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Your Health Fact Sheet
Aromatherapy offers a natural alternative to commercial skin care products with the added benefit of being relatively inexpensive.
You are able to mix and blend your own selection of essential oils to benefit your skin type perfectly.
If you need a mask, make up the following mixture and leave on the face for 10 - 30 minutes -
If your skin is particularly dry, try performing a steam inhalation before moisturising the skin.
Add a few drops of lavender oil and lean over a bowl of hot water for several minutes.
1. Cleanse by adding the following essential oils to 50g of grated pure soap or a natural liquid soap, mixing well.
Massage this mixture gently onto the face and throat area. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
2. Tone by rinsing the face with a citrus floral water or you can add two drops of lemon oil to a bowl of warm water and sponge over the face. Do not use near the eyes.
3. Moisturising - mix together the following -
If you need a mask to help refine the look of your skin, apply the following blend to the face and leave for 30 minutes.
Use this mixture before moisturising then rinse off with warm water.
If you have pimples, apply tea tree oil essential oil neat onto the spot or you can add 2 drops of the oil into a dab of base cream and apply to your whole face. Repeat 2 or 3 times per day.
Aromatherapy is ideal for use in the hair and can improve the condition of the scalp. Use one of the following blends before you shampoo your hair. Pick the blend which best matches your hair type. Mix the essential oils into a base or carrier oil, then massage the scalp. Put a shower cap on (to trap the heat) and then wrap hair and shower cap in a towel to condition and strengthen the hair.
Wait at least 1 hour before washing your hair.
The following blends should be mixed into 20 ml (1 tablespoon) of carrier oil. A good carrier oil for hair is jojoba.
Blend 4 drops of basil essential oil, 4 drops of cypress oil and 2 drops of rosemary oil into the carrier oil.
3 drops of lavender oil, 4 drops of sandalwood oil and 3 drops of geranium oil.
Normal Hair -
3 drops of rosemary oil, 3 drops of lemon oil and 4 drops of geranium oil.
4 drops lavender oil, 4 drops geranium oil, 2 drops of sandalwood oil.
3 drops of tea tree oil, 1 drop rosemary oil, 2 drops juniper oil, 2 drops cedarwood oil and 2 drops lemon oil.
Botanical Name - (Scimum basilicum)
Part of plant used - Leaves and flowering tops
Basil is light green in colour and was traditionally used as a culinary herb in the countries of India, Asia and in the Mediterranean. Basil is a top note, has a strong herb aroma and vapourises quickly.
Botanical Name - (Citrus aurantium, bergamia)
Part of plant used - Fruit peel
Bergamot has a gentle and uplifting aroma and is great for people who are suffering from anxiety or stress or just need a jovial lift. This plant was first grown in Northern Italy. Bergamot oil is light, floral and citrus. It is a top note and vapourises quickly.
Botanical Name - (Piper nigrum)
Part of plant used - Fruit (dried peppercorns)
Black pepper was held in very high regard by the ancient Romans and also the Chinesemedicine people. The aroma is distinctive and warming and the therapeutic uses are many. It is a middle note.
Botanical Name - (Melaleuca cajuputi)
Part of plant used - Leaf and twig
Cajuput oil has been used for centuries as a remedy for rheumatism and cholera and has other antiseptic uses. It is a top not and vapourises quickly.
Botanical Name - (Electtaria cardamomum)
Part of plant used - Fruit
Cardamon comes from a plant that is in the ginger family. Cardamon is used for the relief of mucus forming illness and stomach problems.
Botanical Name - (juniperus virginiana; cedrus atlantica)
Part of plant used - Twig/wood
Cedarwood has properties which aid in the balancing of oil producing ducts in the skin. It was used in the ancient Egyptian times by beauticians as a preserver. Cedarwood has a dry, woody aroma which has a restful yet strong effect on its users.
Botanical Name - (Matricaria chamomilla)
Part of plant used - Flowers
German Chamomile has all the properties of Roman Chamomile but is more intense. This oil is not suitable for children.
Botanical Name - (Anthemis nobilis) also see Chamomile German
Part of plant used - Flowers
Roman Chamomile has been used for centuries to treat various health and beauty complaints which require soothing and calming. This oil may be used on children to help them relax. It is a middle note.
Botanical Name - (Salvia sclarea)
Part of plant used - Whole herb
Clary sage is a European herb. It has euphoric properties - creating positivity and happiness to its user. It possesses a herbal, nutty scent and is a top to middle note.
Botanical Name - (Syzygium aromaticum)
Part of plant used - Bud
Clove was used by the Chinese to freshen their breath and in other parts of the world was used as ornaments around the neck to protect against disease. This oil is sweet, hot, rich and spicy and is a base note with the aroma lasting for a long time.
Botanical Name - (Cupressus sempervirens)
Part of plant used - Needles
Cypress plants are tall perennials found in Greece. The arouma is clarifying, calming and cleansing on the mind of the user. This oil can help to rid the body and mind of wastes and negativity. It is a middle to base note.
Botanical Name - (Eucalyptus polybractea)
Part of plant used - Leaf and twig
Eucalyptus is very popular as an antiseptic worldwide. It is sweet smelling and is a top note. It is without peer as an antiseptic and decongestant and can be used many ways.
Emotional Applications
Botanical Name - (Foeniculum vulgare)
Part of plant used - Seed
Fennel is very close to a liquorice or aniseed aroma, the scent is fresh with a slight pepper overtone. It is a top to middle note. This oil has been used to help new mothers increase their milk supply if insufficient. It is entirely safe for this purpose.
Botanical Name - (Boswellia carterii; olibanum)
Part of plant used - Gum
Frankincense oil has been used for centuries, it is a very spiritual oil and has often been used in church services and ceremonies. It was highly regarded in ancient times as it omits a haunting, majestic and woody aroma with a spicy note. Frankincense is in limited supply and is often more expensive than other oils. It will last a long time once purchased and looked after properly. This oil is a base note as it is quite slow to vapourise.
Botanical Name - (Pelargonium graveolens)
Part of plant used - leaves
Geranium was used one to protect one’s home from evil spirits. Today it is thought to have special healing properties for women and women’s problems. It is a rosy scented oil with a rich bouquet. Geranium is a middle note oil.
Botanical Name - (Zingiber officinalis)
Part of plant used - root
Ginger has warming properties and is often beneficial for painrelief or circulation problems. Very common remedy in the middle ages as an exotic flavour. Ginger is an expectorant, digestive aid and is drying. Having a warm aroma, it is a top note.
Botanical Name - (Citrus paradisi, macfaden)
Part of plant used - fruit peel
Grapefruit is high in Vitamin C and works effectively against infections. Its aroma is refreshing, uplifting and citrusy. Is often used to help with different emotional states.
Emotional Applications
Botanical Name - (Jasminum officinale)
Part of plant used - flower
Jasmine is a beautiful scented oil which is often used to heighten romance. It is often valuable during childbirth and after. Gives relief from bronchial coughs if massaged into the chest and back. The oil is a result of millions of the jasmine petals being harvested at precisely the correct time of day. This is painstaking and time consuming and makes jasmine oil very expensive. Jasmine is a middle to base note.
Botanical Name - (Juniperus communis)
Part of plant used - berries
Juniper oil has a detoxifying affect on the body. It has a clear, spicy wood aroma often used as an aftershave. It eliminates fluids and toxic waste from the body and can be invigorating as well.
Botanical Name - (Lavandula angustifolia)
Part of plant used - flowers and leaves
Lavender has many wonderful and health giving properties. It is a general healing oil which has an appealing elegant, floral aroma with woody undertones. This oil is a middle note. Lavender appeals to all sorts of people of different ages for emotional and physical healing.
Botanical Name - (Lavandula angustifolia)
Part of plant used - flowers and leaves
Lavender has many wonderful and health giving properties. It is a general healing oil which has an appealing elegant, floral aroma with woody undertones. This oil is a middle note. Lavender appeals to all sorts of people of different ages for emotional and physical healing.
Botanical Name - (Cymbopogon citratus)
Part of plant used - herb
Lemon Grass oil is a light top note with a strong tangy, sweet, citrusy aroma. Quite often used in vapourisers to create uplifting smells. This oil is usually accepted and liked by most people and can be used in public places.
Botanical Name - (Cirus aurantifolia)
Part of plant used - fruit
Lime has strong citrus overtones with a characteristic reviving quality. Lime is similar to lemon in many ways and will improve the aroma of many blends.
Botanical Name - (Citrus reticulata, blanco)
Part of plant used - fruit peel
Mandarin oil is gentle, smoothing and has strengthening properties. It aids concentration and feeling positive. The aroma is sweet and tangy and is a top to middle note.
Botanical Name - (Origanum marjorana)
Part of plant used - leaves
Marjoram oil is a relaxant and calmer to restless people. It is not to be used by people suffering from low blood pressure. It is very powerful and should only be used at night before sleep or if you are not going to be working heavy machinery or driving.
Myrrh Essential Oil Fact Sheet
Botanical Name - (Commiphora myrrha)
Part of plant used - gum
Myrrh is invaluable in the treatment of infections and can be applied directly to the inflamed areas. This oil has been used for thousands of years to ancient Egypt where it was used to preserve the Pharaohs. It is not particularly appealing in aroma but it offers numerous medicinal remedies.
Emotional Applications
· to be empowered and inspired
· to be emotionally strengthened
Physical Applications
· Cough and cold congestion - steam inhalation
· Flatulence - massage on abdomen
· Haemorrhoids - topical application
· Dry cracked skin - massage
· Mature skin - massage
· Mouth ulcers - gargle
· Gum problems, gingivitis, sore throats - gargle
· Genital thrush - mix with tea tree and apply externally to the affected area
Cautions
· Do not take internally.
· Do not use topically if you are pregnant
Neroli Essential Oil Fact Sheet
Botanical Name - (Citrus aurantium)
Part of plant used - flowers
Neroli oil is extracted from the flowers of the bitter orange tree, the aroma is delicate and soft. Highly sort after, neroli is quite expensive to purchase and is often premixed in a carrier oil for use.
Emotional Applications
· to have more belief in yourself
· more confidence
· to feel euphoric and positive
Physical Applications
· Panic attacks - massage
· Anxiety, shock, depression, stress - massage
· Skin - dry, sensitive, scars, stretch marks - massage
· Insomnia, sleeplessness - vapouriser, bath, massage
Cautions
· Do not take internally.
Orange Essential Oil Fact Sheet
Botanical Name - (Citrus aurantium, sinensis)
Part of plant used - fruit peel
Orange essential oil has a sweet, warm and sensual aroma. It creates an atmosphere of happiness while also conveying calm. Orange is a top note fragrance.
Emotional Applications
· to feel uplifted
· to enable better communication
Physical Applications
· Insomnia - vapouriser, dab on pillow
· Stress, mild anxiety and tension - bath, vapouriser, massage
· Headaches - massage
Cautions
· Do not take internally.
· Adults only
· Do not use when you are or will be exposed to sunlight.
Palmarosa Essential Oil Fact Sheet
Botanical Name - (Cymbopogon martinii)
Part of plant used - grass
Palmarosa has many healing properties and aromatically is similar to geranium oil.
Emotional Applications
· helps find emotional strength and stability
· to help care for yourself
· to love life
Physical Applications
· Rashes - massage in base cream
· Minor skin infections - massage in base cream
· Temporary relief of sinusitis and cough - steam inhalation
· Cystitis and vaginal itching - topical application
· Stress - vapouriser, inhalation
Cautions
· Do not take internally.
· Adults only
· If cystitis persists for more than 48 hours or if you discover blood in the urine seek medical attention immediately.
Botanical Name - (pogostemom cablin)
Part of plant used - leaf
Patchouli essential oil has an intense and earthy aroma which encourages and awakens harmony and romance. It can help in times of stress to make you feel more tranquil and uplifted.
Botanical Name - (mentha piperita)
Part of plant used - leaf
Peppermint possesses a powerful menthol which can clear nasal passages, relieve jet lag and nausea. This oil is clearing and comforting. It is a top note and vapourises quickly.
Botanical Name - (Citrus aurantium, amara)
Part of plant used - leaf and twigs
Petitgrain possesses a lovely floral tone with a bitter note and is contained in many classic perfumes. The scent is a top to middle note. This essential oil also comes from the bitter orange tree (as does neroli). Petitgrain comes from the leaves and stems, neroli is derived from the flowers.
Botanical Name - (Abies sibirica)
Part of plant used - leaf
Pine has antiseptic, clearing and exhilarating properties which have healed and physical symptoms and troubled minds for centuries. This essential oil is a middle note and its aroma is strong, and inspiring.
Botanical Name - (Rosa damascena)
Part of plant used - flowers
Rose aroma is intense and enriching. It is only produced in small amounts and is very precious. This oil can alter the emotional state and support the system medicinally. The luxurious aroma is a middle to base note.
Botanical Name - (Rosmarinus officinalis) Part of plant used - herb
Rosemary essential oil has a very strong and distinctive aroma which has been used by many people burning the midnight oil. It helps to keep alert and focussed on the task at hand. Rosemary is ideal for students studying for exams or finishing assignments, for shiftworkers or anybody else needing focus. It also keeps the memory functioning properly.
Botanical Name - (Aniba roseadora)
Part of plant used - wood
Rosewood has a warm, rich, rosy tone. It’s lively and spicy scent helps to bring resolution and clarity. It has a calming effect as can often be used during times of stress. It is anti-bacterial and stabilising. Rosewood is a middle tone.
Botanical Name - (Salvia officinalis)
Part of plant used - wood
Sage has many emotional and physical benefits and has been used for many years as a culinary herb. It has antiseptic, astringent and anti-spasmodic properties which help in the treatment of sinus, colds, coughs, diarrhoea.
Botanical Name - (Santalum album)
Part of plant used - wood
Sandalwood has a soft, stirring scent which brings clarity and purpose. The aroma has great appeal with both men and women alike and is a base note, lasting for a long time. This oil relieves stress and can be used in a vapouriser, bath, massage formula or in a moisturising cream.
Botanical Name - (Citrus reticulata)
Part of plant used - fruit rind
Tangerine is often a favourite with children and is soothing for them. Can be used in a variety of ways.
Botanical Name - (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Part of plant used - leaves
Tea tree oil has been touted as one of the most effective substances against infections - bacterial, viral and fungal. This tree is grown in the northern New South Wales region of Australia and is glorified world wide for its healing properties. This oil will heal without scarring and is a top note.
The essential oils of plants and flowers have been used across many cultures for thousands of years to improve both physical and emotional wellbeing. Interest in Aromatherapy has recently been re-ignited as it has become obvious that the natural plant extracts called essential oils have the power to influence your moods and feelings, healing the body, mind and spirit.
What are essential oils…
Essential oils are natural plant extracts which give the plant its vitality and health. These oils contain the ingredients that nourish, energise, defend and regenerate the plant. When the pure oils are extracted from parts of the plants (leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds or roots), they still possess these active ingredients.
The essential oils are also aromatic in nature and this is in part responsible for the healing. The body and mind are healed safely and naturally and actually take part in the healing process with no side effects.
Pure oils are extracted from particular varieties of plants which are grown especially for this purpose. Not all plants and species contain essential oils and some plants contain more than one. If this is the case, the oils from that one plant will contain common properties as well as some individual properties.
Each plant has unique characteristics and its own molecular make up giving the different fragrances of each essential oil. The plants used in Aromatherapy have been cultivated over many years and contain billions of active cells, some producing oil. The plants are carefully harvested and the oil is extracted and nothing else is added to it.
Essential oils are different to fragrant oils, the latter has synthetic substances added to it and is only for pleasant smells. Essential oils are potent and powerful, having many therapeutic properties. They are antiseptic, antiviral, anti-inflamatory, sedative and stimulating. They should also not be taken internally.
Extraction…
Steam Distillation…
The majority of essential oils are extracted from the plants by steam distillation which is a highly scientific and precise process. The plant material is put into vats and steamed creating a water and essential oil mix of vapour. As the steam is cooled down the water separates from the essential oil. This gives floral water and pure essential oil. Not all oil will be used for distribution and some will be of differing qualities.
Cold Pressing…
Some other essential oils are extracted through cold pressing. This will get the oil out of rinds of fruits. Pressure is applied to the rind which causes the essential oil to seep out.
How does it work…
Aromatherapy works in two ways: physically as the essential oils enter the body in tiny quantities by going through the various layers of the skin to the bloodstream where they can work to heal. And emotionally via your sense of smell.
The fragrance of the oil effects the section of the brain which controls your feelings and emotions. These two actions combined, provide a potent healing effect on the human body and mind.
Buy only pure oils
There are oils on the market that have not been extracted correctly and are best avoided as their healing properties are questionable. They may also have undergone additional processing or have additives in them. The oil must have ‘AustL’ or ‘AustR’ on the label. This indicates that it meets with Australian standards.
It must also be 100% pure essential oil and be packed in a dark glass bottle. Some oils will be more expensive that others but be weary if they are too cheap - the quality may be compromised.
When to use Aromatherapy…
You will get the most out of Aromatherapy when it becomes part of your life. There are many ways to use your essential oils - as treatments, in your beauty regime, when under stress, insomnia, to help studying teenagers, to uplift and seduce. Aromatherapy is a way of taking charge of your vitality and wellbeing.
Choosing Your Aromatherapy Essential Oils…
You can choose your oils looking at their different qualities, and traditional uses. Then when you have chosen a good sample of oils start sampling their aroma to see if you feel comfortable with those particular ones. Your feelings about the aroma affect the benefit you will receive from the oil. So choose instinctively out of the selected range. If you try all the oils at once you may become overwhelmed and confused. You will respond to a select few more easily.
Aromatherapy oils are divided into 3 types for ease of use. These are…
Top notes - which are more volatile and evaporate quickly. They are uplifting , light, refreshing, clearing and emotionally stimulating. The top notes are Basil, lemongrass, bergamot, mandarin, clary sage, orange (sweet), eucalyptus, palmarosa, fennel, peppermint, ginger, petitgrain, grapefruit, rosewood, lemon, tea tree oil.
Middle notes - are a medium evaporation. These oils are emotionally balanced, fragrant and harmonising. They include black pepper, marjoram, camomile (German), myrtle, clove bud, neroli, cypress pine, geranium, rose, juniper, rosemary, lavender, ylang ylang.
The base notes - are the least volatile. They are heavy, sedating, calming and grounding. They include cedarwood, frankincense, patchouli, sandalwood and vetiver.
Things you should know about essential oils…
· Essential oils should not be taken internally
· They are best stored away from light and heat
· They can be combined and still keep their individual properties
· They are best used in carrier oils such as avocado, jojoba or apricot kernal oil, or creams which are not made from animal or mineral sources.
· Do not use the oils directly on the skin unless that type of treatment has been recommended by a therapist
· Be careful using the oils while pregnant
· Do not use on babies less than 2 weeks old and then only one drop of lavender for children 2 weeks to 4 months old. At 4 months of age to 12 years use a quarter of adult dosages.
· Use with care on the elderly - use very little essential oil and seek advice from a qualified Aromatherapist
· Do not use animal products or mineral products (sorbolene)
· Do not use near eyes
· Do not use more than recommended doses
· Always use your conventional medicine if prescribed. Aromatherapy is not a replacement for your recommended treatment.
Aromatherapy Applications
Massage -
Massage is a very relaxing and effective way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. You will be benefiting both emotionally through your sense of smell and physically as the oil penetrates your skin.
Your skin is your largest organ and is subject to abuse from pollution, toxins and the like. With aromatherapy massage, the oil is absorbed into the body within 30 minutes to 2 hours and any excess is excreted out via the urine, sweat glands or exhaled through the air.
To make your own blend for a massage use 5ml of essential oil to every 10ml of carrier oil. If you use cream as the carrier use the following ratio - 8g to 1 drop of essential oil.
Some good hints for massage blends -
For a body massage use almond or apricot oils as the carrier.
For a facial massage, you can use carrier oils such as jojoba, apricot, peach or olive.
Therapeutic Bath
Add 5 drops of your chosen essential oil to your bath just before you turn the taps off. This type of therapy is ideal for sore muscles or a tired psyche. It is perfect for relaxing baby just before sleep (see comments above about age of children). You can even add some bubble bath. You do not need the carrier oil in this instance.
Vapourisation
This is a very popular method of using essential oils as it adds a lovely aroma to your office or home. This is excellent for relaxing, aiding sleep, stimulating your mind before study or to create a sensual night to remember.
To use, fill the vaporiser with water and put about 6 drops of essential oil into the water. Light your candle underneath the burner and the heat will enable the aroma to carry into the air.
Always place the burner on a plate to avoid staining any surfaces and never use near open windows or draughty areas. Also do not use these types of vaporisers while sleeping in case an accident occurs and they catch fire. There are electric vaporisers available these days which are highly effective and inexpensive to run.
Footbath
This is a wonderful way to relax tired feet. Just fill a large bowl or bucket with warm water, put your favourite essential oils into the water (up to 5 - 6 drops) and place your feet in it for as long as you wish. Some nice suggestions are to choose ylang ylang and patchouli.
Inhalation
This is an ideal way to gain relief from respiratory problems such as colds, flu, sinus etc. Add 5 - 6 drops of essential oil into a large bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel, lean over the bowl and breathe in. Ensure your eyes are shut. Good oils to choose for colds and flu are - cedarwood, ginger, lemon, myrtle, palmarosa and peppermint. If your nose is blocked try - peppermint, rosemary and lemon.
Compress
Another method which treats common problems effectively is to use a compress. Compresses are good if you suffer from arthritis, rheumatism, sore joints, period pain, headaches or any other muscular type pain.
Fill a bowl with warm water to which you add 6 drops of essential oil. Dip a hand towel into the water and wring out, place over the affected area. As the compress gets cold, repeat the process. Another more effective option is to add a plastic wrap around the warm compress. This makes the oil more potent and keeps the heat in longer.
For arthritis try a few of the following - basil, black pepper, chamomile, clove, eucalyptus, fennel, ginger, juniper, lavender, lemon, marjoram, peppermint, pine, rosemary.
Gargle/mouthwash
You can swish one drop of essential oil in half a glass of water around in your mouth as a gargle - particularly for sore throats. Use 1 drop of either lemon, sandalwood or tea tree oil.
Blending and looking after your oils…
Remember these few points before you start on your way:-
· If you need to be healed for a particular reason, choose the oils based on their therapeutic effects rather than their aroma. (Except with headache sufferers, they will need to like the aroma or it may make them worse). If you need an emotional healing, choose the oils based on their aroma.
· When blending oils and the quantity you need is 5 drops, only use 5 drops in total - not 5 drops of each oil in the blend.
· Do not blend essential oils with opposite properties.
· Use only 3 or 4 essential oils in each blend
Vetiver Essential Oil Fact Sheet
Botanical Name - (Vetiveria zizanoides)
Part of plant used - root
Vetiver is a strong and earthy smelling oil. It can settle our emotions in stressful times. It is often used with a citrus oil to become more appealing to the senses.
Emotional Applications
· to nourish skin
· seek abundance
· to keep looking young and vital
· to relieve depression, irritability or hysteria
Physical Applications
· Arthritis and rheumatic pain - massage, bath, compress
· Digestion - massage
· Stress and tension - vapouriser, massage, inhalation
Cautions
· Do not take internally.
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Fact Sheet
Botanical Name - (Cananga odorata)
Part of plant used - flower
Ylang Ylang essential oil is reputed to be one of the best aphrodesiacs available. The alluring and exotic fragrance arouses the senses and uplifts the spirits. It soothes fears and anxieties. This oil is a middle to base note.
Emotional Applications
· arouses senses
· to draw out your natural sensuality and passion
· to uplift
Physical Applications
· Muscular cramps and spasms - massage
· High blood pressure - massage
· Oily skin - massage in base cream
· Tension and stress - massage, bath, vapouriser
· Flatulence, diarrhoea and intestinal infections - massage on the abdomen in clockwise direction
· Hair (encourages hair growth) - put a few drops in your normal shampoo
Cautions
· Do not take internally.
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