Understand essential oils and their use in fragrances and in aromatherapy.
Essential oils can be used in the making of candles, potpourri, and perfume. They have restorative properties when used in aromatherapy, and can create a warm and pleasant atmosphere in your home. The next time you want to add a little spice to your day, treat the blues, or inject a little romance, create some magic with essential oils.
Many of the fragrances you have come to take for granted in household cleaning agents, soaps, cosmetics, and room fresheners started out as essential oils. For centuries, oil has been extracted from plants by distillation in order to preserve their fragrance. Ancient Egyptian and Chinese texts document the properties of these precious substances, and Biblical references to their value abound. Because of the burgeoning interest in aromatherapy, essential oils have become popular in their own right and are now inexpensive and easy to find.
Below is a sampling of the oils that are available, together with a brief summary of their properties. They can be used as single fragrances or mixed to create custom blends. Lesley Bremness in her book, “The Complete Book of Herbs”, recommends a number of essential oil blends for therapeutic use, and offers an extensive index of oils.
Bergamot
Bergamot can help create a relaxing atmosphere, reduce anxiety, and combat depression. It has antiseptic properties, and has been used in the treatment of acne, psoriasis, and cold sores. Bergamot has a floral fragrance mixed with undertones of citrus.
Cardamom
Historically, cardamom it has been prized as an aphrodisiac and used as an herbal remedy to aid digestion and treat nausea. It has a slightly spicy fragrance and is sometimes used in cooking.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus has natural antiseptic qualities and has been used as an insect repellent and antifungal. It has a bitter sent with undertones of thyme.
Jasmine
Jasmine has been used in the treatment of dry, irritated skin and to reduce the appearance of scars. It has a sweet, delicate fragrance that helps to combat depression.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the most common of the essential oils, and has been used as an ingredient in cosmetic and cleaning agents for decades. It is helpful in the treatment of oily skin and can provide relief from sunburn and insect bites. Lavender is also an excellent insect repellent. It has a woody, astringent fragrance.
Patchouli
Patchouli oil has been effective in the treatment of headaches and has sedative properties. It is often used in essential oil blends because it works to bring different fragrances together in harmony. Alone, it has a smoky, masculine fragrance.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is another essential oil that is commonly used to blend scented oils. It has been useful in the treatment of depression and to reduce stress. It has a mild earthy scent.
Tea Tree
Tea tree has antiseptic properties that can aid in the treatment of acne and insect bites. It has also been used effectively in the treatment of athlete' s foot. It has a bitter, medicinal scent.
Ylang-Ylang
Ylang-ylang has been used to treat stress, and insect bites. It has a strong sweet fragrance. Use this oil sparingly. Prolonged exposure may cause headaches.
Essential oils are derived from plant parts and extracted by distillation. Because they are concentrated, they should always be handled with care and never applied directly to the skin unless they have been blended with base oils like grape seed or vegetable oil.
Try aromatherapy, or use essential oils to create your own fragrance blends. There are kits available, complete with recommendations for great blends that will match your personality or address your unique needs. When using concentrated substances like essential oils, always use caution and common sense. Make sure you are wearing gloves and are working in a well ventilated area.
