Essortment: Aromatherapy Tips

[Guest guest]

Comments?

Misty L. Trepke

http://health.

 

 

http://www.essortment.com/lifestyle/whatareessenti_sdef.htm

 

Aromatherapy tips: a guide to different essential oils

Essential oils have been used for centuries for mental and physical

healing. An introduction to the variety available.

 

 

 

Extracted from flowers, leaves, bark, fruit rind, stems, roots and

even seeds the uses of essential oils are as varied as the plants

they are collected from. Pure essential oils are the essence of the

plants they are derived from. It takes a great deal of plant matter,

time and expertise to extract a precious few ounces of essential

oil. However, the end result is super potent oil that can be used

for everything from simple household cleaning to aromatherapy.

Essential oils can be used alone, combined with other oils, added to

carrier oils (such as almond, olive or sunflower oil), or as one of

many ingredients. Listed below are some of the more common essential

oils, and a few of their many uses!

 

Lavender- Perhaps one of the best known oils, lavender is also one

of the most multipurpose as well. In addition to its wonderful

soothing scent, lavender can also be used as a natural anti-fungal

and anti-biotic agent. As such, it is excellent for household

cleaning. A few drops of lavender essential oil can be added to hot

water as a natural disinfectant for cleaning countertops, mopping

floors, and cleaning other surfaces. Lavender can be applied

directly to the skin to help heal and protect minor wounds. A few

drops can be added to massage oil and rubbed onto the skin for

relaxation and healing. Lavender also provides wonderful aromatic

therapy and is renowned for its calming influence. A few drops of

oil can be sprinkled on a pillow or placed in a diffuser and

enjoyed.

 

 

 

Chamomile- Yet another well known oil, chamomile has been used for

more than 2000 years for healing and soothing a variety of problems.

IT is perhaps best known for its ability to sooth digestive upset.

However, chamomile oil is also excellent for soothing fever and pain

and is often used in natural remedies for soothing discomfort

associated with teething in children. Chamomile is also used

topically for soothing and softening the skin. It is helpful in

treating acne, and for soothing insect bites and stings. The scent

of chamomile oil is reputed to be soothing, invigorating, and

creativity inspiring.

 

 

Clove Bud- Most people can identify the warm, spicy scent associated

with cloves but few know of its many uses aside from being a cooking

spice. Clove oil is known for its mild pain relieving properties and

is often used topically for arthritis, and tooth pain. Its powerful

antiseptic properties are most often utilized in dental preparations

and toothpaste. In aromatherapy, it has been found to reduce

drowsiness, headaches, and irritability.

 

 

Patchouli- The warm, earthy scent of patchouli has been used for

centuries as a cosmetic fragrance. It is also an excellent mild

antiseptic for minor wounds. Used in aromatherapy is it said to be

an aphrodisiac.

 

 

Rose – Soothing and floral, rose oil is used in many cosmetic

products. It is especially beneficial for rejuvenating aging skin

and soothing eczema. Its wonderful scent is soothing and can help

lift depression and relieve anxiety.

 

 

Ylang Ylang – Used for centuries, ylang ylang is used topically to

sooth and heal skin and for hair care. Its sweet floral scent has

aphrodisiac and anti-depressant qualities.

 

 

Peppermint- Yet another fragrance that is easily recognized.

Internally peppermint is known for soothing stomach upset and

indigestion, as well as for sweetening the breath. Peppermint has

mild antiseptic properties and makes for a wonderful, fresh addition

to household cleaning. It is also added to many cosmetic products

for its wonderful scent and skin tingling cleansing. It is used in

aromatherapy to energize and refresh.

 

 

Tea Tree- This strongly scented oil is perhaps best known for its

germ fighting abilities. Tea tree is used for fighting athlete's

foot, ring worm, and other infectious skin agents. It's excellent

for household disinfecting, and is used in many ready made natural

cleansers.

 

 

In addition to the uses above, essential oils can be used in the

following manner:

 

 

To Repel Bugs- Believe it or not, bugs can't stand some of the

scents humans find appealing! Lavender, citronella, and peppermint

all repel bugs naturally. Dab a few drops of skin safe oils onto

yourself or pets, or place in containers around your home to help

keep pests out!

 

 

Around The House – Many essential oils smell wonderful in addition

to their more practical applications. Use them around the house in

your laundry, trash cans, air conditioner filters, garbage disposal,

and to scent your linens.

 

 

Bath- Many essential oils can be combined with a carrier oil and

added to warm bath water. This is an excellent way to relax and

enjoy the topical and aromatic qualities of your favorite essential

oils!

 

 

Before using essential oils be sure to read the safety information

on the label for each oil you are planning on using. If you have any

doubts, contact a professional that is well versed in the uses of

essential oils. There are also many books available with in depth

information about the uses and safety of various essential oils.