pot pourri. To relieve muscular spasms use in a compressor massage.

Cautionary note: Use only in very low concentrations or under professional advice.

Comfrey (Symphtum officinale)

Therapeutic effects: Containing allantoin, a cell regenerator, comfrey oil is particularly valuable for the treatment of wounds and skin disorders, including eczema, psoriasis, athlete's foot and torn muscles. Helpful, too, in treating stretch marks and for menopausal and menstrual problems.

Uses: massage and compresses.

Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)

Therapeutic effects: Most noted for its astringent and antispasmodic qualities, it can be used for circulatory conditions, colds, coughs, flu, haemorrhoids, menstrual and menopausal problems, varicose veins and whooping cough. It also acts as a sedative to soothe nervous tension.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Use in compressed for swelling or rheumatism or in the bath s a muscular tonic. Its astringent properties make it suitable for use in cleansers for oily skin.

Cautionary note: Not to be used by anyone who suffers from high blood pressure.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Therapeutic effects: The principal constituent of the oil is the antiseptic eucalyptol. Combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, eucalyptus oil is particularly helpful for asthma, bronchitis, flu, sinusitis, skin infections, rheumatism and sores. It can also reduce fever, is a strong diuretic, and its head-clearing qualities are well-known.

Uses: Baths, inhalation and massage. It has a cooling effect on body temperature, reduces fever and is also a remedy for muscular rheumatic aches and pains. It is widely used in cold and cough medicines and rubs. Use in the bath to relieve cystitis or on a handkerchief to clear the head.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Therapeutic effects: Noted as a diuretic, and a mild laxative, fennel has been found effective for colic, constipation, digestive problems, kidney stones, menopausal problems, nausea and obesity. It is also often helpful for increasing milk yield during breast feeding.

Uses: Massage. The sweet aromatic oil is mainly used for flavoring medicines to help flatulence and indigestion. It is a constituent of gripe water, and can be infused in teas.

Frankincense (Bosuellina thurifera)

Therapeutic effects: Ha an uplifting effect and aids concentration. Helpful as an expectorant in cases of bronchitis, coughs, colds and laryngitis. Reputed to preserve a youthful skin, eradicating wrinkles.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Inhale to release catarrh or relax with a few drops in bath or body massage oil to warm, relax and meditate. It is often combined with myrrh, and blends well with essences such as basil and sandalwood.

Geranium (Pelargonium adorantissimum)

Therapeutic effects: Unusually, it is both sedative and uplifting, and so invaluable for treating nervous tension and depression. Also used for circulatory and skin problems, especially wounds. Use in a footbath for chilblains.

Uses: All uses. A popular ingredient in perfumes for its sweet, fresh, floral essence, the geranium is also therapeutically massaged or inhaled for its relaxing yet refreshing qualities. It can blend well with most other essential oils.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

Therapeutic effects: Hyssop is used for disorders of the cardiovascular system, and as it is both stimulating and sedative, it can regulate blood pressure whether high or low. It has powerful effects on the respiratory tract, for bronchitis, coughs and colds, and is also used for skin disorders.

Uses: Massage and inhalation. It is also used in cough mixtures for bronchial conditions.

Cautionary note: Use only in externally small quantities. Do not use during pregnancy.

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)

Therapeutic effects: Jasmine is a mood enhancer, lifting anxiety and depression. An aphrodisiac, it has a reputation for the treatment of both frigidity and impotence. It will also relieve menstrual cramps and is soothing to inflamed or irritated skin.

Uses: Inhalation, bathing and massage will all exploit its warming and relaxing qualities. Also makes a delightful uplifting perfume or room fragrance.

Juniper (Juniperus communis)

Therapeutic effects: Diuretic and antiseptic, it is especially effective for the urinary tract and an excellent treatment for cystitis and water retention. Use for acne, colic, coughs, dermatitis, eczema, flatulence, rheumatism and skin ulcers.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. The oil is a great stimulator and, like cypress and pine, makes refreshing bath oil. Massaged on the skin it stimulates the circulation.

Levander (Lavendula officinalis)

Therapeutic effects: Its sedative and tonic effects make lavender a great balancer of the nervous and emotional systems. Excellent for migraine. As an antiseptic it can be used for many skin conditions and infections of the lungs, digestion and urinary tract. Extraordinarily versatile.

Uses: Inhalation, baths, room spray, massage and most other uses. Use as a cold compress or place a few drops in boiling water and inhale for headaches and migraine. A warm towel wrap will soothe nervous exhaustion. A late-night lavender bath will help combat sleeplessness.

Lemon (Citrus limonum)

Therapeutic effects: Lemon is highly antiseptic and astringent, and so is naturally used for skin complaints including boils, warts and veruccas. Also good for lowering blood pressure, colds, digestive problems, fever and gallstones.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Lemon, as with most citrus oils, is a good cleanser inside and out. Use in skin-care preparations for oily skin. Evaporated in a fragrance it will help colds and act as an insect repellent.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates)

Therapeutic effects: Through its anti-bacterial action, it is good for skin complaints, sore throats and respiratory problems. Also effective against headaches.

Uses: Inhalation and massage. For the active work-out enthusiast, lemongrass is the ideal cooler and deodorizer. It can help alleviate athlete's foot and its refreshing fragrance acts as an energizer. Massaged or breathed in, it tones the heart and works on the digestive system. The oil will also repel insects.

Marjoran (Origanum marjorana)

Therapeutic effects: A warming agent, able to relieve spasm, it is particularly valuable for treating the nervous system. Use for anxiety and insomnia, but also for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, circulatory problems, constipation, headaches, menstrual problems, muscular strains and rheumatism.

Uses: Inhalation and massage, it blends well with bergamot, lavender and rosemary. In bath and body oils it gives a warming and relaxing feeling. Steam-inhaled or smoothed over the sinuses and temple, it can relieve colds.

Cautionary note: Do not use in early pregnancy. Do not use in high doses as it can have a narcotic effect and is also known to curb sexual drive.

Melissa (Melissa officinalis)

Therapeutic effects: Long known as an uplifting and calming cure for "melancholia", its tonic, antispasmodic properties make it effective tool in the treatment of allergies, colds, diarrhea, headaches, nausea and palpitations.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. The essential oil helps lower blood pressure and removes tension. Add six drops to the bath water. Melissa calms the body and mind, yet lifts the soul: and oil to dream with.

Myrth (Commiphora myrrha)

Therapeutic effects: Anti-inflammatory and expectorant, myrrh will ease bronchitis, catarrh, coughs and colds. Good too for digestive problems, infections of the mouth and throat, and skin conditions.

Uses: Inhalation and massage. It is used in pharmaceuticals and perfumery. In aromatherapy, because of its cooling effect, it blends well with camphor and lavender.

Neroli (Citrus aurantium)

Therapeutic effects: An excellent sedative and anti-depressant, neroli counters anxiety, hysteria, shock and palpitations, and combats insomnia. It is helpful for dermatitis and dry skin, pre-menstrual tension and menopausal problems.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Use in the bath or as a body oil to alleviate the symptoms of pre-menstrual tension and generally improve circulation, or just for the benefits of its delightful fragrance and relaxing properties.

Orange (Citrus aurantium, sinensis)

Therapeutic effects: Refreshing but sedative, orange is a tonic for anxiety and depression. It also stimulates the digestive system and is effective for constipation. Its antiseptic properties work well for mouth ulcers.

Uses: Baths and massage. These essential oils, rich in vitamins C, are used widely throughout the food and cosmetics industry in products ranging from bath and body oils to chocolate-orange confectionery.

Parsley (Pertoselinum satirum)

Therapeutic effects: A diuretic, useful for kidney and urinary problems and water retention. Also high in vitamin A-essential for healthy hair, skin, teeth and eyes; and iron - for the blood and liver, and during menstruation and menopause.

Uses: Massage. It blends well with fennel to help combat excessive water retention when massaged over the body. In conjunction with lemon and rosemary it can help clear toxins in the liver and kidneys. In general, a good oil to help calm the nervous system.

Patchouli (Pogostemon patchouli)

Therapeutic effects: Patchouli is an astringent, and is useful for scalp and skin conditions including dandruff, acne, eczema and scars. It has an uplifting effect for depression and anxiety, and can help alleviate fluid retention.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Small quantities will have a stimulating effect; larger does sedate. Often worn as a perfume and used for an exotic, sensual massage.

Peppermint (Mantha piperata)

Therapeutic effects: Excellent for the digestion, as a decongestant, and for skin disorders. Use for colds, flu, flatulence, headaches, indigestion, nausea, toothache and sunburn.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Peppermint oil is still use in gripe water to settle upset stomachs. A few drops on a handkerchief can alleviate headaches and symptoms of sea and travel sickness, as it is refreshing and invigorating. It makes a refreshing skin tonic or bath oil in the simmer because of its cooling properties. Used in a foot bath it can help sweaty, smelly or tired feet, or in a compress to relieve hot flushes.

Cautionary note: For skin complaints do not use in a concentration of more than one per cent as it can cause irritation.

Pine (Pinus sylvestris)

Therapeutic effects: Acts as an antiseptic, and is particularly valuable for treating the respiratory tract, for bronchitis, catarrh, colds and sinusitis. Will also help relieve cystitis, arthritis and muscular aches and pains.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Widely used to give coniferous fragrance in household products and in some masculine perfume, this oil is popularly used throughout the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries in balms, body rubs, soaps and bath oils. The oil can be used as antiseptic hot tubs for its invigorating steam.

Rose (Rosa centifolia, Rosa damascene)

Therapeutic effects: An aphrodisiac and mood enhancer, rose is a general tonic and fortifier, useful for circulatory problems, constipation, headaches and mental fatigue, menstrual and menopausal problems and skin disorders.

Uses: baths and massage. One of the least toxic of all essences, it is particularly good for older, drier, skins, and is useful for pot pourri or to perfume bed linens and underwear (add a few drops to the final rise).

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Therapeutic effects: A good stimulant, especially for the circulation and memory. Also helps alopecia, bronchitis, burns, colds, dandruff, diarrhea, flatulence, headaches and obesity.

Uses: Inhalation, baths and massage. Inhale from a handkerchief to clear headaches and fatigue. In massage it stimulates the lymphatic system.

Cautionary note: Use in low concentration, as excessive doses may bring about epileptic fits or convulsions. Do not use in early pregnancy or if you have high blood pressure.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Therapeutic effects: A tonic, particularly renowned for regulating menstruation, it can also help relieve arthritis, bacterial infection, throat infections and water retention.

Uses: Bathing and massage. A sage hath helps muscular aches and the effects of prolonged stress or mental strain.

Cautionary note: In high doses, sage can over stimulate and should be avoided by anyone who suffers from epilepsy. Both sage and clary sage should be avoided in early pregnancy.

Sandalwood (Santalum album)

Therapeutic effects: Sandalwood's sedative properties are good for treating depression and tension. It is also and expectorant and anti-spasmodic; useful for bronchitis, coughs, nausea, cystitis and skin complaints. Regarded as an aphrodisiac.

Uses: Inhalation and massage. Apply in a warm compress to revitalize dehydrated skin. Blends well with neroli and rose. Massage enhances its soothing effects.

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Therapeutic effects: A strong disinfectant and antiseptic, it is ideal for skin complaints including athlete's foot, burns, cold, sores, mouth ulcers, verrucas, thrush and warts. Also effective for many respiratory complaints.

Uses: Inhalation and baths. It can be used to kill fleas on pets but is more commonly used as a deodorizing antiseptic foot bath. Dab on cold sores. Inhale to alleviate laryngitis and bronchitis. Diluted in water, it can be used as a mouthwash (not swallowed) to soothe ulcers.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Therapeutic effects: Helps fatigue and anxiety, but best known as a natural antiseptic for treating coughs and infections of the respiratory tract. Good too for rheumatic aches and for skin problems such as sores and swellings.

Uses: Massage and baths. When added to a bath, its invigorating effects help revive tired muscles.

Ylang-Ylang ( Cananga odorata)

Therapeutic effects: A great relaxer (if used sparingly) and highly recommended for anxiety, depression, insomnia and frigidity. It also has benefits in treating high blood pressure and skin conditions.

Uses: Baths and massage. This oil can soothe away all forms of stress when used as bath oil or massaged onto the body. Its lasting fragrance is often used in facial and skin preparations, pot pourri and pomanders. It blends well with bergamot, Melissa, sandalwood and jasmine.