Essential
Oils
Essential
oils form the basis of treatment in aromatherapy, and can be used in
a number of different ways and combinations to create a desired effect.
The
most common methods of use include massaging them into the skin, adding
them to the bath, burning them in a diffuser, or using them in a compress.
Regardless
of the method or oil chosen, the most important factor is the effect
the scent has on you. The whole principle of aromatherapy is creating
a pleasurable experience, and if you don't appreciate a particular
scent, the treatment will not be beneficial. Fortunately, there are
often oils that can be used for many purposes, allowing you to choose
one that you find appealing.
Guide
To Essential Oils
Eucalyptus
has a balancing and stimulating effect, with a camphorous, woody
scent.
Uses
indicated include asthma, bronchitis, flu, muscle aches, pulmonary
conditions, rheumatism, sinusitis, and sore throat.
Caution
should be taken if you have epilepsy, or high blood pressure. Do not
ingest, as eucalyptus can be fatal.
Geranium
has a comforting and healing effect, with a sweet floral scent.
Uses
indicated include neuralgia, tonsillitis, inflammation, poor circulation,
burns, eczema, and rheumatism.
Caution
should be taken as geranium's antiseptic, antifungal properties could
irritate sensitive skin. It's anti-spasmodic properties also mean it
should not be used during pregnancy.
Grapefruit
provides a refreshing effect and is therefore helpful with a variety
of mental concerns.
Uses
indicated include depression, anxiety, digestive issues, and water
retention.
Caution
should be taken as grapefruit oil is phototoxic, and should not be
used prior to exposure to the sun, or a tanning bed.
Lavender
has
a calming and healing effect, with a floral, woody scent. Lavender
is mild, yet very effective, and is likely the most popular of all
the essential oils.
Uses
indicated include colds, flu, headaches, tension, anxiety, skin conditions
such as burns, oily skin, acne, insomnia, rheumatism, bronchitis, and
sinusitis.
Caution
should be taken when using lavender oil while pregnant, or if you have
low blood pressure.
Lemongrass
has a fresh, lemon scent, and a calming effect on the body.
Uses
indicated include acne, oily skin, muscle aches, excess perspiration,
and stress.
Caution
should be taken if you have sensitive skin.
Patchouli
has
a soothing effect, and a sweet, woody scent.
Uses
indicated include anxiety related disorders, skin conditions such as
acne and chapped skin. Patchouli may also be effective for treating
water retention and cellulite.
Peppermint
has
a stimulating effect, and a strong, minty aroma.
Uses
indicated include asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, migraines, muscle
and joint pain, as well as indigestion and colic.
Caution
should be taken if you have sensitive skin.
Rosemary
has
a restorative effect, and a refreshing, woody scent.
Uses
indicated include colds, flu, digestive disorders, fatigue, gout, liver/gall
bladder problems, as well as skin conditions such as burns and minor
wounds.
Caution
should be taken as rosemary's stimulating effects may create difficulty
if you are epileptic, suffering from high blood pressure, or pregnant.
Tangerine
is
calming, and has a fruity, sweet scent.
Uses
indicated include anxiety, insomnia, muscle pain, digestive issues,
aging skin.
Caution
should be taken as tangerine is also phototoxic, and should not be
used prior to exposure to the sun, or a tanning bed.
Ylang
Ylang has
a calming effect on the body, and a powerful floral scent.
Uses
indicated include treatment of anxiety, intestinal infections, and
stress. It is also known to have a balancing effect on the hormones.
Caution
should be taken as Ylang Ylang's powerful floral scent can cause headaches,
and irritate sensitive, or inflammatory skin conditions.
