The Guide to Aromatherapy
Part Two
Lemongrass
Cymbopogon Citratus (Family, Poaceae [Gramineae])Perfume Note=Top
- A refreshing, cleansing and stimulating tonic on the body, and added to shampoos aids in adding a shine to the hair. An antiseptic and astringent oil. Sweet powerful 'lemony' aroma which make a good refreshing and deodorising room fragrance. Warning Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.
Source: aerial parts, Guatemala
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: calming
aroma type: citrus
skin type: oily
traditional use: insect repellent, skin conditioner, soothing agent, muscle relaxant, deodorant, antiseptic
blends well with: geranium, jasmine, lavender
Safety Information: can cause skin irritation
- Main constituents:- Citral, dipentene, linalol, geraniol.
Lemon
Citrus Limonum (Family, Rutaceae)Perfume Note=Top
- Widely used in beauty care. It cleanses, refreshes, cools and stimulates. Astringent and antiseptic oil. Useful for oily skin. Can be used to lighten dull, stained hands or to tone and condition nails and cuticles. Blends well with other oils. Warning Do not use lemon on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.
Source: fruit peels, United States
production method: expression, there is some steam distilled
aromatherapy class: energizing, uplifting
aroma type: citrus
skin type: oily, blemished
traditional use: antiseptic, soothing agent
blends well with: neroli, clary sage, bergamot, citronella, orange flower, violet left, galbanum - Main constituents:- Limonene, terpinene, pinene, myrcene, citral, linalol, geraniol, citronellal.
Lemon Verbena
Aloysia citriodora, A. triphylla, Lippia citriodora, L. tripohylla, Verbena triphylla- Used in perfumery and liqueurs. Mood uplifting, revitalising and promotes mental clarityand alertness.
Warning This is a photosensitising oil, do not use before going into the sun. Can be irritating to those with sensitive skin.
Lime
Citrus Aurantifolia (Family, Rutaceae)Perfume Note=Top
- Acts like lemon and the other citrus oils, Nice aroma. Warning Do not use lime on the skin in direct sunlight, however if the essential oil of lime is distilled rather that expressed, then it does not have a phototoxic effect. Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.
Source: fruit peels, West Indies
production method: Cold expression but some steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, uplifting
aroma type: citrus
traditional use: soothing agent, astringent, skin conditioner
blends well with: clary sage, citronella, lavender, lavandin, neroli, rosemary
Linden Blossom
Tilia europaea. T. vulgaris> (Family, Tiliaceae)- One of the floral absolutes. Used for calming and stress reduction and a tonic for the nervous system. Warning Linden Blossom should not be used over a long period of time.
Litsea Cubeba
Litsea citrata, L. cubeba (Family, Lauraceeae)- A cooling oil, used to improve digestion and to promote a restful sleep. Warning Can be an irritent sothose with sensitive skins should use small amounts with caution.
Lovage
Angelica levisticum, Levisticum officinale, Ligusticum levisticum (Family, Apiaceae)- Know in Europe as "Love parsley" it is reputed to have aphrodisiac qualities and to purify and aid in the reduction of cellulite.
Mandarin
Citrus Noblis (Family, Rutaceae)Perfume Note=Top
- The fruits were once traditional gifts offered to the Chinese Mandarins - Hence the name. A gentle and calming oil, good for oily skin. Known in France as "the children's remedy" for its mildness - use it in massage for the digestive system and, like Lavender, can be used in massage oil to help prevent stretch marks. Do not use Mandarin on the skin in direct sunlight.
Source: fruit peel, India
production method: expression
aromatherapy class: calming
aroma type: citrus
skin type: aging/mature skin
traditional use: soothing agent, astringent, skin conditioner
blends well with: basil, bergamot, camomille, clary sage, olibanum, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon lime, neroli, orange, rose - Main constituents:- Linomene, geraniol, citral, citronellal.
Manuka (Leptospermum or New Zealand Tea Tree)
Letospermum scoparium, L. ericoides, (Kanuka) L. petersonii, L. coparium (Manuka) (Family, Myrtaceae)- Used for years by the Maori's this herbs oil has may qualities similiar to Tea tree. Calming and reduces stress and tension. Relieves aches and pains, relaxes tight muscles. Healing to the skin. Some say that, like lavender and Tea Tree, it may be used neat on the skin.
Source: leaf & branch, New Zealand
production method: Steam distilled
Marigold Tagetes
Tagetes Glandulifera (or T. minuta or T. putuh) (Family, Asteraceae [Compositae])Perfume Note=Top
- Very good antifungal and good for smelly feet! A rather pungent aroma so it helps to blend it with the citrus oils and Lavender.
Marjoram (Spanish & Sweet)
Origanum Marjorana, Majorana hortensis,(Sweet) Thymus mastichina (Spanish) (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae])Perfume Note=Middle
- Used by the ancient Greeks. It soothes, comforts and warms. Useful on tired muscles and for massaging on abdomen during menstruation. Used to regulate the nervous system and treat insomnia. Add to After-Sports Rub. It is pleasant in a hot bath, especially blended with Lavender. Warning Do not use during pregnancy. Care must be taken due to its sedative action, so use sparingly!
Source: flowering top, Spain
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: calming
aroma type: herbaceous
traditional use: antiseptic
blends well with: cedarwood, chamomile, cyporess, lavender, mandarin, orange, nutmeg, rosemary, ylang ylang, eucalyptus, thyme - Main constituents:- Carvacrol, thymol, camphor, borneol, origanol, pinene, sabinene, termineol.
Marjoram, Wild
Thymus Masticina (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae])Perfume Note=Middle
- Used in a massage oil for sensitive skin. (Marjoram hortensis, called sweet marjoram, is the commonly used cooking herb) Warning Avoid use if pregnant.
Massoia Bark
Cryptocarya massoia (Family, Lauraceae)- Used in improving circulation and reputed to have some aphrodisiac qualities. Hightens the senses.
Warning Can be irritating to the skin.
Melissa
Milissa Officinalis (Family, Labiatae)Perfume Note=Middle
- A popular garden herb known also as 'Lemon Balm'. Soothing but uplifting effect on mind and body. Comforting oil during the cold season and when there is a high pollen count.Large amounts, 300 pounds of fresh lemon balm plants to yield 10ml of oil Most oils you find are Blends. Warning Do not use Melissa on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin. The oil has a lemony aroma and sharp, floral-lemon flavor.
- Main constituents:- Citral, citronellol, eugenol, geraniol, llinalyl acetate.
Mimosa
Acacia dealbata, A. decurrens (Family Mimosaceae)- An anti-depressant and anti-inflammatory and used as part of a skin moisturising regime.
Source: flowering tops, India
production method: solvent extraction
aroma type: floral
traditional use: muscle relaxant, soothing agent, skin conditioner
blends well with: lavandin, lavender, ylang ylang, violet, citronella
- Main constituents:- Palmic aldehyde, enathic acid, anisic acid, acetic acid, phenols.
Monarda
Monarda fistulosa (Family, Lamiaceae)- The leaves were used as a substitute for black tea during the Boston Tea party era. The oil is used in stress reduction and assisting the breathing. Warning Can be irritating to those with sensative skin.
Menthe pouliot
Mentha, pulegium
Source: aerial parts, Africa
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: toning, stimulating
aroma type: minty
Safety Information: should be avoided by pregnant women
Mugwort (Armoise)
Artemisa vulgaris (Family, Asteraceae)- Believed to assist in promoting vivid dreams. Used to regulate and balance frmale cycles. It is also believed to promote one's psychic powers.
Myrrh
Commiphora Myrrha, C. Molmol, Balsamodendrom myrra (Family, Burseraceae)Perfume Note=Base
- The sap or resin from a tree rather than a true essential oil. A smokey, mysterious oil, centering, visualizing and meditative. One of the oldest-known perfume materials. Myrrh has a long history of use as incense, especially with frankincense. Add to cream for protecting against cracking and chapping in the cold. Add to gargle and mouthwash. Used as a fixitive in perfumery Warning During pregnancy use Myrrh only in moderation.
Source: resin, Somolia
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: toning, stimulating, soothing
aroma type: balsamic
skin type: dry, aging/mature
traditional use: insect repellent, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory agent, emollient
blends well with: clove, olibanum, galbanum, lanender, patchouli, sandalwood
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less
- Main constituents:- Heerabolene, limone, dipentene, pinene, eugenol.
Myrtle
Myrtus communis (Family, Mytraceae)- This is helpful in meditation and mood revitalising. Helps to clear the sinus and breathing passages.
Source: flowering tops, Mediterranean
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: toning, stimulating
aroma type: camphoraceous
skin type: oily, blemished
traditional use: soothing agent, astringent, skin conditioner, muscle relaxant
blends well with: bergamot, cardamon, coriander, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, rosemary, spearmint, thyme, tea tree
Narcissus
Narcissus, poeticus
Source: flowers, France
production method: solvent extraction
aroma type: floral
traditional use: perfume
blends well with: clove bud, jasmine, neroli, ylang ylang, rose, mimosa, sandalwood
Neroli Absolute
Citrus Aurantium (Family, rutaceae)Perfume Note=Middle
Illustration by Diana Lambourne
- One of the Beautiful floral oils. It soothes, relaxes, uplifts the spirit and helps maintain confidence. Exquisite aroma. Excellent skincare oil, perfect for ageing, dry sensitive skin and on scars and stretch marks. Sensual properties. Is an aid to improve sluggish circulation, relieves tension, stress and anxiety, useful for apprehension like stage fright. For a really luxurious blend mix with Rose Absolute and Jasmine Absolute oils.
Source: flowers, France and Italy
production method: Solvant extraction
aromatherapy class: stimulating, balancing, uplifting
aroma type: citrus
skin type: sensitve, aging/mature
traditional use: antiseptic, emollient
blends well with: citrus oils, rose, jasmine, ylang ylang
- Main constituents:- Linalol, linalyl acetate, limonene, pinene, nerolidol, geraniol, nerol, indole, citral, jasmone.
Niaouli
Melaleuca Viridiflora, M. quinquenirvia (Family, Myrtaceae)- This oil has a sweet, fresh fragrance. Strongly antiseptic, it is useful for treating acne, boils and skin irritations. It is used as a chest rub and is good when vaporised.
Nutmeg
Myristica aromata, M. fragrans, M. officinalis, Nux moschata. (Family, Myristicaceae)- Good for the digestion and calming to promote a restful sleep with dreams. Warning Nutmeg oil is toxic if used in large quantities, and can be stupefying.
Source: fruits, West Indies
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, stimulating, warming
aroma type: spicy
traditional use: antiseptic, muscle relaxant, aphrodisiac
blends well with: lavandin, bay, orange, geranium, clary sage, rosemary, lime, petitgrain, mandarin, coriander
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less
- Main constituents:- Borneol, camphene, cymol, dipentene, eugenol, geraniol, linalol, pinene, sapol, terpineol, myristicin, safrol.
Orange
Citrus Sinensis (Family, Rutaceae)Perfume Note=Top
- A Pleasant winter oil. It soothes, restores and uplifts the spirit. A Warming 'jolly' oil. Blend with spicy oils for cheering baths. Add to massage oil for digestive system. Believed to brighten dull complexions. Encourages sleep. Warning Do not use on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 2% and use only 4/5 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.
Source: fruit peels, West Indies, Israel and United States
production method: expression
aromatherapy class: calming
aroma type: citrus
skin type: dry, aging/mature
traditional use: astringent, soothing agent, skin conditioner
blends well with: citrus oils, petitgrain, neroli, orange flower
- Main constituents:- Limonene, citral, citronellal, geraniol, linalol, perminol,bergapten, auraptenol and acids.
Oregano
Origanum vulgare (Family,Lamiaceae)- Quite a useful oil in that is is warming and assists improvement of circulation, digestion, mental clarity and alertness. It relieves muscle aches and pains and assists in increasing physical endurance and energy. But it increases perspiration. It may assist in reducing cellulite. Warning Can be irritating to sensitive skin so only use small amounts.
Orris Root
Iris florentina, I. pallida (Family, Iridaceae)- Used as a fixitive in perfumes, pot popourri and cosmetics, and a flavouring in toothpastes and sweets.
Warning Is irritating to some and is toxic so only small amounts should be used.
Source: roots, Morocco
production method: solvent, extraction
aroma type: floral
traditional use: emollient, perfume
Osmanthus
Osmanthus fragrans (Family, Oleaceae)- Used as a perfume with antidepressant and sedative properties. Stress reducing.
Palmarosa
Cymbopogon martinii, Andronpogon martinii (Family, Graminaceae (Poaceae))Perfume Note=Middle
- It has a light, lovely floral aroma which is uplifting. It aids clarity of mind and also makes a wonderful skincare oil when mixed with Sweet Almond. It is said to stimulate cellular regeneration and it moisturises making it particularly good for mature skin care and acne.
Source: aerial parts, India
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class:
aroma type: floral
skin type: dry
traditional use: insect repellent, skin conditioner, soothing agent, emollient, muscle relaxant
blends well with: geranium, cananga, amyris, guaicawood
- Main constituents:- Mainly geraniol, with citronellal, citral, farnesol, limonene, dipentene.
Parsley Seed
Petroselinum sativum, P. hortense, Apium petroselinum, Carum petroselinium, (Family, Apiaceae [Umbelliferae]) This essential oil has a warm, spicy and herby aroma. Its main use is as a diuretic and in the treatment of urinary tract problems. Warning Parsley oil should be used by all with great care as there can be confusion between Parsley Leaf and Parsley Seed oils which can have different affects.Patchouli
Pogostemon patchouli, P. cablin (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae])Perfume Note=Base
- Are you an EX-HIPPY?? or even still one, then you'll know this oil.... Peace brothers and sisters.... A musky exotic oil which soothes and uplifts the spirit. Useful in protecting dry, mature or blemished skin, Sensual properties, Musky aroma lingers. Use on scalp for dandruff. Used in the East to scent linen and clothes and to repel fleas and lice. Can prevent sleep with its nerve stimulating properties.
Source: leaves, Indonesia
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: soothing, toning
aroma type: woodsy
skin type: oily, blemished
traditional use: anti-inflammatory agent, antiseptic, astringent, aphrodisiac, perfume
blends well with: labdanum, vetiver, sandalwood, cedarwood, geranium, clove, lavender, rose, neroli, bergamot, myrrh, clary sage
- Main constituents:- Patchoulil, pogostol, bulnesol, nor patchoulenol, bulnese, patchoulene.
Peppermint
Mentha piperta (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae])Perfume Note=Top
- One of the most important essential oils. It stimulates, refreshes, cools, restores and uplifts mind and body. Add to a massage blend for the digestive system. Excellent for refreshing tired head and feet. Sniff from bottle or one drop on handkerchief to revive during travel. Add few drops to car dashboard to help stay alert, clear thinking and fresh. Blended with Rosemary and Juniper it makes an excellent morning bath. Warning Some Aromatherapists say do not use Peppermint when pregnant. dilute to 1% Peppermint and use no more than 3 drops in the bath as it may cause irritation to sensitive skins.
Source: aerial parts, United States
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, stimulating
aroma type: minty
skin type: blemished
traditional use: insect repellent, emollient, antiseptic, muscle relaxant
blends well with: bergamot, geranium, lavender, marjoram, rosmary, sandalwood
Safety Information: can cause skin irritation
- Main constituents:- Menthol, carovne, cineol, limonene, menthone, pinene, thymol.
Petitgrain
Citrus aurantium, C. bigaradia (Family, Rutaceae)Perfume Note=Top
Illustration by Diana Lambourne
- Another oil from the same trees as Neroli/orange blossom though Pettigrain is distilled from the leaves rather than the petals. Relaxes, restores, cleanses, and uplifts the spirit. Similar properties to Neroli, it has deodorant properties and helps to relieve anxiety and stress. Lovely aroma. Good in final rinse for healthy hair, (two drops). blends well with Rosemary, Geranium, Lavender and Bergamot as well as with Orange and Neroli.
Source: leaves and stems, Europe
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: calming
aroma type: citrus
blends well with: citrus oils, lavender, clary sage, rosemary, olibanum
- Main constituents:- Linalyl acetate geranyl acetate, linalol, nerol, termineol.
Pine
Pinus sylvestris (Family, Pinaceae)Perfume Note=Middle
- From the needles, young twigs and cones of the Pine tree. It stimulates, refreshes and cleanses. With a strong, fresh, resinous aroma it has a powerful antiseptic quality and is widely used. It has a deodorant affect and is often used in commercial preparations. Warning Dilute and use with care as Pine oil may otherwise cause skin irritation.
- Main constituents:- Bornyl acetate, citral, cadinene, dipentene, phellandrene, pinene, sylvertrene.
Ravensara Anisata (and R. Aromatica)
Cinnamonum camphora, Ravensara anisata, R. Aromatica (Family Lauraceae)- Anisata is from the Bark of the tree and Aromatica is from the leaves. Both are used for clearing the sinus and breathing passages, loosening tight muscles, relieving menstrual discomfort and aches and pains.
Rose Absolute
Rosa damascena (Family, Rosaceae)Perfume Note=Middle (The supreme "Bridging oil")
- Known as the Queen of oils. With 'Feminine' properties, emotionally soothing, it tones, cleanses, uplifts the spirit and helps maintain self confidence. Excellent skincare oil, perfect for dry/mature, ageing or thread veined skin. It has been renowned throughout the centuries as having Sensual and even Aphrodisiac properties. Exquisite aroma. Another Expensive oil that needs only a small amount to be affective. It can be a very sticky oil at room temperature and goes solid at relatively high temperatures, but warming in the hands or other more interesting warm places soon makes it more liquid. Seldom used in commercial products, where a cheaper synthetic is used, to the detriment of the appreciation of the properties of the real oil. Warning Avoid using during the first four months of pregnancy.
Source: flowers, Bulgaria and Morocco
production method: solvent extraction
aromatherapy class: cooling, balancing, calming, toning
aroma type: floral
skin type: dry, sensitive, normal to combination, aging/mature
traditional use: perfume, skin conditioner, aphrodisiac
- Main constituents:- As Rose Otto
Rose Otto
Rosa damascena (Family, Rosaceae)Perfume Note=Middle
- A warm, intense, immensely rich fragrance. Rose oil is one of the oldest and best known of all essential oils. It is used in all types of perfumes to lend beauty and depth to the aroma. A drop or two in a massage, facial, or bath oil creates a luxurious, soothing experience. The oil is also used in skin creams, powders, and lotions. It is a romantic, creative, gently cheering oil. Warning Avoid using during the first four months of pregnancy.
Source: flowers, Morocco and Turkey
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: cooling, balancing, calming, toning
aroma type: floral
traditional use: astringent
blends well with: floral oils, especially jasmine
- Main constituents:- Very complex with over 300 different chemical constituents but mainly Citronellol, geraniol, phenyl ethanol, nerol, stearopten.
Rosemary
Rosemarinus officinalis, R. coronarium (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae])Perfume Note=Middle
Illustration by Diana Lambourne
- A popular oil in Aromatherapy where it revives, warms, stimulates and restores. Excellent for refreshing tired muscles, feet and mind, allowing concentration. Perfect in Pre and Post sports rubs to maintain suppleness. Helps combat water retention and cellulite. Good hair tonic. An 'ideal pick me up'. Combats fatigue and clears stuffy atmosphere. Warning Do not use Rosemary when pregnant, having high blood pressure, or suffering from epilepsy. It may cause irritation of the skin.
Source: leaves, Tunisia
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, stimulating
aroma type: camphoraceous
skin type: oily, blemished
traditional use: antiseptic, muscle relaxant, soothing agent, skin conditioner
blends well with: olibanum, lavender, lavandin, citronella, thyme, basil, peppermint, labdanum, elemi, cedarwood, petitgrain, cinnamon
- Main constituents:- Borneol, camphene, camphor, cineol, lineol, pinene, terpineol.
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less
Rosewood
Aniba Rosaeodora (Family, Lauraceae)Perfume Note=Middle/Top
- Also known as Bois De Rose. A pleasant and flowery aroma. Relaxing and deodorising. Add to massage oil to help combat tired muscles -especially after vigorous exercise. Has a steadying and balancing affect on nerves, useful during exams. A good anti-depressant and may help migraine and ward off general malaise. Due to the destruction of the hardwood rainforests where the trees come from ensure that your oil comes from Waste Plantation grown wood.
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Sage
Salvia Officinalis (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae])Perfume Note=Top
- A useful regulator of the central nervous system. May help with menstrual and digestive disorders. Warning Do not use Sage when pregnant or suffering from epilepsy.
Source: leaves, Spain
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, stimulating
aroma type: camphoraceous
skin type: oily
traditional use: soothing agent
blends well with: lavandin, rosemary, citrus oils
Safety Information: should be avoided by pregnant women
Sandalwood Mysore
Santalum Album (Family, Santalaceae)Perfume Note=Base
Illustration by Diana Lambourne
- Musky, rich, exotic oils not initially strong aroma, but persistent, traditionally burnt as an aid to meditation and much used in religious ceremonies. Creates an exotic, sensual atmosphere with a reputation as an aphrodisiac. Excellent skincare oil. useful for dry and damaged hair and as a body fragrance.
Source: wood, East India
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: calming, grounding
aroma type: woodsy
skin type: oily, blemished, sensitive, dry
traditional use: antiseptic, emollient, soothing agent, astringent, insect repellent, skin conditioner
blends well with: rose, violet, clove, lavender, black petter, bergamot, geranium, labdanum, vetiver, patchouli, mimosa, myrrh, jasmine
- Main constituents:- Santalols. fusanols, forneol, santalone.
Spearmint
Mentha spicata, M. viridis (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae])Perfume Note=Top
- Energizing to the mind and body. Use in bath water for it's refreshing effect. Make a facial steam of spearmint oil in a pot of boiling water to help cleanse and refine pores. It is refreshing, cooling, gently vitalizing.
Source: flowering tops, United States
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: calming
aroma type: minty
skin type: blemished
traditional use: insect repellent, emollient, astringent, soothing agent, muscle relaxant
blends well with: bergamot, jasmine, lavender, sandalwood
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less
Spikenard
Nardostachys jatamansi (Family, Valerianaceae)- Helps promote restful sleep, stress reduction and relaxation. Can assist in reducing inflammation.
St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum (Family Guttiferae)- Now becoming known as a good anti-depressant. It is calming and stress recucing. It is said to lift the mood, is an euphoric and improves mental clarity. Good for reducing aches and pain and menstrual discomfort. Warning St. John's Wort is phototoxic so should not be used before going out in the sun.
Styrax (Liquidamber or Storax)
Balsam styracis, Liquidamber orientalis, L. styraciflua (Family, Hamamelidaceae)- Is supposed to help remove cellulite and break down lymphatic deposits, reduce inflamation and is mood enhancing.
Tangerine
Citrus reticulata (Family, Rutaceae)Perfume Note=Top
- A sweet tangy aroma. Used as an astringent for oily skin. Tangerine is also used in drinks and desserts.
Warning Avoid use in sun.
Tarragon
Artemisia dracunculus (Family, Asteraceae) - Supposed to relieve aches and pain and menstrual discomfort, improve mental alertness and clarity.
Source: fruit peels, United States
production method: expression
aromatherapy class: energizing
aroma type: citrus
skin type: oily
traditional use: astringent
blends well with: basil, bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, olibanum, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, lime, neroli, orange, rose
Tea Tree
Melaleuca alternifolia, M. linariifolia, M.uncintata (Family, Myrtaceae)Perfume Note=Top
Illustration by Diana Lambourne
- Powerful antiseptic, antifungal and anti-viral. Good for acne, cold sores, warts, and burns. Ideal for vaporising to kill germs. Useful cleansing agent for skin. Helps combat foot odour and athletes foot. Ti Tree, as it is also known, has a wide range of uses, including some aids related illnesses, and further reading is recommended. Warning May cause irritation to sensitive skins.
Source: leaves and stems, Australia
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, stimulating, toning
skin type: oily, blemished
aroma type: camphoraceous
traditional use: insect repellent, antiseptic
blends well with: lavandin, lavender, clary sage, rosemary, cananga, geranium, marjoram, clove, nutmeg
- Main constituents:- Terpinene-4-ol, cineol, pinene, terpenes, cymene.
Find out more on Tea Tree
Thyme (sweet)
Thymus Vulgaris (Family, Lamiaceae (Labiatea)Perfume Note=Middle
- Long known since ancient times as a medicinal and culinary herb. Vaporise as a household disinfectant. It has a strong pungent aroma and is said that it can ward off rodents and get rid of fleas. Warning Do not use Thyme when pregnant or having high blood pressure. Dilute to no more than 2% Thyme before use. It may cause irritation to sensitive skins.
Source: flowering tops, Spain
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, stimulating, toning
aroma type: spicy
skin type: blemished
traditional use: deodorant, antiseptic
blends well with: bergamot, lemon, rosemary, lavender, lavandin, marjoram
Safety Information: use ½ recommended dilution or less; can cause skin irritation
- Main constituents:- Thymol, carvacrol, borneol, cineol, metnone and pinene, may contain geraniol, linlol thujanol-4 or alpha-terpineol.
Vanilla Absolute
Vanilla plantifolia
Source: seeds, Madagascar
production method: solvent extraction
aroma type: balsamic
traditional use: emollient, aphrodisiac
blends well with: sandalwood, vetiver
- Main constituents:- Vanillin, acetic acid, ethyl alcohol, cinnamate, eugenol, vanillyl ethyl acid, furfural.
Vetivert
Vetivera zizanoides, Andropogon muricatus(Family, Poaceae [Gramineae])Perfume Note=Base
- Sometimes known as Vetiver. A deeply relaxing, soothing oil for the mind and body. Earthy, smokey aroma, which is more pleasant when diluted. Assists in reducing blood pressure. Sensual properties. Blends subtly with Lavender, Sandalwood and Jasmine.
Source: roots, Haiti
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: balancing, grounding
aroma type: woodsy
skin type: sensitive, aging/mature
traditional use: emollient
blends well with: sandalwood, jasmine, patchouli, lavender, clary sage, mimosa, ylang ylang
- Main constituents:- Vetiverol, vitivone, vetivenes.
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Violet Leaves
Viola, odorata Source: leaves, France and Egypt
production method: solvent extraction
aromatherapy class: calming, balancing
aroma type: herbaceous
traditional use: soothing agent, skin conditioner
blends well with: clary sage, basil
Wintergreen
Gualtheria Promcumbens (Family, (Family, Ericaceae)- A fresh, cleansing minty aroma. Warnings Harmful or fatal if taken internally. As little as one teaspoon can be fatal if ingested by a child. Dilute well, skin irritant. Avoid if pregnant.
Yarrow
Achillea Millefolium (Family, Asteraceae [Compositae])Perfume Note=Middle
- Has seditive properties. Used for a wide variety of complaints, including chest infections, digestive problems and nervous exhaustion. The Chinese use it for menstural problems and in Scandinavia it is used for Rhumatism. It is also used for skin complaint including acne, reducing scaring for burns and cuts.
Ylang Ylang
Cananga Odorata (Family, Annonaceae)Perfume Note=Base/Middle
- 'Flower of flowers' and often called 'The poor person's Jasmine'. A Sweet Exotic oil, long used for its sensual properties. Soothing and relaxing during times of tension and stress. Ideal for both oily and dry skins and as a hair rinse [2 drops in rinse water].
Source: flowers, Indonesia
production method: solvent extraction
aromatherapy class: calming, balancing
aroma type: floral
skin type: oily, dry, normal to combination, aging/mature
traditional use: perfume, aphrodisiac
blends well with: bergamot, lavender, lemon, narcissus, neroli, palmarosa, sandalwood, vetiver
- Main constituents:- Methyl benzoats, methyl salicylate, linalyl acetate, cadinene, caryophyllene, pinene, cresol, eugenol, linalol, geraniol.
Zanthoxylum
Zanthoxylum alatum, Z. americum, Z. rhesta (Family, Rutaceae)- This native North American plants EO is from the berries of the tree and it used in reducing stress and nervous tension to assist in a restful sleep. A good good uplifting oil. AKA Prickly Ash.
© Nature's Gifts 1996
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Thats it for the properties and uses for now. I would like to add a WWW page of favourite uses and blends from any of the readers. So please send me an 
with your favourites, or your comments/wants, on these pages.
You can do that now. E-Mail to me graham@TheGuideToAromatherapy.com