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Understanding Aromatherapy

Aromatherpy has been used for centuries and in today's practice has been found quite beneficial in treating several common ailments. Though we could write pages on this topic we are providing you with very basic information to help you select oils that may be bennificial to you. Before considering any alternative treatment, including Aromatherapy, it is advisable to consult your doctor or specialist to discuss your specific needs.

Certain perscription drugs may interact, interfere or contradict alternative treatments when used in combination. The oils listed below are for external use only and are generally inhaled or applied to the affected area of the skin. These oils should not be used in or near the eyes, as they may cause unexpected reactions or possibly blindness. Common side effect of oil application may include a rash, itiching skin or mild flaking. If you shown any signs of these ailments you should stop the treatments imediately and consult your physician.

General Ailments

Anxiety or Stress: Anxiety and stress become problematic when ever they become excessive or chronic. Physical manifestations may include depression, restlessness, emotional outbursts, palpitations and an erratic heart rhythm. Fragrances useful in treating mild cases of these disorders include... Basil, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Lavender, and Patchouli.

Respiratory Ailments: Respiratory distress may manifest itself as Asthma, Bronchitis, difficulty in breathing , tightness in the chest, or wheezing or coughing caused by excessive mucus. Allergies may also play into this aspect including those related to pollen, animal dander, fungi, dust and even dairy products. Fragrances useful in treating mild cases of these disorders include... Clary Sage, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Spanish Marjoram, Myrrh, Peppermint, Sandalwood, and Sweet Thyme.

Circulatory Problems: Specific causes of circulatory problems may be disorders such as high blood pressure, Adrenal Glands or Kidney malfunction, complications of pregnancy, or congenital heart conditions. Prolonged stress, smoking alcohol consumption, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity may also contribute to physical problems. Fragrances useful in treating mild cases of these disorders include... Bergamot, Neroli and Ylang ylang. Oils or fragrances that should not be used include... Hyssop, Rosemary, Common Sage, and Red Thyme as these may aggravate the condition especially if it is caused by Hypertension.

Digestive Problems: Symptoms of digestive problems may manifest themselves as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Possible causes for these disorders may include stress, intestinal disease or food intolerance. Fragrances and oils useful in treating mild cases of these disorders include... Sweet Marjoram, Black Peppercorns, and Peppermint. Oils that may also be of help include Roman Chamomile, Fennel, Lavender, and Neroli. In cases of travel sickness Cardamom and Ginger may also be employed. For indigestion Cinnamon and Coriander are some of the best choices.

General Aches & Pains: There are many forms of Arthritis and Rheumatism including Bursitis, Gout, Sciatica, Osteoarthritis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Symptoms may include a dull ache or pain, swelling and redness or inflaming of the tissue. Of the best choices for these symptoms, as denoted by the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, is Celery Seed oil. Frankincense and Juniper may also be effective in topical applications. Other useful fragrances or oils include Cedarwood, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Lavender, Lemon, Spanish Marjoram, Rosemary and Sweet Thyme.

For muscular aches and pains you might try Black Pepper, Bergamot or Rosemary.

For back pain Bay or Clove oils are recommended.

Immune System Disorders and Fungal, Viral or Bacterial Infections

A weakened immune system will benefit from the use of the following oils...

Bacterial infections, Basil, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Lemon Grass, Myrrh, and Rose.
Viral infection, Eucalyptus, Lavender and Palmarosa.

Cytophylatic, ( increasing the white blood count ) Carrot Seed, Frankincense, Geranium, Neroli and Rose oil

For detoxifying blood, Fennel, Frankincense, Juniper Berry, Lavender and Black Pepper.

As a Fungicide, Lavender, Lemongrass, Myrrh, Patchouli, and Tea Tree.

Though the above recommendations have been proven to be beneficial in treating the associated ailments caution should always be used as some oils, through effective as a topical ointment, may become fatal if ingested in significant doses. In general, Aromatherapy oils are used as either an inhalation or massage oil. Before using the above recommendation we suggest that you consult with your physician or Aromatherapy expert.


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Guidelines for Essential Oils

* Essential oils are very concentrated. Their safe use requires they be treated with care and respect. The user should be knowledgeable about their properties and actions before any use. Most personal applications require drops rather than ounces.

* Keep oils out of reach of children and away from pets. Please do not ingest by mouth. Because of the potency of certain essential oils, proceed carefully and with guidance from a trained aromatherapist if any of the following situations exist: pregnancy, high blood pressure, epilepsy, open wounds, diabetes, rashes, neurological disorders, or if taking prescription medications or homeopathic remedies.

* Undiluted pure essential oils are never applied directly to the skin. For application to the skin, dilute in a pure vegetable carrier oil, such as almond, grapeseed or jojoba. For full-body and foot baths, dilute the oils in water. Special care is advised when using essential oils which heighten skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light. These oils include angelica, verbena and citrus oils such as bergamot, bitter orange, lemon and lime. Avoid exposure to ultraviolet rays for a minimum of four hours following application of photosensitive essential oils.

* Check this site for specific precautions about each essential oil. Essential oils have different levels of potency. The more potent the oil, the smaller the quantity used. Sage, fennel, hyssop and wintergreen are relatively more potent than most oils; rose, lavender and chamomile are relatively mild. Most essential oils are safe and nontoxic when proper dilution recommendations are followed. When in doubt, seek guidance from a professional aromatherapist or medical professional.

* Essential oils are not intended for use in the treatment of specific medical conditions. For treatment of health ailments, please seek diagnosis and recommendations from a licensed medical practitioner.

* Essential oils are very concentrated, so it's important to handle them with care. Please read these cautions carefully:

* Always read and follow all label warnings and cautions.

* Keep oils tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
Never consume undiluted oils. Cook only with those oils approved for food use.

* Don't use undiluted oils on your skin. (Dilute with vegetable oils.)
Skin test oils before using. Dilute a small amount and apply to the skin on your inner arm. Do not use if redness or irritation occurs.

* Keep oils away from eyes and mucous membranes.
If redness, burning, itching, or irritation occur, stop using oil immediately.

* Avoid use of these oils during pregnancy: bitter almond, basil, clary sage, clove bud, hyssop, sweet fennel, juniper berry, marjoram, myrrh, peppermint, rose, rosemary, sage, thyme and wintergreen.

* These oils can be especially irritating to the skin: allspice, bitter almond, basil, cinnamon leaf, cinnamon bark, clove bud, sweet fennel, fir needle, lemon, lemongrass, melissa, peppermint, tea tree, wintergreen.

* Angelica and all citrus oils make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light. Do not go out into the sun with these oils on your skin.

* Sweet fennel, hyssop, sage, and rosemary should not be used by anyone with epilepsy.

* People with high blood pressure should avoid hyssop, rosemary, sage, and thyme.