a·ro·ma·ther·a·py (ə-rōmə-thĕr'ə-pē)
The use of selected fragrant substances in lotions and inhalants in an effort
to affect mood and promote health.
The use of essential oils, which is derived from the pure essence of a plant, is not
new. Though the term aromatherapy was coined only in the 1920s (by Gattefossé in
1928), people knew of aromatherapy essential oils from the ancient times. Starting
from the Chinese to Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Persian and Indian civilizations, each
have added to the science of essential oils and to aromatherapy as a whole.
Research still continues in the field of aromatherapy essential oils, with new
developments being made in the field. Aromatherapy and essential oils are no longer
limited to cosmetic or aromatic uses only. Many of the essential oils have been
proved to have medicinal and therapeutic benefits too. Take lavender oil for instance.
French chemist Gattefossé would have been unaware of the properties of lavender
oil to give instant relief without any scar in cases of burn, until he burnt his hand and
accidentally put his hand in the jar full of the essence of lavender. Similarly, there are
a large number of essential oils that have medicinal properties. The 'tulsi' plant or
Indian basil, distinct through its strong aroma and taste, is considered "the elixir of
life" since it is thought to bring longevity. The use of the plant’s extracts is made to
treat illnesses like headaches, inflammation, heart disease, and malaria. The
essential oils derived from ‘karpoora tulsi’ have found use in the manufacture of
herbal toiletry.
Essential oils are derived from almost every part of the plant. Leaves, stems, flowers,
roots, etc are distilled through steam or water to result into essential oils.
Consequently, aromatherapy essential oils contain the true essence of the plant. In
its purest form, a few drops of essential oil can give the same results that loads of
that plant would have given. This is because essential oils are available in
concentrated form.
Though referred to as oil, essential oils in aromatherapy do not give that oily feeing.
Except for a few oils such as patchouli, orange and lemongrass, most oils are clear
and see-through.
Aromatherapy essential oils must be differentiated from the perfume or fragrance oils.
While essential oils contain the purest essence of the plant, fragrance oils are made
of artificially created substances as a whole or a part of it. Fragrance oils may cause
allergies or other skin reaction because of the use of artificial substances; but the
use of essential oils brings upon no such allergic reaction.
Aromatherapy essential oils can be used by people either through inhalation or by
applying them on skin in a diluted form. When essential oils are inhaled, they enter
the bloodstream and lungs directly, thus producing an instant effect on the ailment.
Applying aromatherapy essential oils on the body is good for absorption. Since
essential oils are available in a concentrated form, they need to be diluted using
carrier oil. Sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, grape seed oil, etc are blended with
the essential oil; and the mixture is used on the body or the part that is afflicted. One
needs to be very careful while purchasing an essential oil. Though readily available,
people are not well equipped to differentiate between the good quality and poor
quality essential oil.
Top Ten Essential Oils for Home Use
Essential oils provide a fantastic natural alternative to common ailments we see at
home. The actions of essential oils are broad, ranging from topical antiseptics and
anti-inflammatories to analgesics, digestive system tonics,and anti-depressants.
While essential oils should not be a substitute for professional medical care, they can
be successfully employed for many minor complaints, and as adjuncts to other
therapies.
Here we will have a brief look at ten essential oils which may comprise the ‘basic
home care kit’.While by no means exhaustive, this list will go a long way to providing
effective (and often pleasant!) treatments for you and your family for things like cuts
and scrapes, sunburn, digestive troubles, stress related conditions and more. In the
second article, we will cover specific applications and uses of each oil.
Oil #1: Tea Tree Essential Oil
When first examined for it’s antiseptic properties, Tea Tree essential oil was found to
be 100 times more powerful than carbolic acid – the medical standard at the time.
Tea tree has an extremely broad range of antibiotic, antiviral and anti-fungal
properties that have been confirmed by modern scientific research. Often used
topically on small wounds, Tea Tree is also commonly found in oral hygiene
preparations, and can also be effectively employed for Candida, athlete’s foot and
acne, among other things.
Oil #2: Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender has often been called the ‘medicine chest in a bottle’ for its broad range of
applications. Every home should keep Lavender on hand, even if no other oil is
used, as it is so very effective on burns. It’s anti-inflammatory action is responsible
for the beginnings of modern aromatherapy, as Dr. Jean Valnet discovered Lavender’
s healing properties after being burned in a laboratory accident. Lavender is
considered to speed wound healing and reduce scarring. The oil is also pleasantly
calming, and can be used to reduce stress in a variety of situations – a commonly
used technique is to apply Lavender oil ‘neat’ (undiluted)to the soles of the feet of
patients recovering from almost any ailment.
Oil #3: Chamomile Essential Oil
Ah, the great tension reliever, Chamomile oil. This extremely gentle essential oil is
useful for a wide variety of nervous conditions, and is often indicated for cases of
stress in children (including teething and general ‘crankiness’). Rubbing into the
solar plexus is a commonly used application if that is where one tends to ‘hold
tension’.Chamomile essential oil is available in to varieties, German or Blue
Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The Roman variety is most often used for stress
relief, whereas the German variety has the added bonus of being an extremely
effective anti-inflammatory.
Oil #4: Peppermint Essential Oil
An excellent digestive tonic, Peppermint essential oil can sooth many stomach
complaints. For the traveler,it’s effectiveness on calming motion sickness can be of
great help. Further, at least eight controlled studies have shown Peppermint oil to be
effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a painful condition of the
intestines. Beyond it’s support of the digestive system, Peppermint is delightfully
stimulating to the mind, brightening and sharpening mental focus. Finally, Peppermint
is considered by some to be a more effective insect repellent than citronella when
used on the body (rather than in the surrounding air).
Oil #5: Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Another essential oil with a broad range of properties, Eucalyptus is most often used
for respiratory conditions,being useful in clearing congestion with coughs and colds.
However, it’s effects are certainly not limited to the airways – because of it’s broad
range of effects, it has been called the aromatherapists ‘designer oil’. Eucalyptus oil
can cool the body in Summer (or due to fever – use in a compress), and support the
immune system in Winter. Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most staphylococcus
bacteria, again being supportive of bronchial infections. It is considered equally
effective in cases of cystitis, candida, and sunburn, to name a few, as well as being
an insect repellent.
Oil #6: Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium (sometimes known as ‘Geranium Rose’) works wonderfully on both
physiological and psychological levels. It’s floral aroma is brightening and uplifting,
while also working as a sedative. Malte Hozzelhas made this statement regarding this
oil : "Geranium’s vital, sensual presence is not subtle,but direct & unavoidable,
making it one of the oils of choice for aphrodisiac qualities. (Geranium Essential Oil)
inspires natural beauty & enjoyment, uplifts instantly & "tonifies" the mind & intellectin
a powerful, nearly demanding attitude. Mobilizing hidden creative & emotional
reserves, helping us to rise to our own earthly & spiritual identify. A fiery beauty for
the spells of all worlds." Particularly noted for it’s effect on female physiologic
conditions, Geranium oil can be effective for menopausal problems, uterine and
breast complaints.
Oil #7: Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary essential oil is an effective physical and mental stimulant, whether used in
a diffuser or in a morning bath. It’s slightly spicy, rather than floral aroma, has a
warming effect particularly useful for arthritic joints and other muscular complaints. It
also has a long history of treatment for colds and flu – Rosemary was a component of
‘Four Thieves Vinegar’, which robbers rubbed upon their bodies to prevent infection
when up to no good during the plague years of the middle ages. Also, Rosemary is
the essential oil most often associated with improving hair growth in cases of Alopecia.
Oil #8: Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme oil is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic and diuretic, though it should be
employed with great care. There are many types of Thyme oil available, but only the
‘linalol’ chemotype is appropriate for use with children; all varieties should be diluted
prior to topical application. Given the precautions,Thyme can be a first line of
defense in cases of flu, being used in a room diffuser. It also supports elimination of
toxic wastes from the body (particularly noted for excessive uric acid), and it’s
warming quality can eliminate mucous and phlegm. It’s application for the digestive
system is that of a powerful anti-parasitic,and for the muscular system, it can be
helpful for rheumatic aches and pains. Thyme oil may also be supportive in cases of
hair loss.
Oil #9: Lemon Essential Oil
A recent study on test-taking college students showed the diffusion of Lemon oil into
a room improved test scores more than any other oil. In addition to it’s mind-
brightening qualities, it can also disinfect room air and act as a natural deodorant.
Lemon has been noted to support liver function, and is also commonly used to assist
in weight loss and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon adds a pleasant top note, and
can create a synergistic effect with other oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used as
both a fragrance and flavoring agent.
Oil #10: Clove Essential Oil
The power of Clove essential oil is noted upon the first sensing of the aroma – it is
quite strong,sharp and earthy. Clove oil has been found to be the strongest anti-
oxidant of any essential oil, and is a component of ‘longevity’ formulas. It is also an
extremely potent antibacterial, effective against a broader range of microbes than
any other oil except perhaps Oregano – Clove oil has even been employed to
sterilize surgical instruments. Clove also has analgesic properties, and can be used
to temporarily reduce the pain of toothache. Clove oil (or ground cloves) is also a
component of Dr. Huda Clark’s anti-parasite protocol, helping eliminate parasites
from one’s digestive system. This is a very powerful oil which should be diluted to 1%
or less for topical application.
So, there we have a possible ‘top ten’ essential oils for the home medicine chest, a
selection with an extremely broad range of uses for common ailments seen in a family
setting. It is important to note that all essential oils are powerful, and they should be
treated with caution and respect. Always refer to a trusted source before making
specific applications of any oil, as many can be irritating or possibly toxic if used
incorrectly.
Misty Rae Cech, ND is a naturopath practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She employs a
broad array of natural therapies with her clients, including flower essences, essential
oils, herbs and more.
She is also the owner of http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com