Learn aromatherapy

I bought an amazing book that I’ve plunged into—“Essence and Alchemy”... the author is an amazing and very energized woman who also offers a self-directed aromatherapy course…

Now that I’m re-grounded in earning my keep with video, I have the time and means to follow up on this. She also teaches a weekend class at Esalen, which would be such an amazing indulgence :P

Maybe in 2008…

i still have a lot to learn, but i have a pretty sizeable collection and, with the help of a few good books and my intuition, i’ve come up with some really wonderful blends.

maybe one day i’ll take a formal class or something, but for now, i’ve accomplished at least the first level of this goal.

don’t this to the extent that i would like but Cindy Loveing came to our school twice during my year there and both times i learned loads of new info. she has been doing it for years, she is really great. my instructors at the time told me they had taken a number of aromatherapy courses before and they learned more in one class with Ciny than they did in all those other classes combined. she has a site http://www.lovingscents.com, you can order stuff on line, but she travels the state and does classes, if you can i would look into it.

Here is some info on a few herbal essential oils that I have kept in my family herbal first aid kit.

Oils & Blends – Massage Oils, Essential Oils, Herbal Remedies

Essential Oils

• Clary Sage is used in aromatherapy in preference to Sage (Salvia Officinalis) because Sage can be quite toxic. Clary possesses the positive effects of Sage without the danger. One should avoid the use of alcohol while using Clary Sage because the combination can bring on severe nightmares. Clary produces a heightened state akin to euphoria and relaxation. It is used in treating asthma, and during convalescence of the flu. It is used in abdominal massage for digestive problems. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• Most valuable uses: Muscular fatigue, menstrual problems, PMS, fertility, exhaustion, insomnia, menopausal problems, calming, stress, depression, cramps, excessive perspiration.
• Therapeutic properties: Antiseptic, calmative, tonic, emmenagogue, anti-infectious, anti-spasmodic, anti-sudorific, aphrodisiac, nerve tonic, nervine, estrogen-like
• Main chemical components: Linalol, Linalyl Acetate, Germacrene, Ceranyl acetate
• Contraindication: Avoid during pregnancy.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Eucalyptus globulus (“blue-gum”) is the most widely used variety; but Eucalyptus radiata is a better choice for aromatherapy because it has all the good properties of Eucalyptus with a sweeter aroma than the “blue-gum” variety. Eucalyptus is well known as a decongestant inhalation for colds. It reduces nasal congestion and inhibits the growth of viruses. In Australia, Eucalyptus leaves are used to bind wounds, and the oil is used in solutions to clean operation cavities and to impregnate gauze as a post-operation dressing. It is also used for burns. It is used as a pain-killing cream for shingles and in massage for rheumatism. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• ACTIONS: Analgesic, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, balsamic, cicatrisant, decongestant, deodorant, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypoglycaemic, parasiticide, prophylactic, rubefacient, stimulant, vermifuge, vulnerary. (Source: Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils: by Julia Lawless)
  Eucalyptus globulus –
• Most valuable uses: Catarrh, bronchitis, colds, flu, fever, sinusitis, muscular aches and pains, headaches, sluggishness, mental exhaustion, rheumatism, asthma, insect bites, rashes, skin ulcers, chilblains, sore throats.
• Therapeutic properties: Antiseptic, balsamic, expectorant, antibiotic, anti-fungal, febrifuge, anti-infectious, anti-parasitic, anti-neuralgic, anti-putrescent, pectoral. The antiseptic properties of this oil increase with age.
• Main chemical components: 1,8-Cineole, para Cymene, Eucalyptol, Fenchene, Globulol, Camphene.
• Contraindication: Not to be used on children under 12 years.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Do not use fennel for young children and babies because the melanthine in it can be toxic to them. Fennel must not be used by those who suffer from epilepsy. Fennel is used as a diuretic, for cellulitis, and to treat PMS. It is also used as a gargle for gum infections and in toothpaste. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• Most valuable uses: Abdominal pain or cramps, flatulence, coughs, sore throats, digestive problems, menstrual problems, PMS, menopausal problems, fertility, obesity, nausea, fluid retention, liver problems.
• Therapeutic properties: Carminative, emmenagogue, estrogen-like, galactagogue, depurative, diuretic, stimulant, regenerative, anti-spasmodic, antiseptic, antibiotic, vermifuge, expectorant.
• Main chemical components: trans Anethole, Fenchone, Estragol, Methylchavicol, Fenone, aplha-pinene.
• Contraindication: Do not use in pregnancy. Do not use on babies, or on children under 16 years. Not to be used by people subject to epilepsy. Not to be used by people with high estrogen levels. Not to be used by women with breast cancer. Not to be used by people with kidney problems, including kidney stones.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Lavender is used to treat colds, coughs, sinusitis, flue, burns, and wounds. It is massaged into the temples for headaches, and used in massage for back pain, arthritis, and inflammation. Massaged gently into the lower abdomen, it reduces menstrual pain or scanty menstruation. Lavender is also used to treat palpitations, high blood-pressure, and skin infections. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• ACTIONS: Analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, antimicrobial, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, carminative, cholagogue, choleretic, cicatrisant, cordial, cytophylactic, deodorant, diuretic, emmenagogue, hypotensive, insecticide, nervine, parasiticide, rubefacient, sedative, stimulant, sudorific, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary. (Source: Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils: by Julia Lawless)
• Most valuable uses: Cuts, grazes, burns, rheumatism, chilblains, dermatitis, eczema, sunburn, insect bites, headaches, migraine, insomnia, infections, arthritis, anxiety, tension, panic, hysteria, fatigue, inflammatory conditions, rashes, nervous conditions, dysmenorrhoea, spasms. Can be used safely on children.
• Therapeutic properties: Antiseptic, analgesic, cytophylactic, anti-spasmodic, tonic, cicatrisive, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, anti-venomous, anti-toxic, anti-parasitic, antitussive, diuretic, restorative, decongestant, antidepressant, calmative, sedative, antibiotic, anti-infectious.
• Main chemical components: Linalyl Acetate, Linalool, Geraniol, Borneol, Isoborneol, Cineol-1,8.
• Contraindication: None known.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Lemon stimulates white corpuscles to fight against infection. It is used in minor injuries to stop bleeding, and in minor cuts as a bactericide. Lemon may also be used to remove corns, warts, and verrucae. Lemon oil can cause skin irritation unless it is used in very low dilutions. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• Most valuable uses: General tonic, infections, detoxification, general fatigue, obesity, acne, physical exhaustion, digestion, depression, rheumatism, colds and flue, skin care.
• Therapeutic properties: Antibiotic, sedative, carminative, diuretic, haemostatic, astringent, digestive, immunostimulant, antidepressant, stimulant, antiseptic, febrifuge, calmative, antispasmodic, antisclerotic, depurative, vermifuge, cicatrisive.
• Main chemical components: D Limonene, Citral, gamma Terpinene, Phellandrene, Citronellal, Citroptene.
• Contraindication: Do not apply neat to the skin. Do not apply to the skin before exposure to the sun.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Peppermint is well known for treating digestive upsets, and is used to treat colds and flu. It has a cooling effect, and is used for fevers. It is also used to stimulate the brain and bring on clear thinking. Peppermint should not be used in conjunction with homeopathic remedies, and must be stored away from these, because it can act as an antidote to them. Avoid use of peppermint in the evening because it can produce wakefulness, and avoid prolonged use of peppermint as it may disturb sleep patterns. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• Most valuable uses: Headaches, nausea, fatigue, apathy, coughs, digestive problems, bowel disorders, flatulence, muscular pain, sinus congestion, shock, faintness, travel sickness, mouth or gum infections, mental tiredness, poor circulation.
• Therapeutic properties: Antiseptic, antibiotic, anti-infectious, carminative, stomachic, anti-spasmodic, depurative, stimulant, tonic, emmenagogue, anti-parasitic, vermifuge, expectorant, analgesic, digestive, decongestant.
• Main chemical components: Menthol, Menthone, iso Menthone, Menthofurna, Menthol ester.
• Contraindication: Could cause irritation if applied neat to the skin. Do not use in baths. Not to be used in pregnancy or on children under seven years.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Rosemary stimulates the Central Nervous System, and is used in treatment of paralysis and memory loss. It is used to treat respiratory problems as a steam inhalation. Cautions observed with Rosemary encourage use in only small amounts because it may produce seizures or poisoning. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• ACTIONS: Analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, choleretic, cicatrisant, cordial, cytophylactic, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, fungicidal, hepatic, hypertensive, nervine, parasiticide, restorative, rubefacient, stimulant (circulatory, adrenal cortex, hepatobiliary), stomachic, sudorific, tonic (nervous, general), vulnerary. (Source: Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils: by Julia Lawless)
• Most valuable uses: Muscular pain, rheumatism, arthritis, muscular weakness, constipation, coughs, colds, bronchitis, helps eliminate toxins, memory enhancement, overwork, general debility, infections, overindulgence, hangovers, acne, exhaustion, poor circulation, cellulite, skin care, hair care, migraine, headaches, sinus problems, general tonic.
• Therapeutic properties: Antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, stimulant, analgesic, rubefacient, antidepressant, anti-toxic, pectoral, vulnerary, carminative, emmenagogue, diuretic, stomachic, antitussive, decongestant.
• Main chemical components: 1,8-Cineole, beta Pinene, Camphor, Camphene, Borneol, Bornyl acetate.
• Contraindication: Not to be used in pregnancy. Not to be used by people with epilepsy.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Tea tree is used to treat all manner of infections. It does not irritate the skin. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• ACTIONS: Anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal, balsamic, cicatrisant, diaphoretic, expectorant, fungicidal, immuno-stimulant, parasiticide, vulnerary. (Source: Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils: by Julia Lawless)
• Most valuable uses: Rashes, insect bites, nail fungus, dermatitis, ringworm, thrush, head lice, sore throats, boils, bronchial congestion, scabies, ulcers, wounds, arthritis, cold sores, acne, fatigue, useful for all infections.
• Therapeutic properties: Anti-infectious, antibiotic, balsamic, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, vulnerary, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, immunostimulant, decongestant, analgesic, antiseptic.
• Main chemical components: Terpinene-4-ol, Paracymene, Caryophyllene, Gamma-Terpinene, Alpha-terpinene.
• Contraindication: None known.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

• Thyme is used as a digestive stimulant and in treating coughs and sore throats. It is used in a toothpaste to treat mouth and gum infections. Thyme stimulates the production of white corpuscles to strengthen the body’s resistance to infection. It raises low blood pressure and stimulates the appetite. It is used in baths for insomnia and is used in compresses for sores and wounds. (Source: A-Z Aromatherapy by Patricia Davis)
• ACTIONS: Anthelmintic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiputrescent, antirheumatic, antiseptic (intestinal, pulmonary, genito-urinary), antispasmodic, antitussive, antitoxic, aperitif, astringent, aphrodisiac, bactericidal, balsamic, carminative, cicatrisant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, fungicidal, hypertensive, nervine, revulsive, rubefacient, parasiticide, stimulant (immune system, circulation), sudorific, tonic, vermifuge. (Source: Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils: by Julia Lawless)
• Most valuable uses: All infections including viral infections, mucous congestion, colds, flu, muscular pains, arthritis, obesity, bronchitis, coughs, general debility, poor circulation, gout, physical exhaustion, throat infections, muscular debility, anorexia, acne, gum infections, thrush, verrucas, warts.
• Therapeutic properties: Antibiotic, pectoral, analgesic, expectorant, antiseptic, balsamic, anti-infectious, anti-viral, stimulant, tonic, rubefacient, diuretic, emmenagogue, vermifuge, anti-venomous, anti-putrescent, anti-spasmodic, anti-fungal, immunostimulant.
• Main chemical components: 6-isopropyl-m-cresol, Terpenoid, phenol thymol, isomer carvacrol, cymol, linalool, camphene.
• Contraindication: Neither thymes are to be used in pregnancy. Not to be used in baths. Red thyme not to be used on children. Red thyme can be a mucus membrane and skin irritant so never use neat on the skin. Red thyme is one of the best anti-infectious agents when diffused in the atmosphere.
  (Source: Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood Valerie Worwood)

Concentrations & Measurements

• 1 drop = 0.05 ml
• 1 ml = 20 drops
• 1 teaspoon = 5 ml
• 1 teaspoon = 100 drops
• 1 dessertspoon = 10 ml
• 1 tablespoon = 15 ml
• 1 tablespoon = 300 drops
• 1 ounce = 30 ml
• 1 ounce = 600 drops

• Massage – 1 to 3 drops essential oil per 5 ml carrier oil
• Compress – 2 to 6 drops essential oil per 6 to 8 ounces very hot water (soak cloth, wring out, and apply)
• Inhalant – 2 to 6 drops essential oil per 8 to 16 ounces very hot water (inhale vapor)
• Bath – 4 to 8 drops essential oil per pre-run bath water
• Footbath – 2 to 6 drops essential oil 8 to 16 ounces of very hot water
• Room Fragrance – 4 to 6 drops essential oil per 3 to 6 ounces water (heat with candle)
• Facial Oil – 1 drop essential oil per 10 ml carrier oil
• Lotion – 1 drop essential oil per 5 ml spring water (shake before using)
• Scalp Oil – 1 to 4 drops essential oil per 10 ml carrier oil
• Hair Rinse – 4 drops essential oil per 1 liter warm water
• Mouthwash – 1 to 2 drops essential oil per 8 to 16 ounces spring water (shake before using)

Storing Essential Oils:
Store oils in a dark, stoppered glass bottle, tightly capped. Most essential oils will keep well for about 2 years. Citrus oils may fade therapeutically in only 6 months. Eucalyptus, patchouli, frankincense, and sandalwood will remain fresh long after 2 years. Some oils (rose otto and benzoin, for example) may crystallize and solidify in cold conditions. Storing at room temperature will return their fluid consistency.

Carrier Oils (Base Oils):
Base oils are vegetable oils that act as carriers to carry essential oils to their destination on the human body, the skin. The carrier oils help to regulate the amount of potent essential oil absorbed by the skin. Possible considerations for carrier oils include: almond oil, apricot kernel oil, peach kernel oil, hazelnut oil, grapeseed oil, camelia oil, macadamia oil, coconut oil

• Bath – Add up to 8 drops to bath water and swish water to mix.
• Clothing – Put 1 to 2 drops on cuffs or scarf. (CAUTION: Many essential will stain clothing.)
• Compress – Add 3 to 5 drops to half a cup of water (hot or cold, depending on the purpose of the compress). Dampen the compress and place over the injured area.
• Cotton swab – Put 1 to 2 drops on a cotton swab, and apply directly to the affected area.
• Dressing – Apply 1 to 2 drops directly onto a dressing.
• Face mask – Add 1 drop per 10 ml of natural face mask.
• Face oil – Add 2 to 15 drops to 30 ml carrier oil.
• Foot bath – Add 5 drops to a bowl of warm water.
• Gargle – Use 1 to 2 drops per 30 ml water. Mix the essential oil in a teaspoon of honey. Then mix with warm water. Gargle and spit it out. Do NOT swallow essential oils.
• Gauze – Add 1 to 2 drops to gauze for dressings.
• Humidifier – Add up to 8 drops per pint of water. (Read instructions for humidifier. Some machines may be damaged by sticky residue.)
• Inhalation – Add 3 drops to steaming bowl of water. Lean over the bowl and drape a towel over your head to keep steam in.
• Lotion & Cream – Add 5 to 10 drops to each 30 ml of natural, unfragranced lotion or cream.
• Massage oil – Add 10 to 30 drops to each 30 ml carrier oil.
• Mouthwash – Add 10 to 15 drops to 100 ml hot distilled or mineral water.
• Pillow – Put 1 to 2 drops on pillow.
• Powder – Add up to 30 drops desired essential oils to 30 ml cornstarch in a small wide-mouthed glass jar, shake well, and allow jar to sit for at least a day before using.
• Potpourri – Add as desired to potpourri.
• Room spray – Add 10 drops per half-pint of warm water to plant mister. (CAUTION: Essential oils may damage furniture.)
• Scalp treatment – Add 2 to 3 drops to 15 ml carrier oil.
• Shampoo – Add 5 to 15 drops to 100 ml natural, unperfumed shampoo.
• Sitz bath – Add 2 to 3 drops to sitz bath.
• Spray for face & body – Add 10 to 15 drops to each pint of warm water.
• Wash – Mix 20 to 30 drops and a pint of warm water.

• Analgesic – reduces pain sensation
• Antibiotic/antibacterial – prevents bacterial growth
• Anti-fungal – prevents fungal growth
• Anti-infectious – prevents uptake of infection
• Anti-parasitic – acts against insect parasites
• Anti-putrescent – acts against putrefaction
• Antisclerotic – prevents hardening of cells and tissues
• Antiseptic – destroys microbes and prevents their development
• Anti-spasmodic – prevents or relieves spasms, convulsions, or contractions
• Anti-sudorific – prevents sweating
• Antitussive – relieves coughs
• Anti-viral – prevents viral growth
• Balsamic – soothes sore throats, coughs, etc.
• Calmative – sedative, calming agent
• Carminative – relieves flatulence, easing abdominal pain and bloating
• Cholagogue – promotes the evacuation of bile from gall bladder and ducts
• Cicatrisive – promotes the formation of scar tissue, thus healing

CAUTIONS:
Essential oils are highly concentrated herbal oils, as much as 250 times stronger than dry herbs. Do NOT use essential oils or other herbal remedies if you have health conditions that might be sensitive to such use without consulting your physician. Physical conditions of particular concern include pregnancy, hypertension, diabetes, allergy, and epilepsy. Other medical conditions may also warrant concern. Do not use essential oils or other herbal preparations on small children without consulting a medical professional. Do not apply essential oils directly to the skin. Keep oils away from the eyes. (If you should get essential oils into the eyes, flush the eye with copious amounts of water and seek medical assistance.) Keep oils away from flames, plastics, and wooden surfaces. Never take essential oils internally unless under medical supervision.

I got into aromatherapy a few years ago when my husband was really sick and wouldn’t see a doctor. I started studying therapeutic massage, which led me into aromatherapy. It’s changed my lifestyle quite a bit—I now use all-natural cleaning products (or make my own), lotions, creams (or make my own!), etc. Love it!