Learn the Fragrant Art of Aromatherapy

(Page 4 of 5)

December/January 2005
BY KATHI KEVILLE 
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When you purchase essential oils or aromatherapy products that contain them, be sure the essential oils are pure and made from plants. Look on the label for the botanical name of the plant from which the oil was derived. Unfortunately, many favorite scents are very expensive or not possible to produce. The scents of magnolia, carnation and lotus are a few examples. Also, rose and jasmine — two of the most popular, as well as expensive, essential oils — are probably synthetic or diluted if sold for less than $120 per ounce.

RELATED CONTENT

I’m wary of using the many “aromatherapy” candles that are scented synthetically. I find it worthwhile to spend a little extra on candles or other products that state they contain only natural essential oils. Not only are they better for your health, they smell so much better!

TRADITIONAL AROMATHERAPY OILS AND THEIR USES

Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Overcomes grief and melancholy

Cedar (Cedrus spp.): Emotional fortitude and clarity

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Calming and lifts depression

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea): Calming

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus): Energizing, antibacterial

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale): Aphrodisiac

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Relaxation, lifts the spirit

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): Increases cheerfulness

Orange (Citrus sinensis): A calming antidepressant

Peppermint (Mentha ¥piperita): Increases awareness and energy

Rose (Rosa spp.): Instills love and compassion, relaxing

Rose geranium (Pelargonium graveolens): Balance

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Improves memory, energizing

Sandalwood (Santalum album): Calming

Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata): Deep relaxation accompanied by euphoric feelings

USE AROMATHERAPY SAFELY

Another safety consideration is that essential oils are very potent. They are far more concentrated than herb teas or tinctures, so be careful with how much and how often you use them. Do not take essential oils internally without the guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Keep essential oils away from your eyes.

As a general rule, don’t apply essential oils directly to your skin undiluted. However, some oils are perfectly safe to apply to your skin — for example, lavender oil on burns or insect bites and tea tree oil on pimples.

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