Essential oils are the very heart and soul of the plant, millions of years of evolution has created a varitable work of art. We'll discuss later the origins of aromatherapy and how alternative medicine is making a remarkable comeback.
For now our purpose is my personal evaluation of what I feel are the most popular essential oils and why. My decision is not solely based on fragrance but a compilation of both fragrance and therapeutic value. The entire list of those essential oils we use on a regular basis can be found here
LAVENDER
It is with good reason why lavender oil is one of the most favorite essential oils, as it has wonderful qualities and also smells great. It is a calming, relaxing oil, which combats stress and crisis, while the antiseptic properties helps with cold, flu and other ailments. It is excellent for asthma and migraines. Apart from that it supports female health and on the skin it has a healing effect, while preventing scarring and balancing the skin. Check out our Lavender Soap
CHAMOMILE (German)
The sesquiterpenes (chamazulene) and sesquiterpenols (a-bisabolol) of this chamomile may excel in a wide range of healing properties, which are hard to find in comparable strength in any other oils. The blue/green viscous liquid has a strong, sweetish warm herbaceous aroma.
Another area where German Chamomile can be of great help is the skin, as can Roman Chamomile - though the anti-inflammatory properties of the Blue variety are considered greater. The list is extensive: skin inflammations, acne, allergies, boils, burns, cuts, eczema, dermatitis, problems of the scalp, rashes, insect bites, infected wounds, skin impurities and more.
CARROT SEED
Simply the best oil for pampering of more mature skin types. This essential oil works by stimulating red blood cells which improves appearances by adding elasticity and tone to skin. It has a cult-following as an anti-aging oil for preventing wrinkles. For medicinal purposes, it speeds along scar reduction treatments.
EUCALYPTUS
This very strong essential oil is often used in muscle and joint creams. It is also used in sprays and salts to help clear the sinuses and respiratory system.
HELICHRYSUM
has been studied in Europe for regenerating tissue and improving skin conditions, nerves, and circulation. It is best known for its effect on bruises, wounds and other injuries, as well as for reducing pain. Also, known as an excellent cell regenerator and helps reduce formation of scar tissue.
OREGANO
is powerful, herbaceous, spicy camphor-like aroma used for respiratory and rheumatic complaints. It is a favorite cooking herb.
PATCHOULI
The scent is earthy and deep. Many web sites tout its usefulness as a treatment for acne , as an antibacterial, and as an insect repellent. Check out our Patchouli Soap
PEPPERMINT
This is an herbaceous, sweet smelling peppermint. Used to treat
inflammation, nausea, indigestion, fevers, headaches, liver problems, arthritis, stimulant, food industry we have a wonderful peppermint ice soap we know you'll love. Peppermint Ice
ROSEMARY
Rosemary is high in camphor and is traditionally used in decongestant blends and pain (muscle) relief blends (think 'Vicks Vapor Rub').
ROSE OTTO
It takes about 60,000 roses (about 180 lbs) to make one ounce (29.57 ml) of rose otto. Damask rose oil has a deep, rosy, fresh aroma, the color ranges from clear to a pale yellow or greenish tint. Check out our great baby oil
SANDALWOOD
is high in sesquiterpenes and has been researched in Europe for its ability to oxygenate a part of the brain known as the pineal gland, the seat of our emotions. The pineal gland is responsible for releasing melatonin, a powerful hormone that enhances deep sleep. Sandalwood is similar to frankincense oil in its support of nerves and circulation. It was used traditionally for skin revitalization, yoga, and meditation, and has been found to help remove negative programming from the cells (again, another cancer weapon). Also traditionally used for urinary and respiratory systems.
TEA TREE
Long used for its antiseptic properties, Tea Tree is normally found in acne products (soaps, lotions, pimple creams, masks etc...). You can also use it in anti-fungal creams and powders.
THYME
is one of the most antiseptic essential oils and very high in antioxidant rating. It contains thymol, which has been studied for its effect on gingivitis and plaque-causing organisms in the mouth. It may be beneficial in helping to overcome fatigue and exhaustion. Sharp and woody aroma, helps improve circulatory, immune, skeletal, respiratory and nervous systems; anti-microbial use for infections and disinfectant use; dilute with water to clean and disinfect surfaces; especially good to use in a sickroom; makes a good massage oil as it stimulates circulation and can be used to clean burns and wounds; inhaled, it aids in asthma attacks and is a good choice if you are recovering from pneumonia.
ORANGE
This unpretentious essential oil is used in aromatherapy to create the feeling of happiness and warmth, while calming nervous digestive problems. It deals very well with colds and flu, eliminates toxins and stimulates the lymphatic system, while supporting collagen formation in the skin.
