Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of natural plant extracts and oils to treat ailments and promote wellbeing. Recently aromatherapy has gained more recognition in the field of science and medicine.  Essential oils have been used throughout history and can be dated back to almost 6000 years.

Renown for there ability to balance, harmonize and promote health of body mind and spirit the best essential oils are also highly antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, insecticidal, and antioxidant properties. They have been found to be beneficial for relaxing the mind and physical healing. Aromatherapy is a complementary natural therapy and is a traditional medicine used by cultures around the world. 

Considered as a complementary therapy, aromatherapy does not claim to cure diseases, rashes or illnesses but the benefits can be extraordinary. Used as a complementary therapy globally essentials oils can provide support to conventional treatments of multiple conditions. 

Aromatherapy is applied through topical applications like massage and beauty products or via inhalation. 

Apart from the pleasant smell aromatherapy oils can be used as a decongestion and disinfectant. Inhaling essential oils stimulates the olfactory system which is the part of the brain that connects to smell. The olfactory system is a set of nerve fibers found in the nasal cavities of the body which conducts impulses from “olfactory receptors” to the “cerebral cortex” creating the perception of smell.”    

There are many essential oils that can boost health and wellbeing through inhalation or topical absorption. Essential oils are inhaled via the nose or mouth. The oils are evaporated into the air using a diffuser, spray, steam bath, or breathed in directly via a essential oil bottle. Apart from creating a nice smell the oils can be used as a disinfectant, antibacterial, decongestant as well as creating multiple psychological benefits by stimulating the olfactory system of the brain.  

When you inhale the oils they enter the mouth and pass into the lungs. From here they travel throughout the body. When the molecules reach the brain the affect the limbic system. The limbic system is linked to emotions, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress and hormones. Therefore used in this way the essential oils can subtly but effectively create benefits throughout your body.  

Topical applications include things like skincare products, bath products and massage oils. Massaging the area of the body where the oil is applied can boost circulation and increase absorption of the molecules. Some people suggest that areas of the body that are filled with sweat glands and hair follicles like the head and palms of the hands will absorb the oils better. 

Essential oils are never applied directly onto the skin. They must always be diluted with a carrier oil. 

Most products on the market carry 0.5% or 1% essential oils in each product. This does not seem like a lot but a little goes a long way with these oils. 

On your phone the dilution calculator can be viewed correctly in landscape mode.

Dilution Calculator

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5%                   5                       10                      15                     20                     25

Use Essential Oils With Caution

Some essential oils can cause reactions to the body. Its important to remember that not all essential oils will benefit everyone. Chemical compounds in essential oils can produce adverse effects when sometimes combined with pharmaceutical medications. They may reduce the potency of conventional drugs or exacerbate health issues in the person. 

For example, a person with high blood pressure should avoid stimulant oils such as rosemary. Some oils like fennel, aniseed and sage can stimulate estrogen so someone that is taking estrogen blocking drugs to treat breast cancer of ovarian cancers should avoid these. It is important to always check which oils can interact with the drugs being taken.    Aromatherapy if over used can have side effects, but these are normally mild and generally they do not last long. These reactions include nausea, headaches and allergic reactions. Essential oils derived from citrus plants can make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light and increase the risk of sunburn. 

The use of some aromatherapy oils by pregnant women or nursing mothers has not been researched therefore it is not recommended to use oils that are not deemed safe for these groups. During the first trimester of pregnancy, aromatherapy may pose a risk to the developing fetus. Women who are breastfeeding should avoid essential oils like peppermint, cinnamon and roman chamomile as they may be expressed in breast milk. 

Aromatherapy and Allergies

It is important to always do an allergy test whenever using aromatherapy. To do an allergy test, dilute the essential oil into a carrier oil at twice the strength you intend to use. Rub the mix into an are the size of a 10 cent piece on the inside of the forearm. If no allergy symptoms appear within 24 to 48 hours the oil is safe to use at the recommended concentrations.  

Some people can develop allergies to essential oils after long term use. If a new allergic response appears you should stop using it topically immediately and avoid its smell.  

Some will suggest a maximum concentration of 5% is safe for adults. This may be OK for inhalation purposes but for topical use I prefer a 2% or 3% concentration for adults. Essential oils for infants and children should be a lot less. Depending on the age of the child a concentration of 0.5% or maximum of 1% is advised. 

Ingesting, or swallowing, essential oils is not recommended. Oils taken by mouth, even if diluted can cause liver or kidneys damage. 

Used this way they can interactions with other drugs when absorbed through the gut. Anyone suffering from allergies such as hay fever, asthma, skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis or food allergies should be careful when using essential oils. Nut and seed allergies may cause reactions when carrier oils are used. Some carrier oils are derived from nuts such as almond oil and macadamia oil. Anyone suffering from epilepsy or hypertension should only cautiously use oils to treat their conditions.  

Allspice

This can be a skin irritant therefore it needs to be diluted well when used. It is often used for arthritis, rheumatism, stiffness, muscle and gastric cramps, indigestion, nausea, depression, nervous tension, coughs and bronchitis.  This oil should be avoided when using oils in a bath even if it is diluted and soluble. 

Angelica Root 

Is often used in perfumery and may be helpful when fighting infections, stimulate the immune system and help motivate the elimination of toxins. Angelica Root has a long history and is used to threat coughs, sinus infections, arthritis, gout, fatigue, psoriasis, stress and nicotine addictions.   

Anise, Star 

Is often used in cooking but as an essential oil it is known to treat rheumatism, bronchitis, coughing, colic, indigestion / cramping, cold and flu. Caution is advised when using star anise for those with hypersensitive skin or skin issues. Contraindications for pregnancy or breastfeeding, endometriosis and estrogen-dependent cancers. This oil can inhibit blood clotting.  Avoid use in children under 5 years old.  Avoid if oil has oxidized.

Basil 

Is used for Bronchitis, Colds, Coughs, Exhaustion, Flatulence, Flu, Gout, Insect Bites, Insect Repellent, Muscle Aches, Rheumatism and sinusitis. This oil is used to sharpen concentration and alleviate some of the symptoms of depression. It may be useful on migraines. Use this oil sparingly. High doses may be carcinogenic therefore it is important to know the methyl chavicol content. Tisserand and Young suggests the estragole content does not exceed 0.8%. Avoid this oil during pregnancy.

Bay 

Is useful on dandruff, hair care, neuralgia, oily skin, poor circulation, sprains and strains. Tisserand and Young indicate that Bay Oil may inhibit blood clotting. There is a slight risk of sensitization when using bay oil long term.  

Bergamot 

Is said to be useful for Acne, Abscesses, Anxiety, Boils, Cold Sores, Cystitis, Depression, Halitosis, Itching, Loss of Appetite, Oily Skin, Psoriasis, Stress, urinary tract issues and digestive tract issues. When combined with eucalyptus oil it may help relieve skin problems, including those caused by stress and chicken pox. Bergamot is phototoxic and therefore needs to be avoided when exposed to ultraviolet light. 

Black Pepper 

Is commonly used for stimulating circulation, bruises, aching muscles, arthritis, chilblains, constipation, muscle cramps, poor sluggish digestion, quitting smoking and nicotine addiction. Combined with ginger essential oil, it is used to reduce arthritis pain and improve flexibility.

Cajeput 

Is used for asthma, bronchitis, coughs, muscle aches, oily skin, rheumatism, sinusitis, sore throat. Cajeput may cause breathing problems in young children. 

Camphor, white 

Is used to treat inflammation and pains, rheumatism, cough, bronchitis, colds, acne, rashes, parasitic skin infections, contusions, bruises, insect repellent. This oil should be avoided when treating children. 

Carrot Seed 

Is used to treat eczema, gout, mature skin, toxin build-up, water retention. Avoid during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. 

Cedarwood, Atlas 

Is used for acne, arthritis, bronchitis, coughing, cystitis, dandruff, dermatitis and stress. If making the decision to purchase Atlas Cedarwood Essential Oil, it is very important that you ensure that you are purchasing it only from reputable suppliers that are mindful and that actively support the sustainability of Atlas Cedarwood is at risk of endangerment. 

Chamomile, Roman 

Is used as a antispasmodic, for menstrual cramps, as an Anti-inflammatory, a sedative, for anxiety, stress, abscesses, allergies, arthritis, boils, colic, cuts, cystitis, dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, earache, flatulence, haircare, headache, inflamed skin, insect bites, insomnia, nausea, neuralgia, PMS, rheumatism, sores, sprains, strains, wound care and is great for children (soothing, comforting).

Cinnamon 

Is used for sluggish digestion, colds/flu, exhaustion, lice, circulation, rheumatism, scabies, stress. Cinnamon oil both bark and leaf can inhibit blood clotting and pose drug interaction risk. These oils are contraindicative in pregnancy and breastfeeding. There is a high risk of skin sensitization. Avoid using in a bath even if diluted. 

Citronella 

Is a relative of lemongrass and acts as an insect repellent, relieves muscular aches, infectious skin conditions, fevers, heat rash, excessive perspiration, fungal infections, fatigue, insect bites, insect deterrent, arthritic pain, neuralgia, fatigue, nervous exhaustion, colds, flu, minor infections, insect repellent, excessive perspiration and oily Skin. There is a risk of drug interaction when using this oil. 

Clary Sage 

Is used as an antispasmodic, to relieve menstrual cramps, aphrodisiac, relaxant, for anxiety and stress, labor pain management, acne, boils, skin inflammation, hair loss, dandruff, on dry or mature skin, muscular aches and pains, whooping cough, asthma attacks, regulation of menstrual flow, flatulence, intestinal cramping, colic, stress, nerves, high blood pressure, amenorrhea, asthma, coughing, dysmenorrhea, exhaustion, labor pains, and sore throat.  There is a moderate risk of sensitization in some individuals.

Clove 

Is a topical analgesic, or painkiller, that is commonly used for toothache. It is also used as an antispasmodic, for preventing vomiting and nausea, and as a carminative, preventing gas in the gut. It has antimicrobial, antioxidant and antifungal properties, pain relief, bacterial infection, fungal infection, viral skin infection, warts, verrucas, toothache, gum disease, muscle pain, rheumatism, flu, bronchitis, tired limbs, nausea, flatulence, stomach cramp, abdominal spasm, parasitic, infection, scabies, ringworm. There is moderate risk for mucous membrane irritation, may inhibit blood clotting. 

Cypress 

Is used to treat astringent, antispasmodic, treats respiratory complaints, edema, cellulitis, menstrual pain, muscle pain, excessive perspiration, hemorrhoids, menorrhagia, oily skin, rheumatism, vericose veins. A precaution is advised to avoid topical use if oil has oxidized as skin sensitization is more likely.

Eucalyptus Globulus 

Is used as an expectorant, decongestant, cold, flu, clearing to the mind, energizing, bronchitis respiratory infection, infectious disease, fever, catarrh, sinusitis, fever, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, arthritis, urinary infection, cystitis, parasitic infection. Do not apply Eucalyptus to or near the face of infants or children under 10 years of age; dilute to 1% or less for children's topical preparations such as chest rubs.

Eucalyptus Lemon 

Is used for muscular injury, fungal skin infection, bacterial skin infection, sores, wounds, respiratory Tract Conditions, asthma, fever, candida, insect bites, insect repellent.

Eucalyptus Radiata 

Is used for Respiratory Tract Infection, Bronchitis, Catarrh, Sinusitis, Rhinitis, Colds, Influenza, Fever, Asthma, Rheumatism, Muscular Aches And Pains, Neuralgia, Abdominal Cramps, Menstrual Cramps, Headaches, Mental Exhaustion, Fatigue, Insect Stings And Bites, General Simulant and Tonic. It is cautioned against using Eucalyptus Radiata Oil on or near the face of children under 10. Eucalyptus essential oil can help relieve the airways during a cold or flu. It is often combined with peppermint. Many people are allergic to eucalyptus, so care should be taken.

Fennel 

Is used as an antimicrobial, on digestive disorders, dyspepsia, gastrointestinal spasm, flatulence, nausea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal spasm, menstrual problems, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, fertility, endometriosis, menopausal symptoms, cellulite, fluid retention, heavy legs, bronchitis, respiratory conditions, parasitic infections. It is advised to avoid use of the oil topically if it has oxidized as skin sensitization is more likely and contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, endometriosis, estrogen-dependent cancers, and children under 5. 

Frankincense 

Is used for anxiety, asthma, bronchitis, extreme coughing, scars, stress, stretch marks.  Precaution is advised when the oil has oxidized. Skin sensitization is more likely when using oxidized Frankincense Oil. 

Geranium 

Is used for Female Reproductive Disorders, Menstrual Cramps, Infertility, Endometriosis, Premenstrual Syndrome, Menopausal Symptoms, Circulatory Disorders, Reynaud's Disease, Varicose Veins, Hemorrhoids, Neuralgia, Nervous Skin Disorders, Depression, Fatigue, Emotional Crisis, Stress-related Conditions, Wounds, Acne, Bruises, Minor Burns, Dermatitis, Eczema, Ulcers, Hemorrhoids, Head Lice, Ringworm, Sebum Balancing, Urinary and Liver Tonic. Caution is advised with use as drug interaction may occur. Geranium Oil possesses a low risk of skin sensitization.

Ginger 

Is used on aching muscles, arthritis, nausea, indigestion, poor circulation, nervous exhaustion, useful to eliminate gas, constipation, warming emotionally and physically, anti-inflammatory, relieves pain, immune modulator.

Grapefruit 

Is used on acne, oily skin, cellulitis, dull skin, toxin build-up, water retention, nervous exhaustion grapefruit oil is phototoxic.  Avoid using Grapefruit Oil that has oxidized due to a greater risk of skin sensitization. This oil can interact with some drugs.  

Helichrysum 

Is used on expectorant, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, deodorizing, cell regenerative, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, indicated for bruises and swelling.  Helichrysum oil may cause CNS and breathing problems in young children. They caution against using Helichrysum Gymnocephalum Essential Oil on or near the face of infants and children.

Hemp 

Is an antimicrobial, analgesic and anti-inflammatory action.

Jasmine 

Is used as on depression, dry skin, exhaustion, labor pains, sensitive skin.  There is moderate risk of skin sensitization when using Jasmine Absolute topically. 

Juniper Berry 

Is used for Colds, Flu, Acne, Cellulitis, Gout, Hemorrhoids, Obesity, Rheumatism, Toxin Build-up.

Kunzea 

Is used for Respiratory Support, Congestion, Sinus, Headaches, Inflammation, Sore Muscles, Relaxation, Insect Repellent, Muscular Aches, Joint Pain, Nervous Tension, Emotional Pain, Emotional Blockages

Lavender 

Is used for acne, allergies, anxiety, asthma, athlete's Foot, bruises, Burns, chicken pox, colic, cuts, cystitis, depression, dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, earache, flatulence, headache, hypertension, insect bites, insect repellent, itching, labor pains, migraine, oily skin, rheumatism, scabies, scars, sores, sprains, strains, stress, stretch marks, vertigo, whooping cough, great for children

Lemon 

Is used for athlete's foot, chiliblains, colds, corns, dull skin, flu, oily skin, spots, varicose veins, warts. This oil is said to improve mood, and to help relieve the symptoms of stress and depression. It is an antimicrobial, antioxidant, uplifting, anti-stress, immune enhancing, great for cleaning or cleansing home and environment.  Cold pressed Lemon Essential Oil is phototoxic.

Lemon Balm (Melissa) 

Is used for insomnia, sleep disorders, indigestion, nausea, fungal infections, candida, viral skin infections, herpes, menopausal symptoms, nervousness, stress, anxiety-related symptoms, depression. This oil can pose a drug interaction hazard and that there is a risk of teratogenicity. They precaution against topical use in children and infants under age 2 and for those with hypersensitive/diseased/damaged skin.

Lemongrass 

Used for cleansing, antiviral, insect repellant, antimicrobial, muscular aches and pains, gastrointestinal disorders, indigestion, physical and mental exhaustion, acne, insect repellent. This oil can interact with drugs there is a risk of teratogenicity. They precaution against topical use in children and infants under age 2 and for those with hypersensitive/diseased/damaged skin.

Lime 

Is used for is used for Acne, Asthma, Chilblains, Colds, Dull Skin, Flu, Varicose Veins

Mandarin 

Is used for acne, dull skin, insomnia, oily skin, scars, spots, stress, wrinkles, calming, great for children, slightly more warming citrus aroma. 

Marjoram 

Is used as a muscle relaxant, muscular and abdominal pain, headaches, menstrual and menopausal symptoms, bruises, gastrointestinal disorders, indigestion, spasms, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, insomnia, stress, anxiety.

May Chang 

Is used on acne, oily skin, perspiration, indigestion. A drug interaction may occur if combined with some medications. Precautions against topical use in children and infants under age 2 and for those with hypersensitive/diseased/damaged skin. 

Myrrh 

Is used for Amenorrhea, Athlete's Foot, Bronchitis, Chapped Skin, Dysmenorrhea, Gums, Halitosis, Hemorrhoids, Itching, Mouth, Ringworm, Toothache. Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation.  

Neroli 

Relieves and reduces anxiety, and ispasmodic, PMS, antidepressant, nourishing, postpartum depression, pregnancy/delivery

Orange Sweet 

Is used on Colds, Constipation, Dull Skin, Flatulence, Flu, Gums, Mouth, Slow Digestion, Stress

Orange Bitter 

Is used Colds, Constipation, Dull Skin, Flatulence, Flu, Gums, Mouth, Slow Digestion, Stress

Palmrosa 

Is used Sinusitis, Excess Mucus, Cystitis, Urinary Tract Infection, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Scarring, Wounds, Acne, Pimples, Boils, Fungal Infection, General Fatigue, Muscular Aches, Over-excercised Muscles, Stress, Irritability, Restlessness, Insect Bites And Stings. Caution advised when using this oil as drug interaction may occur. 

Patchouli 

Is used on acne, athlete's foot, chapped skin, dermatitis, eczema, fatigue, frigidity, hair care, insect repellent, mature skin, oily skin, stress, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, soothes the nervous system.  Patchouli Oil may inhibit blood clotting and pose a drug interaction hazard.

Peppermint 

Is used on asthma, colic, exhaustion, flu, digestion, flatulence, headache, nausea, scabies, sinusitis, vertigo, analgesic for muscular aches and pains, relieves and reduces migraines, energizing, antispasmodic.  Avoid use with Children under 30 months of age. 

Petitgrain 

Is used for acne, fatigue, oily skin, perspiration, insomnia, stress.

Rosalina 

Is used for restlessness, nervousness, irritability, acne, pimples, insect bites, respiratory support, allergies, sinus congestion, sore throats, coughs, inflammation, household cleaning, relaxation

Rose 

Is the queen of essential oils, cell regenerative, nourishing the emotions, aphrodisiac, relieves and reduces stress and anxiety, PMS, depression, eczema, frigidity, mature skin, menopause. 

Rosemary 

Is used on Aching Muscles, Arthritis, Dandruff, Dull Skin, Exhaustion, Gout, Hair Care, Muscle Cramping, Neuralgia, Poor Circulation, Rheumatism, can promote hair growth, boost memory, prevent muscle spasms, and support the circulatory and nervous systems, respiratory Congestion, Bronchitis, Colds and Flu, Expectorant, Expands and Deepens the Breath, Energizing, Clears the Mind, Sinus Congestion, Circulatory Stimulant.  Rosemary Oil is potentially neurotoxic, depending on the level of camphor present in the oil. They also warn not to use on or near the face of infants and children. 

Sandalwood 

Is used for Bronchitis, Chapped Skin, Depression, Dry Skin, Laryngitis, Leucorrhea, Oily Skin, Scars, Sensitive skin, stress, stretch Marks. Sandalwood Oil has the potential to cause adverse skin reactions.

Tea tree 

Is a common essential oil that is said to have antimicrobial, antiseptic, and disinfectant qualities. It is commonly used in shampoos and skin care products, to treat acne, burns, and bites.  Supports/Enhances, Immune System, Antimicrobial, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral It features in mouth rinses but it should never be swallowed, as it is toxic. Used on acne, athlete's foot, candida, chicken pox, cold sores, colds, corns, cuts, flu, insect bites, itching, migraine, oily skin, ringworm, sinusitis, sores, spots, urethritis, warts, whooping cough

Tea Tree, lemon 

Is used on Household Cleaning, Anti-bacterial, Applications, Oily Skin, Odors, Insect Repellent, Anxiety, Stress. Caution advised as drug interaction may occur. Precaution against topical use in children and infants under age 2 and for those with hypersensitive / diseased / damaged skin.

Thyme 

Is used on arthritis, colds, cuts, dermatitis, flu, insect bites, laryngitis, lice, muscle aches, oily skin, poor circulation, scabies, sore throat.  There is moderate risk for mucous membrane irritation, it may inhibit blood clotting and pose a drug interaction hazard. There is a low risk of skin sensitization.  

Valerian 

Is used for insomnia, nervous tension, migraine and nervous indigestion

Vanilla 

Is used for stress-induced conditions, nervous anxiety, nervousness, insomnia and restlessness, unexplained, painful limbs, nervous stomach, nausea, inability to relax

Vetiver 

Is used on nervous tension, muscular spasm, muscular pain, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, restlessness, acne, arthritis, cuts, depression, exhaustion, insomnia, muscular aches, oily skin, rheumatism, sores, stress, calming, grounding, astringent, useful for Varicose Veins.

Wintergreen 

Is used for inflammation, pain management, rheumatoid arthritis. Use sparingly if at all. Numerous reports of poisoning have occurred. This oil poses a hazard for toxicity, drug interaction, it can inhibit blood clotting, and high doses are teratogenic (harmful to fetuses and embryos).  Avoid use of Wintergreen with children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding and by those taking anticoagulant medication.

Yarrow 

Is used on rheumatism, arthritis, inflamed/injured muscles, muscular and menstrual cramps, scarring, acne, eczema, rashes, hemorrhoids, wound care. Caution that interactions may occur if used with certain drugs. Neurotoxicity is possible.

Ylang Ylang 

Is used on anxiety, depression, frigidity, hypertension, palpitations, stress. Can cause headaches for some individuals therefore careful use is advised. Topically Ylang Ylang is used to treat acne and oily skin and helps to relieve stress and anxiety.  Used a an aphrodisiac, antispasmodic, antidepressant. 

When storing essential oils, it is important to note that light, heat, and oxygen can affect the integrity of the oil and cause oxidization. To be sure of the quality, oils should be purchased from a respected and trustworthy source.  Following product instructions carefully reduces the risk of compromising the user’s health.

Each oil has a different chemical make-up and reason for use therefore it is important to speak to a well trained aromatherapist, doctor or pharmacist before applying or using any oil.  

Some beauty products and household products like make-up, lotions and candles may appear to contain aromatherapy oils but may in fact be made with synthetic fragrances.

Aromatherapy users should also know that “natural” products do have a chemical make up, and they can be hazardous if used in the wrong way. It is important to follow the advice of a trained professional when using essential oils.