Essential oils for aromatherapy What can a smell do?

by Mother Oak


Below is a list of some of the more common oils and their properties. These can be ordered quite easily from any essential oil distributor.

CEDARWOOD (Cedrus atlantica)

# Character: confident, firmly rooted; spiritual strength.
# Cedar wood (also called Libanol) is distilled from the wood of the cedar tree. it is one of the oldest essential oils, used in North Africa as a perfume and medicine. In Ancient Egypt it was used both for preserving mummies and as massage oil. In the nineteenth century it was found to have antiseptic properties.
# Aroma: Harmonious, woody, soft.
# Properties: Antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, emollient, fungicide, harmonising, insecticide, sedative, tonic.
# Physical conditions: Eliminatory system: cystitis, relieves burning pain; kidney tonic
# Respiratory system: helpful with asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs
# Musculoskeletal system: may ease chronic arthritic and rheumatic pains
# Nervous system: relaxing and calming
# Skin: good for acne, oily skin, irritation
# Scalp and hair: dandruff, seborrhoea.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Focuses attention when lacking concentration; for scattered thoughts, day-dreaming, living in future. Calms anxiety and nervous tension.
# Other uses: Combine with Sandalwood for room fragrance for meditation.
# Applications: Bath. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with Sandalwood.

CHAMOMILE (Anthemis mixta)

# Character: Soothing yet strong.
# Chamomile oil is distilled from the white flower heads of the Chamomile herb. There are many types of Chamomile, including Roman, German, and Wild or Moroccan Chamomile. Some are anti-inflammatory, containing azulenes or bisabolene. Wild or Moroccan Chamomile has long been used in the medicine of North Africa.
# Aroma: Fresh, herbaceous, tea-like, ardent.
# Properties: Antispasmodic, calming, cicatrisant, comforting, febrifuge, sedative of nervous system, warming.
# Physical conditions: Digestion: colic, colitis, diarrhoea, gastritis, ulcers
# Eliminatory system: bedwetting, cystitis, irritable bowel
# Hormonal system: decongestant, good for hot flushes
# Musculoskeletal system: used for low back pain, rheumatism, sprains
# Nervous system: helpful for depression, headaches, insomnia, when feeling fragile.
# Mental/emotional conditions: For the highly strung and perhaps over- enthusiastic; impulsiveness in helping others; living on nerves and straining energies to their limits.
# Applications Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Geranium, Lavender, Ylang Ylang

CLARY SAGE (Salvia sclarea)

# Character: Benevolent.
# Clary Sage is distilled from the lilac flowering tops of a biennial herb with large wrinkled leaves, growing in England, Europe, Russia and the USA. It is related to, but different from, the common sage used in cooking. The name Salvia derives from the Latin for 'good health' and the word 'clary' meaning 'clear'; the seeds were once used in a remedy to clear particles from the eyes. Clary Sage can have euphoric effects, and from the 16th century was added to beer by some brewers.
# Aroma: Light, spicy, like drying hay.
# Properties: Antidepressant, antiseptic, carminative, deodorant, sedative, tonic. Regulatory and balancing. Strongly sedative, but sometimes with euphoric effects.
# Physical conditions: Hair: encourages growth.
# *Hormonal system: regulates hormones, helpful for premenstrual tension and painful periods, also frigidity. Encourages labour.
# Musculoskeletal system: relieves cramp, muscle spasm
# Nervous system: exhaustion; insomnia from over-work; headaches; migraines
# Respiratory system: asthma, throat infections
# Skin: excessive perspiration
# *Use with caution: can cause excessive bleeding.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Particularly indicated for times of change, domestic, occupational and biological, and when having difficulty in adjusting to changes in life.
# Other uses: Aphrodisiac. Restorative when convalescing.
# Applications:* Bath. Hair oil/rinse. Massage. Room fragrance 'Can cause drowsiness; best not used before driving or drinking alcohol.
# Blends well with: Rosemary, Ylang Ylang.

CYPRESS (Cupressus sempervirens)

# Character: Solemn, firm, upright, astringent.
# Cypress oil is distilled from the wood of the majestic cypress tree, which grows in Europe, particularly around the Mediterranean. The tree has been venerated since ancient times, and gave its name to the island of Cyprus. It has also been associated with burial grounds since Greek and Roman days, and is traditionally believed to have supplied the wood for Christ's Cross. Known for its astringent properties, the oil is often used today in perfumery, especially men's cosmetics.
# Aroma: Refreshing, woody, spicy.
# Properties: Antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, deodorant, toning, vasoconstrictor
# Physical conditions: Circulation: haemorrhoids, nosebleeds, varicose veins; cellulitis
# Eliminatory system: bedwetting; frequent urination; excessive perspiration
# Hormonal system: hormone imbalance; PMT; heavy periods; painful periods; menopause Hair and scalp: dandruff with oily scalp
# Musculoskeletal system: cramps, rheumatism
# Nervous system: warms coldness in nervous system
# Skin: can benefit mature, oily and sweaty skin. Helps heal wounds.
# Mental/emotional conditions: For fear of what others think; inability to with-stand pressure from others of more dominant personality.
# Other uses: Insecticide; deodorant; male toiletry.
# Applications: Bath. Face lotion. Facial steaming. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Frankincense, Juniper, Lemon.

EUCALYPTUS (Eucalyptus globulus)

# Character: Harmonising, vigorous, deeply grounded.
# Eucalyptus, or Blue Gum is one of the most widely used essential oils; a constituent of cold remedies and inhalants, and strongly antiseptic. The oil is distilled from the blue-green leaves of the Eucalyptus tree, which grows to a great height in warm regions. A native of Tasmania, its leaves were used by the Aboriginals as a dressing for wounds. It was introduced to Europe in the eighteenth century.
# Aroma: Resinous, camphorous, clear, powerful.
# Properties: Analgesic, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, decongestant, deodorising, energy balancing, insecticide.
# Physical conditions: Eliminatory system: cystitis; diarrhoea
# Musculoskeletal system: muscular aches and pains; rheumatism (combined with Lemon and Juniper); sciatica
# Nervous system: neuralgia
# Respiratory system: asthma; bronchitis; catarrh; colds; cold with headache; sinusitis
# skin: burns; inflammatory conditions; insect bites; skin eruptions
# Mental/emotional conditions: Cools heated emotions; balances extreme moods, highs and lows occurring for no apparent reason; aids concentration.
# Other uses: Insect repellent.
# Applications: Bath. inhalation. Massage
# Blends well with: Rosemary, Cedar, Marjoram.

FRANKINCENSE (Boswellia carterii)

# Character: Inspiring and contemplative.
# Frankincense, or Olibanum is distilled from the resin of a small desert tree growing in the Middle East and North Africa. Famous as a birth gift to the infant Jesus, it has had religious and therapeutic uses for centuries. The Ancient Egyptians burned it in religious ceremonies, and also used it in massage and to rejuvenate the skin. Today it is used as an incense in many religions.
# Aroma: Spicy, resinous, balsamic, almost lemony.
# Properties: Antiseptic, calming, cooling, drying, fortifying, revitalising, stimulating, tonic; uplifting.
# Physical conditions: Circulation: haemorrhoids; nosebleeds
# Digestive system: indigestion
# Eliminatory system: cystitis
# Nervous system: chilliness
# Respiratory system: asthma; bronchitis; catarrh; congested lungs; shortness of breath
# Skin: acne scarring; ageing; cracked; oily; wrinkles.
# Mental/emotional conditions: For over-attachment to the past; burn-out, with no conditions: reserves; depression; exhaustion and mental fatigue; fears; insecurity; nightmares; panic.
# Other uses: Aid to meditation and spiritual development.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Cypress, Orange, Tangerine, Sandalwood.

GERANIUM (Pelargonium roseum)

# Character: Adaptable; strong when pure, sweetens with dilution.
# Geranium, or Rose Geranium is distilled from the fragrant leaves of the Pelargonium, a herbaceous plant with pink flowers. The oil is often obtained from France, Madagascar, and Morocco and other warm climates. Geranium was once used as a general healing herb for wounds, fractures, cholera, etc. The oil has beneficial effects on most skin conditions and stimulates the lymphatic system. It is widely used in soaps and perfumes. It is one of the balancing oils; harmonising extreme conditions, both physical and emotional.
# Aroma: Sweet, fruity, rose-like.
# Properties: Analgesic, antidepressant, astringent. balancing, diuretic, harmonising, insecticide, tonic, vasoconstrictor.
# Physical conditions: Circulatory system: a tonic, helps relieve fluid retention and lymphatic congestion
# Eliminatory system: a tonic for the liver and kidneys
# Hormonal system: regulatory, useful for PMT, painful breasts, irregular or heavy periods, menopausal symptoms
# Hair and scalp: balances sebum; helps clear head lice
# Nervous system: cases neuralgia and fatigue
# Skin: good for all types of skin condition including dermatitis, blotches and eczema, and in skin lotion. Effective in mouth and throat infections. *N.B. May irritate some skins; patch-test first.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Anti-depressant. Quells acute fright, when totally rigid with fear; escalating anxiety when an emergency arises. Balances extreme moods.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Hair oil/ rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Mouthwash. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Most oils, particularly Cedar, Cypress, Lavender, Rosemary.

JUNIPER (juniperus communis)

# Character: Rough, bitter but consoling.
# Juniper is distilled from the berries or twigs of the juniper tree, a grey green leafed tree which grows in many parts of the world, thriving in Arctic conditions. Juniper oil has traditionally been used as an antiseptic by many cultures, and in the past was a constituent of herbal medicines for the plague, cholera, typhoid fever and even diabetes. It has also been noted for its reviving qualities, and today is well-known as an ingredient of gin.
# Aroma: Green, herbaceous, refreshing.
# Properties: Antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, antispasmodic, astringent, cleansing, detoxifying, diuretic, insecticide, stimulant, tonic.
# Physical conditions: Circulation: a blood-purifier
# Digestive system: generally beneficial; detoxifying, cleanses liver after rich food and too much alcohol
# Eliminatory system: decongestant and diuretic, good for cystitis, painful urination, kidney problems, cellulitis and fluid retention
# Musculoskeletal system: good for arthritis, cramps, rheumatism, sciatica
# N.B. Prolonged use may over stimulate the kidneys Avoid in casts of serious kidney disease.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Helps to lift guilt, despondency, lack of self-worth; for feeling undeserving of love, and dissatisfied with physical form. Strengthens and supports: good for people in the caring professions.
# Other uses: Hangover; hay fever.
# Applications: Bath. Footbath. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Frankincense, Rosemary.

LAVENDER (Lavandula officinalis, vera

# Character: Mellow, peaceful.
# Lavender oils are distilled from the blue flowering spikes of the lavender bush, just before opening. The plant is widely cultivated in Europe and a hybrid called Lavendin grows wild in the Mediterranean area. The lavender plant has been used in medicine since ancient times, and was introduced to England by the Romans. It has long been known as an antiseptic and an insecticide, and was known for clearing head lice in the 17th century. It is also well known for its skin-healing properties. Lavender oil is invaluable in a home first aid kit, particularly for insect stings, cuts and burns. It is the first choice for insomnia and anxiety, and also boosts the immune system. It is also, of course, a popular constituent of perfumes and cosmetic products.
# Aroma: Clean, balsamic, light, herbaceous.
# Properties: Analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, anti-viral, carminative, deodorant, detoxifying, fungicide, insecticide, restorative, sedative. Healing for mind and body.
# Physical conditions: Circulation: relieves chilblains
# Eliminatory system: for pain when urinating
# Hormonal system: helpful for hot flushes
# Hair and scalp: kills head lice; helpful against hair loss
# Immune system: stimulates when below par (indicated by chronic or recurrent infections)
# Musculoskeletal system: relieves arthritic pain, painful joints and sprains
# Nervous system: relaxing and sedative, excellent for insomnia, tension headaches and migraine, and exhaustion
# Respiratory system: relieves sore or dry throat
# Skin : healing and antiseptic for abscesses, acne, dermatitis, eczema, burns, sunburn, cuts, insect stings and bites.
# Mental/emotional conditions. Excellent for all forms of anxiety and tension. For apprehensiveness with vague fears; nightmares and feelings of panic and inner trembling; fear of the dark.
# Other uses: Helpful with tinnitus when sensitive to noise, Counteracts travel sickness.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair-rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance. A drop or two can be dabbed direct on insect stings; use dilute on burns.
# Blends well with: Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Geranium, juniper.

LEMON (Citrus limonum)

# Character: Fresh, strong, versatile. Adds character; harmonises well.
# Lemon oil is pressed from the lemon rind. Several varieties of lemon tree are grown in warm climates; originating in India it was first brought to Europe by the crusaders, and is widely cultivated in Italy. It has long been used as an antiseptic, particularly for bites by disease-carrying insects. Today it is used as a flavouring in foods and drinks. Aroma: Fresh, clean, refreshing, lively, Properties: Anti-infections, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, detoxifying, diuretic, insecticide, laxative, stimulating, styptic, tonic, refreshing, uplifting. Acts on the physical, mental and spiritual defence systems.
# Physical conditions: Circulation: a good tonic, helps to lower high blood pressure; stems nosebleeds and external bleeding
# Digestion: improves digestion, balances acidity
# Eliminatory system: helpful for cellulitis and fluid retention; generally cleansing and detoxifying
# Hair and scalp: cleanses greasy hair
# Immune system: stimulates when below par (indicated by chronic or recurrent infections)
# Musculoskeletal system: helps relieve aches and pains
# Nervous system: soothes neuralgia
# Respiratory system: relieves colds, sore throats, influenza and coughs
# Skin: clears corns, warts and verrucas; broken veins; clears skin of dead cells.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Refreshing and clarifying; good for feelings of resentment or bitterness about life's experiences; touchiness; when grudging of others' luck or success.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance. Apply direct to corns, warts and verrucas.
# Blends well with: Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Juniper, Lavender, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang.

MARJORAM, WOOD OR SPANISH (Thymus mastichina; Majorana sylvestre)

# Character: Gentle, comforting, warming.
# Wood or Spanish Marjoram is distilled from the small, white flowers of the herb which grows in southern Europe and is widely used in flavouring food. The oil is physically and mentally calming and pain-relieving, useful in rheumatic and back pains, and in promoting the circulation.
# Aroma: Warm, herbaceous, with Eucalyptus notes.
# Properties: Analgesic, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, calming, carminative, digestive, laxative, restorative, sedative, tonic.
# Physical conditions: Digestion: soothing, may help with indigestion, flatulence and constipation
# Eliminatory system: a decongestant
# Musculoskeletal system: a muscle relaxant; relieves aches and pains, especially when cold and stiff; for stiffness after sport.
# Nervous system: headaches, migraines, insomnia
# Respiratory system: good for bronchitis, chest inflections, colds, sinusitis; clears head congestion.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Soothing and relaxing, good when feeling hostile or withdrawn. For those who find it hard to display emotions. Also for mental strain, hyperactivity, irrational thoughts.
# Applications: Bath. Facial steaming. Footbath. Inhalatiori. Massage. Room fragrance
# Blends well with: Lavender, Lemon.

MINT (Mentha arvensis)

# Character: Hot and cold; stimulating.
# Mint is distilled from the whole herb, an invasive herbaceous plant. There are many species, including Peppermint and Spearmint, all of which are used widely in medicines and in flavouring confectionery, toothpaste, etc. In Greek mythology, Mentha was a nymph, who was pursued by Pluto, the god of the underworld. His jealous wife trod her into the ground, but Pluto ensured her survival by transforming her into the herb. Mint has been used for centuries for digestive problems; in warm climates mint tea is commonly drunk after meals. The oil is also good for aches and pains, and respiratory congestion. It is rich in menthol, often used in imbrications and inhalants. While best known for digestive and respiratory conditions, it has other lesser known but very useful applications.
# Aroma: Minty, fresh, slightly sweet, powerful.
# Properties: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, clarifying, cooling, detoxifying, deodorising, pain-relieving, refreshing, stimulating, vasoconstrictor.
# Physical conditions: Digestion: useful for bad breath, colic, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, food poisoning, gastritis, indigestion, nausea, nervous dyspepsia, vomiting.
# Eliminatory system: irritable bowel; encourages perspiration
# Musculoskeletal system: anti-inflammatory for muscle aches and pains. Excellent for aching feet
# Nervous system: pain-relieving, cases headaches, migraines
# Respiratory System: clearing for colds, flu and sinus congestion, laryngitis
# Skin: cooling for inflammation, sunburn, irritation; can help dermatitis and ringworm. Balances greasy skin, helps remove blackheads.
# Mental/emotional conditions. For shyness and hypersensitivity to many things; for those dominated by strong likes and dislikes.
# Other uses: Travel sickness; shock, faintness, vertigo.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Mouthwash. Room fragrance.
# N>B*: Use with caution and dilute well, as this oil is extremely powerful and could cause irritation of skin and mucous membranes.
# Blends well with: Best left alone as it overwhelms other essences.

ORANGE (Citrus aurantia)

# Character: Mellow, warming, soothing.
# Orange oil is expressed from the zest of the orange fruit; the tree originated in China and today is grown widely in hot climates. It was probably brought to Europe by the Crusaders; later it was taken to California by the early missionaries. The oil is used in perfume and for food flavouring. It works well on the emotions, lifting gloom and depression and encouraging a hopeful outlook.
# Aroma: Mellow, fruity, sweet.
# Properties: Anticoagulant, antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, detoxifying, digestive, sedative, tonic.
# Physical conditions: Digestion: calms nervous stomach, dyspepsia, gastric spasm; also helpful for both constipation and diarrhoea
# Eliminatory system: helps sweat out toxins from skin
# Musculoskeletal system: stimulates body tissue repair, relieves muscular aches and pains
# Nervous system: a balancing oil, calming and relaxing as needed; can help insomnia
# Respiratory system: good for bronchitis, colds
# Skin: good for ageing, dry skin, and dermatitis.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Very good for depression, hopelessness, sadness, and lack of joy; energises when apathetic, resigned and unable to make necessary changes. Good during periods of hard work.
# Other uses: Aids absorption of Vitamin C; brings down temperature; energises.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance.
# N.B. Dilute well as high dosage may irritate skin or cause photosensitivity.
# Blends well with: Rosemary, Ylang Ylang.

ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis)

# Character: Vigorous, penetrating, stimulating.
# Rosemary is distilled from the needle-like leaves of the evergreen bush, which is also a popular kitchen herb. Originating in Asia, rosemary now grows in Europe, particularly the south, and is cultivated for oil in France and Tunisia. Its Latin name Rosmarinus means 'sea-dew'. Rosemary was sacred to the ancient Greeks and Romans who used it in incense and as a symbol of regeneration; in 14th-century Europe it was believed to have rejuvenating powers and was an ingredient of Hungary Water, a very popular toilet water. Rosemary oil is known as a blood and lymph stimulant; since it stimulates the local blood supply it is excellent for aches and pains. It has also long been valued as a brain stimulant; the ancient Romans wore rosemary sprigs behind the car to aid concentration and memory. It has also been used with some success to treat baldness and failing hair; while it may not affect all cases, it is certainly worth trying.
# Aroma: Strong, woody, camphoraccous, refreshing.
# Properties: Analgesic, antidepressant, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, Cleansing, clearing, digestive, diuretic, invigorating, stimulating, tonic.
# Physical conditions: Circulation: boosts circulation, heart tonic and stimulant, normalises low blood pressure. Relieves chilblains and chilliness
# Digestion: stimulates digestive process
# Eliminatory system: boosts liver and kidney function; good for constipation, cystitis - and hangovers
# Hormonal system: may relieve menstrual pain and fluid retention
# Hair and scalp: excellent tonic, may be helpful for baldness andfalling hair; good for dandruff and oily scalp
# Musculoskeletal system: very useful for aches, pains, sprains, muscle fatigue, and rheumatism
# Nervous system: clears headaches, mental fatigue, migraine; stimulates brain and memory
# Skin: good for oily skin; boosts circulation.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Clearing and stimulating for feelings of disorientation, indecision and lethargy' feelings of inadequacy; feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities.
# Applications:* Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance.
# *N.B. Use with caution if suffering from high blood pressure, hypertension, and/or insomnia, or epilepsy.
# Blends well with: Cedar wood, Frankincense, Geranium, Juniper, Orange, Tangerine.

ROSEWOOD, (Aniba parvijlora)

# Character: Soft sweetness with body, balancing.
# Rosewood, or Bois de Rose is distilled from the wood of a South American tree. Its main uses are psychological; it has a balancing effect, uplifting when lethargic and overburdened, soothing anxiety, irritability and inner tension. It is believed to be beneficial to mature skin as a cell stimulant and tissue regenerator and can be helpful with problems of ageing.
# Aroma: Floral with spicy undertones.
# Properties: Antiseptic, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, balancing, calming, deodorant, grounding, regenerative, stabilising, stimulating, uplifting.
# Physical conditions: Digestion: nausea with anxiety
# Eliminatory system: deodorant
# Hormonal system: may be helpful for loss of libido, frigidity, impotence
# Immune system: boosts body's defence system: helpful for chronic complaints
# Nervous system: balancing and stabilising; neurotonic; sedative; may relieve headaches accompanied by nausea
# Respiratory system: good for throat infections
# Skin: cell and tissue stimulant, rejuvenating for dry skin, and ageing skin pigmentation. Relieves insect bites.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Good for rigid attitudes, when over-critical of others, lacking empathy, unyielding to others or to circumstances; for inner tension and rigidity.
# Other uses: Aphrodisiac. Insect repellent.
# Applications: Face oil/lotion. Footbath. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Cedar wood, Frankincense, Geranium, Rosemary, Tangerine, Ylang Ylang.

SANDALWOOD (Santalum album)

# Character: Persistent, sensuous.
# Sandalwood, or Bois de Santal is distilled from the heartwood of an evergreen Indian tree which is parasitic on other trees. Sandalwood has been popular for centuries in furniture and casket making, as well as incense, and was used to build Indian temples. The ancient Egyptians used Sandalwood oil in embalming and medicines. It is valued as incense today in India, China and Japan. In India it has strong spiritual connotations, being burned at weddings and funerals; it is also used medicinally for genito-urinary problems. Believed to encourage self-expression, Sandalwood is very helpful for laryngitis and sore throats. it is exceptionally long-lasting, and is used as a fixative in perfumes.
# Aroma: Warm, rich, sweet, woody.
# Properties: Antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, diuretic, healing, regenerative, relaxing, soothing, tonic.
# Physical conditions: Eliminatory system: alleviates cystitis; lymphatic decongestant
# Hormonal system: a sensual stimulant, it can be helpful with sexual problems
# Immune system: boosts immune deficiency, characterised by persistent infections
# Nervous system: very relaxing for nervous tension
# Respiratory system: useful for laryngitis, chest, throat and lung infections, bronchi tic and dry cough
# Skin: good for ageing, dry skins; relieves itching, inflammation and dry eczema. Antiseptic for acne, boils cuts and wounds.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Balancing for people who are possessive and manipulative, who like their own way; for difficulty in forgiving; for those who do things for others but fear a lack of return. Helpful with obsessional attitudes, worry about past and future, feeling unsupported. Brings peace and acceptance. May be helpful for sexual anxiety.
# Other uses: An aid to meditation, and spiritual development, associated with the 'third eye' and development of intuition.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Cypress, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, Ylang Ylang.

TANGERINE OR MANDARIN (Citrus reticulata)

# Character: Refined, soft, cheerful, uplifting, sweet
# Tangerine or Mandarin oil is expressed from the zest of the citrus fruit, which originated in China and is now cultivated in other warm climates, including the USA and Sicily. Tangerine and Mandarin trees come from the same botanical source. Tangerine oil is a yellow-gold colour, with a light-blue fluorescence in the best quality oils (quality depends on the time of the Harvest). Like many oils, Tangerine can be both relaxing and tonic, according to needs. Its medicinal properties are similar to those of Orange.
# Aroma: Sweet, fruity, tangy.
# Properties: Antiseptic, antispasmodic, cheering, sedative, soothing, stomachic, tonic, unwinding, uplifting.
# Physical conditions: Cardiovascular system: calms excitation and cardiovascular crethisr which often goes with indigestion.
# Circulation: tonifies the peripheral circulation in the extremities; revives tired and aching limbs.
# Digestion: a digestive tonic, good for gastric complaints including constipation, diarrhoea and flatulence,; stimulates bile excretion, thereby activating the stomach and liver
# Nervous system: sedative, hypnotic; soothes and relaxes; good for insomnia
# Skin: a useful skin tonic, encouraging circulation.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Good for dejection, depression, emotional emptiness; regrets for ageing and loss of the past; feeling watered down.
# Other uses: Cheering and uplifting; popular as a room fragrance in hospices.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Footbath. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Chamomile, Clary Sage, Geranium, Lavender Lemon.

TEA TREE (Melalcuca alternifolia)

# Character: Vigorous, revitalising, regenerating.
# Tea Tree oil is distilled from the leaves and branches of the Tea Tree, a small tree belonging to the myrtle family, and a native of the marshland of New South Wales. It acquired its name when Captain Cook's sailors used it to brew up a substitute for tea. Tea Tree oil is a powerful antiseptic and fungicide and boosts the depleted immune system. Its wide range of medicinal uses have been verified by research. In the 1920s and'30s, laboratory research in Australia confirmed that it was not only a very strong antiseptic but non-toxic and non-irritant. A report noted that it dissolved pus, leaving infected wounds clean. During World War 11 it was issued in army tropical first aid kits, but the development of antibiotics led to a decline in its use. A 1972 study showed that Tea Tree oil was effective in many foot problems, including athlete's foot, corns, bunions and other fungal infections. It has also been used by practitioners to treat ringworm and thrush and more recently it has been found helpful with Candida albicans and chronic cystitis. It is an ideal first aid home remedy; for serious chronic conditions readers should consult a qualified practitioner.
# Aroma: Medicinal, penetrating.
# Properties: Powerful antiseptic, anti-viral, bactericide, cleansing, detoxifying, fungicide, insecticide, purifying, stimulating.
# Physical conditions: Eliminatory system: used to treat urinary infections, cystitis and Candida
# Hair and scalp: impetigo, head lice; dry scalp and dandruff
# Immune system: activates the white blood cells to fight infection
# Respiratory system: combats infections of the throat, lungs and ears; bad breath
# Skin: very cleansing; antiseptic for acne, boils, cuts, wounds, bites; effective with corns, warts, verrucas; fights fungal infections (e.g. athlete's foot, ringworm) soothes and heals irritating/itchy conditions - chicken pox rash, psoriasis, impetigo,nappy rash, genital itching, pruritis; treatment for mouth ulcers, and mouth/gum infections
# Mental/emotional conditions: Refreshing and revitalising; for feelings of uncleanness; for over-preoccupation with detail.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Mouthwash. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Best used alone.

YLANG YLANG (Cananga odorata)

# Character: Voluptuous, exotic, yet reassuring.
# Ylang Ylang, 'The Flower of Flowers' is distilled from the yellow flowers of a tree growing in Indonesia and the Philippines. It is also known as the 'perfume tree'. In the South Seas women combine the oil with coconut oil to dress their hair, and in Indonesia the blossoms are spread on the beds of honeymoon couples. The oil is used in expensive perfumes. While Ylang Ylang has physical properties, its main effects are on the emotions, and it is known as an aphrodisiac. It is also reassuring and confidence-building.
# Aroma: Heavy, sweetly narcotic, floral.
# Properties: Antidepressant, aphrodisiac, calming, euphoric, sensual, sedative, uplifting.
# Physical conditions: Circulation: calming for tachycardia, reduces high blood pressure; regulates adrenaline flow
# Hormonal system: balances the hormones; a uterine tonic. May help keep breasts firm. Helpful for sexual problems.
# Hair and scalp: tonic, promotes hair growth
# Nervous system: has relaxing effect
# Skin: balances both dry and oily skins.
# Mental/emotional conditions: Calms anger, fear, frustration, irritability. Is believed to act on the emotional heart centre, healing feelings of guilt, jealousy, resentment and selfishness. Also helpful in times of change.
# Applications: Bath. Face oil/lotion. Hair oil/rinse. Massage. Room fragrance.
# Blends well with: Clary Sage, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Orange.