Essential Oils

Essential oils are thought to be the lifeforce or soul of the plant. The oils contain all of the special properties of the plant including the characteristic fragrance and therapeutic effects. Technically, EO's are highly concentrated volatile extracts retrieved from aromatic herbs, flowers, seeds, and trees through the distillation process. Essential oils contain hormone-like peroperties, vitamins, minerals and natural antiseptics that can aid in balancing and healing. Essential oils are different from vegetable oils such olive, almond, and grapeseed, as they do not contain fatty substances.

Persons with epilepsy and sensitive skin as well as women who are pregnant should use caution before using Essential Oils. We highly recommend referencing the following books published by Jeanne Rose:The Aromatherapy Book: Allpications & Inhalations and 375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols.

Below is a list of just some of the Essential Oils we use in our products. We always use therapeutic-grade unadulterated EO's.

It has a spicy, warm, licorice-like aroma similar to anise seed, but slightly stronger. Fishermen use it to mask human scent while fishing as it is a natural deodorant. It is well known for its effect on the digestive system and may have a good effect on asthma and breathing difficulties. Anise has estrogenlike properties, is an emmenagogue, aids childbirth, increases milk secretion, and is antispasmodic for nerves and muscles. Anise is indicated for lack of menstruation, menopause, colitis, and poor breathing due to nerves. It is also rumored to promote "sweet dreams".

Bay Laurel
Laurus Nobilus

Its aroma is spicy, somewhat camphoraceous and herbaceous. It is indicated for colds, virus infections and mouth ulcers. Bay can be used externally for massage in muscular aches and pains, including arthritis. It can be inhaled in a blend for the respiratory system and is an expectorant. Because of the high amount of phenols, this essential oil is a good antiseptic for the respiratory system. It expels wind and has a tonic effect on the liver and kidneys. Bay laurel may be used for sprains and bruises. It is also useful as a scalp and hair tonic, recommended for hair loss, greasy hair or flaky scalp.

Its aroma is an uplifting, spicy, sweet scent; like orange and lemons with floral overtones. Inhaled, it relaxes the nervous system and acts as a digestive aid. Also used as an expectorant, gargle for a sore throat, inhaled for anxiety and depression, used for a variety of skin problems. It may be used as an inhalation for respiratory tract infections such as tonsilitis and bronchitis. It is a valuable antiseptic for the urinary tract and infections and inflammation such as cystitis. Used in douches and sitz baths, bergamot oil has proved successful in gonococcal infections, leucorrhoea, vaginal prurities and urinary infections. Its antiseptic properties make it ideal for treating wounds, herpes, acne and oily skin conditions. Bergamot imparts that unusual flavor to Earl Grey tea.

Leaf oil is in great use commercially in foods, mouth preparations, soaps and toiletries. Warm and spicy aroma; it's a rich, yellow oil. Used as an insecticide, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, antibacterial, aphrodisiac and antifungal particularly against Candida and Aspergillis. Indicated for tooth care, blends for vaginitis, impotence in men, respiratory blends for the lungs. Eases colds and breathing difficulties. As an inhalation, it is excellent for exhaustion, feelings of depression and weakness. It is a very effective antiseptic, digestive and anti-rheumatic and is regarded as one of the strongest antiseptic oils. Useful for preventing infectious and contagious diseases. Traditionally used in clearing warts, the leaf oil is relatively non-toxic. Very powerful, should be used with extreme care, could be a skin irritant for certain persons.

Its scent is fruity, floral, herbaceous, nutty and heavy. This is a relaxing, warming oil which eases nervous tension. Known as a hormone balancer, it may regulate menstrual periods. Its well known for its euphoric action and is an extremely valuable oil for treating nervousness, fear, paranoia and depression. Its antispasmodic and emmenagogue properties make it useful for helping with uterine problems such as easing PMS, regulating menstruation and easing painful cramps in the lower back. Also encourages labor, enabling the expectant mother to relax and eases post-natal depression. Studies have found Clary Sage to be beneficial for its analgesic and relaxing effects and its ability to accelerate labor. It inhibits prolactin which tends to dry up breast milk. Clarysage is useful during menopause and also soothes digestive problems. Avoid during pregnancy.

Clove bud oil has a sweet, rich, warm, spicy and penetrating aroma with a fruity top note and a woody base note. Since it can be highly irritant to the skin, it must be diluted rather than used neat or straight. Clove bud oil lifts depression and is recommended as an inhalation when feeling weak and lethargic. It's excellent as an antiseptic because of the high proportion of eugenol. It helps stimulate digestion, restores appetite and relieves flatulence. The dental value of cloves is well know, the oil has been traditionally used to relieve toothaches. Clove oil is used to treat infectious wounds, skin sores and leg ulcers. Beneficial to the digestive system, effective against diarrhea, vomiting and spasms. Clove is also useful in treating toothache, rheumatism, arthritis and mouth sores.

Cypress has a woody and slightly spicy aroma. It is anti-infectious, spasmolytic and a venous decongestant. It is indicated for colitis or infections of the gut, to decongest the prostate and to stimulate pancreas and has primary use in the respiratory and circulatory systems. This is a warming, stimulating and uplifting oil and when inhaled just before bedtime can be soothing and relaxing. It has a soothing effect on anger and is Useful after the loss of loved ones or endings of relationships. It is inhaled for strength and comfort. As with many of the evergreen oils, it is useful to reduce fluid retention and cellulite and for aching muscles and arthritis pain. It also reduces sweaty palms or feet. Its wonderful effect on varicose veins is well known (diluted in a carrier oil and massaged lightly into the legs every day). A few drops of this oil on a cotton ball placed under the pillow can help stop coughing. Cypress regulates the menstrual cycle, promotes and increases periods in conditions associated with dysmenorrhoea. It helps relieve painful periods and reduces abnormally heavy blood loss, particularly when it happens in the early stages of menopause.

Its scent is camphorous with a woody sweet undertone. Some of this oil's properties are expectorant, decongestant, insecticide, analgesic, antirheumatic and antiseptic. Inhibits proliferation of the cold virus. It is one of the most valuable oils for treating the respiratory system. According to research, the spraying of a 2% emulsion containing eucalyptus oil kills off 70% of local, airborne staphylococci. Helps with cystitis. Clears up sinus congestion.Deters mosquitoes and other insects. Cools emotions, aids concentration. Effective in all types of fever, lowers the temperature, makes breathing easier, loosens phlegm.

 Sweet, heavy aroma, somewhat like rose with a minty overtone. Among its properties are analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, cicatrisant, diuretic and insecticide. It calms anxiety, lifts the spirit, and assists with depression. Useful for all conditions of the woman's reproductive system as an inhalant and massage application. It is beneficial for PMS, assisting with breast inflammation, and may assist with menopausal problems such as vaginal dryness and heavy periods. It also helps clear the body of toxins and this may be helpful with addictions. Stimulates the lymphatic system which keeps infection at bay. Eases neuralgia. Indicated for all problems of the nervous system such as anxiety and nervous fatigue. The oil is a diuretic and a lymphatic stimulant which can help relieve congestion, fluid retention and swollen ankles. Useful for all skin conditions as it balances sebum. Good for oily skin. It's an excellent remedy for burns, wounds and ulcers.

 Spicy, woody, warm, with a hint of lemon and pepper. It is antiseptic, analgesic, expectorant, laxative, and aphrodisiac. It aids in memory and cheering up. Eases sore throats. Settles the digestive system, effective against nausea, hangovers, jet lag, sea and travel sickness. Ginger relieves cramps, rheumatic pains and muscle spasms. It is also a valuable remedy in cases of impotence.

 Lavender's aroma is floral, herbaceous, light with woody undertones. Among its many properties, it's known to be analgesic, antidepressant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericide, cicatrizant, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, fungicide, sedative. Lavender soothes the spirit, relieves anger, and is valuable in manic-depressive cases. It's sedative action on the heart, assists in bringing down high blood pressure, relieving insomnia, muscular spasms and rheumatic pains. A must have in case of minor burns and sunburn. Useful with menstrual problems, bronchitis and headaches, helps lower blood pressure. Useful in a diffuser in the delivery room. May be useful in nausea, vomiting and colic. Keeps insects at bay and purifies the air. Promotes growth of new skin cells, great healing effect on burns and sunburn, acne, psoriasis, boils, fungal growths, and scarring. Lavender is one of the safest essential oils to use with children and the elderly.

Lemon
Citrus Limon

Clean, citrus, sharp citrus aroma. Among its many properties are antacid, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, astringent, bactericide, cicatrizant, diuretic, emollient, insecticide, and laxative. Lemon helps to clear thoughts, helps with concentration, and lift the spirits. It is tonic to the circulatory system, liquefies the blood and aids flow, thereby easing pressure on varicose veins. It is used to bring down high blood pressure and counteracts acidity in the body, making the stomach more alkaline. Lemon eases painful cold sores and herpes. It may be helpful with constipation and cellulite.

 Sweet, herbaceous, smoky and lemony aroma. It is a tonic, digestive and vasodilator with anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. Lemongrass stimulates the mind, lifts the spirit, and clears the head. Stimulates appetite and is helpful with colic and indigestion. Great for aching muscles and relieves tired legs. It is excellent in skincare preparations, for athlete's foot, excessive sweating, for scabies, as an insect repellent, and to tone all the tissues.

Lime
Citrus Medica

Its aroma is sharp, citrus, tart and sweet with some spice. It is antiseptic, antiviral, astringent, disinfectant, insecticide, restorative. Very stimulating in cases of apathy, depression and anxiety. Eases coughs and chest congestion. Encourages appetite and may assist in anorexia. Lime assists in treating alcoholism because of its disinfecting and detoxifying properties.

Sweet Orange essential oil has a sweet citrus fragrance and is orange in color. It is an anti-depressant and is very calming. It refreshes the air and dissipates cooking odors. It is also a good grease cutter and is used in many household cleaners. As with all cold pressed citrus essential oils, there's a chance of photo toxicity on skin exposed to the sun. It is also used to treat obesity, water retention, bronchitis ,constipation, colds, and flu.

 A strong, earthy, smoky, spicy and musky scent. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, deodorant, fungicide and insecticide. Due to its strong astringent and cicatrisant properties, may be helpful for loose skin, especially after dieting, used in many anti-wrinkle products. Its diuretic properties are useful in cases of fluid retention and cellulite. Well known to increase libido and is considered an aphrodisiac. Relieves effects from insect bites, protects clothes from moths. It is known as a tissue regenerator which helps stimulate regrowth of skin cells and the forming of scar tissue. Heals rough, cracked skin. Useful for treating acne, eczema, fungal infections and scalp disorders including dandruff. Inhaled, it can help to relieve confusion. Patchouli is commonly used in the perfume industry.

 A strongly piercing, refreshing, minty, very herbaceous aroma. Peppermint is the following: an analgesic, an antispasmodic, an anesthetic, a decongestant,an emmenagogue, an expectorant, a febrifuge (cooling), an insecticide and a stimulant. It should be kept away from eyes and sensitive areas as it is likely to irritate skin and mucous membranes. It is best avoided by pregnant women and nursing mothers as it may discourage the flow of milk .It helps clear the head and refresh the spirit thereforre recommended for people who are unable to concentrate or who have mental fatigue. It is said to relieve states of anger, hysteria and nervous trembling, and is excellent for depression. On the body, it has a dual action: cooling when hot and warming when cold. As a remedy for colds, it halts mucous and fevers and encourages perspiration. It is extremely important for its effect on the digestive system (1 drop on a sugar cube or on a teaspoon of honey). Has a slightly anesthetic effect on stomach muscles. It is good for travel sickness, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, colic, nausea and to keep drivers alert while on the road. Its cooling and pain relieving action seems to ease headaches, migraines and toothaches. Used in liniments for the relief of muscle pain, lumbago, bruises, joint pain and insect bites. Great for getting rid of insects and vermin.

 It has a strong, dry-balsamic, turpentine like odor. It is antiseptic, bactericidal, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, and insecticidal. Pine is known to refresh a tired mind and relieve mental fatigue. It promotes strength and is invigorating. It is a powerful antiseptic and helpful in cases of bronchitis, laryngitis and influenza. It has a beneficial effect on respiratory problems due to its expectorant properties. it is effective with cystitis and prostate problems and is known as a general kidney cleanser. Its warming properties may relieve rheumatism, gout and arthritis, as it is be beneficial for muscular pain and stiffness . It is also a wonderful household cleaner and deodorizer.

  A strong, clear, penetrating, camphoraceous and herbaceous aroma. It is analgesic, antidepressant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, cicatrisant, digestive, diuretic, hypertensive and rubefacient. Rosemary is not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid in pregnancy since it is an emmenagogue. Rosemary clears the head, aids memory, and is good for mental strain. It helps ease gout and tired, overworked muscles, tired or weak legs and circulatory problems of the extremities. Since it stimulates blood circulation, it is a good remedy for low blood pressure and cold feet. It's an excellent tonic for the liver and the gall bladder. It helps lower high blood sugar. Used in shampoo and hair treatments, it helps stimulate blood circulation to the scalp, thus being beneficial for promoting hair growth.

 Similar to peppermint, only a slightly sweeter aroma. Spearment is antispasmodic, emmenagogue, insecticide, parturient and stimulant. It is indicated for all sorts of respiratory problems such as sinusitis, and chronic bronchitis. Stimulates a tired mind. It is helpful with digestive problems such as vomiting , flatulence, constipation and diarrhea. It relaxes stomach muscles, relieves hiccups and nausea. It may help with travel sickness. Good oil to use externally on children with digestive problems such as nausea, constipation and diarrhea. It is possibly an irritant on sensitive skin and the eyes.

A fresh and antiseptic, rather pungent aroma. This is a "must have" essential oil for every medicine cabinet. It is antibiotic, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericide, cicatrizant, expectorant, fungicide, insecticide and sudorific. Although it may cause irritation on sensitive areas of skin, along with Lavender it is just about the only oil that is recommended to be used "neat" or straight from the bottle without dilution. Tea tree has extensive applications in medicine and veterinary medicine (rarely, if ever, used on cats or birds, use caution). Its most important usage is to help the immune system fight off infectious diseases. It activates the white corpuscles to form a defense against invading organisms and helps to shorten the duration of illness.

It is indicated for influenza, cold sores, and gingivitis. A series of massage with this oil before surgery will help to fortify the body. Its strong antiviral and germicidal properties are useful in repeated infections. Its fungicidal properties help clear vaginal thrush and is of value with genital infections generally. Alleviates urinary tract problems such as cystitis and gives relief to genital and anal itching as well as general itching from chicken pox to rashes caused by insect bites. It is said to give some protection against x-ray therapy in breast cancer. It helps to ease otiti and reduces pus in infected wounds. It clears blemishes caused by chicken pox and shingles and is useful with minor burns, sores, sunburn, ringworm, warts, tinea, herpes and athletes foot. It's also helpful with dry conditions of the scalp such as dandruff.

A rather sweet and strongly herbal fragrance. It is well known as being antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, cardiac, cicatrizant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant and insecticide. This is a very potent oil, one of the strongest antiseptics and toxicity is possible with prolonged use.

It is to be avoided in cases of high blood pressure nor in pregnancy.

Speeds delivery in childbirth and expelling the afterbirth, could cause miscarriage. It activates brain cells, thereby aiding memory and concentration. It revives feelings of exhaustion and combats depression. It fortifies the lungs when treating colds, coughs and sore throats particularly tonsillitis, laryngitis and the like. Wild Thyme is warming and helps to eliminate phlegm. It helps the body fight disease and raises low blood pressure. Since its stimulating effect facilitates the removal of uric acid it may be recommended for rheumatism, gout and arthritis. It may also stop nosebleeds. It helps with sluggish digestion and wind. It is a tonic for the scalp and may be effective with dandruff and hair loss.

A very refreshing aroma, woody and wintergreen, almost identical to Birch. Use with caution, as this EO is approximately 99% salicylate, the main ingredient in aspirin (irritant, sensitizing). Methyl salicylate has been incorporated into liniments and ointments for muscular skeletal problems. Use tiny amounts in muscle/joint blends for a patch test to eliminate any reactions. Not recommended for usage in persons who take aspirin regularly or who are allergic to aspirin.

A sweet, floral, heavy aroma. It relaxes and arouses; in Europe, therapists use this oil for sexual dysfunction. It eases frigidity and impotence. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, and sedative. Excessive use may lead to headaches and nausea. It could possibly irritate sensitive skins and is indicated against use on inflammatory skin conditions and dermatitis. Ylang Ylang eases feelings of anger, anxiety, shock, panic and fear. It is useful with rapid breathing and heartbeat; its sedative properties could help bring down high blood pressure. Has a tonic and stimulating effect on the scalp promoting a more luxurious hair growth.