Essential Oil Profiles

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Essential Oil Profiles Brief descriptions of the sources and uses of essential oils. For more information, consult the books recommended by Amrita.

	Amni Visnaga. Amni Visnaga, also called Khella essential oil, is steam distilled from the seeds of the khella plant, which grows in Morocco. Amni Visnaga is not purchased for its aroma; when steam-inhaled, it is a powerful antispasmodic and thus is used to treat bronchial asthma and bronchitis. It also is used to control allergic reactions, because it prevents the release of histamines.
	Angelica. The many virtues of Angelica, which is cultivated in Europe and northern India, have been known for centuries. Folklore testifies to its merits as a protection against contagion. Angelica is said to be purifying as well as warming and comforting and may help with rheumatism. It is reported to have a tonic effect on the nervous system and has been recommended for weakness, nervousness, stress and convalescence.
	Anise. Aniseseed oil is distilled from the dried seeds of an annual herb that is native to Greece and Egypt. With its warm, spicy, licorice-like aroma and taste, it is reported to have an uplifting and comforting effect on the mind. It is widely used as a flavoring. Aniseseed oil has been said to have excellent antispasmodic and antiseptic properties. As an expectorant, it is used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions.
	Basil Holy. Basil has been used as a sacred herb in India and Europe for many centuries. It was said to strengthen faith, compassion and mental clarity. More recent clinical experience shows that Basil increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing clear thinking and improving memory. Basil also connects the thought process with speech, enhancing self-expression.
	Basil, Sweet. Basil is a highly regarded plant; its name is derived from a Latin word for royalty. Basil is an annual herb that is native to tropical Asia and Africa. It is used to clear the head and relieve intellectual fatigue. It can be used for nervous disorders, especially those associated with weakness, indecision or hysteria. Basil's antispasmodic property is said to have a beneficial action on the respiratory system. It is used for the relief of sinus congestion, asthma, bronchitis, influenza and whooping cough.
	Bay Laurel. Sweet and spicy Bay Laurel is distilled from the dried leaves and berries of the tropical evergreen tree. Bay Laurel was honored by the Egyptians and Romans as a symbol of wisdom and protection. In modern aromatherapy, the oil has been effective in stimulating the lymph system and protecting against colds and viruses.
	Bay Leaf. St. Thomas Bay Leaf essential oil is steam-distilled from the leaves of a forest tree native to the West Indies. It has a spicy, balsamic scent. The major use is in hair and scalp lotions. It can also be used to massage muscular aches, as well as strains and sprains. Because of its antiseptic and expectorant qualities, it is used for conditions in the respiratory system such as colds, tonsillitis and viral infections.
	Benzoin. Benzoin is made from the resin of a small tree growing in tropical Asia. It has a delicate, balsamic odor and is used in skin care products to heal dry, chapped skin and wounds. When combined with other respiratory oils, it helps with coughs, colds, asthma and bronchitis. Benzoin is warming to painful joints and helps with rheumatism and gout. It is anti-inflammatory and antiseptic.
	Bergamot. Bergamot has a light, delicate, citrusy and floral scent. It is cold expressed from the peel of a small, pear shaped citrus fruit grown in southern Italy. It has been a folk remedy in Italy since the 16th century, used for fever and as an antiseptic. In recent aromatherapy, Bergamot has been successfully used in douches and hip baths for urinary and vaginal infections and inhaled for respiratory infections like tonsillitis, bronchitis and tuberculosis.
	Birch, Yellow. Yellow Birch essential oil is made by steam distillation of the bark of a tree native to southern Canada and northeastern U.S. It is now also grown in Russia. Birch is an anti-inflammatory oil and is said to be excellent for massaging sore muscles, sprains and painful joints. It is also anti-spasmodic and antiseptic. It has a sharp, minty scent that is similar to Wintergreen.
	Black Pepper. Black Pepper oil is produced by the steam distillation of the dried, crushed, not-quite-ripe fruits of the pepper plant. Pepper has been esteemed as a spice in India since time immemorial and is dispersed in trade throughout the world. In the Middle Ages in Europe, pepper was of great importance to season and preserve meat and to mask the odors of rancid foods. Pepper is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its carminative, warming and eliminative properties.
	Calendula CO2. Calendula CO2 Extract is made with the flowers of the marigold (Calendula officinalis) plant and is most recognized for its ability to heal wounds, ulcers, chapped skin and abrasions. Thus it is often used in healing salves, lotions and creams. The extract contains the plant waxes and other phytochemicals, making it almost identical to the plant itself.
	Cajeput. Cajeput has long been used in Malaysia and Indonesia for its therapeutic values. It was considered particularly valuable for colds, flus and chronic rheumatism and was prescribed for cholera. It was introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Until the Dutch gained the territory in the Moluccas, it remained a very rare and expensive oil in France.
	Camphor. Camphor essential oil is extracted from the chipped wood, root stumps and branches of the camphor tree, which is native to Taiwan, China and Japan. The tree must be at least 50 years old before it can produce oil. Camphor was used traditionally to cure the plague in ancient Persia. Camphor oil is very strong and should be used with care; when used in vapor therapy, it is useful for colds and other upper respiratory infections. It is not recommended for all-over massage but can be helpful for muscular and joint aches and pains as well as sprains. It is analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic.
	Caraway. Caraway essential oil is derived from a biennial plant native to Europe and Western Asia. The dried, crushed ripe seeds are steam distilled. It has an intensely spicy odor reminiscent of caraway seeds and is antimicrobial, astringent and antiseptic. It is principally used as a carminative and stomachic. Caraway has a calming effect on stomach disorders and is recommended to settle digestion and stimulate the appetite. The oil is also used as a fragrance in toothpaste, mouthwashes, cosmetics and perfumes.
	Cardamom. The cardamom plant is a perennial herb native to Asia and now cultivated in Sri Lanka, India, Guatamala and El Salvador. As a spice, cardamom is believed to be one of the oldest known, having been used for thousands of years in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It was brought to Europe by the Greeks in the 4th century B.C. The essential oil is produced by steam distilling the seeds. While the essential oil is generally not used in skin care, it is recommended for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis. It is also commonly used for the treatment of digestive complaints. It is a gentle tonic for the nervous system and is helpful for nervous exhaustion and depression.
	Carrot Seed. Carrot seed essential oil is steam-distilled from the dried seed of the wild carrot, an annual or biennial herb that is native to Europe, Asia and North America. It is an excellent regenerator of liver cells. It is also a skin cell regenerator and is helpful for skin conditions such as tired or aged skin, wrinkles, rashes, irritations, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and skin ulcers. For this reason, it makes an excellent addition to skin care products. It is one of the strongest revitalizing essential oils.
	Cedar Leaf. Cedar Leaf essential oil (also called Thuja Oil) is steam-distilled from the fresh leaves and twigs of the Thuja occidentalis, a slow-growing, narrow conifer. It has a camphoraceous, fruity aroma.
	Cedar, Himalayan. Himalayan Cedar essential oil is steam distilled from the wood chips of a tree native to India. It has a regulating effect on the nervous system and is calming and sedating. Its antiseptic, balancing qualities make it helpful for skin conditions. It is anti-inflammatory and thus is used for arthritis and rheumatism. It may assist the lymphatic system.
	Cedar, Virginia. Virginia Cedar essential oil is steam distilled from the wood of a slow-growing evergreen tree native to Virginia and other southern states. It has a sedating effect and thus may be helpful for anxiety, nervous tension and poor concentration. It may assist in the healing of upper respiratory ailments. Because of its astringent and antiseptic qualities, it is recommended for skin, scalp and hair care. It is also useful as an insect repellent.
	Cedarwood Atlas. Atlas Cedar was believed to used by the ancient Egyptians for embalming purposes, cosmetics and perfumery. Cedar trees were mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing everything that was fertile and abundant. Atlas Cedar may be used for reducing stress, anxiety and tension. Also, because of its antiseptic and astringent properties, it is recommended for hair and skin care.
	Celery. Celery essential oil is steam distilled from the seeds of the celery plant, which grows in India. It has a sweet, spicy, warm odor. The majority of celery oil is used by the spice industry as a flavoring in many different foods. It is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, mental depression and anxiety, bladder and kidney complaints and digestive disorders. It may have a regenerating effect on the liver.
	Chamomile, Blue Moroccan. Blue Moroccan Chamomile is actually Tanacetum annuum and is not really of the chamomile family. Another name for the oil is Blue Tansy. The flowering plant grows in Morocco and yields a deep blue essential oil with a delightful honeyed-apple scent. The oil is said to be highly anti-inflammatory and thus may help damaged or irritated skin. It is also anti-histaminic and is used to treat colds, fevers and asthma. It is reported to be antispasmodic, tonic and a thymus stimulant.
	Chamomile, German. German Chamomile is a fragrant annual herb with simple, daisy-like white flowers. It is native to central and northern Europe. The essential oil is steam distilled from the flowers and has a deep, inky-blue color. It is often used in skin preparations, especially those designed for sensitive skin, due to its soothing, calming, anti-inflammatory qualities. It is considered one of the gentlest of oils. It is said to be beneficial in treating sprains, inflamed tendons and swollen joints and can also be used to treat nervous tension, insomnia, indigestion and headaches.
	Chamomile Roman. Roman Chamomile has an herbaceous, apple-like scent. It is distilled from the daisy-like flowers of the small perennial herb and is a traditional remedy to use for grumpy children and premenstrual women, or anyone who feels irritable due to discomfort, indigestion or stress.
	Cinnamon. Cinnamon has been used for several thousand years in Eastern and Western cultures in treating chronic diarrhea, rheumatism, colds, abdominal and heart pains, kidney problems, hypertension and female disorders such as amenorrhea and cramps. These days, cinnamon bark oil is used in pharmaceutical preparations as a carminative, stomachic, tonic and counterirritant. It is often included in mouth washes, liniments, nasal sprays and toothpastes.
	Cistus Rockrose. Cistus (Rockrose) was imported into Ancient Egypt from Crete. The resin was extensively used in Egypt as a perfume and in incense. At the time of Christ, an incense was made using frankincense and myrrh from Arabia, galbanum and 'onycha'. The latter has been identified as gum labdanum, which is exuded from the leaves of Rockrose. The oil has been used in Europe since the Middle Ages and was used in ointments and compresses to treat infected wounds and skin ulcers. The oil is also used as a fixative in many perfumes.
	Citronella. Poultices of the leaves (C.nardus) were widely used in India and Sri Lanka to treate minor cuts, abrasions and swellings. Extracts of the leaves were used as a febrifuge, stomachic, diaphoretic, diuretic and emmenagogue. The oil is extensively used in detergents, waxes, household soaps and cleaners, and to a minor extent in perfumes and toiletries. Citronella oil is also widely used as an insect repellent.
	Clary Sage. Clary Sage has a fruity, floral, herbaceous and earthy scent; it is distilled from the flowers and foliage of Muscatel sage. Clary Sage is an euphoric essential oil, valuable for nervous depression and hysteria. The ancient Greeks and Romans loved Clary Sage for its deeply sensual and aphrodisiac qualities. Because it balances estrogen production, it is helpful to ease labor, stimulate milk production, and treat premenstrual and menopausal symptoms.
	Clove Bud. During the Renaissance, pomanders were made with cloves to keep epidemics and the plague at bay. Cloves are used in traditional medicine as a carminative, anti-emetic and counterirritant. Clove tea is used to relieve nausea, and the oil is well known for its ability to alleviate toothache.
	Coriander Seed. Coriander Seed essential oil is steam distilled from the dried, crushed seeds of a strong-smelling herb growing in Europe and western Asia. The oil is recommended for the treatment of arthritis, gout, muscular aches and pains and rheumatism. It may be helpful in nervous exhaustion, anorexia nervosa and loss of appetite. It is used as a fragrance component in soaps, cosmetic and perfumes. The scent is warm and relaxing.
	Cornmint. Cornmint essential oil is steam distilled from a plant that grows in Asia as well as South America. Due to its strong, fresh, pepperminty scent, it is commonly used to fragrance soaps, toothpastes, detergents, cosmetics and perfumes. It is used to treat colds, bronchitis and other respiratory ailments. It may also be helpful for rheumatism and neuralgia. In Chinese Medicine, it is used for earaches, tumors and skin conditions.
	Cypress. The woody, spicy, clear and refreshing scent of Cypress is distilled from the leaves and cones of an evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean. In Greek and Roman mythology, Cypress was dedicated to the God of the underworlds. Even today, it is still planted in cemeteries.
	Elemi. Elemi essential oil is wild crafted from the resin of a tropical tree native to the Philippines and Moluccas. The resin is first extracted to form a resinoid, and the essential oil is a steam distillation of the resinoid. The oil has a fresh, lemon-like, peppery odor that dries out to a balsamic, sweet-spicy note. It has been used to treat congestion in the lungs and other catarrhal conditions. It is recommended for the treatment of wounds, ulcers and inflammations, as well as wrinkles and other chronic skin conditions. Elemi oil is soothing and calming and may engender feelings of compassion, contentment and peace.
	Eucalyptus (cineole rich oils). Almost all eucalypts are indigenous to Australia, where they constitute approximately 75% of all tree flora. The cineole-rich eucalyptus oils are widely used in medicine for inhalations, soaps, gargles and lozenges. Eucalyptus oil has also been used to relieve insect bites and muscular aches and pains; it is used to treat burns, blisters, cuts and wounds and is effective as an insect repellent.
	Fennel Sweet. Fennel was said to give longevity, strength and courage. For this reason, the ancient Greeks ate the seeds. Athletes also ate the seeds to help control their weight while training for the Olympics. The seeds were chewed by the Roman soldiers on long marches, when they did not have time to stop and cook a meal. Devout Christians chewed them to satisfy the cravings of hunger on fasting days. Fennel oil is recommended in skin care preparations for the treatment of oily and mature skin types.
	Fir, Balsam. Balsam Fir essential oil is steam distilled from the needles and twigs of the Canadian and northeast American balsam fir tree. It has been used for centuries by Native Americans for medicine and in religious ceremonies. It is used for chest colds, bronchitis and asthma and other conditions of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It may also help with arthritis, rheumatism and other forms of joint pain. Balsam Fir is used in anti-anxiety blends due to its elevating, strengthening quality. Its wonderful scent purifies the air and is often included in blends to diffuse over the holidays.
	Fir, Douglas. Douglas Fir essential oil is steam distilled from the needles and twigs of the Canadian and northeast American Douglas Fir tree. It has been used for centuries by Native Americans for medicine and in religious ceremonies. It is used for chest colds, bronchitis and asthma and other conditions of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It may also help with arthritis, rheumatism and other forms of joint pain. Douglas Fir is used in anti-anxiety blends due to its elevating, strengthening quality. Its wonderful scent purifies the air and is often included in blends to diffuse over the holidays.
	Fir, Grand. Grand Fir essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted needles of the giant fir tree. It is used for chest colds, bronchitis and asthma and other conditions of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It may also help with arthritis, rheumatism and other forms of joint pain. It assists in boosting the lymphatic system and may improve mental clarity. Grand Fir is used in anti-anxiety blends due to its calming, elevating and strengthening qualities. Its fresh, sweet, balsamic scent purifies the air and is often included in blends to diffuse over the holidays.
	Fir, Siberian. Siberian Fir essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted needles of a fir tree native to the mountainous areas of northern Europe. It is used for chest colds, bronchitis and asthma and other conditions of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It may also help with arthritis, rheumatism and other forms of joint pain. It assists in boosting the lymphatic system and may improve mental clarity. Its fresh, sweet, balsamic scent purifies the air is often included in blends to diffuse over the holidays.
	Fir, Silver. Silver Fir (also called White Fir) essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted needles of the abies alba fir tree native to Europe. It is used for chest colds, bronchitis and asthma and other conditions of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It may also help with arthritis, rheumatism and other forms of joint pain. It assists in boosting the lymphatic system and may improve mental clarity and calm and elevate the emotions. Its fresh, woody, earthy and sweet scent purifies the air. It is often included in blends to diffuse over the holidays.
	Frankincense. Frankincense's warm, woody, sweet and spicy scent has been used in religious ceremonies for many centuries and is still valued today for its calming, consciousness-expanding qualities. It is distilled from the resin of a shrub native to the Middle East.
	Galbanum. Galbanum essential oil was used in ancient times in the Middle East to make incense and for rituals, embalming and cosmetics. It is steam distilled from the gum exuding from the stems and leaves of a small plant growing in several Middle Eastern countries. It has a fresh, green, balsamic fragrance that is used in soaps, lotions and perfumes. Galbanum is helpful in skin preparations to heal wounds, acne, scarring and wrinkles. It is also used for respiratory conditions, poor circulation and joint pain. It helps to relieve tension and other stress-related conditions.
	Geranium Rose. This sweet, floral citrusy and fresh scent is distilled from the leaves of the perennial shrub. Diffuse its cool, moist scent to balance the nervous system, relieve anxiety, depression, and stress.
	Ginger. Ginger oil is used for colds and chills and to promote sweating, expel mucous and stimulate the appetite. It also is known for its warming and stimulating effects on the lungs and is ideally suited to treat chronic bronchitis.
	Grapefruit. This fresh, sweet citrus oil is cold-pressed from the peel of the grapefruit. When diffused it has a cool, dry scent that is uplifting and reviving. It stimulates digestion and curbs the appetite.
	Helichrysum (Everlasting). Helichrysum essential oil was first distilled in the 1970s. The plant (also called Everlasting and Immortelle) grows in the Alps and on Corsica and has been used for centuries inEurope in the forms of decoctions and infusions as an expectorant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic agent. The plant has been used traditionally for bronchitis, asthma, burns, rheumatism, headache, migraines, allergies and liver ailments. Although the essential oil came on the scene a relatively short time ago, it is highly valued by aromatherapists.It is antispasmodic and helps to regulate both the physical and emotional hearts. It has exceptional cell-rejuvenating qualities and is used to heal burns, wounds, inflammation, bruises and scars.It has many other uses in aromatherapy (see the Helichrysum article in the Learning Center).
	Hyssop. Hyssop essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and flowers of a perennial that grows in France, Spain and southern Europe. The flowers and leaves have been used since antiquity for their therapeutic properties. The name comes from the Hebrew word "ezob" (holy plant). The oil has a warm, sweet, penetrating aroma that enhances alertness and mental clarity. It is used for all respiratory conditions and has a regulatory effect on the circulation. Hyssop helps to heal the skin.
	Hyssop Cineol. Hyssop Cineol essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and flowers of a perennial that grows in France, Spain and southern Europe. The flowers and leaves have been used since antiquity for their therapeutic properties. The name comes from the Hebrew word "ezob" (holy plant). The oil has a warm, sweet, penetrating aroma that enhances alertness and mental clarity. It is used for all respiratory conditions and has a regulatory effect on the circulation. Hyssop helps to heal the skin.
	Hyssop Decumbens. Hyssop Decumbens essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and flowers of a perennial that grows in France, Spain and southern Europe. The flowers and leaves have been used since antiquity for their therapeutic properties. The oil has a warm, sweet, penetrating aroma that enhances alertness and mental clarity. Hyssop has a regulatory effect on the circulation. It is used to treat the skin and is beneficial for all respiratory conditions. Hyssop Decumbens essential oil is produced from a subspecies of Hyssop Officinalis and is milder due to being free of the ketones contained in the latter. It has potent antiviral effects.
	Inula. Inula essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted plant Inula graveolens that grows in the Mediterranean region. It is known as one of the most powerful aids in both upper and lower respiratory tract ailments. It may be useful in stimulating the immune system. It is used to heal sadness, grief and other issues of the heart.
	Iris. Iris (also called Orris) Extract is CO2-extracted from the bulb (root) of the Iris flower. It is used extensively in perfumery and cosmetics. It is also helpful in certain respiratory conditions and has aphrodisiac qualities.
	Jasmine. This scent is exquisite, heavenly. It is a sweet, floral, heady aphrodisiac that is solvent extracted from the little star-shaped flowers of an evergreen vine native to Persia and Northern India. It is so delicate that it must be handpicked, taking many thousand petals to make one milliliter of Jasmine oil.
	Juniper Berry. This woody, fresh, balsamic scent is distilled from the ripe berries of the same evergreen bush that is used to flavor gin. It was burnt by fifteenth century herbalists to guard against the plague. It was also used in French hospitals to clear the air and by native Americans for purification and healing.
	Lavandin SweetSweet Lavandin essential oil is steam distilled from the flowering tops of a hybrid of Lavender and Spike Lavender. Lavandin can be grown more easily than true lavender and thus is less expensive. However, it has different chemical and therapeutic properties than true lavender, and the two should not be used interchangeably. Lavandin's aroma is sharper, more piercing and longer lasting than that of lavender. It is used in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps and lotions. It is said to be antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial. It has a calming effect.
	Lavender. Fresh, herbal, sweet and floral, Lavender is always the first choice for your medicine cabinet. The name Lavender comes from the Latin lavare which means "to wash." Romans added Lavender to their bath water as much for its scent as for its antiseptic quality. It has continued to be an ingredient in popular facial waters to this day.
	Lavender, Spike. Spike Lavender essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted flowering tops of the Lavendula spica, which grows in the Mediterranean region. It is also called "aspic" because of its use against the venom of the Egyptian cobra (asp). The aroma is similar to lavender except clearer and fresher. It is used to treat colds and other respiratory ailments. It is also helpful in treating joint pain, headaches and painful menses. It has been added to skin care products and also may work as an insect repellent.
	Lemongrass. This strongly scented tall grass is lemony and herbaceous. It is native to Asia but now is cultivated in the East and West Indies and Central America. In traditional Indian medicine, it was used for fever and infectious illnesses.
	Lemon Verbena. Lemon Verbena essential oil has a lemony, sweet, fresh scent. It is steam distilled from the wild-crafted leaves of a perennial shrub. It is said to be a powerful anti-inflammatory oil. Lemon Verbena is also useful to treat fever and helps with liver function and digestion. It has been used to treat respiratory conditions and has a skin-softening quality. It is said to uplift the spirits when diffused and thus may be used for stress, insomnia, depression and nervous fatigue.
	Lemon Yellow. The sweet, fresh and clean scent of lemon is cold pressed from the lemon rind. Cool and dry, it is perfect for diffusing in the home or office. Its antiseptic quality purifies the air, and it is a powerful stimulant, improving concentration, memory and clear thinking while regulating the body's immune system and raising resistance to disease.
	Lime. Lime essential oil has a fresh, sweet citrus peel odor. The peel of a fruit growing on a small evergreen tree is cold-pressed to obtain the oil. Originally from Asia, lime is cultivated in many warm countries, including those in the Americas. Lime essential oil may be used as a disinfectant and detoxifying agent. It is used to treat sore throats and the flu. Its astringent, toning and refreshing properties help clear oily, congested skin. When diffused, it may help with mental fatigue, depression and apathy.
	Litsea Cubeba. Litsea Cubeba essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted fruit of May Chang, an evergreen tree native to China. It has a lemony scent and is used as a fragrance and for flavoring. It is also used in skin care preparations, as it has been helpful with acne, oily skin and dermatitis. It is reported to be anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and deodorizing and is also used as a disinfectant. Litsea cubeba is soothing and uplifting.
	Lovage. Lovage essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and stalks of a plant in the dill family that grows in many parts of Europe. In antiquity, it was brought to Britain by the Romans from the Ligurian coast of Italy and then to America by the early colonists, who used it as food and medicine. It has been used as a diuretic, antiseptic and expectorant. It may help with fever, poor circulation and joint pain. Traditionally Lovage has been used as a fragrance component in soaps, lotions and perfumes.
	Mandarine Red. This sweet, fresh oil is cold-pressed from the peel of the mandarine orange. Mandarine is a member of the orange family, smelling like tangerines. It was a traditional gift to the mandarins of China. This oil is gentle and mild, making it very useful for children and the elderly. It is soothing, calming, refreshing and uplifting. Diffuse Mandarine Red to create a happy atmosphere in the home or classroom. Use Mandarine Red in the car diffuser to relieve travel fatigue and calm down restless children. Mandarine is also good for colic, gas, indigestion and hiccups.
	Manuka. Manuka essential oil (also called New Zealand Tea Tree) is steam distilled from the wild-crafted leaves and twigs of the manuka, a small tree native to New Zealand. It has a distinctive spicy, herbaceous, fresh aroma. Topical use of the various parts of manuka was common among early Maoris and settlers. The essential oil has been used for generations in New Zealand for its antimicrobial properties. It is used to heal skin conditions such as acne, skin irruptions, insect bites and slow-healing ulcers and wounds. It also has been used for respiratory problems and to relieve muscular aches and pains.
	Marjoram, Spanish. Spanish Marjoram essential oil is not to be confused with Sweet Marjoram. It is steam distilled from the blossoms and plant of a perennial, strongly aromatic plant that is native to Spain. Spanish Marjoram has a warm, penetrating, slightly eucalyptus-type odor. It is often used for respiratory ailments such as bronchitis because of its expectorant qualities. It is considered more effective than Sweet Marjoram for this purpose. It is also antiseptic, antispasmodic and analgesic.
	Marjoram Sweet. Sweet marjoram oil is used as a flavoring ingredient in many food products. It is used in European herbal medicine for the treatment of respiratory ailments such as bronchitis. It is an antispasmodic and expectorant.
	Mastic. Mastic essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted oleoresin of the mastic tree, which is native to the Mediterranean region. It is used in skin care products to treat boils, cuts, wounds and ringworm. Mastic has a fresh, balsamic fragrance similar to pine. It is anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, expectorant and diuretic. It is used to treat arthritis and bronchitis. It is also used as an insect repellent.
	Melissa. Melissa oil is reputed to regulate the digestive system, relieve cramps, reduce flatulence and stimulate the gallbladder and liver. Melissa oil promotes sensitivity and intuition and helps us find inner contentment, strengthening the "wisdom of the heart."
	Mint, Forest. Forest Mint essential oil is used as a flavoring for many products, including breath fresheners, mouthwashes, toothpaste, chewing gum, desserts and candies.
	Mugwort. Mugwort essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted plant native to Morocco. It is a strong oil, composed mainly of ketones, that should be used with great caution. The diluted oil has been used for warts and tumors. Diffused, it may help with respiratory infections but is not recommended for massage or internal use.
	Myrtle. The ancient Persians regarded myrtle as a holy plant. Myrtle was a symbol of love and peace to the Jews, and the Greeks regarded it as sacred. In the 16th century, the leaves and flowers were the major ingredients in a skin lotion known as "angels' water." An extract of the leaves is used in north Africa to alleviate coughs and chest infections. The berries are used in bitters and certain liqueurs.
	Myrrh. Myrrh has long been valued both in religious ceremonies and medicinally. This warm, rich, spicy, camphoraceous scent is distilled from the resin of a Middle Eastern shrub. The Egyptians used Myrrh for embalming. They also used it to make healing unguents and burned it as incense. The ancient Hebrews drank it with their wine to raise consciousness. The Romans and Greeks put it in healing salves and ointments.
	Neroli. Distilled from fresh orange blossoms, Neroli is a warm, rich, bittersweet floral scent. It was discovered in the seventeenth century and is said to have been named after Anna Maria de la Tremoille, Princess of Nerola in Italy, who used it liberally on her gloves, stationery and scarves. Neroli is a harmonizing scent, both sensual and spiritual. It has been an important ingredient in many perfumes and eaux de parfum.
	Niaouli. Niaouli oil is used in medicinal preparations, cough drops, vaporizer liquids, mouth sprays and gargles and to flavor toothpaste. It is also recommended for cleaning minor wounds and burns, to relieve muscular aches and pains and for acute and chronic bronchitis and sinusitis.
	Nutmeg. Nutmeg has been used in herbal medicine for gastrointestinal ailments such as diarrhea, gastric spasms and flatulence. It is an excellent oil to add to a massage oil because of its warming property for muscular aches and pains, as well as for rheumatism. It is also classified as a tonic and an aid for general fatigue.
	Orange, Bitter. Bitter Orange essential oil is cold-pressed from the peel of a tree cultivated in Asia and the Americas. The aroma is a cross between Sweet Orange and Grapefruit essential oils. It is antiseptic and is used for colds. It is also used in skin care products because of its skin softening and regenerating properties. It is said to help uplift moods and relieve stress. Used with spicy aromas, it will cheer a wintry room.
	Orange Sweet. Orange oil's sweet, warm, sunny scent is always a favorite with children and adults. It is a happy scent, promoting ease in the family by soothing irritability, moodiness and frustration and increasing joy, harmony and creativity.
	Oregano Oregano essential oil is steam distilled from the dried flowers of a plant growing in the Mediterranean area. Several species of oregano are used to produce essential oils. It is used to treat conditions of the upper and lower respiratory tract, as well as influenza. It is a very strong oil and can irritate the skin, but when diluted it can be used to heal skin conditions and massage painful joints.
	Palmarosa. Palmarosa essential oil is steam distilled from the blossoms and other plant parts of a perennial grass that grows wild in India. It has a sweet, floral, rosy odor. Even before the essential oil was first distilled, the crushed plant was used in antiquity to relieve joint pain and other pain. Palmarosa oil has been reported to have excellent antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial properties and is used extensively in skin care. It is widely used in perfumes and as a fragrance in soaps.
	Parsley Seed. Parsley Seed CO2 Extract is made from the ripe fruit (seed) of the Petroselinum crispum. It has a warm, woody, spicy scent. It is used to treat kidney and bladder problems. It may also be helpful as a uterine tonic. It has been recommended for treating bruises and shrinking broken blood vessels immediately below the skin. Parsley Seed Extract is contra-indicated in pregnancy and in cases of inflammatory kidney diseases.
	Patchouli. The oil of patchouli is widely used in Asia for incense, body and garment perfumes and insect repellents. It is also sprinkled in temples. Arabs used it to perfume carpets; Indians perfumed textiles, and the Chinese produced a perfumed ink for use on scrolls. In Europe, oil of patchouli is widely used in perfumery, cosmetics and soaps.
	Peppermint. The cool, clean smell of peppermint is distilled from the leaves and top of the herb. It has been popular ever since the ancient Egyptians used it as a soothing digestive aid. Peppermint is used in commercial medicine for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. It stimulates the intestines, causing gas to be expelled, and then relaxes the muscles to a more normal state. It is also useful to treat nausea and colic.
	Petitgrain. Petitgrain is recommended for irritability, anxiety and depression. Petitgrain also has a tonic effect on the skin and is helpful for acne, skin blemishes and overactive sebaceous glands. It is used in bath preparations and has deodorizing properties.
	Pine. Pine oil has excellent expectorant, balsamic and antiseptic properties, thus making it very useful for a wide variety of pulmonary complaints. It is considered one of the best oils to clear cold phlegm from the lungs. It can be used for sinus and bronchial congestion, coughs, asthma and bronchitis.
	Rose. No other flower has been exalted in literature and mythology, or used for so many sacred purposes, as the rose. In ancient art and literature, the rose was the predominant flower symbol. Its blossoms symbolize beauty, love, youth, perfection and immortality. In modern times, rose oil and rosewater are extensively used as fragrance components in skin care preparations, perfumes, soaps and food flavoring.
	Rosemary. Rosemary is extensively used in hair lotions, as it is reputed to renew hair growth and prevent premature baldness. It is also used for the prevention of dandruff and as a fragrance component in cosmetics, soaps, detergents and perfumes.
	Rosewood. Sweet, woody, floral and spicy, this oil is distilled from the wood of a tree native to Brazil. It is balancing, uplifting and enlivening. Diffuse Rosewood essential oil for a weary, burdened state of mind and for headaches. It produces a calm, meditative state of mind.
	Sage. In ancient times, sage was reputed to provoke urine and menstruation, stop the bleeding of wounds and cleanse ulcers and sores. In present times, sage is used as a tea or infusion to reduce perspiration, stop the flow of breast milk and treat nervous conditions, diarrhea, gastritis and sore throat. In addition, sage is commonly used as a flavor ingredient in food products.
	Sandalwood. Woody, sweet, exotic and subtle, sandalwood oil is distilled from the inner heartwood of the Asian tree. It has been used in India from ancient times until the present in religious ceremonies. It is cooling, grounding, sensual and tranquil.
	Spruce. Spruce essential oils are uplifting and help to relieve aches and pains. They are also said to help with chronic fatigue. Diffuse Spruce, alternating with Sweet Eucalyptus, to assist in warding off colds and flu.
	Tangerine. The botanical origins of tangerine and mandarine are similar. They are both considered to be varieties of the same species and therefore have similar aromatherapeutic properties. Apart from its use in aromatherapy, tangerine oil is extensively used as a flavoring. When used with sweet and bitter orange, grapefruit and lime oil flavors, it gives interesting compositions to soft drinks, candy and liqueurs.
	Tarragon. Tarragon essential oil is steam-distilled from the whole plant, which grows in many European and Asian countries. It has a sweet, anise-like, green, spicy aroma. Taragon oil is used as a fragrance component in soaps and perfumes. It is said to be a strong anti-spasmodic and thus is used to treat dyspepsia, flatulence, hiccoughs, intestinal spasms, nervous indigestion and sluggish digestion. Tarragon should be used in moderation and avoided in pregnancy.
	Tea Tree. Fresh, pungent and antiseptic, Tea Tree is distilled from the leaves and twigs of a small Australian shrub. Tea Tree may be used without dilution topically to treat bacteria, viruses and fungi, as well as wash wounds, ulcers and burns.
	Thyme Linalol. Thyme oil is a warm, pungent, herbal scent distilled from the leaves and flowering tops of the Mediterranean shrub. Thyme is an invigorating, warming oil useful for congestion in the lungs, infection of the respiratory system, fatigue and chills. It was used as long ago as 2000 BC in ancient Sumeria and throughout history in many parts of the world, always associated with courage, strong morale and clear thinking. During World War I, Thyme was used as a disinfectant in hospitals.
	Tuberose. Tuberose Absolute is prepared from the hand-picked white, lily-like flowers of the tuberose, a tall, slim perennial that is native to Central America and now cultivated in India, France and the Middle East. It has a heavy, honey-like floral aroma and is used extensively in perfumery, especially in fine floral fragrances.
	Valerian. Valerian essential oil is steam-distilled from the rhizomes of the Valeriana wallichii, or Indian Valerian, a plant that grows wild in the northern mountainous regions of India. It has a warm, earthy odor and a tenacious musk-like quality. Valerian oil is recommended for insomnia, nervous indigestion, migraine and nervous tension because of its sedative and antispasmodic qualities. It is also used in perfumery for its musky-woody aroma.
	Vanilla. Vanilla CO2 Extract is made from the organically certified vanilla beans of Madagascar. It has an uplifting, long-lasting flavor and aroma that is used extensively in perfumes, foods, toothpastes and lipsticks.
	Vetiver. Sweet, warm and smoky, Veviter is distilled from the roots of a tall grass. It has been revered for centuries in India for its cooling, nourishing and centering qualities. Vetiver is an earthy scent. When diffused, it will ground scattered thinking and soothe irritability, anger and hysteria. It is good for both PMS and menopause because it regulates hormone production.
	Vitex. Vitex essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted leaves and berries of the Vitex agnus-castus plant. It is also called Chaste Tree; the Latin binomial comes from the Greek word meaning "chaste." It is used to enhance the production of progesterone and bring balance to the female hormones. It may ease menstrual discomforts such as cramps, depression and breast swelling. It is also used for the symptoms of menopause.
	Wintergreen. Wintergreen essential oil is steam-distilled from the wild-crafted leaves of the Gaultheria fragrantissima, which grows in Nepal. It has an intense sweet-aromatic odor and is used as a flavoring in toothpastes, chewing gum and soft drinks. Wintergreen oil is also used extensively in liniments because of its anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic properties. It is a strong oil that must be used with care and, like all oils, diluted when used topically.
	Wormwood. Wormwood essential oil is steam-distilled from the wild-crafted, dried leaves and flowers of a plant native to central and southern Europe. Its odor is green, warm and deep. It has been used in the treatment of worm infestations such as roundworm and pinworm. It has also been used as a digestive tonic to treat loss of appetite and indigestion. It has a high thujone content and must be used with caution.
	Yarrow, Blue. Blue Yarrow essential oil is steam distilled from the wild-crafted leaves and flowering tops of a perennial creeping herb that grows all over Europe, western Asia and the United States. The plant has been used since antiquity to help heal wounds. It is used to open pores and induce perspiration when treating colds and influenza. It is also recommended in sitz baths and compresses for infections of the pelvic region. Other uses are in massage, inhalation and skin care.
	Ylang Ylang. This exotic scent is very sweet, heady and euphoric. It is distilled from the flowers of a tall, tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. In Indonesia, it is traditional for newlywed couples to find these blossoms spread on their marriage bed. Ylang Ylang is sensual, relaxing and uplifting. It has been an important ingredient in exotic perfumes. It is best known therapeutically as an aphrodisiac, releasing emotional blocks that prevent sexual enjoyment.