Friday, November 4, 2011

Essential Oils


This is just a partial list, of course, but, will provide you with information pertaining to the reported beneficial properties of some Essential Oils.

 Basil (Ocimum basilicum) Said to help heighten the sense of smell. Great additive to healing balms intended to treat insect bites. Can be relaxing to muscles. Uplifting.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Natural astringent. Commonly used in acne treatment products. Natural mood-lifting qualities. Bergamot is responsible for the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey Tea.

Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) Has been recognized for centuries for it’s calming, purifying properties. It also helps calm nervous tension, and benefits the digestive system. Supplies oxygen to tissues and helps repair DNA damage, believed to be beneficial in prevention of cancer.

Chamomile, Roman (Chamaemelum nobile) Calms, relieves restlessness and tension.

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) Contains natural estriol, a phytoestrogen (plant estrogen). Promotes relaxation.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) Natural antiseptic properties.

Coriander (cilantro) (Coriandrum sativum) Studies report this oil promotes normal pancreatic function. Also has natural calming properties.

Eucalyptus Globulus Contains a high percentage of the compound eucalyptol, a key ingredient in many antiseptic mouthwashes. Has a camphor-like aroma commonly used to expel mucus. Should not be used by small children or asthmatics.

Eucalyptus Polybractea Appropriate for topical application or diffusing. This species contains the highest amount of the antiseptic compound eucalyptol, thus the strong antiseptic actions among the eucalyptus oils. Should not be inhaled directly.

Eucalyptus Radiata One of the most versatile of the eucalyptus oils, is suitable for topical use, diffusing, and even direct inhalation. Relatively gentle and nonirritating.

Fennel(Foeniculum vulgare) is antiseptic and stimulating to the circulatory and respiratory systems.
 

Frankincense
(Boswellia carteri) Commonly used as a holy anointing oil in the Middle East and has been used in religious ceremonies for thousands of years. Reported to be stimulating and elevating to the mind and helps in overcoming stress. Believed to supporting the immune system and helps repair DNA damage.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) has been used for centuries for skin care. Distinct odor is disliked by some, however, is believed to have aromatic benefits, specifically with regard to memory. It is also used by skin care specialists to restoring balance between oily and dry skin and hair.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is used to combat nausea, vomiting, or dizziness associated with motion sickness and has been studied for its gentle, stimulating effects. (Ginger Ale)

Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) Said to support the circulatory system, liver function and the urinary tract. Also exhibits relaxing and calming effects.

Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) Commonly used for it’s natural weight loss benefits due to it‘s unique fat dissolving characteristics. Especially helpful for the nervous system during stressful situations. Has an uplifting aroma.

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is an "absolute" extracted from the flower and is an essence rather than an essential oil. It is good for sensitive skin and can also be uplifting and stimulating. Considered an aphrodisiac for centuries, Jasmine supports the nervous system and is helpful for women going through menopause.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) The most versatile of all essential oils. Lavender is commonly used for treatment of minor cuts and bruises. It is also well reputed for it’s aromatic benefits, specifically with regard to ability to calm, relax and balance both physically and emotionally.

Lemon (Citrus limon) has antiseptic-like properties and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function, lymphatic, circulatory, and digestive systems. Is antibacterial and may serve as an insect repellent as well as being beneficial for the skin. Citrus oils should not be applied to skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light within 72 hours.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) is used for purification and digestion.

Marjoram (Origanum majorana) is used for supporting the muscles and the respiratory system. It assists in calming the nerves and also has antiseptic properties.

Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) has one of the highest levels of compounds that has direct effect on the hypothalamus, pituitary, and amygdala, the seat of our emotions. Myrrh is considered to be emotionally strengthening and empowering. It also has natural antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Should not be used during pregnancy.

Myrtle is commonly used for its effects on hormonal imbalances of the thyroid and ovaries. It is also believed to have a soothing effect on the respiratory system, possibly helping relieve chronic coughs and respiratory tract ailments. Can be applied topically, diffused, or used in a humidifier. Suitable for use on children.

Neroli Fresh, floral aroma brightens spirits and clears the mind. Supports the body under stress and enhances skin tone.

Nutmeg (Myristic fragrans) helps support the adrenal glands for increased energy. Also benefits circulation and relieves muscle aches and pains.

Orange (Citrus sinensis) brings peace and happiness to the mind and body. Frequently used in skin products as it is believed to help a dull, oily complexion. Citrus oils should not be applied to skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light within 72 hours due to photosensitivity.

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is very beneficial for the skin and may help prevent wrinkled or chapped skin. It has antiseptic properties and helps relieve itching.

Pepper, Black (Piper nigrum) is a stimulating, energizing essential oil that has been studied for its effects on cellular oxygenation. It has been used for soothing deep tissue muscle aches and pains.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is one of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion. It is beneficial to the sinuses and muscular system, and especially useful for women during monthly cycles or menopause. Apply to bottom of feet to soothe tired feet. Rub on temples for a calming effect.

Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium) comes from orange leaves and has antiseptic properties. It is also believed to re-establishes nerve equilibrium.

Pine (Pinus sylvestris) has antiseptic properties and is beneficial for use in massage for stressed muscles and joints.

Rose (Rosa damascena) helps bring balance and harmony. Is stimulating and elevating to the mind, creating a sense of well-being. It is also great for circulation and skin care.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis CT 1,8 cineol) Contains antiseptic properties. Beneficial for the circulatory, nervous, and muscular system. Should not be used by individuals suffering from high blood pressure or epilepsy or during pregnancy.

Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora) is soothing and nourishing to the skin. Also has natural anti-bacterial properties.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) has been used in Europe for numerous skin conditions. It has been recognized for its benefits of supporting metabolism.

Sandalwood (Santalum album) is high in sesquiterpenes and has the ability to oxygenate the area of the brain where emotions are centered. Soothing, promoting sleep and a sense of wellbeing. Also traditionally used for urinary and respiratory systems.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) oil helps support the respiratory and nervous systems. It may help open and release emotional blocks and bring about a feeling of balance.

Spruce (Picea mariana) helps support the respiratory and nervous systems. Its aromatic influences help to open and release emotional blocks, bringing about a feeling of balance.

Tangerine (Citrus nobilis) is a calming essential oil. It helps with anxiety and nervousness.

Tarragon Artemisia dracunculus) has natural antiseptic properties.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is one of the most antiseptic essential oils and very high in antioxidant rating. It contains thymol, which has been studied for its effect on gingivitis and plaque-causing organisms in the mouth. It may be beneficial in helping to overcome fatigue and exhaustion.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a root that has been used for thousands of years for its calming, relaxing, grounding, and emotionally balancing influences. Can also be an effective treatment for restlessness and for sleep disturbances resulting from nervous conditions.

Vetiver (Vetiveria zanioides) has a heavy, earthy fragrance similar to patchouli with a touch of lemon. Vetiver id reported to help cope with stress and recover from emotional traumas and shocks.

Wintergreen (Gaultheria prcumbens) contains methyl salicylate and is beneficial for massage associated with bone, muscle, and joint discomfort.

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) may be extremely effective in calming, balancing and bringing about a sense of relaxation. Commonly used in hair and skin products and can be used for insomnia and pain.

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