Essential oils

Essential oils

Essential oils can be used in two basic ways. The first is by rubbing the oil on the skin, the second is through inhalation of the scent. For a body massage, try 20-30 drops in a non-scented oil, such as vegetable or canola. For the bath, just add 5-10 drops to a steaming tub. For air diffusers, use 5 drops, or follow the manufacturer's advice. When purchasing essential oils, look for brands that come in dark brown glass bottles that have a dropper top, or droppers available.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 

Inhaled: is a stimulant, helps sharpen senses, and helps ease headaches. 

On skin: a good skin toner. This does not need to be mixed with vegetable oil. 

Warning: Basil essential oil may irritate sensitive skin.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)  

Inhaled: helps clear breathing passages. Use during a cold or flu. 

On skin: Use on burns or infected wounds. 

Warning: Eucalyptus essential oil is not recommended for people with high blood pressure.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)  

Inhaled: decreases appetite, aids digestion. 

On skin: a good toner, eases wrinkles. 

Warning: not recommended during pregnancy.

Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) 

Inhaled: clears lungs, stimulates the immune system. 

On skin: good for aging skin. Eases sores and inflammations.

Geranium (Pelargonium gravolens) 

Inhaled: reduces stress. 

On skin: A good cleanser, improves skin circulation. 

Warning: Do not use during pregnancy. May irritate sensitive skin.

Ginger (Zingiber offcinalis)  

Inhaled: Eases digestion. Causes sweating during fevers. 

On skin: Helps ease bruises. 

Warning: May irritate sensitive skin. Mix with vegetable oil if this is the case.

Lavender (Lavendula officinalis)  

Inhaled: relaxing. relieves headaches, lowers blood pressure. 

On skin: Aids in wound recovery, good for acne, burns and wounds. 

Warning: Not recommended for people with low blood pressure.

Patchouli (Pogostemon patchouli)  

Inhaled: causes loss of appetite. Deodorizes. 

On skin: Good for aged cracked skin. Anti-inflammatory anti-fungal. Good for athlete's foot. Warning: in low doses, may act as a sedative. Acts as a stimulant at higher doses. Many find patchouli to be an unpleasant odor.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)  

Inhaled: good for easing stomach ailments. Ease headaches. 

On skin: Relives itching of sunburn. Use on greasy hair.

Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis)  

Inhaled: Good general tonic. Eases headaches. 

On skin: Good astringent. Use in shampoo to get rid of dandruff.

Sandalwood (Santalum album)  

Inhaled: aids sleep, releases anxiety. (often used as an aphrodesiac) 

On skin: relieves itching and inflammation.

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)  

Inhaled: helps relieve sinusitus. 

On skin: anti-inflammatory. Use on burns, sores, warts, athlete's foot. Rub into scalp to relieve dandruff.

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)  

Inhaled: sedative. Good for high blood pressure and insomnia. 

On skin: Rub on scalp to stimulate hair growth. Sweet scent, use as perfume.

Disclaimer - This is provided for informational purposes only. Ilana J. Rosenshein, and anyone related to her, is not responsible for the outcome of anyone using these remedies. Please consult a licensed healthcare physician before changing you health care program.