Natural Healing With Aromatherapy

Far from being an alternative remedy, Aromatherapy has been used for centuries to treat and heal a wide range of conditions, both physically and emotionally. The art of aromatherapy has been refined over the centuries and is nature's gift to the equilibrium of the mind and body.

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy literally means "treating with scents". It is the practice of using essential plant oils in a variety of ways to promote healing and wellbeing. Aromatherapy helps to ease a wide range of physical ailments and emotional symptoms, in addition to being beneficial for skin care and for use in situations such as labor and childbirth.

We all know that smells, whether pleasant or unpleasant, is one of the first things that we notice when we enter any sort of establishment and it can have a powerful effect on the way that we feel. Perfume has been used since Babylonian times to attract romance, with the aroma of flowers and plants being the equivalent to human pheromones.

Essential oils are extracted from flowers, fruits, herbs, spices, barks, leaves, resins and roots through a process of distillation, maceration, enfleurage or pressing. These oils are dissolved in alcohol, emulsifiers or fats, allowing them to easily penetrate the skin. As the oils evaporate, they are inhaled, sending messages to the brain and working on the limbic system, which affects the emotions, thereby benefiting ones physical and psychological health simultaneously.

How to Use Essential Oils

Essential oils are extremely versatile and can be used in numerous ways. However, they are also extremely potent and should never be applied directly to the skin in undiluted form. They should always be diluted in a carrier oil according to the instructions, in addition to noting any contraindications for that particular oil e.g. pregnancy, epilepsy, high blood pressure.

The oils can be used alone or blended with other oils to create a remedy that suits an individual's biological and psychological makeup. In aromatherapy practice, it is normal to blend together three or four oils and certain oils blend particularly well with other oils to create a harmonic combination.

If correctly stored, most oils should last up to a year. Citrus oils may expire a little earlier. Oils should never be stored in plastic bottles, since this can destroy the oil and erode the bottle. Dark, glass bottles are most suitable, but even these should be stored upright in a cool, dark place.

Some of the techniques and uses of essential oils are as follows:

Massage

This is the most common method of use, which helps to stimulate the flow of blood and lymph fluid. For massage purposes, use one to three percent solution of essential oil to base oil.

Inhalation

Add 6-12 drops of essential oil to a bowl of very hot water. Place a towel over your head and inhale the steam. Whilst this is an excellent treatment for treating colds and respiratory infections, it is not suitable for asthma sufferers.

Baths

Add 5-10 drops of essential oil into the bath, depending on how deep the bath is. Soak for about 15 minutes. If your skin is particularly sensitive, it is advised to dilute the essence in a carrier oil first before adding to the bath.

Showers

After showering as normal using soap or gel, dip a wet sponge into an essential oil, squeeze and then run across your body whilst standing beneath a jet of warm water.

Saunas

Add a few drops of oil to half a pint of water and throw over the coals. This is excellent for cleansing and detoxifying.

Compresses

This is an effective way of easing pain and reducing inflammation. Add 4-5 drops of oil to very hot water. Dip a piece of sterile cloth into the water and wring out. Place the cloth on the affected area until it reaches body temperature. Repeat up to three times. This same method can be used for a cold compress, replacing the hot water for ice-cold water.

Vaporizers

A vaporizer is a pot beneath which sits a candle. Fill the pot with water, add a few drops of essential oil to the water and light the candle. As the water heats, the fragrance from the oil is released.

Humidifiers

A humidifier is a device designed to introduce moisture into a dry atmosphere and can be something as simple as placing a bowl of water onto a radiator. By adding a few drops of oil to the humidifier the heat from the radiator will vaporize the oil.

Pot Pourri

Add a few drops of essential oil to a bowl of pot pourri that has lost its freshness.

Natural Log Fires

Sprinkle a few drops of oil onto the firewood about an hour before lighting.

Which Oils For Which Complaint?

Below is a guide to the most popular essential oils and the conditions for which they are recommended:

Angelica: Strengthens the immune system. Stimulates the circulation and lymphatic system, helping to eliminate toxins from the body. Useful for cellulite, arthritis, respiratory infections and irritated skin. Relieves digestive problems related to stress, flatulence and indigestion and is known to have an affinity with the female reproductive system.

Blends well with: Citrus oils, patchouli, sandalwood, clary sage and vetiver

Caution: Do not use during pregnancy, on diabetics or skin exposed to sunlight

Basil: A stimulant, antidepressant and expectorant with antiseptic and antispasmodic properties. Useful for treating mental fatigue and improving concentration. Can be used for respiratory infections, colds and whooping cough. Relieves abdominal cramps, vomiting and indigestion. Good for aching muscles and arthritis.

Blends well with: Clary sage, lavender, lemon, lime, bergamot, cedarwood, tea tree, citronella, geranium, eucalyptus, rosemary and juniper.

Caution: Should not be used at all during pregnancy. Can be irritating to sensitive skin.

Bergamot: An antiseptic that is good for treating skin problems including acne, oily skin, eczema, psoriasis, chicken pox spots, cold sores, shingles, cuts and insect bites. It is also effective in treating cystitis, thrush and other vaginal irritations. Emotionally, is a powerful antidepressant and has a balancing effect on moods.

Blends well with: Jasmine, sandalwood, myrrh, lavender, neroli, chamomile, geranium, juniper, cypress, lemon and tea tree.

Caution: Increases skin's sensitivity to sunlight.

Black Pepper: Stimulates the circulatory, digestive and nervous systems, making it particularly effective in treating digestive disorders. Boosts the immune system to help fight off infections and helps rheumatic, arthritic and muscular aches and pains. It is also an expectorant and therefore helps to clear mucus from the chest.

Blends well with: Lavender, frankincense, rosemary, lemon, cedarwood, fennel, rosemary, parsley and marjoram.

Caution: Should not be used in conjunction with homeopathic remedies.

Blue Gum Eucalyptus: A powerful antiseptic and decongestant, which makes it ideal for coughs, colds, sinusitis and respiratory infections. It is helpful in treating muscular aches and pains, rheumatism and nerve pain. Useful for cuts, burns, blisters, herpes, chickenpox, shingles, insect bites and skin infections. It is also an effective mosquito repellant.

Blends well with: Tea tree, lemon, pine, cedarwood, rosemary, thyme and lavender.

Caution: Should not be used in conjunction with homeopathic remedies. Avoid using for more than two or three days at a time and do not use on babies or young children.

Cajeput: Antiseptic properties making it useful for steam inhalations for colds, sinusitis, respiratory infections and asthma. Its painkilling properties are effective in treating headaches, sore throats, muscular and arthritic pain, urinary tract infections and gastro-intestinal problems. Emotionally, it is effective in alleviating mental fatigue.

Blends well with: Marjoram, lemon, rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus, sandalwood, pine, juniper and hyssop.

Caution: Known as a skin irritant, so must be diluted well. Best avoided in the evening as it is a stimulant and can cause insomnia.

Cardamom: Antispasmodic properties make it ideal for treating digestive problems. Has a stimulating effect on the mind and is an aphrodisiac.

Blends well with: Neroli, ginger, basil, fennel, lemon, ylang ylang, frankincense, rose, bergamot and clove.

Caution: Use in moderation as it can cause irritation in some people.

Cedarwood: Antiseptic, astringent, diuretic and expectorant properties make cedarwood ideal for acne, spots, dandruff, vaginal infections, cystitis and bronchial infections. It stimulates and relaxes the nervous system and can ease anxiety, depression, fears and obsessions.

Blends well with: Frankincense, geranium, chamomile, lavender, ylang ylang, vetiver, rosewood, juniper, neroli, jasmine and rosemary.

Caution: Should not be used during pregnancy.

Chamomile (Roman): Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Calms the nervous system and encourages sleep. Relieves a range of aches and pains, including muscular spasms, headaches, toothache, menstrual cramps, arthritis and neuralgia. Useful for skin problems, allergies, chilblains and insect bites. Balances the menstrual cycle and helps reduce fluid retention. Acts as an antidepressant and stress reliever.

Blends well with: Neroli, geranium, bergamot, jasmine, rose, mandarin, sandalwood, clary sage and lavender.

Caution: Should not be used in the first trimester of pregnancy. May cause dermatitis in some people. Keep away from the eyes.

Cinnamon (Leaf): A respiratory and circulatory stimulant. Helps digestive, rheumatic and bronchial infections. It also boosts the immune system and is so is effective in fighting colds and cooling fevers. It also has antiseptic, antimicrobial and parasiticidal properties and is useful for treating skin infections, scabies and head lice. The emotional benefits are relief from mental fatigue, poor concentration, depression and nervous exhaustion.

Blends well with: Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Orange, Mandarin, Lemon, Myrrh, Ginger, Frankincense and Basil.

Caution: May cause skin irritation. Should not be confused with Cinnamon Bark Oil, which is an irritant and should never be used in aromatherapy.

Citronella: Ideal for lifting the spirits and treating headaches, fatigue and depression. Its antifungal and deodorant properties make it good for sweaty feet and fungal infections such as athlete's foot. Can help to settle digestive or menstrual problems. Makes an excellent insect repellant.

Blends well with: Bergamot, lemon, orange, geranium, pine, tea tree, cypress, eucalyptus and cedarwood.

Caution: Should not be used at all during pregnancy.

Clary Sage: An antidepressant that is beneficial in treating depression, anxiety and stress. It is also a powerful muscle relaxant and helps to ease muscular pain, indigestion and flatulence. Its antibacterial properties make it ideal for treating throat and respiratory infections. It can help to prevent and stop convulsions, lowers blood pressure and improves symptoms of PMS. Good for oily skin and scalp conditions.

Blends well with: Lemon, orange, bergamot, coriander, juniper, cedarwood, sandalwood, lavender, frankincense, ylang ylang and geranium.

Caution: Should not be used at all during pregnancy.

Coriander: Anti-rheumatic, pain relieving and stimulant properties. Good for headaches, neuralgia, rheumatism, arthritis, hemorrhoids, muscular pain, poor circulation, fluid retention and muscular pain. Stimulates the digestion and nervous system to help relieve flatulence, nausea and diarrhea and to benefit fatigue, nervous exhaustion and apathy. Can also stimulate the appetite and is an aphrodisiac.

Blends well with: Pine, citronella, bergamot, clary sage, sandalwood, ginger, pine and petitgrain.

Caution: Should be used sparingly.

Cypress: Antispasmodic and astringent. Soothes muscular cramps, helps respiratory problems and relieves menstrual and menopausal disorders. Its astringent properties are good for treating oily skin and hemorrhoids.

Blends well with: Lemon, orange, mandarin, bergamot, lavender, pine, sandalwood, juniper and clary sage.

Fennel: Antiseptic, antimicrobial and stabilizing. Excellent for balancing the hormones, helping to ease menstrual and menopausal problems. It can also help to increase milk flow in nursing mothers. Helps to eliminate toxins from the body, so is good for conditions such as cellulite. Useful for digestive problems, gum disease or mouth infections.

Blends well with: Cypress, juniper, sandalwood, clary sage, rosemary, geranium, rose, lemon, orange, lavender and peppermint.

Caution: Should never be used on pregnant women, epileptics or children under six years of age.

Frankincense: Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and calming. Ideal for treating wound and skin conditions, including cuts, scars, blemishes and even wrinkled, aging skin. As an expectorant, it helps respiratory infections, catarrh and asthma. Relieves anxiety, depression and nervous tension. Frankincense has an affinity with the genitourinary system, so is good for treating conditions such as cystitis and menstrual irregularities.

Blends well with: Cinnamon, neroli, lavender rose, bergamot, orange, mandarin, pine, black pepper, and sandalwood.

Note: Safe to use throughout pregnancy.

Geranium: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and astringent properties. Geranium is successful in treating arthritis and a range of skin conditions. It is ideal for cuts, infections, sore throats and mouth ulcers. Stimulates sluggish lymph and blood circulation and is a great tonic for the liver and kidneys. Geranium is used to treat problems of the female reproductive system and also has a wonderfully uplifting effect, balancing the mind and body.

Blends well with: Frankincense, rose, rosewood, lavender, bergamot, lemon, tea tree, patchouli, juniper basil, black pepper and sandalwood.

Caution: Should not be used during the first trimester of pregnancy and should be avoided completely during pregnancy if there is a history of miscarriage.

Ginger: Antiseptic, antioxidant and pain-relieving. Ideal for conditions such as rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain, colds, catarrh, coughs and sore throats. Soothes the stomach and helps to alleviate symptoms of nausea, travel sickness, diarrhea and indigestion. Emotionally, it helps nervous exhaustion and mental fatigue.

Blends well with: Rosewood, rose, cedarwood, vetiver, patchouli, frankincense, lime and other citrus oils, neroli and petitgrain.

Caution: Do not use in conditions of severe fever or inflammation. Use sparingly, since it can cause irritation.

Grapefruit: Detoxifying, diuretic and antidepressant. Grapefruit helps to cleanse the kidneys and eliminate the toxins that cause cellulite. Good for oily skin and scalp conditions. Emotionally, it is uplifting and reduces anxiety and nervous exhaustion.

Blends well with: Coriander, lemon, orange, bergamot, neroli, rosemary, geranium, cypress, sandalwood, lavender, juniper and cardamom.

Hyssop: Antibacterial, antispasmodic and antiseptic. Help for respiratory tract infections, cuts, bruises and skin inflammation. Used to treat low blood pressure, abdominal cramps and scanty menstrual bleeding. Has sedative properties that are beneficial for stress-related conditions.

Blends well with: Lemon, Mandarin, Bergamot, Grapefruit, sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, clary sage, geranium, cypress, lavender and rosemary.

Caution: Should not be used on pregnant women, epileptics or those with high blood pressure. Do not use for more than 2-3 days at a time because it can be toxic in high doses.

Jasmine: Antidepressant, anti-inflammatory and aphrodisiac. Helps to increase sex drive in both men and women. Helps with disorders of the uterus, including menstrual cramps and is known to be one of the best oils to use during labor and childbirth. It can also help to strengthen the male sex organs and alleviate prostate problems. Useful for catarrh and throat and chest infections. An uplifting oil that benefits those suffering from post natal depression, lethargy and stress. Rejuvenates aging skin.

Blends well with: Sandalwood, geranium, lavender, chamomile, neroli, rose, geranium and clary sage.

Caution: May cause an allergic reaction in some people

Lavender: Antidepressant, decongestant, antibacterial, antiseptic and emotionally balancing. Effective in treating a variety of skin conditions, respiratory infections and digestive disorders. Lowers blood pressure and helps depression, tension and stress.

Blends well with many oils including: Patchouli, tea tree, cedarwood, clary sage, grapefruit, rosemary, marjoram, lemon, orange, bergamot, grapefruit, geranium, rose, ylang ylang, jasmine, chamomile and clove.

Caution: May cause an allergic reaction in some asthma or hay fever sufferers. Safe for all age groups and is often used as a vaporizer in children's rooms to encourage sleep.

Lemon: Lemon has the ability to fight and treat a whole host of infections and conditions including colds, flu, throat infections, gum disease, bronchitis, varicose veins, high blood pressure, herpes, nose bleeds, digestive upsets, arthritis, rheumatism and acne. Its diuretic properties help fluid retention. Also acts as an anti-depressant.

Blends well with: Other citrus oils, ylang ylang, neroli, rose, eucalyptus, geranium, juniper, fennel, frankincense, lavender, chamomile, sandalwood and rose.

Caution: Should not be used for more than a few days at a time and never before sunbathing, since it can increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. May cause irritation in people with sensitive skin.

Lime: Antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic and antiviral. Excellent for strengthening the immune system and fighting colds, flu, fevers and respiratory infections. Good for treating oily skin conditions such as acne and is also effective on boils and warts. An appetite and digestive stimulant, it also helps to soothe indigestion. Emotionally, it increases assertiveness and mental awareness.

Blends well with: Other citrus oils, clary sage, bergamot, lavender, black pepper and rosemary.

Caution: Should not be applied to the skin for less than two days before exposure to the sun, since it increases the skin's sensitivity.

Mandarin: Renowned for treating digestive problems and is suitable for children. Mandarin tones the liver, eliminates toxins and acts as a diuretic. As with other citrus oils, it is good for oily skin conditions. Can be used to relieve insomnia and nervous tension and has a calming effect on children.

Blends well with: Other citrus oils, rosewood, frankincense, lavender, chamomile, neroli, cinnamon and clove.

Caution: May increase skin's sensitivity to sunlight.

Myrrh: Its antiseptic properties are excellent for treating mouth and gum infections, ulcers, and sore or chapped skin. Accelerates healing of weepy eczema and its antifungal properties are ideal for vaginal thrush and athlete's foot. It is also an expectorant, good for bronchial infections and is also used to settle digestive disorders. Emotionally, it has a calming and balancing effect and helps to alleviate feelings of fear, nervousness and anxiety.

Blends well with: Lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, geranium, cypress, pine, peppermint, rose, mandarin, sandalwood, frankincense and thyme.

Caution: Should not be used at all during pregnancy.

Neroli (Orange Blossom): Its antispasmodic properties help to relieve digestive disorders and stomach cramps. Tones the skin and improves elasticity, which makes it ideal for preventing and treating aging skin, stretchmarks and wrinkles. A gentle antidepressant that is helpful in treating depression, anxiety, nervous tension and stress. Its sedative properties are useful for combating insomnia.

Blends well with: Chamomile, ylang ylang, rose, lemon, bergamot, lavender, rosemary and geranium.

Orange: Beneficial for internal spasms, digestive disorders, fluid retention, chills, colds, flu and respiratory infections. Helps to relieve depression and nervous tension and is good for treating insomnia when used with lavender or sandalwood.

Blends well with: Lemon, black pepper, cinnamon, clary sage, clove, myrrh neroli, lavender and ylang ylang.

Caution: Increases skin's sensitivity to sunlight and may cause dermatitis in some people. Use no more than 4 drops in a bath.

Patchouli: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antidepressant and antiviral. Valuable in treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema, dermatitis, dandruff, cellulite and fungal infections. Helps cell regeneration so is ideal for aging skin. Treats depression, anxiety, stress and loss of libido.

Blends well with: Ylang ylang, geranium, neroli, bergamot, rose, sandalwood, lemon, clary sage, lavender, cedarwood and clove.

Caution: Can cause headaches in some people.

Petitgrain: Antidepressant, antiseptic, deodorant, antispasmodic. Tones and strengthens the nervous system and eases stress-related disorders. Helps to combat depression, pessimism, anxiety and apathy. Relieves digestive disorders and is an effective deodorant. Ideal for oily skin and scalp conditions, particularly acne and greasy hair.

Blends well with: Orange, mandarin, neroli, clary sage, clove, geranium, jasmine, palmarosa, bergamot and lavender.

Rose: Rose has a natural affinity with the female reproductive system, so is ideal in treating menstrual irregularities, PMS and post natal depression. It is a sedative, an aphrodisiac and an antidepressant. Acts as a tonic for the liver, heart, circulation, uterus and stomach and helps to detoxify the blood. Helps to ease headaches, earache, hay fever, coughs, digestive disorders and conjunctivitis. Soothes sensitive skin conditions and helps to rejuvenate aging skin.

Blends well with: Sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, clary sage, patchouli, bergamot, lavender and ylang ylang.

Caution: Should not be used during the first trimester of pregnancy and not at all if there is a history of miscarriage.

Rosemary: Antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial. Useful for problem skin conditions, hair loss, digestive disorders, colds, coughs, headaches, painful menstruation and catarrh. As a circulatory stimulant, it is effective in treating conditions relating to poor circulation, low blood pressure and muscle pain. It is an antidepressant, so effective in treating stress-related disorders, depression, anxiety and mental exhaustion.

Blends well with: Ginger, petitgrain, thyme, basil, peppermint, pine, frankincense, lavender, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, clove, cypress and cedarwood.

Caution: Should not be used on pregnant women, epileptics or those suffering from high blood pressure.

Rosewood: A tissue regenerator that reduces the appearance of wrinkles, stretchmarks and scars. Beneficial for sensitive or irritated skin, acne and wounds. An antidepressant, pain killer and aphrodisiac. An emotionally uplifting oil that rebalances the nervous system during times of stress.

Blends well with: Patchouli, lavender, frankincense, basil, cedarwood, citrus oils and sandalwood.

Sandalwood: Antiseptic, antibacterial, antidepressant and astringent. Excellent for urinary tract infections such as cystitis. Effective for respiratory infections, digestive disorders, fluid retention and skin problems, including shaving rash. Helps to lift depression, calm the nervous system and increase sexual desire.

Blends well with: Ylang ylang, geranium, rose, chamomile, bergamot, patchouli, frankincense, tea tree, cypress, juniper, myrrh and lavender.

Tea Tree: Antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties, which are useful in treating skin problems, burns, blisters, wounds, dandruff and genitourinary problems. Excellent for fighting colds, flu, fevers, catarrh, infectious diseases and respiratory infections. Good for killing fleas and headlice.

Blends well with: Clary sage, lavender, chamomile, lavender, myrrh, pine, cinnamon, clove, geranium and lemon.

Caution: Introduce with care to people with sensitive skin.

Vetiver: Vetiver is known as the "oil of tranquility" and is valued for its highly sedative properties. It is therefore excellent as a treatment for insomnia and for relieving stress, anxiety and nervous tension. It encourages stability in those who have recently suffered a shock or period of instability. It stimulates the circulation and helps conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism and muscular pains. It is an antiseptic and detoxifier that benefits acne and aging skin.

Blends well with: Cedarwood, sandalwood, jasmine, lavender, clary sage, mandarin, petitgrain, rose and ylang ylang.

Ylang Ylang: A well-known aphrodisiac, ylang ylang is used to treat sexual problems. It is an antidepressant and a sedative and is effective in treating depression, insomnia, anxiety, irritability and tension. Has a balancing effect on sebum production in conditions such as acne and both greasy and dry scalps. It also helps to calm skin irritations. Helps to reduce blood pressure and slow respiration in incidents of shock, anger or panic.

Blends well with: Frankincense, rose, bergamot, vetiver, rosewood, cedarwood, lavender and chamomile.

Caution: May cause irritation is sensitive people and in high concentrations can cause headaches and nausea.

Conclusion

Essential oils are extremely potent and should be used with care. Make sure that you note any contraindications before using a particular oil or blend of oils, particularly if you are pregnant, or suffer from epilepsy, hypertension or allergies.

Suitable carrier oils are light cold-pressed vegetable oils such as sweet almond, grapeseed or sunflower oil. For use of essential oils in hair and scalp treatments, it is better to use a more penetrative oil such as jojoba or olive oil.

Different oils are absorbed at different rates. Some oils may only take 20 minutes to be absorbed into the body, whereas others may take a few hours. On average, most oils will be absorbed within 90 minutes.

For the best result, all oils should be used within three months.

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