Aromatherapy & Essential Oils

Essential oils are concentrated liquids containing volatile aroma compounds distilled from plants. The best way to use essential oils is through aromatherapy. Aromatherapy originated in France and is still used to treat and prevent certain disease. Essential oils are made of plants. They often have antiseptic, antiviral, anti fungal, and antibacterial properties.

Essential oils can be used in a diffuser or simply in your shower or bath. For example, a drop of lavender oil under your pillow will help you sleep and relax.

Here is a list of essential oils and their properties

Bergamot is one of the most popular oils in perfumery. It is an excellent insect repellent and may be helpful for both the urinary tract and for the digestive tract. It is useful for skin conditions linked to stress, such as cold sores and chicken pox, especially when combined with eucalyptus oil. Bergamot is a flavoring agent in Earl Grey tea. Cold-pressed Bergamot oil contains bergaptene, a strong photosensitizer when applied to the skin, so only distilled or 'bergaptene-free' types can be topically used.

Citronella oil, obtained from a relative of lemongrass, is used as an insect repellent and in perfumery.

Clove oil is a topical analgesic, especially useful in dentistry. It is also used an antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, and anti emetic.

Eucalyptus oil is often used in combination with peppermint to provide relief for the airways in case of cold or flu.

Geranium oil is used as an astringent, antiseptic and diuretic.

Jasmine is used as an aphrodisiac.

Lavender oil is used as an antiseptic, to soothe minor cuts and burns, to calm and relax, for insomnia and to soothe headaches and migraines.

Lemon oil is uplifting and anti-stress/anti-depressant. In a Japanese study, lemon essential oil in vapour form has been found to reduce stress in mice.

Ylang-ylang oil is used as an aphrodisiac.

If you are looking for certified organic essential oils or organic herbal remedies go to http://www.shopbestorganic.com/ and click on Health & Wellness.

Do you use essential oils? Please share your tips and remedies.

Thank You

Sandra

Please note that essential oils are very potent. Use essential oils carefully and contact an aromatherapist if you have any doubt. Always dilute before applying to skin. You may also review this safety guideline.