E to H of Aromatherapy Oils
& Their Uses
E
Elemi From the same family as Frankincense and Myrrh, this has a spicy, sweet, woody smell and is beneficial in respiratory ailments as an expectorant. Ideal relaxant at the end of the day. Also good for skincare for the treatment of psoriasis and eczema and to clear up fungal infections of the toe and finger nails. The Egyptians used it in the embalming process! Blends well with: Citrus oils, Cinnamon, Clove Bud, Coriander, Frankincense, Lavender, Myrrh, Rosemary. Eucalyptus (globulus) A very well known essential oil, there are at least 4 types of Eucalyptus available, this is the most common and has a woody, sweet scent. It is known for it's strong antiseptic properties, and is often used in winter for it's penetrating clearing aroma! It is often burnt to reduce airborne germs or added to massage oil for a clearing chest rub. Ideal for sports people. Blends well with: Lavender, herb oils, Pine, Bergamot (blended with Eucalyptus, can reduce the discomfort of cold sores, herpes outbreaks, and shingles). Eucalyptus (citriodora) A more citrus-y version, has an added lemon scent to the usual Eucalyptus, it also works to clear the pipes in colder climes! It is a strong anti-viral and bactericidal oil and several types may be used if treatment continues over a period of time. Fantastic at removing musty or stale fumes in fabrics, fridges, etc. Doesn't need blending. Caution: Do not use with infants and small children as it may cause choking. Frankincense An easily recognised name, first used as an incense, as an offering to the gods! Frankincense has a wonderfully calming effect on the mind, helping to create inner peace, also helps to sooth the respiratory and urinary tract and relieve pain associated with rheumatism and muscular aches, while having a rejuvenating, balancing and healing action on the skin. Very comforting during the cold season - a great oil for asthma or chest congestion. Blends well with: Grapefruit, Orange, Lemon, Lavender, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Rose, Vetiver. G
Geranium Or Pelargonium graveolens, one of my favourite garden plants! The oil has a flowery smell, and is popular in lady's perfumes. A refreshing balancing essential oil for both mind and body. Good to use for the treatment of anxiety and depression. Excellent for skin care, it helps to regulate the flow of sebum, the skins natural moisturiser, while also helpful for bruises, cuts, ulcers, broken capillaries, and dermatitis. It is equally beneficial for all skin types. Blend with Clary Sage to alleviate problems associated with menopause and menstruation. Blends with: Clary Sage, Rose, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Lavender, and Chamomile, NOT good with it are the citrus oils. Ginger or Ginger Root Is wonderfully soothing for aching joints and muscles, or an upset tummy. Ginger's heat can be irritating to the skin so be sure to dilute it. It has been used as a medicine since very early times and is recorded in both Sanskrit and Chinese texts and is also mentioned in the literature of the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Arabians. It is great in massage blends for aching muscles, or as a warming ingredient in a 'chest rub' for cold or flu. Ginger can also be used on the skin to help clear bruises. The essential oil has a rich, gingery, warm, woody-spicy scent. Blends well with the citrus oils, and the woods or resins.
Hint: To ease an upset stomach or heartburn, we usually add one drop of Ginger oil, mixed into a teaspoon of honey in a cup. Fill with hot water, stir, and drink. Instant Ginger Tea! Grapefruit Also known as shaddock. Smells as you would expect, with a sharp refreshing quality! Use grapefruit to refresh you in both mind and body, so, excellent after travelling or a tough day at work! Pink Grapefruit, also energising, is also helpful in treating oily skin and hair. The energising quality mixed with it's ability to reduce the craving for sweets is a slimmer's dream! Blend Grapefuit with Cypress and Juniper for an excellent all round cleanser. H
Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum Another one from the garden to the bathroom! Also known as Immortelle or "everlasting", the latter due to it's amazing healing properties, an essential for the first aid aromatherapist! Stories abound of it healing broken bones in half the time, scars healing miraculously, bruises disappearing overnight, useful in treating heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat and risk of stroke, useful in treating high blood pressure when mixed with Ylang Ylang. Helichrysum Essential Oil is antibacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal, an essential component of any anti-acne and rosacea blends, as well as useful in any rash or skin irritation (blend with Chamomile for amazing results!) It smells like it contains wood and honey, with hints of spice. A very safe oil for families as it is non toxic, non irritant and non sensitising - a must-have!Hyssop From France, also known as Mountain Hyssop. This oil should be used with caution, as it is quite aggressive, it should be avoided by epileptics or at any time during pregnancy. Hyssop raises low blood pressure and is good for the circulatory system, chest complaints, and Asthma - use in an oil burner rather than as a massage or inhalation. Can be healing to the skin in cases of dermatitis and eczema.
Return to the
Aromatherapy Bible
page.
|
