The Petite Guide to Aromatherapy

13 Pages·2014·0.76 MB·English

The Petite
Guide to
Aromatherapy
By Salvatore Battaglia
how would you like to feel today?
Contents
What is aromatherapy? ...................4
What are essential oils? ..................4
Why organic? .................................4
Some key points to remember
when using essential oils ................6
Safety guidelines .............................7
Your essential oil kit .......................9
Guide to pure essential oils ..........10
The Petite Guide to Aromatherapy is concerned
with the use of essential oils for a wide range Geranium ...........................................10
of health issues. Illness, however, can be highly
Lavender .............................................10
unpredictable and the best possible expertise
should always be consulted. The author and
Orange, sweet ....................................11
publisher accept no liability for any claims arising
from the use of any remedy discussed. Lemon .................................................11
If in doubt about using the essential oils please
Peppermint .........................................12
consult a qualified aromatherapist. It must be
stressed that a holistic approach to aromatherapy Rosemary ...........................................12
incorporates a healthy diet, lifestyle and general
attitude towards life. Tea tree ...............................................13
Published by Ylang ylang .........................................13
Perfect Potion
90 Northlink Place Aromatherapy blends ...................14
Virginia, Qld, 4014, Australia
Aromatherapy therapeutic index ..17
www.perfectpotion.com.au
No part of this booklet may be reproduced by any
mechanical, photographic, or electronic process,
or otherwise copied for public or private use,
other than for fair use, without written permission
from the author.
Copyright © 2012 by Salvatore Battaglia
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What is aromatherapy? How can I be sure that it is genuine?
The only way to be sure you are purchasing
Aromatherapy is a pleasant therapy with genuine organic products is to look for the
powerful physiological effects on the body. Australian Certified Organic (ACO) certification
Essential oils can influence blood pressure, logo. When you see the certification number
regulate nerve function, aid digestion and many and logo you know that there is a seamless
have potent anti-microbial properties. chain of information following every step in the
It is known that essential oils can affect our life of the product – from the farm to you.
mental and emotional wellbeing. We often Organic certification bodies such as ACO have
respond to smell emotionally. This is because strict regulations and rigorous site audits to
the olfactory nerves pass directly from the nose ensure we are supplying consistent quality
to the limbic system, which is the emotional certified organic ingredients at all times.
centre of the brain. ACO also maintains
What are essential oils? conformance with
leading organic
standards across
Crush a leaf of eucalyptus or fresh basil
the world.
or peppermint, and notice how the aroma
permeates the air around you. Are certified organic
Essential oils are natural plant extracts that can essential oils better?
be found in the leaves, flowers, seeds, wood,
Once you have tried certified organic essential
roots and fruit of a plant. It is the essential oil
oils you will return for more – there is an
that gives the plant its distinctive aroma.
irresistible vibrant quality to these oils that
The cost of an essential oil is usually makes them unique.
proportional to the amount of oil present in the
Grown naturally, the way nature intended,
plant.
many people claim that organic products are
For example did you know that: better than non-organic equivalents. Organic
• 100kg of eucalyptus are needed farming is a system of agriculture that works
to yield 10 litres of oil with nature rather than against it.
• 100kg of lavender flowers are needed Organic farming means that the plants are
to yield 3 litres of oil grown naturally and in harmony with nature.
• 100kg of roses are needed to yield This equates to rich healthy nutritious soil which
100ml of oil in turn encourages healthy vibrant plants and
Why organic? from these plants, farmers are able to obtain
the purest and finest certified organic oils.
The quality of the essential oils is of utmost Why does it sometimes cost more?
importance to practice aromatherapy effectively.
Certified organic essential oils can be more
Perfect Potion is pleased to offer a range of the expensive, however this represents the true
finest quality certified organic essential oils that cost of growing high quality, chemical-free
have been sourced from local and international products. Organic farming is often done
farmers. on a much smaller scale and utilises farm
Certified organic oils are produced from plants management practices which do not harm the
that are grown and processed without the use environment and wildlife.
of synthetic chemicals, fertilisers or genetically By supporting organics we are securing a
modified organisms (GMO). By choosing to use better and healthier future for ourselves, our
certified organic essential oils you are caring for children and our planet.
the future.
4 5
Some key points to Safety guidelines
remember when
There are some precautions that must be
using essential oils followed when using essential oils:
• The oils should be stored out of
reach of children.
• Always store the essential oils in a cool,
dry and dark place away from heat • Do not take essential oils internally.
and light.
• Keep essential oils away from the eyes.
• Keep your essential oils well sealed. If you do accidently get oil in your eyes,
splash immediately with tepid water
• Essential oils should be packaged in dark
and seek medical advice if discomfort
amber glass bottles with restrictive flow
persists.
devices and tamper evident caps.
This is for safety and practical • Discontinue the use of essential oils
convenience purposes. immediately if you suffer an allergic
reaction.
• Never store pure essential oils in
plastic bottles. The following can be used as a guide to the
possible contra-indications that may occur
• When blending essential oils use
when using essential oils:
only glass bottles.
pregnancy
• Essential oils will keep for up
to 5 years if stored properly. Many aromatherapists consider it sensible
All Perfect Potion oils have an to avoid the use of the following oils during
expiry date printed on the label. pregnancy – basil, clary sage, cypress,
hyssop, juniper, sweet marjoram, myrrh,
• Always purchase genuine essential oils
nutmeg, pennyroyal, rosemary, sage,
that are 100% pure.
thyme.
high blood pressure
Many aromatherapists consider it sensible to
avoid the use of the following oils by anyone
with hypertension – hyssop, rosemary,
thyme, sage.
photosensitivity
The following oils may cause the skin to
burn if exposed to strong ultra-violet light
from sunlight or a sun bed – bergamot, cold
pressed lime, bitter orange, lemon.
skin irritations
The following oils may cause skin irritation to
people with sensitive skin. Sensitivity varies
from person to person and from oil to oil
– basil, lemon, cinnamon bark, clove bud,
lemongrass, thyme and tea tree.
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How to use
steam inhalation
essential oils
Add 5-10 drops of essential oil to a bowl of
steaming water. Then place a towel over your
There are many ways to use essential oils
head and the bowl and inhale the vapours for a
in aromatherapy.
few minutes.
bath
The eyes should be kept shut during inhalation.
For a full body bath use up to 5 drops of Steam inhalations are a traditional home
essential oil in a tub of warm water. Foot or remedy to ease congestion in the respiratory
hand baths may be prepared by adding 2-3 passage caused by colds, coughs, catarrh and
drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm water. sinusitis.
Add 20 – 30 drops of essential oil to every making an aroma mist
100mL of Bath Dispersant Base. Pour two
Mix two drops of Essential Oil Solubiliser to
teaspoons of your bath oil into a warm bath
every drop of essential oil thoroughly. Slowly
and mix to fully disperse. Relax in your bath for
add water and shake well. Use 10 drops of
up to 20 minutes.
each essential oil with 20 drops of Essential
compress Oil Solubiliser and add 50mL of water. Add
this mixture to a bottle with a fine mist spray
Compresses are very useful for the temporary
and mist over your face and body as needed.
relief of skin problems, bruises and muscular
Always be careful not to spray directly into your
aches, and for the temporary relief of painful
eyes. The amount of solubiliser needed may
periods. Use 5 drops of essential oil in 200mL
vary depending on the oils used.
of water. Place a cloth in hot or cold water
(depending on the condition) and then wring ingestion
out and lay over affected area. Leave for up to
Some aromatherapists and doctors in France
15 minutes.
recommend internal ingestion of the essential
diffusion oils under strict supervision. Excellent as
essential oils are, I advise people against taking
Create the perfect ambience in your home
essential oils internally, as the essential oils are
or workplace by vaporising your favourite
highly concentrated and may cause irritation of
essential oil or blend of oils in a vaporiser.
the gastro-intestinal tract.
As there are so many different styles of vaporisers
it is important to always refer to the instructions
Your essential oil kit
that come with the vaporiser before using your
essential oils.
Your aromatherapy starter kit contains
massage
8 pure essential oils:
Use a 2.5% dilution of the appropriate essential
geranium, lavender, lemon,
oil to the chosen carrier oil such as cold
sweet orange, peppermint, rosemary,
pressed sweet almond or apricot kernel.
tea tree and ylang ylang
This is equal to approximately 5 drops to every
You will also need a vaporiser or oil burner, a
10mL of carrier oil. carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, a bottle of
direct inhalation essential oil solubiliser and empty glass bottles
and labels to create your own aromatherapy
Add 3-4 drops of essential oil to a preparations.
handkerchief, hold this near the nose for a few
moments and inhale the vapours.
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Guide to
pure essential oils
Orange, sweet
Geranium
Citrus sinensis
Pelargonium graveolens
Sweet orange has a fresh, fruity and
Geranium oil has a rich, herbaceous, leafy and citrus aroma.
rosy aroma.
Uses: Sweet orange oil is used for the relief of
Uses: Geranium oil is beneficial during times stress, nervous tension, mild anxiety
of stress. It helps to relieve mild anxiety and and insomnia.
is also used for the relief of symptoms of
The scent of sweet orange is warming,
premenstrual tension (PMT).
uplifting and energising. It nourishes the soul,
The scent of geranium promotes harmony, promotes creativity, sensuality and feelings
self-confidence, balance and a sense of calm. of joy.
Skincare: Geranium oil helps to regulate Skincare: Sweet orange is used to treat dull
sebum production, making it useful for acne and oily skin complexions.
and oily skin.
How to use: bath, compress, diffusion, direct
How to use: bath, compress, diffusion, inhalation, massage.
massage.
Lavender
Lemon
Lavandula angustifolia
Citrus limon
Lavender oil has a sweet, floral, herbaceous
Lemon oil has a fresh citrus aroma reminiscent
and fresh aroma.
of the fresh peel.
Uses: Lavender oil may be used to help
Uses: Lemon oil may be used for the relief of
relieve insomnia, nervous tension, stress,
nervous tension, unrest, stress, irritability and
irritability and mild anxiety. It is also used for
mild anxiety.
the temporary relief of headaches.
The fresh citrus scent of lemon is purifying and
The fresh floral scent of lavender promotes
stimulating. It encourages awareness, clarity
calmness, compassion, balance, healing,
of thought and is emotionally invigorating.
comfort and relaxation.
Skincare: Lemon oil is used for the treatment
Skincare: Lavender oil assists in the
of congested, devitalised and oily skin. Its
treatment of minor skin disorders such as
astringent and mild circulatory stimulating
cuts, grazes and minor wounds. It provides
properties improves the condition of
temporary relief of sensitive and inflamed skin
varicose veins.
conditions.
How to use: bath, compress, diffusion, direct
How to use: bath, compress, diffusion, direct
inhalation, massage.
inhalation, massage.
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Peppermint Tea tree
Mentha piperita Melaleuca alternifolia
Peppermint oil has a strong, fresh and Tea tree oil has a warm, fresh,
minty aroma. camphoraceous aroma.
Uses: Peppermint will help to relieve nervous Uses: Tea tree oil can be used as an
tension and the stress of study or work. It is inhalation for the temporary relief of respiratory
useful as an inhalation for the relief of nasal problems such as coughs and colds, flu,
congestion and sinusitis. The oil is also useful sinusitis and mucous congestion. The scent
for the relief of digestive problems such as of tea tree promotes mental clarity and is
indigestion and flatulence. cleansing and energising.
The fresh scent of peppermint promotes Skincare: Tea tree will provide relief from
vitality, positivity, clear thinking and improves the symptoms of eczema, cold sores, and
concentration. rashes. It will assist and promote the healing
How to use: compress, diffusion, direct and of wounds and minor cuts and soothes insect
steam inhalation, massage. bites.
How to use: bath, compress, diffusion, direct
and steam inhalation, massage.
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis
Ylang ylang
Rosemary oil has a strong, fresh,
woody-herbaceous aroma. Cananga odorata
Uses: Rosemary oil is useful for the relief Ylang ylang oil has an intense sweet floral
of headaches, arthritis, rheumatism and aroma.
muscular aches and pain. It can be used Uses: Ylang ylang may be used to relieve
as an inhalation for the relief of respiratory nervous tension, stress, irritability and mild
problems such as coughs and colds, flu, anxiety.
sinusitis and mucous congestion. The sweet, exotic floral scent of ylang ylang
The fresh scent of rosemary oil is is passionate, sensuous and uplifting. It
strengthening and invigorating. It may be used promotes self-confidence and feelings of
to promote mental clarity. peace.
Skincare: It is valuable for the maintenance of Skincare: Ylang ylang has a balancing effect
healthy hair and scalp. on sebum production. This makes it suitable
How to use: bath, compress, diffusion, direct for both oily and dry skin types.
inhalation, massage. How to use: bath, compress, diffusion, direct
inhalation, massage.
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Aromatherapy blends
Creativity
The recipes in this booklet are intended as a This blend will help you unleash your creative
guide only. One of the greatest pleasures in energy. These oils will promote clarity of
aromatherapy is creating your own personal the mind and connect you with your inner
blends. Experiment with essential oils that creative energy.
you like and study their properties. This sweet orange – 2 drops
will give you the confidence to create your rosemary – 1 drop
own aromatherapy blends to enhance your lemon – 2 drops
wellbeing.
Detox
Anxiety Add this blend to a base oil for massage or
Whenever you feel apprehensive and anxious add to your bath to help your body promote
this blend will help to soothe and calm your detoxification.
emotions. geranium – 2 drops
geranium – 2 drops lemon – 2 drops
lavender – 2 drops peppermint – 1 drop
ylang ylang – 1 drop
Fatigue
Anti-viral This is the perfect combination of essential
These oils are well known for their purifying oils when you are feeling run down and tired.
and antimicrobial properties. Vaporise this This blend will help to relieve both mental and
blend when you feel you are coming down physical exhaustion.
with a flu.
lemon – 3 drops
lemon – 3 drops
rosemary – 2 drops
tea tree – 2 drops
Headache
Motivation
The essential oils in this blend are well known
This uplifting, fresh and vibrant blend will
for their analgesic effect. Use this blend to
stimulate you into action when your energy
alleviate the symptoms of headaches and
level and motivation is low.
migraines. Massage into the temples and
lemon – 2 drops
back of neck as required.
rosemary – 1 drop
lavender – 3 drops
sweet orange – 2 drops
peppermint – 3 drop
Aches & pains sweet almond oil – 10mL
Use this blend for the temporary relief of Jet lag
muscular aches and pains.
Use this blend of essential oils to help you
rosemary – 3 drops
arrive at your travel destination feeling
peppermint – 3 drops
revitalised and refreshed.
tea tree – 3 drops
lavender – 3 drops geranium – 1 drop
sweet almond oil – 25mL lemon – 2 drops
peppermint – 2 drops
Cold & flu Meditation
This blend will help to alleviate the symptoms
of colds and flu. It will also help strengthen Calm and centre your mind and create a
your immune system. positive space to connect with your
higher self.
tea tree – 2 drops
lemon – 2 drops lemon – 4 drops
lavender – 1 drop lavender – 2 drops
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Relax Aromatherapy
This blend will help you feel relaxed when you therapeutic index
are feeling stressed.
sweet orange – 2 drops
geranium – 1 drop The following ailments cross-reference list is
lavender – 2 drops only a suggested guide to the aromatherapy
Sensual tprleeaatsmee snete okf tchoem amdvoicne a oilmf ae nptrso.f eIfs isni odnoaullbyt
Create an arousing and luxurious atmosphere trained aromatherapy practitioner.
with this sensual blend. Perfect for an
intimate encounter with that special person in Detoxification
your life or use this blend for a massage. fennel, geranium, grapefruit, juniper berry,
ylang ylang – 2 drops lemon, lime, peppermint, sweet orange,
geranium – 1 drop rosemary
sweet orange – 2 drops
Aches and pains
Sinus
clove bud, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, lemon,
This blend will help to clear congestion and
peppermint, rosemary
stuffy sinuses.
tea tree – 2 drops Acne
lavender – 1 drop
bergamot, geranium, grapefruit, lavender,
peppermint – 2 drops
juniper berry, petitgrain, tea tree
Study Aging skin
These uplifting essential oils will promote
clarity of mind and help you stay focused. frankincense, lavender, myrrh, palmarosa,
Use this blend when you need to see things patchouli, rose otto or absolute
clearly. It will help you make better decisions.
Anger
rosemary – 1 drop
lemon – 2 drops Roman chamomile, frankincense, geranium,
peppermint – 2 drops neroli, rose otto, sandalwood, ylang ylang
Sweet dreams Anxiety
Allow the soothing scent of this blend to bergamot, Atlas cedarwood, frankincense,
promote feelings of calm and promote a geranium, jasmine absolute, lavender, neroli,
restful night’s sleep. rose absolute or rose otto, sweet orange, ylang
lavender – 3 drops ylang
sweet orange – 2 drops
Asthma
Tranquility
cypress, frankincense, eucalyptus, lemon,
This blend will create a calm and serene
lavender, Roman chamomile, sweet marjoram,
atmosphere that will help you feel a sense of
peppermint, pine
inner peace and tranquillity.
lavender – 3 drops Arthritis
ylang ylang – 2 drops
black pepper, everlasting, lemon, German
Uplifting chamomile, ginger, lavender, juniper berry,
sweet marjoram, pine, rosemary
This blend will fill the room with refreshing and
uplifting aromas that will invigorate everyone’s Blood pressure, high
spirit.
lavender, may chang, sweet marjoram,
ylang ylang – 3 drops
ylang ylang
sweet orange – 2 drops
16 17
Blood pressure, low Cold sores
ginger, lemon, rosemary bergamot, German chamomile, lavender,
ravensara, rose otto, tea tree
Broken capillaries
Colic
German chamomile, cypress, geranium,
rose otto Roman chamomile, fennel, ginger, lavender,
sweet marjoram, peppermint
Bronchitis
Congested skin
Atlas cedarwood, everlasting, eucalyptus,
frankincense, lemon, peppermint, pine, geranium, juniper berry, lavender, lemon
rosemary, sandalwood, thyme
Constipation
Bruises
black pepper, fennel, sweet marjoram, sweet
arnica infused oil, black pepper, fennel, orange, peppermint
geranium, lavender, lemongrass,
Coughs
sweet marjoram
Atlas cedarwood, clary sage, eucalyptus,
Burns
everlasting, frankincense, ginger, pine,
frankincense, lavender, everlasting, neroli, sandalwood, thyme
tea tree
Cracked skin
Catarrh
calendula infused oil, lavender, patchouli
Atlas cedarwood, German chamomile,
Cuts and abrasions
eucalyptus, frankincense, ginger, lavender,
sweet marjoram, peppermint, pine, tea tree calendula infused oil, lavender, lemon, tea tree
Cellulite Dermatitis
cypress, fennel, grapefruit, geranium, juniper bergamot, calendula infused oil, German
berry, lemon, lime, rosemary, sweet orange chamomile, juniper berry, lavender, patchouli,
sandalwood
Chapped skin
Eczema
calendula infused oil, German chamomile,
lavender, patchouli, sandalwood bergamot, carrot seed, calendula infused oil,
German or Roman chamomile, everlasting,
Chilblains
juniper berry, lavender, myrrh, patchouli,
black pepper, lavender, sweet marjoram, sandalwood
rosemary
Fever
Circulation, poor
eucalyptus, ginger, peppermint
black pepper, eucalyptus, ginger, lemon, sweet
Flatulence
marjoram, pine, rosemary, thyme
black pepper, geranium, German and Roman
Colds and flu
chamomile, fennel, ginger, sweet majoram,
cinnamon bark, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, mandarin, sweet orange, peppermint
lemon, peppermint, pine, ravensara, tea tree,
Fluid retention
thyme
cypress, fennel, geranium, grapefruit, juniper
berry, lime, mandarin, sweet orange, rosemary
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