Coipaba (Copal) ~ Copaifera reticulata
Historical Uses
According to the Essential Oils Desk Reference, the healers in the Amazon use resin for all kinds of pain and inflammatory disorders. In Peru 2-3 drops of resin is mixed with honey and used as remedy for sore throat. In the Brazilian and Peruvian herbal medicine system it is listed as and antiseptic and anti-inflammatory for the urinary tract, and it is used in the treatment of bronchitis, tetanus, and tuberculosis.
The Reference Guide states that copaiba has historically been used for stomach ulcers, tumors, incontinence, syphilis, bleeding, hemorrhages and pleurisy. According to the guide, it has been verified by modern research.
Fragrance Influences
The Reference Guide for Essential Oils states that the aroma of copaiba lifts depression and helps elevate mood as well as to help combat stress problems, nervous tension and anxiety.
Properties
Coipaba has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory (powerful), mycolytic and antiulcer properties according to the Essential Oils Desk Reference. The Reference Guide for Essential Oils also mentions that copaiba is a stimulant for the circulatory and the pulmonary system.
EODR states that copaiba can be used for pain relief since it is a strong anti-inflammatory and it can also be used for insect bites, arthritis, skin disorder, rheumatism, stomach distress, sore throat and urinary disorders.
The Reference Guide for Essential Oils says that it may also help with constipation, edema, dyspepsia, flu, flatulence, bacterial infections, wounds, stiffness, colds and diarrhea.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.
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Source:
Connie
and Alan Higley, (Twelfth Edition, revised 2010). Reference Guide for
Essential Oils. Abundant Health
The
Essential Oils Desk Reference. (Fifth edition 2011). Life Science
Publishing
9:38 PM |
Read more...
Lemon ~ Citrus limon
Origin
Lemon is grown in different regions around the world.
Aroma
Lemon has a sharp, clean, and refreshing citrus aroma. Gary Young says it promotes clarity of thought and purpose, as well as healing, purification, physical energy and health.
Historical and traditional uses
Columbus brought lemon and orange seeds to Spain in 1493. Spain quickly became one of the largest producers of lemon. Already in 1692 distilled and expressed lemon could be bought in Paris.
Indications, therapeutic actions and traditional uses
Research in Japan has found that lemon improves the ability to concentrate. It is said to lift the spirit during times of mental fatigue. Lemon has also been found useful for stimulating and clearing the mind. It is also said to aid in the decision making process.
According to Battaglia, lemon is able to stimule the action of the white blood corpuscles, which are the body's own defense. According to Dr. Jean Valnet, the vaporized essence of lemon can kill the meningococcus bacteria in 15 minutes, typhoid bacilli in one hour, Staphylococcus aureus in two hours, and Pneumococcus bacteria within three hours. Battaglia also says lemon improves the functioning of the digestive system. Battaglia also says it counteracts the acidity in the body and makes the stomach more alkaline.
Battaglia says lemon is said to have a tonic effect on the circulatory system and is useful in treating varicose veins. Battaglia says it may be helpful in cases of high blood pressure and can be used in preventative regimen against arteriosclerosis.
Battaglia also says lemon can be used in cases of toxemia, such as gout, rheumatism, general obesity, cellulite, abscesses, and carbuncles and boils.
As an astringent lemon has an effective cleansing effect on greasy skin. Its antiseptic properties make it useful for treating boils and cuts according to Battaglia.
Battaglia says lemon is said to have a tonic effect on the circulatory system and is useful in treating varicose veins. Battaglia says it may be helpful in cases of high blood pressure and can be used in preventative regimen against arteriosclerosis.
Battaglia also says lemon can be used in cases of toxemia, such as gout, rheumatism, general obesity, cellulite, abscesses, and carbuncles and boils.
As an astringent lemon has an effective cleansing effect on greasy skin. Its antiseptic properties make it useful for treating boils and cuts according to Battaglia.
According to Gary Young, lemon may be beneficial for blood pressure, anxiety, respiratory problems, digestive problems, sore throats and respiratory infections. Young says it helps promote leukocyte promotion, improve memory, cleans the nails and promote a sense of well-being.
According to a research done by Komori, et al., 1995, lemon has shown to have antidepressant effect. It is also said to work well in removing wood stain, oil, gum, and grease spots.
According to a research done by Komori, et al., 1995, lemon has shown to have antidepressant effect. It is also said to work well in removing wood stain, oil, gum, and grease spots.
Safety
Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Dilution recommended for both topical and internal use. Dilute before using on sensitive areas such as the face, neck, genital area, etc. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid using on infants and very small children. Avoid using on skin exposed to direct sunlight or UV rays. Do not use near fire, flame, heat or sparks.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources:
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing
Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd
12:45 PM |
Read more...
Myrrh ~ Commipihora myrrha
The Commiphora species are shrubs up to 10 meters high.
Origin
Somalia.
Aroma
It has a warm, rich spicy balsamic odor. It promotes spiritual awareness, is revitalizing and uplifting.
Historical and traditional uses
The Arabs used myrrh for various skin conditions such as cracked and chapped skin and wrinkles. The Egyptian women used myrrh in their facial preparations since it had a reputation of reducing wrinkles and preserve a youthful appearance. Myrrh is frequently mentioned in the Old and New Testaments.
Indications, therapeutic actions and traditional uses
Myrrh is said to be valuable for people who feel stuck emotionally and spiritually and want to move forward with their lives.
According to Battaglia, myrrh prevents putrefaction and infection and clears toxins and promote repair of tissues. He also says myrrh's expectorant property is useful in colds, coughs, and bronchitis, and it will also expel excessive mucus and sooth mucus membranes in conditions involving excess mucus.
According to Gary Young, myrrh has one of the highest levels sesquiterpenes, which has direct effects on the hypothalamus, pituitary and amygdala, the seat of our emotions. Young also says myrrh may help asthma, athlete's foot, coughs, candida, eczema, digestion, fungal infections, gum infections, gingivitis, mouth ulcers, hemorrhoids, sore throats, wounds, and wrinkles.
According to Battaglia, myrrh generates warmth and stimulates the stomach and therefore is a useful remedy for treating poor appetite, diarrhea, and abdominal distension.
It is also said to be a uterine stimulant according to Battaglia, and it promotes menstruation and relieves painful periods. He says it may also be used to assist in prolonged and difficult labor during childbirth.
According to Battaglia, myrrh is legendary for its efficacy for treatments of chronic ulcers and wounds. He says this is due to its antiseptic, antiphlogistic, astringent, anti-inflammatory. According to Battaglia, myrrh is especially valuable for slow healing wounds and weeping eczema.
According to Battaglia, myrrh generates warmth and stimulates the stomach and therefore is a useful remedy for treating poor appetite, diarrhea, and abdominal distension.
It is also said to be a uterine stimulant according to Battaglia, and it promotes menstruation and relieves painful periods. He says it may also be used to assist in prolonged and difficult labor during childbirth.
According to Battaglia, myrrh is legendary for its efficacy for treatments of chronic ulcers and wounds. He says this is due to its antiseptic, antiphlogistic, astringent, anti-inflammatory. According to Battaglia, myrrh is especially valuable for slow healing wounds and weeping eczema.
Safety
Avoid in pregnancy since it is a uterine stimulant. Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources:
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing
Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd
8:23 AM |
Read more...
Pine ~ Pinus sylvestris
Origin
Northern Europe and North America. Mostly from Finland and Siberia.
Aroma
A woody turpentine-like aroma. It is a calming but energizing aroma and it increases the mental alertness.
Historical and traditional uses
Hippocrates recommended the use of pine for throat infections and pulmonary problems. Pliny emphasized the use of pine in all problems of the respiratory system. Mrs Grieve's Modern Herbal lists pine as a valuable remedy for kidney, bladder and rheumatic conditions as well as for respiratory and mucus membrane complaints.
Indications, therapeutic actions and traditional uses
Pine is considered great for general debility and mental fatigue when inhaled. It is cleansing and invigorating.
According to Battaglia, pine's expectorant and antiseptic properties are helpful in cases of influenza, laryngitis and bronchitis. He also says pine is useful in treating hepatitis, cystitis, prostate problems, and in reducing inflammation of the gall bladder as well as reducing gall stones.
According to Gary Young, pine may dilate the respiratory system and it may also help with respiratory infections, coughs, cuts, scabies, skin parasites, stress, sores, nervous exhaustion and urinary infection. Young also suggests that pine may help stimulate the adrenal glands and the circulatory system.
Safety
Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Do not use near fire, flame, heat or spark. Dilution recommended for both topical and internal use. Dilute before using on sensitive areas such as the face, neck, genital area, etc. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid using on infants and very small children. Avoid oil adulterated with turpentine, a low-cost but potentially hazardous filler.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources:
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing
Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd
1:20 PM |
Read more...
Melaleuca Alternifolia ~ Tea Tree
Tea tree has been used by the Australian aborigines for a long time.
Origin
Tea tree is originally from Australia
Aroma
Tea tree has a very antiseptic aroma. The top note is camphor-like, litte woody, sharp, clean and fresh. The middle note is sweeter, less camphoraceous, spicy, pleasant and woody. The base note is medicinal, woody, little spicy and sharp. It is a neutral oil emotionally that promotes cleansing and purity.
Indications, therapeutic actions and traditional uses
According to Battaglia, tea tree is active against all three categories of infectious organism such as fungi, viruses and bacteria. He says it is also a very effective immune-stimulant and as such it will increase the body's ability to respond to invading organisms. These properties gives tea tree a wide range of applications.
According to Battaglia, tea tree makes a great addition to a first aid kit. For example:
According to Battaglia, tea tree is very effective for the treatment of acne and pimples when combined with lavender. It can be mixed in a 1% dilution with a light oil such a jojoba or apricot. Massage into face and then wipe off. He says it can also be added to shampoo and used in the treatment of dandruff. For head lice Battaglia suggests to apply directly to the affected parts and leave for half an hour before washing it out. The head lice treatment needs to done for 10 days at a two day intervals. Dab on pure tea tree oil for insect bites and stings.
- Dirty wounds may be washed out with a tea tree solution.
- Athlete's foot, vaginitis, cradle cap, and nail infection may be washed frequently with a 2.5% tea tree solution.
- For sore throat, add 10 drops of tea tree to a glass of water and gargle to help clear throat.
- Add to vaporizer and inhale for congested nasal passage and respiratory infections.
- Add tea tree to massage oil or to a bath for muscular aches and pain.
According to Battaglia, tea tree is very effective for the treatment of acne and pimples when combined with lavender. It can be mixed in a 1% dilution with a light oil such a jojoba or apricot. Massage into face and then wipe off. He says it can also be added to shampoo and used in the treatment of dandruff. For head lice Battaglia suggests to apply directly to the affected parts and leave for half an hour before washing it out. The head lice treatment needs to done for 10 days at a two day intervals. Dab on pure tea tree oil for insect bites and stings.
According to Gary Young, tea trea is indicated athlete's foot, fungal infections, respiratory infections, bronchitis, rash, gum disease, sore throat, tonsillitis, and vaginal thrush. He says it may also help acne, candida, cold sores, inflammation, warts, viral infections, ingrown nails and wounds.
Safety
Keep out of reach of children. Consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
|
Sources:
Gary
Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide.
Essential Science Publishing
Salvatore
Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect
Potion Pty Ltd
11:58 AM |
Read more...
Rosemary ~ Rosmarinus officinalis CT 1,8 cineol
Rosemary has several chemotypes and the three principal chemotypes are:
- 1,8 cineole
- verbenone
- camphor-borneol
The different chemotypes can be applied for different purposes to achieve maximum efficiency. According to Battaglia, the 1,8 cineole type rosemary is best used in connection with pulmonary congestion and to faciliate elimination from the kidneys and the liver. The camphor type is most suited for muscular aches and pains. The verbenone rosemary is great for high quality skin care preparations since it is a safe and non-irritant oil.
Rosemary 1,8 cineole is what I'm going to focus on today.
Rosemary 1,8 cineole is what I'm going to focus on today.
Origin
Rosemary is originally from Asia but is now grown in the Mediterranean region. Much of the oil today comes from France, Spain or Tunisia.
Aroma
Rosemary has a strong, penetrating and clear aroma. It is a refreshing and stimulating herbal fragrance. It is said to overcome mental fatigue and to improve mental clarity and focus.
Historical and traditional uses
Grave robbing bandits used a blend called "Marseilles Vinegar" or "Four Thieves Vinegar" to protect themselves from the plaque. Rosemary was part of this vinegar. Rosemary has been used medicinally for centuries. Dioscorides and Theophastrus both recommended it as a powerful remedy for liver and stomach problems. Rosemary originally had white flowers according to folklore, but they turned red after Virgin Mary laid her cloak over the bush. Rosemary has also been burnt as an incense to ward off devils, which later become a practice by the sick to protect against infection.
Indications, therapeutic actions and traditional uses
According to Battaglia, rosemary is considered one of the best tonics for central nervous system. He says it strengthens mental clarity and awareness. It is an excellent brain stimulant and has traditionally been used to improve memory. According to Battaglia, it has also historically been a valuable oil for respiratory problems such as catarrh, sinusitis, common cold and asthma. He also says it is an analgesic oil and as such it has historically ben used in massage, compresses and bath to relieve pain in arthritis, rheumatism or stiff, tired and overworked muscles.
According to Battaglia, rosemary is a good remedy for low blood pressure since it stimulates blood circulation. He also said it is an excellent tonic for the liver and gall bladder, and it has traditionally been used for the treatments of biliary colic, gall stones and gall bladder infections. According to Battaglia, rosemary helps lower high blood sugar.
According to Gary Young, rosemary is also indicated for myalgia, menstrual disturbances, indigestion, bronchitis, respiratory and lung infections, hair loss and hepatitis. Young also says rosemary improves concentration.
Safety
If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Epileptics should use with caution. It is best not to use rosemary with high blood pressure.
Possible skin sensitivity. If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Dilution recommended for both topical and internal use. Dilute before using on sensitive areas such as the face, neck, genital area, etc. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use on children under 4 years of age.
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sources:
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing
Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd
12:35 PM |
Read more...
