Angelica
Latin name: Angelica archangelica
Digestive: Stimulates the production of gastric juices (carminative),
aids digestion. Used for indigestion, dyspepsia, flatulence.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic) and menstrual
blood (emmenagogue).
Circulatory: cleanses the blood (depurative).
Immune system: strengthens.
Respiratory: relieves coughing, helps to expel mucus, relaxes the respirtory
muscles, used for bronchitis, asthma, colds, flu.
General: reduces fever, causes sweating.
Skin/hair: used for dull and congested skin, psoriasis.
Emotions/mind: strengthens the nervous system, used for fatigue, migraine,
nervous tension and stress..
Cautions: photosensitizing. Not to be used during the first months of
pregnancy.
Basil, French
Latin name: Ocimum basilicum
Digestive: Stimulates the production of gastric juices, aids digestion,
soothes the stomach, dispels gas. Used to treat indigestion, dyspepsia,
constipation, flatulence, nausea, food poisoning. According to Mailhebiau,
it decongests the liver and stimulates bile production
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of menstrual blood, relieves
menstrual cramps.
Muscles/joints: reduces muscular tension, relieves pain, used to treat
rheumatism, arthritis, and muscular aches (also resulting from over-exertion).
Circulation: improves.
Immune system: strengthens.
Respiratory: antiseptic, antispasmodic, relieves coughing, helps to expel
mucus, reduces fever . Used for bronchitis, coughs, whooping cough, sinus
congestion, asthma.
Skin/hair: stimulates circulation, useful for dull, congested skin, cellulite and dull-looking hair.
Emotions/mind: uplifting, stimulates the adrenal cortex, clears the head,
improves memory and helps in concentration, sharpens the senses. Soothes
fears, helps to combat anxiety, depression, insomnia
Other: Scares off mosquitoes and other insects, used to treat wasp bites.
Increases the secretion of milk.
Caution: best avoided in pregnancy. May be hypnotic in high doses.
Benzoin
Latin name: Styrax benzoin
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices, helps digestion,
calms the digestive tract and alleviates flatulence.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic); it is
used to fight leucorrhoea and yeast infections.
Respiratory: tones the lungs, helps to expel mucus, used for flu, bronchitis, laryngitis, coughs, asthma.
Circulatory: warms and tones the heart, improves circulation.
Muscles/joints: used for rheumatism, arthritis, gout. Helps to relieve
sore muscles and stiff joints after strenuous physical activity.
Skin/hair: astringent, antiseptic, reduces inflammation, helps to stop
bleeding. Useful where there is redness, irritation, itching, and for cracked
or dry skin. Helps to keep the skin supple and elastic. With regular application it can soften scar tissue.
Emotions/mind: uplifting, soothing, warming; eases nervous tension, stress
and anxiety, helps to overcome depression and restore confidence. Dispels
anger, diminishes irritability. Clears the head.
Bergamot
Latin name: Citrus bergamia
Digestive: Analgesic. Stimulates the production of gastric juices (carminative), tones the stomach, aids digestion, improves appetite. Relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, thus relieving constipation (laxative). Used in indigestion, dyspepsia, colic, stomach cramps, flatulence.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic). Has an
antiseptic effect, and is used to treat infections in the area. Used in
the treatment of cystitis, urethritis, leuccorhea, pruritis and thrush.
Respiratory: antiseptic, antispasmodic. Used for flu, tonsilitis, laryngitis, sore throat, bronchitis.
Immune system: strengthens the immune system,
Skin/hair: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, aids in the healing of wounds
and scars. Astringent, good for oily skin. Used for acne, eczema, spots,
cold sores (and other herpes infections), boils, wounds and seborrhoea of
the skin and scalp.
Emotions/mind: uplifting, refreshing and encouraging. It can help relieve
anxiety and depression, ease grief and sadness, increase mental alertness
and correct emotional imbalances.
Other: deodorizing. Combats fever. Useful in restoring strength in a
person recovering from disease. Repels insects and soothes insects bites.
Caution: photosensitizing.
Birch, White
Latin name: Betula alba
Digestive: Stimulates the production of bile.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic).
Circulation: cleanses the blood, helps circulation.
Respiratory: reduces fever.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, reduces inflammation, encourages the elimination
of toxins. Used for dull and congested skin, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis,
cellulite and in hair care.
Black pepper >
Latin name: Piper nigrum
Digestive: Stimulates the production of gastric juices , aids digestion,
strengthens the stomach, improves appetite, relieves constipation (laxative),
tones the spleen. Used for indigestion, colic, diarrhoea, flatulence, heartburn, nausea, loss of appetite. As an anti-toxic agent it is used in certain types of food poisoning
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic).
Respiratory: antiseptic, antispasmodic. Used for flu, colds, catarrh,
coughing.
Circulation: used for hypotension (low blood pressure).
Muscles/joints: improves the muscle tone, relieves pain, used for arthritis,
muscular pains, rheumatism, sprains, stiffness.
Skin/hair: rubefacient, stimulates circulation, used for chillblains.
Emotions/mind: clears the head, improves memory, raises spirits, helps
to clear emotional blockages and get rid of emotional coldness, apathy and
mental exhaustion.
Other:causes sweating, reduces fever.
Caution: irritant in high concentration.
Borneol
Latin name: Dryobalanops aromatica
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices, aids digestion.
Circulatory: tones the heart, improves circulation.
Respiratory: used for bronchitis, coughs, colds and flu.
Muscles/joints: due to its pain-relieving and antispasmodic properties
used for rheumatism and sprains.
Skin/Hair: used for bruises.
Emotions/mind: stimulates the adrenal cortex, relieves stress, lifts
depression, reduces nervous exhaustion.
Other: general tonic; insect repellent.
Carrot seed
Latin name: Daucus carota
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices , aids digestion,
tones the liver and regenerates its cells. Used for indigestion, colic,
liver congestion, cirrhosis. Good after the acute phase of hepatitis, a
violent bilious attack or drug poisoning. Regulates cholesterol levels.
Genito-urinary: tones the kidneys, stimulates the production of urine
(diuretic) and menstrual blood.
Circulatory: cleanses the blood. Helps to increase the level of haemoglobin.
Skin/hair: anti-inflammatory, revitalizes and tones the skin. Used to
treat dermatitis, eczema, rashes, as well as wrinkles. Mailhebiau recommends
carrot seed diluted in wheatgerm oil as a suntan lotion.
Other: dilates blood vessels and relaxes smooth muscles.
Caution: overdosed, can be nauseating - always blend with other essences.
Canadian Balsam
Latin name: Abies balsamea
Digestive: relieves constipation (laxative). Used for haemorrhoids.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic). Antiseptic,
used to treat infections in the area.
Respiratory: relieves coughing, helps to expel mucus. Pulmonary antiseptic.
Used for asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, sore throat.
Skin/hair: assists in the healing of burns, wounds and scars.
Emotions/mind: tonic and sedative, used for depression, nervous tension.
Cedarwood, Atlas and Virginian
Latin name: Cedrus atlantica and Juniperus virginiana
Genito-urinary tract: stimulates the production of urine , and menstrual
blood , tones the kidneys. Has an antiseptic effect, and is used to treat
infections in the area. Can be used in the treatment of leucorhoea, pruritis,
cystitis, urethritis and thrush
Circulation: stimulates.
Respiratory: antiseptic and antispasmodic, helps to expel mucus. Used
for flu, bronchitis, catarrh, congestion, coughs and sinusitis.
Muscles/bones: Virginian cedarwood relieves muscular tension. Both are
used in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, astringent, tonic. Kills fungi. Atlas cedarwood
combats decay and putrefaction. Used for acne, dermatitis and eczema. Reduces
the production of sebum, normalizes both dry and oily skin and hair, stimulates
the scalp and hair folliclies; used in hair care to treat dandruff and hair
loss. Also used for cellulite
Emotions/mind: grounding, strengthening, relieves anxiety, worry and
nervous tension, soothes fears, helpful in depression. Improves concentration,
helps to focus scattered thoughts.
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Chamomile, German and Roman
Latin name: Matricaria recutica and Anthemis nobilis
The plants are related and the oils very similar. German chamomile oil
contains more azulene, and its anti-inflammatory properties are somewhat
stronger.
Digestive: stimulates the flow of gastric juices and bile, tones the
stomach, improves appetite, tones the liver, relaxes digestive muscles,
thus relieving flatulence. Used for dyspepsia, colic, indigestion, gastritis,
diarrhoea, ulcers, colitis, nausea.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic) and menstrual
blood . Has an antiseptic effect, and is used to treat infections in the
area. Pain-relieving and relaxing, relieves menstrual cramps and PMS. For
similar reasons, as well as its anti-inflammatory properties, it is used
for urinary stones.
Muscles/joints: relaxes and relieves pain. Used for muscular pains (also
due to over-exertion), rheumatism, arthritis, inflamed joints, sprains,
neuralgia.
Immune system: strengthens it.
Skin/hair: reduces inflammation, promotes the forming of scar tissue,
aids in the healing of wounds. Used for acne, boils, cuts, chillblains,
dermatitis, eczema, rashes, burns and sunburn. Very good for dry skin, especially when it is inflamed and sensitive. Can reduce the redness of broken capillaries. Conditions the hair, making it shiny and silky (note: chamomile as a herbal infusion lightens the hair).
Emotions/mind: calming, soothing, harmonizing, as well as anti-depressant.
Recommended for irritability, over-sensitivity, restlessness, anxiety. Used
to treat headaches and insomnia. Improves memory.
General: reduces fever; pain-relieving, used for toothache and ear infections. Helpful in alergies.
Citronella
Latin name: Cymbopogon nardus
Digestive: tones the stomach, aids digestion, improves appetite.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the flow of urine (diuretic), tones the kidneys,
stimulates the flow of menstrual blood .
Respiratory: antiseptic.
Skin/hair: used for oily skin and excessive perspiration, as it is deodorising.
General: reduces fever ; a general tonic.
Other: an insect repellent.
Clary sage
Latin name: Salvia sclarea
Digestive: stimulates the production of digestive juices , tones the
stomach, relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, aids digestion, improves
appetite. Used for colic, cramp, dyspepsia, flatulence.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the flow of menstrual blood , and contains
substances similar to female hormones; used for difficult and painful menstruation, scanty or delayed periods, PMS and menopausal problems. Also used for leucorrhoea and kidney disorders.
Circulation: lowers blood pressure, used for hypertension.
Muscles/joints: used for muscular aches and pains.
Respiratory: antiseptic, antispasmodic, used for asthma, throat infections,
whooping cough, bronchitis, laryngitis, tonsilitis, sore throat.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, aids in the regeneration of
skin cells, used for acne, boils, inflammation, wrinkles, psoriasis, eczema.
Helps cuts, wounds and burns to heal. Very useful in hair care: it controls
the production of sebum, so it can be used for both dry and oily hair, as
well as in the treatment of dandruff; encourages hair growth. For similar
reasons (ie. controlling the production of sebum) it can be used for both
dry and oily skin. Also used for cellulite.
Other: aphrodisiac, used for frigidity and impotence.
Emotions/mind: strengthens the nervous system , sedative, used for depression, nervous tension, headaches.
Caution: can give headache (in larger doses).
Coriander
Latin name: Coriandrum sativum
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices, tones the stomach,
improves digestion, relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract. Used for
colic, indigestion, flatulence, nausea, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, stomach cramps.
Stimulates the appetite, used for anorexia
Respiratory: helps to regulate breathing.
Circulatory: stimulates the heart, improves circulation, helps to eliminate
toxins from the blood.
Muscles/joints: relieves pain and muscle spasms, used for arthritis (also
because of its detoxifying action), gout, muscular aches, rheumatism, stiffness
in the joints.
Skin/hair: as it stimulates circulation it is helpful in cellulite. Effective in relieving facial neuralgia. Helps to fight fungal infections.
Emotions/mind: stimulates the nervous system, relieving lethargy and
mental fatigue. Refreshing and energizing, yet also relaxing and calming.
Other: said to stop the hiccups. Natural deodorant. Aphrodisiac.
Caution: stupefying in large doses.
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Cypress
Latin name: Cupressus sempervirens
Digestive: tones the liver and aids its function, especially when there
is excessive production of bile. Decreases excessive flow of fluids, thus
relieving diarrhoea.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the flow of urine (diuretic). Prostatic decongestant. Gently stimulates the flow of menstrual blood , relieves cramps, used for menstrual disorders. Very good for difficult menopause with hot flushes. When massaged over the area above the ovaries, it is said to inhibit the growth of cysts.
Respiratory: antispasmodic, mucolytic. Used for flu, asthma, bronchitis,
spasmodic coughing.
Circulation: causes the narrowing of blood vessels (thus helps to stops
bleeding). Improves circulation, a venous decongestant, helps to remove
toxins from the blood, used for haemorrhoids and varicose veins.
Immune system: stimulates. Not suited to acute or serious infections,
best for chronic complaints.
Muscles/joints: used to treat muscular cramp and rheumatism.
Skin/hair: regulates oil production, best for oily and over-hydrated
skin. Used to treat excessive perspiration (especially due to over-excitability),
wounds, frostbite, acne and cellulite (strengthens weak connective tissues,
improves circulation and helps release toxins). Stops bleeding and can be
used for pyorrhoea (bleeding of the gums). Constricts blood vessels, and
is used in the treatment of broken capillaries
Emotions/mind: sedative, rebalancing, used to treat nervous tension and
stress-related conditions, including insomnia. Mailhebiau recommends a mixture
of myrtle and cypress to "encourage the interiorisation of individuals
with too flighty a spirit". Improves concentration and helps to focus
thoughts.
Caution: not to be used by people suffering from hypertension.
Eucalyptus, Blue Gum
Latin name: Eucalyptus globulus var. globulus
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic). Antiseptic,
used for cystitis, leucorrhoea, nephritis.
Circulatory: cleanses the blood , lowers sugar levels, improves circulation.
Respiratory: stimulates respiration, relieves coughing, helps to expel
mucus, relaxes the respiratory muscles, used for bronchitis, asthma, catarrh,
sinusitis, throat infections.
Muscles/joints: pain-relieving and antispasmodic, used for muscular aches
and pains, sprains, rheumatoid arthritis.
General: reduces fever.
Skin/hair: analgesic, antiseptic, helps wounds to heal, aids in the forming
of scar tissue, used for burns, cuts, blisters, ulcers, wounds.
Emotions/mind: centering, balancing, stimulating, used for exhaustion,
congestive headaches, inability to concentrate, mood swings, temper tantrums.
Caution: toxic if taken internally.
Frankincense
Latin name: Boswellia thurifera
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices , improves appetite
and digestion
Genito-urinary: stimulates the flow of menstrual blood and urine (diuretic),
tones the uterus, used for scanty periods, leucorrhoea, infections of the
urinary tract.
Respiratory: antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, relieves coughing, used
for colds, flu, catarrh, asthma. bronchitis, laryngitis
Skin/hair: anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, helps wounds and
scars to heal; very good for dry and mature skin, used for wrinkles.
Emotions/mind: sedative, elevating, warming, used for anxiety, apprehension,
fears, nervous tension and stress-related conditions. It slows down and
deepens the breath, which makes it helpful for meditation.
Geranium
Latin name: Pelargonium graveolens
Digestive: used for diarrhea.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic); antiseptic,
used for infections of the urinary tract. Balances abnormal secretion of
sex hormones during menopause. Diminishes fluid retention, which is one
of the major sources of discomfort in PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
Circulatory: improves circulation.
Respiratory: antiseptic, pain-relieving, used for sore throat, tonsillitis.
Skin/hair: especially good for oily and dull skin (helps to control excessive
oiliness, stimulates both the lymphatic and the circulatory systems), but
it can be used for all skin types. Antiseptic, fungicidal, cleansing, mildly
pain-relieving, reduces inflammation, stops bleeding, promotes the forming
of scar tissue, helps wounds to heal. Used for acne, bruises, burns, cuts,
broken capillaries, varicose veins, dermatitis, cellulite, eczema, ulcers,
wounds.
Emotions/mind: stimulates the adrenal cortex, helps to combat stress
and depression.
Other: reduces breast engorgement.
Caution: it can lower blood sugar level, so it is best avoided by hypoglycemia sufferers.
Ginger
Latin name: Zingiber officinale
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices (carminative),
relaxes the digestive muscles, relieves constipation ((laxative), tones
the stomach, improves appetite, used for colic, cramp, dyspepsia, flatulence,
indigestion, loss of apetite, nausea (also caused by sea or travel sickness,
morning sickness and hangover), diarrhoea.
Genito-urinary: analgesic, anti-spasmodic, eases menstrual cramps.
Circulatory: improves circulation.
Respiratory: antispasmodic, antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, relieves
coughing, used for colds, flu, catarrh, sinusitis, sore throat, tonsillitis
Muscles/joints: pain-relieving, antispasmodic, used for muscular pains,
arthritis, rheumatism, sprains.
Skin/hair: used to treat varicose veins and cellulite.
Emotions/mind: warming, strengthening, encouraging. Clears the head,
increases mental alertness, improves memory; used for debility and nervous
exhaustion.
General: causes sweating, combats fever
Caution: slightly phototoxic.
Jasmine
Latin name: Jasminum officinale
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices (carminative).
Genito/urinary: tones the uterus, used for dysmenorrhoea, uterine disorders.
Relieves cramps. Aids in childbirth.
Respiratory: antispasmodic, antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, relieves
coughing, used for catarrh, sore throat, laryngitis
Muscles/joints: pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, used for muscular
spasm and sprains.
Skin/hair: pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, helps wounds and scars
to heal; good for dry, sensitive skin, especially when there is redness
or itching
Emotions/mind: warming, sedative, soothing, uplifting, relaxing. Used
for anxiety, nervous exhaustion, depression and stress-related conditions.
V.A Worwood recommends it for people who suffer from low self-esteem and
feelings of guilt.
Other: increses the flow of milk.
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Juniper
Latin name: Juniperus communis
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices, tones the stomach
and digestive tract, improves appetite. Used for colic, flatulence, dyspepsia.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the flow of menstrual blood and urine (diuretic),
used for scanty and irregular periods, cramps, cystitis, leucorrhoea, infections of the urinary tract.
Circulatory: stimulates circulation, cleanses the blood, used for varicose
veins.
Respiratory: antiseptic, antispasmodic, used for convulsive coughs, colds,
flu, bronchitis.
Muscles/joints: mild analgesic, antispasmodic, rubefacient, used for
gout, rheumatism, arthritis.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, astringent, stimulates circulation and enlivens
dull skin, regulates the oiliness of oily skin, encourages the elimination
of cellular wastes, helps wounds and scars to heal; used for acne, dermatitis,
psoriasis, eczema, wounds, and cellulite. In hair care, used for oily hair
and hair loss.
Emotions/mind: sedative, strengthening, tonic, used for anxiety, nervous
tension, nervous exhaustion, and stress-related conditions. It is said to
help those suffering from low self-esteem.
Other: causes sweating. Aphrodisiac.
Caution: not to be used in pregnancy and by those suffering from kidney
diseases.
Lavender, true
Latin name: Lavandula officinalis
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile , aids
digestion, increases intestinal mobility. Used to treat dyspepsia, flatulence,
colic, nausea, diarrhea.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic) and menstrual
blood , restores hormonal balance, reduces cramps. Used to treat infections,
leucorrhoea and cystitis. Helps in childbirth.
Circulation: lowers blood pressure, used for hypertension; tones and
soothes the heart, used for palpitations, tachycardia and arrhythmia.
Muscles/joints: reduces muscular tension, relieves pain, used to treat
muscular aches, rheumatism, lumbago, sprains.
Respiratory: antiseptic, antispasmodic. Used for throat infections, flu,
bronchitis, catarrh, whooping cough, asthma, sinus congestion, laryngitis,
tonsillitis.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, controls the production of sebum, stimulates circulation in the skin. Assists in the healing of wounds (aids in the formation of scar tissue) and helps to rejuvenate the skin. Used to treat acne, bruises, cuts, burns, sunburn, inflammation (even though it is not really anti-inflammatory), psoriasis, sores, wrinkles. It has proved an effective remedy for alopecia areata. When used on inflamed areas, it should be strongly diluted, as in higher concentrations it would stimulate circulation. It is also best to blend it with chamomile. It regulates the oil secretions of the scalp and helps repair damaged or overprocessed hair.
Emotions/mind: calming, refreshing and relaxing, it is used to treat
depression, insomnia, headache, nervous exhaustion, restlessness, moodiness.
Very useful in hysterical conditions, when there is constant change from
one extreme to another, for instance manic depression. Clears the head,
increases mental alertness. Helpful in the treatment of addictions.
Other: used to treat insect bites and nettle stings. Repels moths.
Caution: photosensitization - extremely rare.
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Lemon oil
Latin name: Citrus limon
Digestive:stimulates the production of gastric juices , relaxes the muscles
of the digestive tract, relieves stomach upsets, used for dyspepsia, heartburn,
constipation (laxative), diarrhoea. Tones the liver.
Genito/urinary: increases the production of urine (diuretic), tones the
kidneys.
Respiratory: antiseptic, antispasmodic, used for asthma, bronchitis,
catarrh, throat infections.
Circulation: tones the heart, improves circulation, lowers blood pressure
(used for hypertension). Lowers the level of blood sugar and helps to remove
toxins from the blood.
Muscles/joints: used for arthritis and rheumatism.
Skin/hair: stops bleeding (used for cuts and wounds, nosebleeds and bleeding
gums) and assists in the formation of scar tissue. Antiseptic, astringent,
controls the production of sebum, used for oily skin , oily dandruff and
acne. Revitalizes the skin by improving circulation and encouraging the
elimination of wastes (used for cellulite); gently exfoliates and enlivens
the complexion. With long application reduces broken capillaries and varicose
veins, softens scar tissue on scars and corns. It is also said to strengthen
brittle nails.
Emotions/mind: cooling, refreshing and uplifting. Clears the head, improves
concentration and memory. Helps to combat depression, bitterness, irrational
fears, mental blocks.
Other: enhances immunity by stimulating the production of white blood
cells. Combats fever. Causes sweating.
Caution: photosensitizing. Might cause dermal irritation in sensitive
individuals.
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Marjoram, sweet
Latin name: Origanum majorana
Digestive: Stimulates the production of gastric juices , tones the stomach,
aids digestion, improves appetite. Used for colic, constipation, dyspepsia,
flatulence.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic) and menstrual
blood . Used for difficult menstruation, lack of menstruation, cramps, leucorrhoea.
Circulatory: lowers blood pressure, dilates the blood vessels, used for
hypertension.
Respiratory: antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, used for coughing, colds,
bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma.
Muscles/joints: analgesic, antispasmodic, used for muscular aches and
stiffness, sprains, rheumatism, arthritis, lumbago.
General: causes sweating. Anti-aphrodisiac.
Skin/hair: pain-relieving, antiseptic, helps wounds to heal, used for
chillblains, cuts, bruises.
Emotions/mind: comforting, soothing, strengthening. Clears the head,
strengthens the nervous system (nervine); used for insomnia, headaches,
stress.
Caution: not to be used in pregnancy.
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Myrrh
Latin name: Commiphora myrrha
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices, tones the digestive
tract. Used to treat diarrhoea, flatulence, dyspepsia, loss of appetite.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of menstrual blood .Used to
treat genital infections, leucorrhoea, thrush, scanty periods.
Circulation: used for haemorrhoids.
Muscles/joints: used to treat arthritis.
Respiratory: helps to expel mucus, strengthens the lungs. Used for flu,
catarrh, bronchitis, asthma.
Immune system: strengthens by stimulating the production of white blood
cells.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, astringent, reduces inflammation, improves circulation, stimulates the regeneration of of skin cells, assists in the healing of wounds. Used to treat eczema, wounds, wrinkles. Very good for mature complexions or chapped and cracked skin.
Emotions/mind: cooling, calming, strengthening, increases mental clarity
and focus, helps to combat apathy.
Other: used for mouth ulcers and gum infections.
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Orange oil (bitter and sweet)
Latin name: Citrus aurantium var. amara (bitter orange), Citrus sinensis
(sweet orange)
Digestive:stimulates the production of gastric juices , aids digestion,
improves appetite, used for dyspepsia, constipation, spasms. Increases the
flow of bile.
Genito/urinary: increases the production of urine (diuretic). Because
it diminishes water retention, orange is helpful in the treatment of PMS.
Circulatory: used for palpitations.
Respiratory: used for bronchitis and flu.
Skin/hair: balances the production of sebum, promotes the production
of collagen, reduces puffiness, stimulates circulation to the skin and softens
it. By increasing perspiration, encourages the release of toxins (helpful
for acne). Increases the circulation of lymphatic fluids, diminishes water
retention, used for cellulite and obesity. Also used for mouth ulcers, gingivitis, psoriasis, dermatitis.
Emotions/mind: a warm, uplifting, light-hearted oil. Balances and revitalizes, dispels gloom, fights depression and banishes apathy. Said to awaken creativity, promote self awareness and ease the fear of the unknown.
Other: improves immunity, aids in the absorption of vitamin C, relieves
some symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Caution: photosensitizing (bitter orange and distilled sweet orange;
Lawless claims that expressed sweet orange oil is not). Limonene, one of
the major constituents, has been reported to cause contact dermatitis in
some individuals.
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Palmarosa
Latin name: Cymbopogon martinii var. martinii
Digestive: antiseptic, stimulates and aids digestion, improves appetite,
restores healthy intestinal flora; used for anorexia, digestive atonia and
intestinal infections
Circulatory: stimulates circulation.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, moisturizes the skin, stimulates the regeneration
of skin cells, regulates the production of sebum, soothes inflammation,
discourages wrinkles, helps wounds and sores to heal. According to Roberta
Wilson, "with regular application, it can fade old acne scars". Used for dermatitis, minor skin infections, scars, broken capillaries.
Emotions/mind: soothes nervous exhaustion, relieves stress. Calms and
uplifts the emotions while refreshing the mind and clarifying thoughts.
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Patchouli
Latin name: Pogostemon cablin
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices , aids digestion.
Some authorities mention its appetite-suppressing properties, suggesting
that it can be useful for dieters.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic), thus diminishing water retention, one of the major causes of discomfort associated with PMS.
Skin/hair: anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, used for acne,
dermatitis, eczema, fungal infections. Encourages the regeneration of skin
cells, speeds up the healing of wounds and sores, helps to fade scars. Tightens
and tones the skin (thus it can prevent sagging after weight loss); used
for wrinkles and cellulite. Cools and calms sunburn, soothes rough and cracked
skin. Controls the production of sebum, used for dandruff and seborrhea.
Emotions/mind: diminishes depression, fights anxiety and nervous exhaustion.
Calms, clears the mind, improves concentration. Sedative in small doses,
stimulating in larger quantities.
Other: deodorising. Aphrodisiac. Febrifuge.
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Peppermint
Latin name: Mentha piperita
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile, relaxes
the digestive muscles, tones the stomach, improves appetite, used for colic,
cramp, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea (also caused by sea or travel sickness),
indigestion, diarrhoea, stomach pains. Helps to break up gallstones.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of menstrual blood , used for
dysmenorrhoea. Relaxing, pain-relieving, useful for menstrual cramps.
Circulatory: causes narrowing of blood vessels, raises blood pressure
(used for hypotension).
Respiratory: antispasmodic, antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, used for
asthma, coughing, cattarh, bronchitis, sinusitis, flu.Clears sinuses and
can improve breathing.
Muscles/joints: relaxing, pain-relieving, used for muscular pains, sprains
and neuralgia.
Skin/hair: anti-inflammatory (one of the best), pain-relieving, antiseptic,
astringent, relieves itching, used for acne, dermatitis. (For itching it
should be used in very small concentration - less than 1 %) Stimulates circulation and can enliven dull, congested skin. Used in the treatment of broken capillaries and varicose veins.
Emotions/mind: clears the head, increases alertness, strengthens the
nervous system , used for fainting, headache, mental fatigue, migraine,
stress. Dissipates anger.
General: due to its pain-relieving properties used for toothache (one
of the strongest analgesics among the essential oils). Causes sweating,
combats fever
Cautions: in higher concentrations possible sensitization (because of
menthol content).
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Pine, Scotch
Latin name: Pinus sylvestris
Digestive: stimulates the flow of bile, cleanses and tones the liver.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic), cleanses
the kidneys, fights infection in the genito-urinary area.
Circulatory: stimulates circulation, raises blood pressure (used for
hypotension).
Respiratory: fights infection, helps to expel mucus, clears the sinuses,
used for asthma, bronchitis, cattarh, coughs, laryngitis, sinusitis, sore
throat.
Muscles/joints: relieves muscle aches and pains, combats stiffness in
the joints, used for arthritis, gout, rheumatism, sciatica.
Skin/hair: stimulates circulation and encourages the elimination of toxins,
which makes it useful in the treatment of acne and cellulite, as well as
a general tonic for dull skin. Soothes itching and inflammation. Used to
treat eczema, psoriasis, cuts and sores.
Emotions/mind: refreshing, revitalizing, strengthening, used to combat
fatigue and nervous exhaustion.
Other: relieves nerve pain, used for neuralgia. Reduces excessive perspiration. Revitalizing, useful in convalescence.
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Rose, Damask and Cabbage
Latin name: Rosa damascena and Rosa centifolia
Digestive: improves and regulates appetite, aids digestion, helps to
relieve constipation, tones the stomach, liver and spleen, stimulates the
flow of bile; used to treat liver congestion, cholecystitis, nausea, ulcers.
Its action is cleansing rather than stimulating.
Genito-urinary: gently stimulates the production of menstrual blood ,
tones and cleanses the uterus. Used to treat uterine disorders, leucorrhoea,
irregular menstruation, cramps.
Circulation: improves it, tones the heart and regulates its action, tones
the capillaries, helps to expel toxins from the blood .
Respiratory: used to treat asthma, coughs, hay fever.
Skin/hair:antiseptic, astringent, reduces inflammation, assists in the
healing of wounds, stops bleeding. Used to treat eczema, wrinkles. Especially
good for mature, dry or sensitive skin. Rose water is used on the eyes to
treat conjunctivitis.
Emotions/mind: comforting and harmonizing, combats depression, stress,
insomnia, headaches. Soothes the nerves. V. A Worwood recommends it for
those who are afraid of letting go and afraid of love, as well as those
who are self-destructive.
Other: aphrodisiac.
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Rosemary
Latin name: Rosmarinus officinalis
Digestive: Stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile , aids
digestion, tones the stomach, tones and decongests the liver . Used to treat
dyspepsia, flatulence, diarrhoea, intestinal and gallbladder infections,
stomach pains, colic, liver disorders.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic) and menstrual
blood . Used to treat leucorrhoea. Analgesic, antispasmodic, used for menstrual
cramps
Circulation: stimulates it, raises blood pressure, tones, warms and stimulates the heart, normalizes cholesterol levels. Used to treat arteriosclerosis, palpitations, hypotension.
Muscles/joints: relieves muscular pains and reduces swelling, used to
treat rheumatism, arthritis, muscular spasms, sprains.
Respiratory: antispasmodic, antiseptic, expectorant, mucolytic, used
to treat asthma, coughing, bronchitis, sinusitis, whooping cough.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, gently pain-relieving, assists in the healing
of wounds and scars. Regulates oil secretions, stimulates circulation, encourages the elimination of cellular wastes, assists in the drainage of lymphatic fluid; improves dull-looking skin, used to treat acne, dermatitis, varicose veins, cellulite. Stimulates the scalp, promotes hair growth, used for dandruff and seborrhea.
Emotions/mind: stimulates the adrenal cortex, used for nervous and emotional
exhaustion, apathy, depression and stress. Clears the head, improves memory
and concentration, reduces mental fatigue, combats headaches.
Other: pain-relieving and anti-oxidant. Nerve stimulant, used when there
is loss of nerve function. Excellent for ear infections (external massage),
especially when blended with lavender.
Caution: best avoided in the first months of pregnancy or when there
is hypotension.
Sandalwood
Latin name: Santalum album
Digestive: Stimulates the production of gastric juices, relaxes the digestive muscles. Used to treat diarrhoea, nausea, colic, gastritis.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic). Antiseptic,
used to treat genito-urinary infections. especially chronic ones. Used to
treat gonorrhoea; it is more of a male remedy, but can be also used for
leucorrhoea.
Muscles/joints: relaxes the muscles.
Respiratory: antispasmodic, antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, used to
treat bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis, sore throat.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, mildly pain-relieving,
stimulates cellular regeneration and assists in the healing of wounds and
scars. Used to treat acne and wrinkles. Moisturizing, perfect for dry skin
(but can be used for all skin types).
Emotions/mind: sedative and tonic, used for nervous tension, stress,
anxiety, and depression. Subdues agression and irritability, promotes compassion
and openness, clears thought processes, fosters awareness.
Other: aphrodisiac. Used for earaches.
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Tea tree
Latin name: Melaleuca alternifolia
Digestive: antiseptic. Used for intestinal infections and diarrhoea (when
caused by them).
Genito-urinary: antiseptic. Used for thrush, vaginitis, cystitis, pruritis,
leucorrhoea, fungal infections in the area
Respiratory: antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, used to treat colds, sore
throat, bronchitis, asthma.
Immune system: stimulates.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, assists in the healing of wounds
and scars. Shirley Price claims that as an antiseptic tea tree oil is 12
times as strong as carbolic acid (!). Used to treat acne, blisters, burns,
sunburn, cold sores , rashes, warts, fungal infections (including those
of the fingernails) and wounds. One of the few oils that can be used directly
on the skin, without diluting. Useful in oral hygiene, relieves gingivitis,
mouth ulcers, periodontal disease and toothaches.
Caution: The International Society of Professional Aromatherapists recently
suggested that the application of tea tree oil (often found in shampoos
and lotions) might cause adverse reactions in dogs. Other studies indicate
possibility of similar reaction in cats and horses.
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Thyme
Latin name: Thymus vulgaris
Digestive: stimulates the production of gastric juices , cleanses the
gastro-intestinal area. Used to treat diarrhoea (when caused by an infection),
dyspepsia, colic, flatulence.
Genito-urinary: stimulates the production of urine (diuretic) and menstrual
blood . Antiseptic, used to treat genito-urinary infections, cystitis, urethritis.
Circulation: stimulates, raises blood pressure, used for hypotension.
Cleanses the blood.
Muscles/joints: relaxing and pain-relieving, used for arthritis, muscular
aches, sprains, rheumatism.
Respiratory: antispasmodic, antiseptic, helps to expel mucus, used to
treat asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis, sinusitis, sore throat,
tonsilitis.
Immune system: strengthens.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, astringent, assists in the healing of wounds and
scars, kills fungi, combats putrefaction. Used to treat acne, bruises, burns,
cuts, dermatitis, cellulite, eczema, insect bites, gum infections.
Emotions/mind: invigorating, used for headaches, mental and physical
exhaustion, stress, insomnia, depression; clears the head and improves memory.
"Helps to revive and strengthen both body and mind" (Culpeper,
"Complete Herbal").
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Vetivert
Latin name: Vetiveria zizanoides
Genito/urinary: tones the reproductive organs and helps balance female
hormones.
Circulatory: cleanses the blood , stimulates circulation and the production
of red blood cells.
Muscles/joints: relieves muscular aches and pains, decreases stiffnes,
helpful in arthritis, rheumatism, used for sprains.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, balances the production of sebum, helps to moisturize
the skin, soothes irritation and inflammation, helps wounds and cuts to
heal. When used regularly during pregnancy, reportedly prevents stretch
marks.
Emotions/mind: strengthens the nervous system , reduces anxiety, stress,
tension, depression. Has a balancing effect, helps to stabilize energy.
Deeply relaxing and calming, useful for insomnia . Helps to concentrate,
organize scattered thoughts and overcome intellectual fatigue.
General: a natural deodorant.
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Ylang-ylang
Latin name: Cananga odorata var. genuina
Genito-urinary tract: relaxing and soothing, helpful in treating menstrual
cramps and PMS.
Circulation: regulates it, lowers blood pressure, tones the heart. Used
for hypertension, tachycardia and palpitations.
Skin/hair: antiseptic, soothing, helps to control the production of sebum,
smooths the skin and stimulates new cell growth. Used to treat oily and
irritated skin, acne, dandruff. eczema, wrinkles. Stimulates hair growth.
Emotions/mind: euphoric, sensual and sedative, combats depression, stress,
nervous tension, insomnia, irritability. According to V. A. Worwood, helps
to combat shyness and emotional guilt.
Other: aphrodisiac, used for impotence and frigidity.
Caution: due to its strong scent, should be used in moderation, or else
it might cause headache or nausea.
