Essential Oils are the highly concentrated essences of aromatic plants that have an immediate impact on our sense of smell, (known as ‘olfaction’). When oils are inhaled the olfactory receptor cells are stimulated and the impulse is transmitted to the limbic system, this being the emotional centre of the brain. The art of using these oils to promote body and mind well-being is known as Aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy oils are obtained from various parts of plants such as the bark, leaves, twigs, flowers or in the rind of fruit.

Extraction relates to the type of method used to obtain the oils from the various plants.

Notes is the term used to describe the rate at which the oils evaporate, or how long the fragrance will last. There are three categories of classification, top note, middle note and base note.

Top Notes are strongly scented but the aroma only lasts approximately 3-24 hours. Examples of Top Note oils are Basil, Bergamot, Cajeput, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Hyssop, Lemongrass

Middle Notes last anywhere between 2 – 3 days and affect the metabolic and body functions. Examples of Middle Note oils are Bay, Black Pepper, Cardomom, Chamomile, Cyprus, Fennel, Geranium, Juniper, Lavender, Marjoram, Nutmeg, Nutmeg, Tea Tree.

Base Notes Are the slowest oils to evaporate and can last up to one week. Examples of Base Note oils are Clove, Cedarwood, Ginger, Jasmin, Frankincense, Patchouli, Rosewood, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang


General Safety Information
Essential oils should never be taken internally. Do not apply undiluted essential oils, absolutes, CO2s or other concentrated essences onto the skin. If you are pregnant, epileptic, have liver damage, have cancer, or have any other medical problem, use oils only under the proper guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Use extreme caution when using oils with children and give children only the gentlest oils at extremely low doses. It is safest to consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using oils with children. A skin patch test should be conducted prior to using an oil that you've never used before.

Examples of oils that should be avoided

There is little scientific research to support most of the items listed below.

Alcohol - avoid Clary Sage

Breastfeeding - avoid Mint, parsley, sage and jasmine (which inhibits milk production in lactating mothers).

Driving or using machinery - avoid Clary Sage and vetiver

Epilepsy - avoid Fennel, hyssop, rosemary and sage.

High Blood Pressure - avoid Cypress, eucalyptus, ginger, rose, rosemary, sage and thyme.
 

Low Blood Pressure - avoid Clary sage, lavender, lemon, marjoram and ylang-ylang.

Pregnancy - avoid - Basil, cedarwood atlas, cinnamon leaf, citronella, clary sage, juniper      berry, marjoram, myrrh, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme
 

Application Suggestions using Essential Oils 

Skin Care:

Facial Steam: Add 3-6 drops of oil in warm water putting a tent towel over your head to capture the steam, or use in a facial steamer.

Facial Masque: Add 3-5 drops of oil to your favourite facial masque.

Facial Oil Blend: Add between 3-4 drops of essential oil to your favourite cream or lotion per each individual application.

Dry Brushing: Dry body brushing is a great way to help stimulate your skin and to help improve circulation. Apply 2-4 drops of essential oil to a natural bristle bath brush. Work the brush movements towards your heart starting from your toes. Omit the face and neck.

For sinus or bronchial problems:

Inhalation: Add 3-6 drops of oil in hot water putting a tent towel over your head to capture the steam. Inhale keeping eyes closed. Can be repeated approximately every 4 hours.

Bath:

After filling bath apply up to 6 oils in to water preferably mixed with milk to help oils disperse. Lie back and relax for up to 10 minutes then pat skin lightly dry.

Compress:

To help relieve muscular pain add up to 6 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm water. Immerse a cloth in to the water, wring out then apply to affected area. Re-apply as often as required.

Shower:

After showering, apply up to 6 drops on to a damp cloth and gently rub over body then allow to air dry.

Bath Salts:

Add up to 6 drops of essential oil to a handful of Epsom Salts (excellent for tired, sore and aching muscles), Sea Salt or Baking Soda. Add directly to a warm bath. Alternatively blend with 10ml (approximately 1 tablespoon) of carrier oil and briskly rub in to skin prior to bath for that all over glow!

 

Ailments and Suggested Oils

Click here for detailed formation on Carrier Oils


Detailed Information on Essential Oils