Lemon Oil

Lemons have long been valued for more than lemonade. We know that ancient Egyptians prized this oil for its purported ability to act as an antidote to fish and meat poisoning. And, like lime, it was a staple on 17th century Royal Navy ships to help prevent scurvy. Today, we know lemon can help contain and treat infectious diseases, especially colds and fevers. Its scent also helps to increase concentration, and neutralizes unpleasant odors. Some hospitals use lemon oil to help calm frightened or depressed patients. It also boosts the immune system by stimulating production of white and red blood cells. Lemon oil is a must for every aromatherapy kit.

Therapeutic uses: Air freshener, anemia, circulation, colds and flu, constipation, corns, coughs, dandruff, depression, digestive system, dull complexion, emotional confusion, fatigue, fingernail toughener, greasy hair and skin, hypertension, household cleanser, immune booster, insect repellent, joint pain, low energy, listlessness, mouth ulcers, nosebleed, PMS, scars, stress, throat infections, voice loss, warts.

FUN FACT: In Japan, lemon essential oil is used throughout banks everywhere in order to reduce worker error.

Source: Aromatherapy for Everyone by PJ pierson and Mary Shipley

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary Oil is both a physical and mental stimulant, which makes it a good oil to have in the morning bath, while also being excellent in the treatment of all muscular conditions, making it the perfect oil for a bath after a long, tiring day. This antiseptic oil is used in the treatment of muscular sprains, arthritis, rheumatism, depression, fatigue, memory loss, migraine, headaches, coughs, flu, and diabetes, among other conditions. It is also very useful in beauty treatments, being used in hair care and acne and cellulite remedies. For the sportsman, cook, and gardener, rosemary is invaluable.

Eucalyptus Oil

Centuries ago, the eucalyptus tree was thought to cleanse the environment, so the frail and sickly would choose to live in areas where these fragrant trees grew, hoping for recovery from their ailments. While just living under the trees might not be the cure people hoped for, the tree does indeed offer healing. The Australian Aborigines applied crushed eucalyptus leaves to wounds to promote healing. They also used the leaves to fight infection and relieve muscular pain. In India it is used to cool fever and fight contagious diseases.

Therapeutic uses: Antibacterial, asthma, arthritis, chicken pox, coughs, decongestant, fever, insect repellent, measles, migraine, muscle pain, rheumatism, shingles, sinusitis, sprains, throat infections.

FUN FACT In the 19th century, eucalyptus trees were called "fever trees," because they destroyed the breeding ground of the malaria mosquito. The tree grows fast, and uses up large amounts of water, thus large amounts of the trees can turn swamp into usable land-and also rid the area of mosquitos in the process.

Source: Aromatherapy for Everyone By Pj Pierson and Mary Shipley

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is a natural antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-infection oil. It is effective against nail fungus, ringworm, athlete's foot, dandruff, acne and many types of infestations including lice, mites and scabies. Tea tree oil is not just soothing and disinfecting, it is capable of penetrating into the lower skin layers with its anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, analgesic (pain killing) and cicatrizant (wound-healing) qualities. It helps the skin to heal by encouraging the formation of scar tissue. People with sensitive skin should introduce the oil with caution. Tea tree oil is not to be taken internally except as a mouthwash or gargle as directed.

Peppermint

Inhaling Peppermint oil perks up our energy levels by increasing cognitive activity. In one study of athletes on the treadmill, participants reported better workload and performance levels when they inhaled peppermint versus jasmine. Other studies confirm anecdotal reports that peppermint makes us fell less sleepy and improves our ability to do administrative tasks like typing, analyzing data, and alphabetizing. Keep a bottle by your desk or in your gym bag for a quick whiff now and then. Or use a diffuser to scent your office or workout space for longer periods of time.

source: The Herb Quarterly Spring 2010

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is well-known for it's relaxing properties when inhaled. Clinical research supports its reputation for calming the nervous system, improving mood, and enhancing sleepiness.

source. The Herb Quarterly Spring 2010