Aniseed
Anise essential oil, or aniseed, is known for its digestive and antispasmodic benefits.
Anise essential oil, or aniseed, is known for its digestive and antispasmodic benefits.
There are several different varieties of balsam that are used in aromatherapy. This type derives from the C. Opobalsamum bush, which produces a fragrant resin that was a popular herbal remedy in ancient times.
Sweet Basil essential oil is a very effective antispasmodic. Its aroma is stimulating and uplifting! Basil has a sweet, spicy, fresh scent with a faint balsamic woody back note and a lasting sweetness that makes for a strong top note.
Bay Laurel essential oil comes from an evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 meters high with dark green, glossy leaves, and blackberries. Bay laurel essential oil is one of the most versatile and effective essential oils. It has a wide range of benefits, including promoting hair growth, easing anxiety, and reducing inflammation.
Bergamot essential oil is citrusy, yet fruity and sweet with a warm spicy floral quality, and is reminiscent of Neroli, giving a middle note of medium strength. The Bergamot tree can grow high, with star-shaped flowers, and smooth leaves, bearing citrus fruit resembling a cross between an orange and a grapefruit, but in a pear shape. The fruit ripens from green to yellow. The name Bergamot is derived from the city Bergamo in Lombardy where the oil was first sold.
Black Pepper is a hot oil and is very stimulating due to its high caryophyllene content, which gives the oil its anti-inflammatory action.
Blue Tansy essential oil is also known as True Moroccan Chamomile. A middle note with a medium aroma, Tansy Blue has a surprisingly sweet scent making it perfect for applications in skin-care products.
A base note of strong aroma, Cedarwood Atlas essential oil has a woody, sweet, scent that is sharper than Virginian Cedarwood, and slightly reminiscent of mothballs.
Two different types of essential oil are extracted from the cinnamon plant. Cinnamon leaf oil is more commonly used for therapeutic purposes in aromatherapy. Cinnamon bark oil is not generally recommended for use on the skin. Both are used for fragrance and flavoring in food, drinks, toiletries, and pharmaceutical products.
Cistus labdanum is a species of flowering plant in the family Cistaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. The plant grows to 1-2 m in height and has dark green, glossy leaves. The flowers are white or pink and have a strong aroma. The plant is used in the production of essential oils. The essential oil of cistus labdanum is used in aromatherapy and has a wide range of benefits. The oil is said to be helpful in treating anxiety, depression, and stress. It is also used to boost the immune system and
Clary Sage essential oil was highly esteemed during the Middle Ages and was known as “Oculus Christi,” meaning the eye of Christ or "clear eyes." Monks were known to use it for eye troubles. Clary Sage is used for digestive disorders, kidney disease, and uterine and menstrual complaints.
Clove essential oil is the Latin word, Clavus, meaning “nail” because of the shaft of the bud resembling a nail. Clove Bud finds its origin in the Maluku Islands. The slender evergreen trees reach heights up to 36 feet. The gray barked tree has shiny dark green elliptical-shaped fragrant leaves. This tropical spice is excellent digestive oil and has been especially helpful with toothaches. Clove Bud aids in emotional support by helping to provide emotional support and also makes a great energy booster. It is also used in many dental products to help with pain, neutralize bad breath, and kills bacteria in the mouth.
Coriander essential oil is also a useful essential oil in aromatherapy. Its sweet, spicy scent combines well with other oils, making it an excellent addition to blends for muscular or digestive problems, among others
Copaiba essential oil is a powerful natural remedy that has been used for centuries by indigenous people in South America. This oil is derived from the copaiba tree, which is found in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. Copaiba essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibacterial properties. This oil can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, skin conditions, and digestive issues.
Cardamom is a spicy uplifting oil with extraordinary properties to help with stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Cardamom essential oil is known to reduce muscle spasms, neutralize the adverse effects of chemotherapy, quench nausea. Its therapeutic properties include an antiseptic, antimicrobial, aphrodisiac, astringent, digestive, stomachic, stimulant, and diuretic substance.
Cumin essential oil is particularly beneficial for the digestive and nervous systems. Its spicy, warming aroma soothes muscular problems while stimulating the digestive system.
Cypress dates back thousands of years from ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, Hebrews, Greeks, and Romans. The name “sempervirens” means everlasting, as it was dedicated to the gods of the underworld – hence, why Cypress trees were grown in cemeteries. It is considered a significant oil to be used in times of transition, such as with career changes, relocating, ending a relationship, or death. This oil is quite grounding and breath-taking.
Dill essential oil is a potent oil with a wide range of benefits. It can be used to improve digestion, nervous system function, and skin health. Dill essential oil also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Eucalyptus essential oil effectively mitigates the effects of colds and flu and is perfect for sore muscles and joints.
Sweet Fennel is an erect perennial herb with yellow flowers, is native to Southern Europe, and can reach up to 4.5 feet. The plant has yellow flowers.
Frankincense is highly prized in the aromatherapy industry. It is frequently used in skincare products as it is considered a valuable ingredient as having remarkable anti-aging, rejuvenating, and healing properties.
Galbanum is a top-note essential oil that is great to help with healing wounds and is effective towards sores and ulcers.
Geranium essential oil works wonders for wrinkles and sensitive skin, as well as broken capillaries. This oil works wonders for wrinkles and is also indicated for troubled and sensitive skin, as well as broken capillaries. It also works well in reducing edema and fluid retention, promoting circulation, and stimulating the lymphatic system.
Added to a bath or rubbed on aching muscles, German Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and cooling action relaxes and speeds pain relief. It also soothes nerves and promotes sleep.
In traditional Chinese medicine, ginger is used in conditions where the body cannot handle internal and external moisture. Diarrhea from an upset stomach or excess mucus due to colds and flu are instances of internal moisture. External damp conditions in the winter aggravate circulatory concerns such as arthritis and rheumatism. Ginger is a warming oil that is good for both.
Peppermint has long been credited as being useful in combating stomach ailments, soothing the digestive system. Great for headaches, travel sickness, and jet lag.
Helichrysum is an effective oil for acne, bruises, boils, burns, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, irritated skin, and wounds.
Hyssop essential oil has a history of use as a medicinal herb since ancient times and was used to purify sacred spaces. The essential oil is used primarily to treat respiratory conditions, menstrual problems, and skin disorders.
Juniper Berry shrub is currently in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia for rheumatic pain and cystitis.
Lavender is indicated for all skin types and can be used at any step in your skincare regimen. Lavender is beneficial for colds, flu, asthma, high blood pressure, and migraines.
Lemon's fresh scent is treasured for improving concentration, reducing acidity in the body while assisting with digestion, and eliminating cellulite, rheumatism, arthritis, and gout.
Lemongrass essential oil has an outstanding reputation for keeping insects away, controlling perspiration, and treating athletics’ foot.
Sweet Marjoram, not to be confused with “Spanish Marjoram,” is part Origanum family. This camphoraceous essential oil is high in the constituent monoterpenes and monoterpenols and has no 1,8 cineole (oxide).
Ancients used Myrrh in religious ceremonies dating back thousands of years. This balsamic oil is known for its calming and medicinal properties.
Nutmeg Essential Oil is a colorless pale yellow liquid that is most useful as a digestive tonic. Due to its therapeutic and warming properties, this oil is used by aromatherapists and naturopathic practitioners.
Sweet Orange is genuinely uplifting, excellent for stress while calming digestive problems and eliminating toxins. Sweet Orange is genuinely uplifting, excellent for stress while calming digestive problems and eliminating toxins.
Oregano essential oil means “delight of the mountains” in Greek, as it was first used in ancient Greece for its antibacterial properties. Often mistaken for marjoram, oregano is a popular culinary herb.
Patchouli oil has been widely used for centuries by Asian people to fight fevers, infections, insect and snake bites. May cause skin irritation or sensitization if the oil has oxidized. Use at least 5% – 50% dilution.
A top note with a medium aroma, Pink Grapefruit has a fresh, slightly bitter scent that is very characteristic of the fruit. May have phototoxic properties. Avoid exposure to the sun after topical use.
Petitgrain essential oil is one of the ingredients of eau-de-cologne. Petitgrain helps to reduce pain and spasms, calming the nervous system. Petitgrain helps to reduce pain and spasms, calming the nervous system.
Roman Chamomile is effective for skincare for most skin types and menstrual pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), headache, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and nervous tension.
Rose oil is prevalent in perfumery, works as an excellent emollient, and is perfect for skin preparation. This oil is particularly beneficial for mature, dry, or sensitive skin.
Rosemary helps with overcoming mental fatigue and sluggishness by stimulating and strengthening the entire nervous system. It also enhances mental clarity while aiding alertness and concentration.
Alpha-santalol gives Sandalwood essential oil much of its characteristic scent. Research shows that the combination of alpha and beta santalol contributes to the sedative and anti-infectious effects of Sandalwood oil. The Sandalwood tree is cut down, and its wood is distilled. This presents some ecological issues, and the oil should be used with respect. Some studies show that Sandalwood could be an effective preventative agent in skin cancer.
n North America, the Native American people use silver fir resin for medicinal purposes and spiritual rituals. Today, massage therapists use it to assist a client’s muscular and nervous systems.
Aromatherapists use spikenard for rashes, wrinkles, cuts, insomnia, migraines, and wounds. It brings peaceful tranquility.
Tea Tree essential oil is best known as a powerful immune stimulant. It helps fight all three categories of infectious organisms, including bacterial, viral, and fungi.
Ylang Ylang oil is best suited for use in the perfumery and skincare industries due to it having a balancing effect on sebum and is helpful for both oily and dry skin types.
Pinus Sylvestris (or Scotch Pine) is considered to be the safest for use in aromatherapy. Its fresh, forest-like aroma is refreshing and cleansing, particularly for respiratory ailments.
Aldehydes consist of an oxygen atom double-bonded to a carbon atom at the end of the carbon chain. Their effectiveness is most beneficial when used in a lower concentration, such as 1% or less. Known for their citrus-like and sometimes aphrodisiac fragrance, aldehydes are generally calming, anti-inflammatory and hypotensive. Aldehydes can also be strongly antifungal, antiviral, and antiseptic, but may cause skin irritation.
Coumarins are a type of lactone that is unique because of the presence of an adjacent benzene ring which can have several different functional groups attached.
Ethers do not occur in essential oils as simply ethers. Many ethers in essential oils are phenolic, derived from the hydroxyl group of the phenol. This occurs when hydrogen from the hydroxyl group breaks off and is replaced with a short hydrocarbon chain. Because of the stability of the benzene ring and the methyl group (-CH3), they are considered effective in reducing pain and muscle spasms. Phenolic ethers are notarized as being strong in odor and strong in action.
Ketones have an oxygen atom double-bonded to a carbon atom, but always on a carbon atom that is bonded to two other carbon atoms. They are derived from secondary alcohols. Ketones with closed rings have a typical minty-camphoraceous aroma (from the menthone, camphor, and carvone components).
Lactones are an ester group derived from lactic acid. Although lactones can be neurotoxic, essential oils usually only contain extremely low quantities. They are known primarily for their balancing and decongestant properties, making them suitable for treating conditions such as chronic bronchitis.
Monoterpenes are composed of two isoprene units of five carbon atoms each, totaling ten with at least one double bond. Because they are made up of 10 carbons with a varying number of hydrogens, they are fairly unstable and are prone to oxidation. You will find essential oils that are rich in monoterpenes as top or middle notes with a tendency to evaporate quickly.
Monoterpenols have a ten carbon backbone, like monoterpenes, but with a functional group added to them. This specific group (-OH) is called hydroxyl. Monoterpenols usually fall in the middle note category with many being floral and very aromatic.
Like ethers, oxides have an oxygen atom in the carbon chain, but it is usually combined in the shape of a ring. They are usually derived from alcohols with the –OH group modified as the hydrogen is removed and the oxygen bonds to another carbon to form a ring.
Phenols are known to be reactive as they release their hydrogen hydroxyl (-OH) and bind with other positively-charged molecules, including protein which can be harsh and cause skin damage. Essential oils containing phenols are aggressive in nature and have a strong aroma.
Sesquiterpenes are composed of three isoprene units with five carbon atoms each, totaling fifteen total carbon atoms. Each one has a varying number of hydrogen atoms depending on how many double bonds there are.
Like sesquiterpenes, sequiterpenols are made up of a 15-carbon backbone with the hydroxyl functional group (-OH) added to it. Essential oils high in sequiterpenols are considered grounding and tend to be on the heavier side, consisting of mostly base notes.
Spearmint essential oil, the milder parent of Peppermint, is widely used in toothpaste and candy. Spearmint is a native of the Mediterranean area. A hardy perennial herb, Spearmint reaches about 3 feet in height. It has characteristic lance-shaped leaves with pink or lilac-colored flowers. The ancient Greeks used Spearmint to scent their bathwater.
Wintergreen has a sharp refreshing minty aroma and is a key ingredient in Root Beer soda. This potent essential oil only requires a few drops to provide instant relief to sore achy muscles and joints.
Lemon Balm essential oil helps to boost a positive mood and is often used in teas and taken internally to reduce tense feelings, promote relaxation, and calm feelings of nervousness.
Roman Chamomile is effective for skincare for most skin types and menstrual pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), headache, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and nervous tension.
Vetiver essential oil is deeply relaxing and comforting. It is used as a base note in perfumery and aromatherapy applications. The oil is distilled from the root and has an abundance of therapeutic properties. Vetiver essential oil has a thick, woodsy aroma that helps with insomnia and helps to balance emotions.
Lavender is indicated for all skin types and can be used at any step in your skincare regimen. Lavender is beneficial for colds, flu, asthma, high blood pressure, and migraines.
Lemon's fresh scent is treasured for improving concentration, reducing acidity in the body while assisting with digestion, and eliminating cellulite, rheumatism, arthritis, and gout.
Peppermint has long been credited as being useful in combating stomach ailments, soothing the digestive system. Great for headaches, travel sickness, and jet lag.
Bergamot essential oil is citrusy, yet fruity and sweet with a warm spicy floral quality, and is reminiscent of Neroli, giving a middle note of medium strength. The Bergamot tree can grow high, with star-shaped flowers, and smooth leaves, bearing citrus fruit resembling a cross between an orange and a grapefruit, but in a pear shape. The fruit ripens from green to yellow. The name Bergamot is derived from the city Bergamo in Lombardy where the oil was first sold.
Helichrysum is an effective oil for acne, bruises, boils, burns, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, irritated skin, and wounds.
Clary Sage essential oil was highly esteemed during the Middle Ages and was known as “Oculus Christi,” meaning the eye of Christ or "clear eyes." Monks were known to use it for eye troubles. Clary Sage is used for digestive disorders, kidney disease, and uterine and menstrual complaints.
Roman Chamomile is effective for skincare for most skin types and menstrual pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), headache, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and nervous tension.
Eucalyptus essential oil effectively mitigates the effects of colds and flu and is perfect for sore muscles and joints.
Frankincense is highly prized in the aromatherapy industry. It is frequently used in skincare products as it is considered a valuable ingredient as having remarkable anti-aging, rejuvenating, and healing properties.
Geranium essential oil works wonders for wrinkles and sensitive skin, as well as broken capillaries. This oil works wonders for wrinkles and is also indicated for troubled and sensitive skin, as well as broken capillaries. It also works well in reducing edema and fluid retention, promoting circulation, and stimulating the lymphatic system.
Sweet Basil essential oil is a very effective antispasmodic. Its aroma is stimulating and uplifting! Basil has a sweet, spicy, fresh scent with a faint balsamic woody back note and a lasting sweetness that makes for a strong top note.
Lemongrass essential oil has an outstanding reputation for keeping insects away, controlling perspiration, and treating athletics’ foot.
Patchouli oil has been widely used for centuries by Asian people to fight fevers, infections, insect and snake bites. May cause skin irritation or sensitization if the oil has oxidized. Use at least 5% – 50% dilution.
A base note of strong aroma, Cedarwood Atlas essential oil has a woody, sweet, scent that is sharper than Virginian Cedarwood, and slightly reminiscent of mothballs.
Sweet Orange is genuinely uplifting, excellent for stress while calming digestive problems and eliminating toxins. Sweet Orange is genuinely uplifting, excellent for stress while calming digestive problems and eliminating toxins.
Aromatherapists use spikenard for rashes, wrinkles, cuts, insomnia, migraines, and wounds. It brings peaceful tranquility.
Rosemary helps with overcoming mental fatigue and sluggishness by stimulating and strengthening the entire nervous system. It also enhances mental clarity while aiding alertness and concentration.
Melaleuca essential oil is best known as a powerful immune stimulant. It helps fight all three categories of infectious organisms, including bacterial, viral, and fungi.
Alpha-santalol gives Sandalwood essential oil much of its characteristic scent. Research shows that the combination of alpha and beta santalol contributes to the sedative and anti-infectious effects of Sandalwood oil. The Sandalwood tree is cut down, and its wood is distilled. This presents some ecological issues, and the oil should be used with respect. Some studies show that Sandalwood could be an effective preventative agent in skin cancer.
Ylang Ylang oil is best suited for use in the perfumery and skincare industries due to it having a balancing effect on sebum and is helpful for both oily and dry skin types.
Copaiba essential oil is widely used in perfumes, soaps, and lotions. Copaiba essential oil is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. In recent years, copaiba essential oil has been gaining popularity as a natural treatment for inflammation, pain, and anxiety.
Rose oil is prevalent in perfumery, works as an excellent emollient, and is perfect for skin preparation. This oil is particularly beneficial for mature, dry, or sensitive skin.
Jasmine essential oil has long been used in traditional medicine for its plethora of health benefits. Some of these benefits include its ability to soothe anxiety and relieve stress.
Neroli increases circulation and stimulates new cell growth. It prevents scarring and stretch marks and is helpful in treating skin conditions linked to emotional stress.
Arborvitae, which translates to "tree of life," is an essential oil sourced from the heartwood of Thuja plicata trees - also known as Western Red Cedar - native to North America. This oil contains a distinct chemical profile concentrated in methyl thujate and is sourced in an environmentally responsible way through the distillation of residual wood materials.
Cassia is part of the cinnamon family and traditionally used as a domestic spice. Known as ‘Chinese Cinnamon’, Cassia is used to treat digestive disorders and respiratory complaints. It is regularly used as a flavoring in the food and drink industry, as well as in pharmaceutical products. The essential oil is not commonly used in modern aromatherapy, due to its toxicity.
One of the most popular essential oils is cilantro essential oil, also known as Coriandrum sativum. Cilantro oil is said to have many benefits, including the ability to improve digestion, relieve anxiety, and boost the immune system. This herb is a member of the Apiaceae family, including carrots, celery, and fennel. The cilantro plant is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used for centuries in culinary and medicinal applications.
Litsea essential oil is derived from the plant Litsea cubeba, which is native to Asia. The oil has a fresh, citrusy scent and is often used in aromatherapy. It is said to have calming and uplifting properties and can be used to help relieve stress and anxiety.
Siberian Fir essential oil has a clean, refreshing scent that is perfect for diffusing. It can also be used topically, diluted with a carrier oil. Siberian Fir has traditionally been used to help support the respiratory system. Additionally, this oil boosts energy levels, improves circulation, and reduces inflammation.
Turmeric essential oil is extracted from the roots of the Curcuma longa plant. The oil is said to have many benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Manuka is known for its invigorating scent and its ability to fight against antibiotic-resistant organisms.
Citronella is an antiseptic, deodorant, insecticide, tonic and stimulant oil. It is commonly used for its insecticidal and bug-repellent properties. Citronella is used in soaps and candles and has applications in massage therapy to help with minor infections in combating colds and flu.
Ambrette Seed is used primarily in sophisticated perfumes but finds its way in the application of therapy for a person’s emotional needs by aiding with anxiety, depression and mood swings. It is also beneficial for aches, pains, stiffness, poor circulation, and low blood pressure.
Carrot Seed Oil is rich in beta carotene and Vitamins A, B, C, D and E. This oil is known to heal dry, chapped skin, balance the moisture in the skin and condition the hair, as well. It is suitable for all skin types, especially for dry, mature skin and is effective for face and neck treatments in reducing wrinkles.
Lime has a crisp, refreshing citrus scent with uplifting and revitalizing properties. Lime essential oil is also helpful for arthritis, rheumatism, poor circulation, and in eliminating cellulite and obesity.
Mandarin essential oil, extracted from the peel of ripe mandarin oranges, has a sweet, citrusy aroma that is known for its uplifting and calming properties in aromatherapy practices.