Use of Essential Oils

ANISEED - Was particularly favoured by the Romans, who used the seeds to sweeten breath, to relieve flatulence and to stimulate milk flow. Today it is used to flavour medicines, confectionary and dental preparations. Aniseed oil liquifies excess mucus and used as an inhalation or chest rub, it gives temporary relief from most spasms of asthma, sinusitis and hayfever.

BASIL - Basil oil is uplifting, clarifying and strengthening the mind. It is perhaps the most highly regarded aromatic nerve tonics. Used as an inhalation it clears the head, relieves intellectual fatigue, and gives the mind strength and clarity. It may be used for all types of nervous disorders, especially those associated with weakness, indecision or hysteria. Basil should be used with caution in massage, as it may be an irritant to people with sensitive skin.

BERGAMOT - Bergamot oil is uplifting and refreshing. It is ideal for all tense, anxious or depressed people. The antiseptic properties of Bergamot make it ideal for treating acne and oily skin. It can be used in massage oil for a facial treatment. Bergamot oil has a strong affinity to the urino genital tract, and is a valuable oil in the treatment of cystitis and urethritis. It should be added to the bath, and used as a local wash (very diluted - 1%). It also helps ease the discomfort of chickenpox, shingles and cold sores. It is often combined with eucalyptus and added to massage oil and dabbed onto eruptions. Do not use on the skin before exposure to the sun as it increases the photo-sensitivity of the skin.

BLACK PEPPER - It is as you would expect, a very warming oil and is added to massage blends in low proportions to alleviate muscular pain, stiffness and fatigue. If used before training or performances it seems to prevent pain and stiffness. Used on athletes before an event it reduces muscular fatigue and pain. It is also a valuable treatment for disorders of the digestive tract. It is an antispasmodic, a carminative and a stimulant. This means that it can be used to help a sluggish digestive system without causing griping pains. It may be used as a massage oil or applied as a stomach compress.

CAJEPUT - Is a strong antiseptic, being beneficial for the pulmonary, intestinal and urinary tracts. It is best known for its use in treating the common cold and respiratory problems. Used in a steam inhalation, it will effectively clear the nasal passages while inhibiting bacteria that proliferate in the mucus found during colds and flu. The analgesic properties make it a useful liniment for the relief of aches and pains of arthritis.

CARROT SEED - Has excellent blood purifying and detoxifying properties and may be beneficial for the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism, cellulite and fluid retention. It is also a excellent skin care oil and is used for aging skin, thread veins and wrinkles.

CEDARWOOD - Like sandalwood, cedarwood oil has a pronounced effect on mucous membranes and is good for all catarrhal conditions, especially coughs and bronchitis. It has a sedative effect and may be used in massage or an inhalation for conditions associated with anxiety and nervous tension. Its action is astringent and antiseptic relieving itchiness. The oil is very good for the skin, especially in treating acne, oily skin and seborrhoea of the scalp. Its antiseptic action benefits the urinary system, providing a remedy for cystitis and bladder infections. It is also good for the respiratory system and treating bronchitis.

CHAMOMILE - The most important action of German Chamomile is its soothing, calming and anti-inflammatory action. Both Roman and German Chamomile are good for many female disorders, including scanty menstruation, painful periods, excessive blood loss during periods, uterine haemorrhages, vaginitis and menopausal problems. While both have a sedative effect, Roman Chamomile is a more pleasant aroma had it is used as both a sedative and antidepressant. It is particularly helpful where stress and anxiety are inclined to make a person irritable or nervous.

CINNAMON - Has antiseptic properties and can be used to purify the atmosphere of sick room. It is useful in cases of general debility, fainting, difficulty breathing and combating contagious diseases. Cinnamon bark oil should not be used on the skin at all as it is a dermal toxin and cinnamon leaf oil needs to be used with caution in massage oils and baths as it may be a skin irritant.

CITRONELLA - Used in perfumery, cosmetics and soaps. It is cleansing to the skin and a very good insect repellent. See recipe listed under eucalyptus oil for an effective natural insect repellent blend.

CLARY SAGE - The effects of clary sage have been described as euphoric. It is a powerful relaxant, being useful in alleviating stress and anxiety. It is especially useful in massage where there is muscular tension arising from mental and emotional stress. Because of its antispasmodic properties it is useful in treating asthma as it both relaxes spasms in the bronchial tubes and relieves the anxiety and emotional tension experienced by asthma sufferers. A warm compress of clary sage over the lower abdomen can be used to relieve menstrual cramps. The antispasmodic action will quickly stop uterine contractions, which cause pain. Avoid using during pregnancy.

CLOVE - Has been traditionally used as a toothache remedy and for gum infections. A very effective antiseptic being useful for all infections and from colds and flu. It is a calmative antispasmodic and generally acts on the digestive system being good for flatulence, diarrhoea and intestinal spasm. Clove oil is anti-neuralgic and analgesic, especially for toothaches and sore gums. Use with caution as clove oil is moderately toxic and can cause skin irritation.

CYPRESS - Powerful astringent making it useful for conditions such as haemorrhoids, varicose veins and oily skin. For varicose veins and haemorrhoids add 5 drops of cypress oil to a warm bath water. The legs can also be gently massaged with 2 - 4 drops of cypress oil in a combination of 20mls calendula oil and 5 drops of lemon oil. Cypress also regulates the menstrual cycle. It helps relieve painful periods and may be used as a compress to alleviate abnormally heavy periods. A humble but very welcome use of cypress is to prevent excessive sweating of the feet and body. It is both a deodorant and astringent so it will reduce the amount of perspiration and unpleasant body odour. Use a few drops in a bath when required.

EUCALYPTUS - The most salient qualities of eucalyptus oil is its excellent action in all types of fever. It has a pronounced cooling effect on the body, bringing an effective reduction of temperature. It is a good antiseptic oil and its usefulness is best demonstrated by spraying a solution containing 2% eucalyptus oil which kills 70% of local airborne staphylococci. It is best known for its action on the respiratory tract. It proves to be a valuable remedy for sinusitis and tuberculosis and is good for most throat infections, especially when there is a heavy discharge of mucous.

An excellent inhalant for colds, bronchitis or sinusitis can be made by mixing:

4 parts eucalyptus oil

2 parts pine oil

2 parts peppermint oil

2 parts thyme oil

Place 5 drops of the mixture in a bowl of steaming water and inhale.

 

A useful insect repellent can be made by combining:

20 drops eucalyptus oil

20 drops citronella oil

20 drops peppermint oil

100ml alcohol

 

Eucalyptus can also be used in massage oils to relieve pain in rheumatism and muscular aches.

EVERLASTING - Also known as 'immortelle', it is particularly beneficial for the treatment of psoriasis and eczema because of its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic properties. It also has excellent mucolytic and expectorant properties and may be used to treat asthma, bronchitis or spasmodic coughing. In skin care it is highly regarded because of its cicatrisant properties, thus it is used in regenerative skin care treatments and repair of scarring.

FENNEL - Is a carminative, and may be used in massage to ease wind, for stomach pains. It is a tonic to the digestive system. Also regarded as an appetite suppressant in traditional therapies. The Roman soldiers carried the seeds with them to chew on long marches, when they did not have time to stop and cook a meal. Useful in treating menstrual and menopausal problems and often recommended to help postpone the degenerative affects of ageing. It is also a diuretic and used as a body detoxifier in combination with juniper berry for the treatment of cellulite and accumulations of toxic wastes and fluid in the body. Has also been shown to reduce the toxic effect of alcohol on the body. Fennel oil should be used sparingly as it may be a skin irritant for people with sensitive skin. Avoid using fennel during pregnancy and is not suitable for children, infants and sufferers of epilepsy.

FRANKINCENSE - Has a long history of use in meditation and relaxation because of its ability to slow and deepen breathing. It has a pronounced effect on the mucous membranes and is a good expectorant and a pulmonary antiseptic being useful for the treatment of asthma, bronchitis and coughs. As an inhalant it is a good remedy for all catarrhal conditions. Frankincense has been used for centuries in skin preparations as it assists in the prevention of wrinkles.

GERANIUM - Well known for its emotionally balancing properties and is ideal for times of anxiety and depression. It is both sedative and uplifting and like basil and rosemary. It is a stimulant of the adrenal cortex whose hormones are essentially of a regulating, balancing nature. It is often used for correcting hormonal imbalances and mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome and for reducing symptoms associated with menopause. Also useful for treating cellulite and fluid retention. It is also excellent for all types of skin, from acne, dermatitis, eczema, burns, oily skin and mature skin.

GINGER - A deeply warming and stimulating oil that can be used in baths and massage for the temporary relief of muscular aches and pains, arthritis and is used in traditional Chinese medicine at the beginning of winter to strengthen the immune system against colds and flu. The oil can be used for tiredness, debility and nervous exhaustion and is a fantastic remedy for alleviating discomforts of indigestion, travel sickness and nausea.

GRAPEFRUIT - It is stimulating and uplifting and primarily used for depression, nervous exhaustion and stress. It is useful in massage or a bath for the treatment of cellulite, obesity and water retention.

JASMINE - A valuable uterine tonic. It also relieves uterine spasms and menstrual pain whether in the abdomen or the back. It helps relieve the pain of child birth and to promote the birth. It works primarily on the emotional level and is of great value in psychological problems. It is an antidepressant and produces a feeling of optimism, confidence and euphoria.

JUNIPER BERRY - Obtain juniper berry rather than juniper which is an inferior oil distilled from the twigs which is also known to have a irritating affect on the kidneys. Juniper Berry is an excellent blood purifier and diuretic. It is ideal for the treatment of arthritis, cellulite, fluid retention, gout and rheumatism. As an astringent and cleansing action makes it good for troublesome acne, dermatitis, haemorrhoids and oily complexion.

LAVENDER - Lavender oil is refreshing and relaxing, useful in nervous conditions, calming, soothing and antiseptic. It is useful for insect bites, burns, dermatitis, eczema and sunburns. Lavender has a tranquillising effect. The oil calms the nerves, relaxes tension, it is widely used to relieve feelings of faintness, dizziness, headaches, nervous palpitations and insomnia. Lavender has a soothing effect on inflammation, hence its usefulness for burns, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. Lavender is an excellent remedy for sunstroke. It is useful during child birth, making for a speedy delivery and decreasing the severity of contractions. It helps to calm the mother and, as aromatic water, may be used as a refreshing compress for the head. Lavender is good for scanty menstruation and may be useful for period pains. When using lavender for inflammatory conditions use only in low concentration (1%) as higher concentrations will have a more stimulating effect on the circulation. A lavender bath is refreshing, relaxing and therapeutic. It steadies the emotions and makes a great evening bath for those with difficulty sleeping. A warm lavender bath or footbath is very good for relieving physical or nervous fatigue. It is a must for insect bites as it has a neutralising effect on the sting. For acne and other troublesome skin conditions, the face should be washed with lavender water containing 1% essence.

LEMON - Lemon oil is refreshing and stimulating and is used in offices in Japan to improve the ability for one to concentrate. It lifts the spirits, especially during times of mental fatigue. A powerful anti-bacterial oil is of great value in the treatment of external wounds and infectious diseases. It has been proven that the essential oil of lemon will kill diphtheria bacilli in 20 minutes in a dilution of .2%. It is also able to stimulate the action of the white blood cells, the body's own defence, it also helps stop bleeding. It improves the function of the digestive system, counteracting acidity in the body. Lemon has a toning effect on the circulatory system and is especially appropriate in treating varicose veins. Please use lemon oil with caution on the skin as it may cause irritation for anyone with sensitive skin and increases the skins photosensitivity.

LEMON GRASS - Refreshing and toning and a very popular oil used in aromatic oil burner for nervous tension and stress related problems. Use well diluted in a massage oil for athletes, for lack of muscle tone and feelings of fatigue. Very good for acne and open pores of the skin. Use lemongrass with caution as it may cause irritation for anyone with sensitive skin.

LIME - Great for relief of anxiety and depression. Similar to lemon, although its refreshing quality is more pronounced.

MANDARIN - Helps to stimulate fluid loss by promoting urination, aids digestion, relaxes the nervous system and intestines acting as a mild laxative, stimulates the lymphatic system, tones the stomach and liver and generally has a gently sedative and uplifting action emotionally. The French recognise mandarin oil as 'the children's remedy' and use it to relieve hiccups, gas or wind and stomach upsets. Mandarin calms the stomach, relieves constipation and is a refreshing, energising aroma for those recovering from recent illness or exhaustion.

MARJORAM - Soothing and fortifying to the emotions, useful for insomnia and reducing high blood pressure, especially when combined with lavender. The warming effects of marjoram make it a useful oil in massage to relieve tired, tight and aching muscles especially after heavy physical exertion and to reduce the pain of rheumatism and arthritis. Applied as a compress it offers relief of headaches and mild migraines. It is a good digestive and carminative, relieving constipation, colic, flatulence and spasmodic indigestion. Also, when used as a massage oil or compress over the lower abdomen, it eases menstrual cramps. Do not use during pregnancy.

MAY CHANG - May Chang fruits are reputed to alleviate chronic asthma, as well as being a treatment for coronary heart disease and high blood pressure. The oil is very uplifting and stimulating and may also help in cases of bronchitis. It has a tonic and astringent affect on the skin making it useful for the treatment of acne and oily skin.

MELISSA - The oil has a light rejuvenating scent with anti-depressant and anti-spasmodic properties. It calms and releases tension, generating an uplifting and joyful effect. It can be very soothing of used in times of shock or bereavement. A valuable insect repellent. Can be irritating to the skin, avoid during pregnancy.

MYRRH - Antiseptic, healing and antifungal and anti-inflammatory making it especially valuable for wounds that are slow to heal, for weeping skin conditions such as eczema, athletes foot and it helps heal cracked and chapped skin. It has expectorant and anticatarrhal properties, which are useful for treating chest infections, catarrh, chronic bronchitis, colds and sore throats. Do not use during pregnancy.

NEROLI - One of the most effective essential oils for its sedative and anti-depressant properties, it may be used for insomnia, hysteria, states of anxiety and depression, it calms and slows down the mind. Neroli is also very useful in skin care, especially stimulating the growth of healthy new cells, and has rejuvenating effects.

NUTMEG - Used for the treatment of muscular aches and pains. Used in Asia as a tonic for the reproductive system. It is used to regulate scanty periods and soothe pain. Would be a powerful and effective blend, but it should be used with care as it is very stimulating. Use in moderation due to toxicity levels, it is narcotic in high dosages. Do not use during pregnancy.

ORANGE - Has a normalising effect on the peristaltic action of the intestines. It is recommended for the treatment of constipation and chronic diarrhoea. Orange oil can be used in massage oil to aid the body's lymphatic system and may be used to relieve fluid retention caused by accumulation of toxins. It blends superbly with almost any spice oil, and blended with lavender to combat insomnia.

PALMAROSA - Valuable oil in skin care used to help re-establish the balance of sebum production, stimulates cellular regeneration.

PATCHOULI - Excellent for skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis, seborrhoea and allergic reactions. Because of its antiseptic qualities, it can also be applied wherever there is an infection. It also has a calming anti-depressant effect on the mind.

PEPPERMINT - The best known remedy for digestive upsets and has a beneficial action on the stomach and intestines. It is valuable in colic, diarrhoea, indigestion, vomiting and stomach pain because of its anti-spasmodic action it will relieve the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines. Dilute well and massage the stomach and abdomen in a clockwise direction. It is used as an inhalant for asthma, bronchitis, sinus and helps clear stuffiness and headaches associated with colds. Peppermint can be used for its cooling effect on feverish conditions. Peppermint also induces sweating, which will help to reduce fever in a natural way. It stimulates the brain and clear thinking. Rosemary, peppermint and basil is an ideal blend for stimulating a clear, fresh, bright and alert mind. For a simple and safe insect repellent, especially suitable for children and those anxious to avoid the potentially toxic effects of commercial insect sprays, simply sprinkle a few drops of peppermint essence on the pillow and sheets at night. To make an effective inhalation for bronchitis and other respiratory complaints, add 10 drops of peppermint to 200mls of boiling water, adding pine and eucalyptus to strengthen the mixture.

PETITGRAIN - Primarily used for its soothing and calming properties for problems such as anxiety, nervous tension and insomnia, though not effective as neroli.

PINE - Refreshing and uplifting and may be used in a vaporiser to alleviate feelings of lethargy and nervous exhaustion. It has antiseptic, bactericidal and expectorant properties, which make it useful as an inhalation for the treatment of sinus, catarrh and all infections of the upper respiratory tract and asthma. It has a stimulating effect on the circulation, and is sometimes used to relieve rheumatic pain. Use pine oil in a bath and massage with care as irritation may occur to people with sensitive skin.

ROSE - Used for relaxation and soothing emotional stress. Known as the 'Queen of all Flowers'. It is ideally suited for gynaecological problems such as regulating the menstrual function. It addresses sexuality, self-nurturing and self-esteem and is a valuable anti-depressant. Valuable in helping women suffering from post-natal depression, or depression following the breakdown from a relationship, particularly if grief is being experienced. A powerful tonic on the circulatory, digestive and nervous system, but because of its expense, it is best used for emotional problems and for its unique action on the reproductive system. Not to be used during pregnancy.

ROSEMARY - Used as a nerve and circulatory stimulant, and is used for fainting, headaches, exhaustion. It is traditionally used in hair preparations for stimulating the scalp, clearing dandruff and is reputed to promote hair growth. Should be used in all disorders where there is a reduction or loss of nerve function. It also makes a valuable stimulant where there is general sluggishness, debility or apathy and it normalises low blood pressure. It has a pronounced action on the brain similar to that of basil, and will clear the mind of confusion and doubt. Applied externally as a massage lotion it is very good for rheumatic or muscular pain, and may be used as a general remedy for gout and rheumatism. Rosemary can also be used in a vaporiser to ease cold symptoms and clear congestion. Avoid during pregnancy, high blood pressure and epilepsy.

ROSEWOOD - Often referred to as Bois de Rose, it is uplifting and calming, relieving stress and anxiety. It is ideal to use in skincare, being useful for the treatment of acne, dermatitis, wounds, wrinkles and in general.

SANDALWOOD - Excellent for calming the mind and emotions. Used in massage blends or in a vaporiser or bath it alleviates anxiety, depression, nervous tension and stress related complaints. Also has a pronounced action on the mucous membranes and is often used in chronic infections of these areas. Useful for treating laryngitis, sore throats and bronchitis. A few drops may be massaged into the chest and throat area. It is one of the most useful oils for the skin, it also has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties and is beneficial for acne, eczema and chapped, dry skin.

SPEARMINT - May be used as a replacement for peppermint especially with young children who find spearmint more pleasant. Helps overcome feelings of fatigue and reduces stress. Also valuable for the temporary relief of nausea, indigestion and colic. Used as an inhalation it will help relieve bronchitis, catarrhal conditions and sinusitis.

TANGERINE - Uplifting oil is often regarded as a children's remedy, often used in a 2% dilution with almond oil and massaged into the tummy for stomach upsets. Also useful as a relaxant and is used to alleviate stress and tension due to its soothing action on the nervous system. It can also be used in massage for relieving fluid retention and treating cellulite. One of the oils which is safe to use during pregnancy as it will not harm either the mother or the developing child. It makes a excellent massage oil for the prevention of stretch marks.

TEA TREE - The Bundjalung aborigines of northern New South Wales, Australia have valued the healing properties of tea tree oil for centuries. Surgeons, doctors, dentists, naturopaths and herbalists have all praised the oil. For bites, cuts, stings, burns, scalds, blisters, tinea and cold sores the oil has given relief to sufferers and helped the healing processes of the body. Its most spectacular feature is that it does not damage healthy tissue. Used successfully for throat and mouth conditions, in gynaecological conditions, in dental treatment for pyorrhoea, gingivitis, nerve capping and haemorrhages. Very effective in dirty pus-laden conditions, and a remarkable effect on a broad spectrum of skin fungi including candida and tinea. Examples of treatment are:

PROBLEM                 TREATMENT

Acne                           2 drops Tea Tree oil to 10mls of jojoba oil or evening primrose oil and massage lightly into the face.

Insect bites                 for mosquito or insect bites dab on pure oil.

Boils, Carbuncles      apply pure oil 3 times a day.

Burns                          flush with cold water and apply pure oil to burn.

Cold sores                 apply the pure oil 3 times a day.

Chest congestion      add pure oil to vaporiser or inhale or rub sparingly into chest and back. Sprinkle on pillow before sleeping.

Cuts & Abrasions      use a tea tree ointment, which has been diluted.

Dermatitis                  use 2 drops of tea tree oil in 10ml of jojoba oil.

Athlete's foot              wash & dry feet thoroughly, apply pure oil twice daily.

Itchy scalp                  add 20 drops of pure oil to 100ml of shampoo.

Mouth ulcers              apply pure oil or add 3 drops to water and gargle, do not swallow.

Nasal congestion      use pure oil in a steam vaporiser, rub around sinuses and inhale.

Pet care                     add 50 drops to 100ml of shampoo, repeat as required.

Sore throat                 5 drops to a glass of warm water may be used as a gargle to help clear the infection from a sore throat.

Nail infections            soak nails in pure oil for a few minutes and massage the infected area twice daily until the infection goes.

Vaginal infections     douche with 20 drops of pure oil in 1/2 litre of clean water, shake well. Add 10 drops to a sitz bath and splash around the vagina. Normally a slight tingle will be felt.

 

Tea Tree may irritate sensitive skin.

THYME - Warm and stimulating with a strong antiseptic effect and is a good

nerve tonic. It may be used for persons suffering with low blood pressure. Use

in a massage oil for the temporary relief of muscular aches and pain and

rheumatism. It is useful in treating boils and fungal infections such as tinea

and for the treatment of coughs, colds and influenza. Thyme may cause a

skin irritant, so it should be used with extreme care. Not to be used by anyone

with high blood pressure, and not suitable for babies or infants.

VETIVER - Often referred to as the 'oil of tranquillity'. The oil is primarily used for healing distressed states of mind such as anxiety, insomnia, nervous tension and stress.

YLANG YLANG - The 'flower of flowers' is sensual, exotic and euphoric. Its effect on the nervous system is euphoric and it is indicated for states of anxiety, stress, depression, nervous tension and pre-menstrual syndrome. Reputed to be a aphrodisiac and may be used for impotence or frigidity. As well as reducing high blood pressure, it slows down over-rapid breathing and heart beat. The odour can be overpowering in large quantities, causing headaches and nausea so use it sparingly.

SOME ADVICE WHEN USING OILS
Essential oils  are the concentrated essences of the plant they come from. All our oils are Nature's originals which are genuine pure and without additions.
Care should always be taken when using Essential oils.  If you are pregnant, elderly, taking prescribed medication or using oils on children under 3.  Please check first with a qualified Aromatherapist. MAGICKAL USES OF OILS

Every witch has a store of rosemary oil, which can be used for any type of spell-casting. Here is a list of other oils that resonate to specific desires.

LOVE: Gardenia, jasmine, lavender, rose.

LUST: Basil, cinnamon, ginger, neroli, ylang ylang.

PROSPERITY: Almond, bergamot, honeysuckle, mint, peony.

HEALING: Carnation, mimosa, rosemary, sandalwood.

PROTECTION: Basil, frankincense, lavender, myrrh.

LUCK: Allspice, nutmeg, orange, violet.

BUSINESS: Benzoin, cinnamon, mint, peony.

MONEY: Clove, ginger, honeysuckle, nutmeg, pine.

SUCCESS: Bergamot, clove, ginger, lemon balm.

HAPPINESS: Lavender, lily of the valley, marjoram.

SLEEP: Chamomile, lavender, peppermint, thyme.

VITALITY: Bay, carnation, pennyroyal, St. John's Wort.

PEACE: Lavender, gardenia, passion flower, skullcap.

BLESSINGS: Benzoin, cumin, rue

To make a personal protection oil blend together the oils of rosemary, rose geranium, and cypress. This oil is also used to anoint candles and is added to protective cleansing baths.

Wisdom Oil

Into 1/4 cup of grapeseed oil, blend the following essential oils:

2 drops cinnamon oil
4 drops myrrh oil
3 drops lavender oil


Blessing Oil

Into safflower or grapeseed oil, blend the following herbs -

one cup of oil to 1/2 cup of the following herb blend:

1 part juniper
1 part basil
1 part jasmine blossoms


Set the mixture on a sunny windowsill for about two weeks. Strain out the herbs. To this oil blend in: 9 drops jasmine oil.