I to M of Aromatherapy Oils
and Their Uses

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Inula Inula Graveolens "This is of great benefit in any condition where there is an accumulation of mucus, such as colds, sinusitis, catarrh, earache (when this is a complication of catarrh) and coughs, especially when somebody is coughing a lot without bringing up phlegm... Inula has a variety of other uses, but they duplicate the action of cheaper, more easily obtainable oils. My inclination would be to keep it for difficult conditions that have not responded to treatment with other oils" - an excerpt from Aromatherapy an A-Z by Patricia Davis.

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Jasmine The ultimate aphrodisiac oil! It not only smells exquisite, heightening the libido, but it can also relax you, lift depression, boost confidence, ease childbirth, soothe coughing, soothe menstrual pain, tighten skin elasticity and reduce stretch marks and scars! A handy oil to have around! Not usually one of the cheapest on the market but with so many uses it's a must-have in the aromatherapist's box! Blends well with: all other oils, creating an endless lush sensuality to any perfume formulation. I recommend mixing Jasmine with Ginger for an aphrodisiac blend though! Have fun!

Juniper From a common Juniper tree, the branches, needles and berries are used to produce this crisp, slightly woody fragrance, although there are also some on the market claiming to be berry only. It helps stimulate and strengthen the nerves and bolster the spirits in challenging situations, while helping to relieve urine retention. It is used for treating rheumatism, arthritis and gout, as well as cellulite, acne, dermatitis, blocked pores, psoriasis and weeping eczemas. Use in a vaporiser to ease hangovers! Blends well with: Cypress, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Fennel, Rosemary. Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy or with babies. Avoid with kidney disease and acute bladder/kidney infections.

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Labdanum Also known as Cistus, but not exactly the same: the oils are produced differently, giving different smells and powers. Labdanum has a warm, sweet, dry herbaceous, musky scent and has been used since the middle ages in ointments to treat infected wounds and skin ulcers. Excellent for skin care for infected and inflamed skin. Claimed to be useful for treating slow healing skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis. Blends well with: clary sage, pine, juniper, lavender, bergamot, cypress, vetiver, sandalwood, patchouli, and chamomile. Cautions: It is generally non toxic, non irritant and non sensitising but avoid during pregnancy. Always dilute Labdanum essential oil to 5% or less in a carrier oil before applying to the skin.

Laurel Leaf Most people are familiar with Laurel on their kitchen’s spice rack, where it is known as bay leaf, in aromatherapy it is known for it's positive effects on the nervous system. It's sedative properties make it ideal for neuritis, depression, anxiety, fear and psychosis. It's stimulating and warming properties are used to produce fire and warmth in one's emotions, bringing awareness, courage and confidence. Fresh, strong but sweet, aromatic camphoraceous, somewhat spicy medicinal odour. Traditionally used to aid digestion and for it's antiseptic qualities. Blends well with: spice oils, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus and Juniper.

Lavender The most well known essential oil, and a great one for beginners as it not only smells nicely familiar but is good for removing nervous tension, relieving pain, disinfect scalp and skin, enhance blood circulation and treat respiratory problems. It has a calming scent which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves and helps in treating migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress, decreases restlessness and increases mental activity. It induces sleep and hence it is often recommended for insomnia. It is good for urinary disorders as it stimulates urine production. It helps in restoring hormonal balance and reduces cystitis or inflammation of the urinary bladder. It also reduces any associated cramps. The use of Lavender oil for the skin can be attributed to its antiseptic and antifungal properties. It is used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It heals wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns rapidly as it aids in the formation of scar tissues. Lavender oil is added to chamomile to treat eczema. It is also effective against insect bites. The oil is also used to repel mosquitoes and moths. You will find many mosquito repellents containing lavender oil as one of the ingredients. Cautions: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender essential oil. It is also recommended that diabetics stay away from lavender oil.

Lemon From the lemon tree, the peel of the fruit is used to make essential oil, which gives a it a true, fresh lemon smell. The qualities of lemon are germicidic and astringent: both cleansing properties, so the lemon oil can be used to clean and disinfect both the face and body and also the home! Used in a burner it has air-cleaning qualities, but mix it with Bergamot and it will not only leave the house smelling fresh it will give you the get up and go to get the housework done too! Blends well with: other citrus oils, Lavender, Neroli, Patchouli and Peppermint.

Lemongrass A fresh smelling oil, cousin to Citronella, it has similar properties for repelling flies and insects; the smell is generally perceived as refreshing, uplifting, calming and restorative. It contains a high proportion of citral, which is antiseptic, bactericidal, deodorant and antifungal, which can be harsh on the skin and cause irritation, always use diluted. Can be useful against fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. It has a restorative effect on the nervous system and is good stress-related exhaustion, in footbaths for tired, sweaty feet, as a room freshener and deodorant, especially used with berganiot or geranium.

Lime Citrus aurantifolia Using the peel, this has a light, clean citrus smell. Has many of the same uses as Lemon Oil, the two, blended together, are delightful, wonderful for skin care. Try it in an aftershave, or a lotion for oily skin. Blends well with: Neroli, Lavender, Rosemary, Clary Sage, other citrus oils.

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Mandarin Citrus reticulata This is a tangy, zesty oil, but more relaxing than some of the other citrus oils, it is great in a burner in the evening to relieve the stresses of the day! A good oil for increasing circulation, reducing fluid retention and used to prevent stretch marks. Blends well with: other citrus oils such as lime, orange, lemon, and grapefruit, as well as spice oils such as cinnamon and clove. Cautions: Phototoxic: do not use before going out in the sun.

Manuka Native to New Zealand and south-east Auustralia, has similar properties to Tea Tree, with a light, honey smell. It's anti-viral, anti-fungal and bacterial properties were originally used by the Maori people for a range of complaints including bronchitis and rheumatism. Excellent as an antiseptic on the skin, apply to chicken pocks, cuts, spots, boils, ulcers, bites etc. Blends well with: Lavender, Clary-sage, Rosemary, Pine, Geranium, Marjoram, Clove and Nutmeg. Cautions: May be an irritant, always use diluted.

Marjoram From the Mediterranean region, the word "Origanum" is from the Greek word 'orosganos' meaning 'joy of the mountain' and was given to newlyweds as token of good fortune! It has a spicy smell and is warming to the skin. Marjoram's powerful antispasmodic action can ease pains of arthritis, cramped muscles, muscle spasms, and menstrual cramps. It has a calming, slightly sedative action and can be effective against some types of migraines. It has value when used for asthma and other respiratory complaints and has a calming action on emotions. It helps hyperactive people calm down, whilst boosting circulation. Blends well with:Lavender, Chamomile, Orange, and Eucalyptus. Blend with Clary Sage to ease menstrual pains. Cautions: It can stimulate menstrual flow, so should never be used during pregnancy.

Myrtle Or Green Myrtle oil, is a wonderful mild and gentle respiratory treatment, highly recommended for treating asthma attacks, and respiratory problems with children. It has been recommended to me mixed with Bergamot as an aid to stopping smoking! Myrtle has a mildly sedative action, which can make it useful in treating insomnia and nervous conditions. The ancient Egyptians knew of the therapeutic qualities of myrtle, macerating the leaves in wine to counter fever and infection. Blends well with: Bergamot, Chamomile, and cypress.

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