Aromatherapy and Essential Oils
Aromatherapy Origins and Background
Introduction
Aromatherapy is derived from two words. Aroma-
meaning fragrance or smell and Therapy- meaning treatment.
Aromatherapy was used by the most ancient civilizations and is
reputed to be at least 6000 years old. It is widely thought that
Aromatherapy began in Egypt. A medical papyri considered to date
back to around 1555 BC contains remedies for all types of illnesses
and the methods of application are similar to the ones used in
Aromatherapy and Herbal medicine today.
The Egyptians used a method known as infusion ( this process is
described later on ) to extract the oils from aromatic plants and
incense was probably one of the earliest ways of using aromatics.
Frankincense was burned at sun rise as an offering to the sun god,
Ra and myrrh was offered to the moon. The Egyptians were experts at
embalming using aromatics to help preserve flesh. The Egyptians used
to be massaged with fragrant oils after bathing .
The Greeks continued the use of aromatic oils and used them
medicinally and cosmetically. A Greek physician, Pedacius
Dioscorides, wrote a book about herbal medicine and for at least
1200 years as the Western world's standard medical reference. Many
of the remedies he mentions are still in use today in Aromatherapy.
The Romans took much of their medical knowledge from the Greeks and
went on to use and improve the ability of aromatics with Rome
becoming the bathing capital of the world. After bathing they would
be oiled and massaged. The Romans started to import new aromatic
products from East India and Arabia through the opening up of trade
routes.
During the crusades the knowledge of aromatic oils and perfumes
spread to the Far East and Arabia and it was a physician called
Avicenna who lived from A.D 980 to A.D. 1037 that is understood to
have first used the process known as distillation to distil essence
of rose ,although it probably took many years to perfect the
process. (This process will be described later). The Arabs also
discovered how to distil alcohol around the same time making it
possible to produce perfumes without a heavy oily base.
There is a strong possibility that the ancient Chinese civilizations
were using some form of aromatics at the same time as the Egyptians.
Shen Nung's Herbal book is the oldest surviving medical book in
China which is dated about 2700 B.C. and contains information on
over 300 plants. The Chinese used aromatic herbs and burned aromatic
woods and incense to show respect to God.
Traditional Indian medicine known as ayurveda has been practised for
more than 3000 years and it incorporates aromatic massage as one of
its main aspects.
The invasions of South America by the conquistadores brought about
the discovery of more medicinal plants and aromatic oils as the
Aztecs were well known for their plant remedies and the Spanish were
amazed at the wealth of medicinal plants found in Montezuma's
botanical gardens.
The North American Indians also used aromatic oils and produced
their own herbal remedies.
It wasn't until the 19th century that scientists in Europe and Great
Britain began researching the effects of essential oils on bacteria
in humans.
A French chemist , Rene Maurice Gattefosse, began his research into
the healing powers of essential oils after burning his hand in his
laboratory and immersing in it in lavender oil and being impressed
by how quickly the burn healed. In 1937 he published a book about
the anti-microbial effects of the oils and coined the word
Aromatherapy. He went on to set up a business producing oils for use
in fragrances and cosmetics. Around the same time another Frenchman,
Albert Couvreur, published a book on the medicinal uses of essential
oils.
A French medical doctor , Jean Valnet, discovered Gattefosse's
research and began experimenting with essential oils. Around the
same time, Margaret Maury, a French biochemist developed a unique
method of applying these oils to the skin with massage. Micheline
Arcier, now living in London, studied and worked with Maury and
Valnet and their combined techniques created a form of Aromatherapy
now used all over the world.
Essential oils are very expensive to produce, some more so than
others, due to the labor intensive process and the quantity of the
plant required to produce the oil, Approximately 400kg of thyme
would produce 1kg of essential oil, 1000kg of rose petals to make
1kg of oil , 6 tones of orange blossom to produce 1kg of neroli ,
and 4 million jasmine flowers to produce 1kg of jasmine absolute.
How to use Essential
Oils
Massage .......... This should perhaps carry a warning as
some oils are very sensual...:))
An aromatherapy massage can be relaxing, stimulating, energizing or
sensual depending on the essential oils that you blend together. Add
5 drops of essential oil (or a blend of
essential oils made up to 5 drops) to 10mls of base carrier oil. The
base carrier oils can
also be blended with other carrier oils i.e. Almond with Avocado for
dry skin or Calendula for it's soothing properties. The essential
oils are absorbed into the skin and inhaled inducing a sense of calm
and relaxation. Massage is also beneficial for easing muscular aches
and pains.
For massage the essential oil should be blended with a carrier oil.
The best vegetable carrier oil for use on the skin is Almond oil as
it has a nourishing effect upon the skin. A good guide to the level
of dilution is about 2.5 to 3.0% essential oil, equivalent to 5-6
drops of essential oil for every 10mls of carrier oil. If a blend of
essential oils are being used then the total of the blend of
essential oils should not exceed 3%. The mixture should be well
agitated to ensure even blending of the mixture.
Those with sensitive skin (and for children) should use a
concentration of 1% i.e. 2 drops for every 10ml of carrier oil.
Bath
Essential oils are ideal in the bath. At the end of a busy day fill
the bath with warm water,
add 2 - 6 drops of essential oil; stir the bath water and allow time
to relax in the warm
vapours. Feel the tension just slip away. Essential oils can be
added to a water-soluble
medium that is suitable for the bath or to full fat milk. This will
allow the essential oils to
disperse within the water; this is a good idea for young children or
people with sensitive
skin.
Inhalation
For an invigorating, clearing or relaxing experience add 3 - 4 drops
of essential oil to a
bowl of steaming warm water or an electric facial steamer. Cover
your head with a towel
and breathe deeply over the vapors for a few minutes. Use essential
oils that are helpful in
clearing the head, stimulating the mind or just to relax at the end
of the day.
Using essential oils in inhalations
The use of essential oils in inhalations can have beneficial effects
on respiratory conditions. Several drops of essential oil are added
to a large bowl, boiling water is added and the rising vapors are
inhaled with both the head and the bowl covered with a towel. This
should be continued for about five minutes. Care should be taken
with asthma sufferers and children. During inhalation the eyes
should be kept shut to avoid irritation.
If the oil is spilt: absorb the oil using paper tissues and remove
immediately. Essential oils will mark many surfaces.
If the oil is swallowed: Seek urgent medical attention, do not try
to induce vomiting.
If here is contact with the eyes: Wash the eyes thoroughly with cold
water. Seek medical advice if stinging persists.
If oil is spilt on clothing: remove clothing and wash immediately in
the normal way.
If oil is spilt on skin: wash the skin with soap and water.
Vaporization
Research has shown that our sense of smell is highly developed and
that aromas can have
a profound emotional and physiological effect. Add up to 10 drops of
essential oils to a
diffuser or burner to create a comforting mood or a sensual
atmosphere. Many essential
oils have antiseptic or disinfecting properties for use in the sick
room or as air fresheners
and others enhance concentration when working and or studying.
Using Oils in burners or vaporizers.
This is a very popular use for essential oils. It allows the natural
fragrance of the oil to be released. Essential oils are highly
volatile and burn easily. because of this they should not be placed
near the naked flame and the bowl of the vaporizer should be kept
topped up with water and not allowed to dry out while the candle is
alight.
The usual precautions should be taken with candles in burners, i.e.
Ensure the burner is standing on a non flammable surface, is not
left unattended and is kept away from children and animals.
Use of essential oils in the bathroom.
Between four and six drops of essential oil in a bath can produce a
wonderful fragrance with a very positive effect. Always ensure that
the oil is added to the bath water after the bath has been run and
ensure that the water is agitated thoroughly to ensure that the oil
is fully dispersed. If your skin is especially sensitive you should
dilute the oil with either a vegetable carrier oil or full fat milk
before adding to the bath.
When bathing children use a smaller quantity of oil (1 or 2 drops)
and remember that young children may suck fingers or rub eyes in the
bath so do not leave them unattended.
Essential oils may mark plastic baths so it is essential to ensure
that the oil is properly dispersed and that the bath is wiped down
immediately after use.
Compress
Make up a massage blend with base carrier oil and essential oils.
Gently massage the
affected area with the blend and then place hot or cold pack as
required
About OIls
Carrier oils
Carrier oils used in aromatherapy are of vegetable origin. These vegetable oils
are referred to as fixed oils. The production of fixed vegetable oils is
directly from nuts and seeds.
Cold Pressed Vegetable Oils
Carrier oils should be cold pressed to ensure that the vitamins and therapeutic
fatty acids are not destroyed. In the 'cold' pressing process, excessive heat is
avoided in order to minimise changes to the natural characteristics of the oil.
Traditionally, there are two methods of cold pressing. In one, the raw material
(seeds, nuts or kernels) is simply pressed with a hydraulic press and the oil is
squeezed out. This process is only used for soft oily seeds and plant material
such as olive, sesame and sunflower. Harder nuts or seeds require more force.
The nuts or seeds are placed in a horizontal press with an enormous 'screw'. As
this turns, the oil is squeezed out and drips into a trough below.
Refined Oils
The process of refined oils involves the use of high temperatures and chemicals
that take out and change the natural properties of the vegetable oil.
Macerated Carrier Oils
Macerated carrier oil has additional properties because of the way in which they
are produced. Particular parts of certain plants are chopped up and added to a
selected carrier oil usually sunflower or olive oil. The mix is agitated gently
for a period of time before being placed in a warm place. All of the soluble
compounds present in the plant material (including the essential oil) are
transferred to the carrier oil. The macerated mixture is filtered carefully to
remove all the added plant material.
*Storing Oils
Storage Chemical Degradation of Essential Oils Chemical degradation is the
process by which the quality of the essential oil is reduced over a period of
time. The three main reasons for the degradation of essential oils is: ·
Atmospheric oxygen · Heat · Light When oxygen is introduced to essential oils it
will change the components. This process is known as oxidation and tends to
occur in essential oils rich in terpenes such as lemon and pine. Limonene and
pinene are the major components, which can change through oxidation. Heat and
light will also speed up oxidation so it is important to store essential oils in
dark airtight bottles away from heat and light.
How to Store Essential Oils It is recommended that undiluted essential oils: ·
Should be used within 1 year of opening the bottle · Stored in a cool dark place
preferable in a box · Always buy essential oils in a dark glass bottle and never
in a clear glass bottle The above does not refer to products made with essential
oils within the blend. If essential oils are stored in the correct manner they
should last up to 2 years with the exception of oils that readily degrade. These
oils (citrus oils) should be used within 6 months from purchase or 12 months if
kept cool.
Aromatherapy Production of Essential Oils
There are many methods to extract essential oils from plants. Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts and should not be confused with infused oils, tinctures and infusions which draw only the volatile components from the plant. We have included a recipe for producing infused oils at the end of this page. Essential oils are produced by steam distillation, cold pressing, solvent extraction or hyperbaric extraction. Each extraction method has strengths and weaknesses and the character and quality of the oil can vary depending upon the method used. These methods of extraction are often unsuitable for home use because of the large amounts of plant material needed to extract a small amount of essential oil.
Steam distillation.
By far the most common form of extraction this makes use of the ability of stem and pressure to draw out components from the plant material. The plant material is placed on screens and steam, often superheated at high pressures is passed thorough the material. This has the effect of drawing out the volatile components. This oil bearing steam is then condensed to precipitate out as a mixture of volatile components and distilled water. The mixture is collected in a large flask. The distilled water, being heavier sinks to the bottom of the flask leaving the essential oils at the surface. These can then be drawn off.
Variations of steam distillation use low heat and take a long period to distill a batch of oil. These methods can result in a better quality oil as the larger molecules can be drawn out of the plant material. High temperature methods, favored for modern mass production can produce essential oils more efficiently lowering the cost but some of the bouquet can be lost with this method.
Cold Pressing
this method is commonly used in the production of oils from Citrus rinds such as Lemon, orange, grapefruit, tangerine, bergamot or mandarin. The rinds are chopped, then ground, then pressed to force the essential oil components found in the skin. This cold pressing produces a mixture of water and essential oils. This mixture is then allowed to settle and the essential oils drawn off. A characteristic of oils produced using this method is a tendency to oxidation of the oil if left un refridgerated for more than a year.
Hyperbaric production
This method makes use of high pressures (as much as 22 atmospheres) and the presence of pure carbon dioxide gas. The high pressure causes the CO2 gas to liquefy. In this form the gas has the ability to forma solution with the volatile components of the plant material. The liquid gas is then drained off and de-pressurized, this leaves behind a deposit of pure essential oil. The cost of the equipment needed for this process makes it costly but it is especially suited for the extraction of many of the lighter oils such as jasmine.
Solvent Extraction
This method is suited to light floral oils. A solvent (such as Hexane or ether) is used to dissolve the volatile components. The solvents are then evaporated to leave a thick residue known as an 'Concrete' this can be dissolved in alcohol and the alcohol drawn off to leave an essential oil often known as an 'absolute'. This method is preferred by perfumers who maintain that the essential character of the floral bouquet is retained by this method. For Aromatherapy use oils produced in this way have the disadvantage that some of the solvent will remain within the oil. Oils produced in this way should not be used for internal treatments.
Producing an infusion.
This method produces an infusion rather than an essential oil but it
is suitable for home use. The recipe given is for dried herbs. Fresh
herbs should be left for six to eight hours to allow the water
content to drop. If using fresh materials such as flowers the amount
needed may vary.
Measure the herbs and oil and mix the oil to the herbs in a
stainless steel bowl, about 15gm of dried or 30gm of fresh herbs.
Heat over water bath (a saucepan 1/4 filled with water) also known
as a double boiler, this should be simmering. The bowl should not be
sitting on the bottom of the pot but is floating in the water. Keep
the lid on the oil. Stir occasionally and simmer for 30 minutes. The
oil should not be allowed to overheat. It should not smoke or
bubble. It can burn easily and will develop an acrid smell if it
overheats. Strain through four layers of butter muslin or some other
very fine non-metal strainer. Strain twice if necessary as it is
important to remove all herbs to prevent the oil spoiling
Aromatherapy A guide to using essential oils
Essential oils when properly used have a natural, balancing action
on the body. The oils do produce a definite Physiological effect and
should be used with respect.
Storing essential oils
Essential oils should be stored in a cool, dark place. Many oils are
sensitive to Ultra Violet light and should be stored in dark glass
bottles. The oils should be stored OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. Some
oils are toxic if swallowed neat. Essential oils should never be
stored in plastic bottles. The oils should not be stored with the
droppers in place as the vapors may corrode the dropper. If stored
properly essential oils will keep for about 1 year. Some citrus
oils, eg lemon, orange and lime will not keep for as long.
Every persons sensitivity to oils can vary considerably. If you have
a high sensitivity it is best to start treatment with a lower dose
and work up. Sensitivity can vary according to the herbs used. Some
herbs have a mild effect, Chamomile for example, others have a
stronger effect on the system and should be treated with respect.
Some herbs, whilst having a beneficial effect in most cases are
inappropriate to us in others. Any herb with a stimulating effect on
the uterus is inappropriate for use during pregnancy.
The use of herbs over a long period of time (generally more than 12
weeks) is not recommended as the body can build up a resistance to
the herb making its therapeutic use counter productive. Prolonged
cumulative exposure to certain natural chemicals may also have an
irritant effect upon the body.
In each of the detailed descriptions of essential oils we describe
the circumstances in which use of the herbs should be avoided or
care taken.
We strongly advise that essential oils are not taken internally or
applied neat to the skin. Although several oils e.g. lavender and
sandalwood are suitable for use directly on the skin, the majority
can cause skin irritation if used neat and should therefore always
be used diluted.
Mixing essential oils correctly
Essential Oils
and Supplies
Aromatherapy means simply - the study of scents used in a
therapeutic manner. The more detailed definition is the skilled
and controlled use of essential oils for emotional and physical
health and well-being. The practice of aromatherapy goes beyond
smell, though. It involves "pure" essential oils and treatments
many believe have a chemical effect on the body. They can be
applied with massage, in the bath, in the air, and in hair care.
In Europe and other parts of the world, not so much in the US,
essential oils are taken internally. Essential Oils are used as
an Alternative Medicine (we prefer complimentary) Health
modality. Various oils can be used in Meditation and Yoga and
some use it as a Preventative medicine, also. Essential oils are
used for those wishing to practice Natural health for their own
well being by using all natural products. Lately there are
companies claiming their products are "Aromatherapy such and
such". They advertise - as candles and various bath products.
PLEASE be aware that this is not THERAPEUTIC AROMATHERAPY. What
they are advertising are "scents" that undoubtedly will make you
feel good but may not be made with 100% Pure Essential oils but
with artificial, man-made petroleum based fragrances. They do
not contain the Pure Plant Essence that has the true, natural,
healing properties . WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS? Essential oils are
the subtle, volatile liquids that are distilled from plants,
shrubs, flowers, trees, bushes and seeds. An ancient process,
oil distillation is a delicate and precise art that had been
almost forgotten. Science is just now re-discovering the
incredible healing power of essential oils, which are the life
blood of the plant kingdom, and beginning to acknowledge their
value. Immune stimulating, Anti viral, Anti infectious,
Anti-bacterial, Anti microbial, Anti-septic, Anti tumoral, Anti
fungal, and Anti parasitic properties. HISTORY OF AROMATHERAPY
The history of aromatherapy goes back thousands of years.
Although not called Aromatherapy until the early 1900's.
Aromatic plants and essential oils were used in biblical times.
(Think of the gifts brought to the new born.) Plant oils are
mentioned several times in the Bible. Cleopatra was also known
to use essential oils in her perfumery. Ancient Greeks and
Romans used the oils in their medical treatments. The Egyptians
used aromatic plant essences to treat both physical and mental
health problems. In the East, Chinese and India, doctors also
knew the therapeutic benefits of plant essences. Today's
Aromatherapy and concepts began with a French chemist,
Rene-Maurice Gattefosse. It is he that coined the term "aromatherapie".
He was convinced that the oils had antiseptic properties - more
powerful than the antiseptics that were used at that time
(1920's). He also knew that they had other important healing
abilities. While conducting an experiment in distillation he
burned his hand and needing to cool it down, put his entire hand
into a vat of pure lavender essential oil. The pain was gone
almost instantly. Over the next few days his burn healed with no
blisters, scars or infections. Thereafter he continued his
research of this incredible phenomenon and uses of essential
oils for other possible medical uses. What can Aromatherapy do
for you and your family? Aromatherapy can be used for treatments
from acne (Rosemary and Geranium) and other skin problems such
as eczema (Chamomile), dry, chapped (Rose, Lavender,
neroli) , oily, insect bites, athletes' feet and other fungal
infections (Tea Tree). Respiratory ailments such as sinusitis
(Eucalyptus, Lavender, Thyme, Peppermint) , bronchitis, coughs,
sore throats, the common cold, the 'flu', other types of nasal
congestion - which may be due to allergies (some essential oils
used may be Eucalytus, Rosemary, Roman Chamomile, Peppermint);
It can be used in mouth washes for bad breath (Myrrh) and
toothaches (Cloves); for those suffering from head aches
(Peppermint and Rosemary) and migranes, arthritis and joint
pains (anise, black pepper, Marjoram, Ginger,) including
backaches (massage with essential oils added to the massage
oils), and everything in between. Nursing homes and medical
facilities are using Aromatherapy on Alzheimer's Disease
(Bergamot ans Lavender) and other aging related health concerns
- memory problems (Rosemary), agitation (Bergamot,Lavender,
ylang ylang), nervous legs (Bergamot, Lavender). Everyone
benefits in the use of essential oils from babies to adults,
even the family pet - great for deodorizing and disinfecting
(pine oils and lemon). The aroma has an emotional effect on
everyone. From stress relief to being uplifting for fatigue
relief (grapefruit), anti depression (basil, chamomile,
grapefruit, rose, ylang ylang) and for grief (Rose, Marjoram),
it can have a calming (Chamomiles) and relaxing effect
especially for those troubled with insomnia (Lavender, Chamomile
and Neroli); it is wonderful for meditation (Frankincense) and
enhancing memory (Rosemary); some people feel it can be an
aphrodisiac; it can give relief to those troubled with PMS (prementral
syndrome), it can aid in digestion and and many more far to
numerous to list. What more can it do for you? Start by trying a
few oils. Read a few books or study charts and decoders. Those
so inclined may want to experiment with perfume blending - come
up with your own blends. How do I get started with Aromatherapy?
Read, read, read, all you can, to get an idea on what all the
possible uses of essential oils are and what oils may help you
achieve the goal you wish to address, be it relaxation, becoming
more alert, anti microbial, etc. The best idea is to get to know
3 or 4 oils really well and what they can do. After that, try a
couple at a time and pretty soon you will have a lot of oils,
you will know about. Make sure you get them from someone who is
educated about essential oils and their uses. If you should ever
have a doubt or a question - ask!! Diffusers (atomizers) - do I
really need one? Not when your are just starting out. You can
use oils in cotton balls, tissues, a handkerchief, pillow case
(for a really good nights sleep). A diffuser is a way to get the
aroma out in the room. There are different ones out there such
as: Scent rings, that fit over a light bulb (but these are very
hazardous), as essential oils are flammable and the bulb does
get very hot; Heat diffusers - these are usually ceramic with a
tea lite candle under a bowl filled with water and a few drops
of oil; Electric diffusers & atomizers- these devices release
minute particles of essential oils into the air. Essential Oils
and Their Use beyond Aromatherapy Many products have essential
oils in them. Here are just a few: Beverages and soft drinks:
bitters, rums, wines, carbonated beverages cola drinks, root
beers, drink powders Preserves: fruit butters, jams. jellies
(Peppermint) Candies (Anise, Peppermint, Spearmint, Orange,
lemon) Rubber products: gloves, shower curtains. toys,
waterproofing products Soaps: Detergents, laundry and household
soaps, shampoos, deodorants, tooth pastes Veterinary supplies:
deodorants, dog and cat soaps, ointments, insect powders, cattle
sprays Diversified products: Optical lenses, candles, ceramics
Herbalism and Homeopathy
As number a therapies use plants in their healing work, confusion
exists as to their differences. There are the culturally diverse
medical systems of the world that use plants as the core of
treatments, such as Ayurveda from India, Traditional Chinese
Medicine and Islamic Unani medicine. Amongst western therapies
Homeopathy, Aromatherapy and the Bach Flower remedies make extensive
use of herbs. The majority of drugs used in orthodox medicine are
either derived from plants or are actually plant products.
Homeopathy is the main system of medicine other than Medical
Herbalism that utilizes plants in the treatment of disease, though
in a fundamentally different way to Medical Herbalism. There is a
common misconception that these two healing modalities are the same
because they both employ plants. Indeed, herbs are used by both
approaches but in radically different ways, reflecting differences
of philosophical and therapeutics. The holistic perspective being
explored by their practitioners can complement each other, but only
when the strengths and weaknesses of each are acknowledged and
understood. There is not space here to give homeopathy the attention
it deserves, but simply compare the use of herbs in the two
approaches.
As with other approaches to holistic medicine, homeopathy looks at
the patients total picture, both body and mind within the social
setting of their lives. The system originated in Germany around
1800, with the work of Samuel Hahnemann. He treated disease with a
very low dose of drugs which themselves produced similar symptoms to
those of the disease itself. This is the basis of the principle that
like treats like.
About 60% of homeopathic remedies are botanical in nature, the rest
being minerals, animal products or nosodes. These last remedies are
highly diluted extracts of diseased tissue. These medicines are
administered in extremely diluted form and are thought to work by
influencing the vital force within the human body. The more the dose
of the remedy is reduced so the more its potency is enhanced. This
is why the homeopathic process of dilution is known as potentiation.
The dilation of one part of the active remedy in ten parts of the
solvent (usually water) is known as a potency of 1X. A one in a
hundred dilution is 2X and so on to 200X dilution. A homeopathic
mother tincture is similar to an ordinary herbal tincture.
A problem that gets in the way of mutual understanding between the
two therapies is the application of the concept of like treating
like. Many of the herbs in the homeopathic Materia Medica are
prescribed in dilution to treat symptom pictures that a full dose of
the herb supposedly causees. This may be the case with very strong
or poisonous herbs such as belladona or gelsemium, but the medical
herbalist has problems with the homeopaths ideas about many of the
remedies both systems share. An example is the homeopathic remedy
pulsatilla, known as Pasque Flower (Anemome pulsatilla) to the
herbalist. A comparison of the symptom picture given for the
homeopathic remedy is very similar to the indications for herbal
dosages of the plant. As both approaches use the herb to treat
similar things, this would appear to contradict the core idea.
The value of homeopathy in health care is undeniable, but its use of
plants is in no way herbal. Selecting either therapy should be based
upon attraction to one or other of their philosophical contexts
recognizing that there is little or no sharing of botanical
medicine.
Safety Considerations
Do not take essential oils internally.
Always use sparingly. Lavender and Tea Tree (Melaleuca) are
generally safe for direct skin application. Oils that should be
applied to the skin with caution, and always diluted, are: Aniseed,
West Indian Bay, White Camphor, Clove Bud, Coriander, Eucalyptus
Blue Gum, Hyssop, Nutmeg, Sweet Fennel, Parsley Seed, Spanish Sage,
Tagetes (only well diluted .05%), Bergamot (well diluted), Verbena,
and Thyme. Pennyroyal, Mustard, Sassafras, Rue, Wormseed, Tansy,
Benzoin, and Mugwort should not be used at all.
For most applications, a good rule of thumb is 1 drop per 5ml of
carrier oil. Use no more than 5-10 drops per full bathtub of water.
Neat (undiluted application). As mentioned above, Lavender and Tea
Tree are fine for direct application, although some people are
sensitive and may develop irritation. If you have sensitive skin,
apply a small amount and wait 1 hour. If irritation develops, rub
well with pure carrier oil, then wash with soap and water. For
future use, try further diluting the oils.
Oils such as Jasmine, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood may be applied neat
as in a perfume.
Oils that are known to irritate are: Aniseed, Sweet Basil, Black
Pepper, Cajeput, White Camphor, Virginian Cedarwood, Cinnamon Leaf,
Clove Bud, Eucalyptus Blue Gum, Ginger, Juniper, Lemon, Lemongrass,
Parsley Seed, Peppermint, Pine Needle, Cinnamon Bark, and Thyme.
Always use diluted and in small quantities.
Avoid the following oils before exposure to sunlight or tanning
beds: Angelica Root, Bergamot, Lime, Bitter Orange, Lemon,
Grapefruit, Sweet Orange, and Tangerine.
For children and babies, always reduce the recommended amount by
half, or more. Definitely avoid any oils that are known to be an
irritant. Even Lavender and Tea Tree should be diluted to 1
drop/teaspoon base oil.
During Pregnancy, only use in half the regular dilution. Totally
avoid: Basil, Virginian Cedarwood, Celery Seed, Clary Sage, Clove,
Cinnamon Leaf, Citronella, Hyssop, Juniper, Marjoram, Myrrh, Nutmeg,
Spanish Sage, and Thyme. During the first four months, avoid
Angelica Root, Atlas Cedarwood, Sweet Fennel, Rose, and Rosemary.
High Blood Pressure. Do not use Rosemary, Spanish Sage, or Thyme.
Epilepsy. Do not use Fennel, Hyssop, Rosemary, and Spanish Sage.
Alcohol. Clary Sage can cause nausea and exaggerated drunkenness
when used within a few hours before or after drinking alcohol.
Carcinogenic oils: Calamus, Sassafras.
Hypoglycemia. Avoid Geranium.
Kidney problems. Use Juniper, Sandalwood and Coriander with caution.
As with anything, use caution. Buy a quality book, and learn as much
as you can about Essential Oils. They have been known to have many
medicinal uses and can greatly benefit anyone.
Sources - These safety tips were compiled from various sources
including:
The Complete Illustrated Guide To Aromatherapy, Lawless
The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, Worwood
A proper herbal should be consulted for proper use of the herbs listed, and remember - consult a doctor in all instances of illness.
Essential List
Essential Oils List
Essential Beauty Recipes
Blending for Smell
Action or Property Essential Oils
Analgesic - Roman Chamomile German Chamomile Sweet Marjoram Black
Pepper Juniper Berry Peppermint Rosemary Clove Bud
Anti-bacterial - Cinnamon Leaf Cedar Atlas Ravensara Eucalyptus
Bergamot Geranium Tea Tree
Anti-inflammatory
- Roman Chamomile German Chamomile Frankincense
Eucalyptus Lavender Tea Tree Yarrow Myrrh
Anti-spasmodic - Roman Chamomile German Chamomile Sweet Marjoram Clary
Sage Lavender Valerian Cypress Jasmine
Anti-viral - Peppermint Eucalyptus Ravensara Bergamot Tea Tree Lemon
Niaouli Oregano
Aphrodisiac - Black Pepper Sandalwood Ylang Ylang Clary Sage Patcholi
Jasmine Ginger
Astringent - Juniper Berry Bitter Orange Sandalwood Geranium
Grapefruit Rosemary Cypress
Decongestive - Sandalwood Peppermint Ravensara Eucalyptus Rosemary
Niaouli Myrtle
Deodorant - Juniper Berry Lemongrass Citronella Bergamot Lavender
Cypress
Diuretic - Sweet Marjoram Juniper Berry Rosemary Grapefruit Geranium
Patchouli Cypress
Expectorant - Frankincense Peppermint Eucalyptus Ravensara Fir
Rosemary
Fungicide - German Chamomile Cinnamon Leaf Eucalyptus Clove Bud Tea
Tree Thyme
Immunostimulant - Cinnamon Leaf Frankincense Rosemary Clove Bud
Geranium Lavender Tea Tree
Insect Repellent - Eucalyptus Cedar viginiana Peppermint Lemongrass
Citronella Patcholi Geranium
Neurotonic - Sweet Thyme Juniper Berry Peppermint Rosemary Bergamot
Lavender Cypress
Sedative - Roman Chamomile German Chamomile Sweet Marjoram Sandalwood Ylang Ylang Clary Sage Jasmine
Stimulant - Cinnamon Leaf Juniper Berry Black Pepper Peppermint
Eucalyptus Rosemary Clove Bud
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