Tag: essential oil

Essential Oils

Chamomile-German Essential Oil (Matricaria chamomilla)

Sources: Europe Extraction: Steam distilled Note: Middle Scent: herbal, strong, sweet, slightly fruity Key Points: Calming and promotes sleep Eases headaches and tension Anti-inflammatory Properties: anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immunostimulant, antispasmodic, bactericidal, sedative Uses:  insomnia, stress, tension, nausea, headaches, anxiety, hyperactivity Cautions:  Avoid if pregnant. May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions …
Essential Oils

Disposing of Essential Oils

The chemical composition of essential oils can change over time.  This can affect both their aroma and their therapeutic value. When used topically, this can even affect safety. An oxidized oil is much more likely to be a skin allergen. If you are using essential oils primarily for their scent, old …
Essential Oils

Ylang Ylang essential oil (Cananga odorata)

Sources:  Madagascar, Indonesia, Phillipines Extraction: Steam distilled Note: Middle, Base Scent: Sweet, floral Key points: Use “Extra” or “Complete” for aromatherapy Useful for depression, stress and anxiety Too much can cause headaches, and can be euphoric Properties:  antidepressant, antiseptic, sedative, aphrodisiac, antibacterial, expectorant Uses: Aphrodisiac, depression, stress, anxiety, insomnia, balances …
Essential Oils

Vetiver essential oil (Vetiveria ziznoides)

Sources: Indonesia, Caribbean Islands, Sri Lanka Extraction: Steam distilled Note: Base Scent: Earthy, woody, musky Key points:  Insomnia Thick, not suitable for nebulizers Fixative, good in a blend Properties: analgesic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antispasmodic, sedative, stimulant Uses:  insomnia, anxiety, depression, stress, insect repellant Cautions:  Generally thought to be safe …
Essential Oils

Thyme essential oil (Thymus vulgaris)

Sources:  Mediterranean Europe and Africa Extraction: Steam distilled Note: Middle Scent: strong, sweet, herbal Key points:   Good antiseptic Useful for respiratory diseases Properties:  antiseptic, anti-bacterial, antispasmodic, expectorant, insecticide, stimulant Uses:  stimulate immune system, disinfectant, colds, flu, sinusitis, coughs , increase mental clarity Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy. Do …
Essential Oils

Pine essential oil (Pinus sylvestris)

Sources: US, Europe Extraction: Steam distilled Note: Middle Scent: Fresh, balsamic, woody, forest Key points:  Useful for colds and sinusitis May help hangovers Natural air freshener Properties:  expectorant, analgesic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, disinfectant, insecticide, stimulant Uses: Coughs, colds, sinus infections, hangovers, mental fatigue, air freshener, flu Cautions: Possible skin …
Essential Oils

Ravensara essential oil (Ravensara aromatica)

Sources: Madagascar Extraction: Steam distilled Note: Top Scent: Camphor, herbal Key Points: Good for viral diseases Do not confuse with Ravintsara Properties:  expectorant, antiviral, antibacterial, analgesic, antiseptic Uses: treat viral diseases, flu, immune stimulant, coughs, colds, fatigue Safety: Do not use during pregnancy.  Limited safety data available.