INTRODUCTION TO AROMATHERAPY CHOOSING ESSENTIAL OIL USING

15 Pages·2002·0.03 MB·English

AROMATHERAPY
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INTRODUCTION TO AROMATHERAPY
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CHOOSING ESSENTIAL OIL
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USING ESSENTIAL OILS
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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ESSENTIAL OILS SAFETY
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ESSENTIAL OILS SELECTOR
INTRODUCTION TO AROMATHERAPY
Aromatherapy is the modern name for using natural essential oils extracted from flowers,
fruits and plants to help maintain our physical and mental wellbeing. Réné-Maurice
Gattefossé a French chemist who discovered lavender oil helped to heal a burn on his hand,
first used the name in 1928. Today, aromatherapy is one of the most popular
complementary medicines, taking a holistic approach to healing by addressing both the
physical and emotional symptoms.
Many plants contain valuable essential oils, each with their own special characteristics and
beneficial properties. Peel an orange and the bittersweet citrus smell that fills the air is
the fruit's essential oil being released and depending on the plant, its petals, seeds, roots,
bark or stalk can be used as a source. Extracting and refining the oil is highly skilled work,
often with massive quantities of raw ingredients needed, making some oils, such as rose or
jasmine, very expensive to produce.
The basic principle of aromatherapy is allowing therapeutic oils to be inhaled through the
nose. The aroma is picked up by the olfactory receptors in the nasal passages, closely
linked to the mood centre of the brain. Subjecting them to the power of a relaxing oil may
help you feel less fraught or using a stimulating oil may give you a boost if you’re feeling
down.
Aromatherapy, or essential oils - so-called because they are made from the concentrated
essence of the plants from which they are extracted - are the basis for all aromatherapy.
They can be absorbed through the skin so an aromatherapy massage can have a dual effect
when the fragrance from the massage oil is also inhaled.
CHOOSING ESSENTIAL OIL
There are around seventy types of essential oil but only around 40 in regular use. All
essential oils fall into one of five fragrance families - citrus, floral, green, spicy or woody.
Different families will appeal to you at different times as your emotional and physical
state changes.
Select oils according to their effects and uses as well as your reaction to the aroma. For
aromatherapy to be successful you need to like the feelings and emotions the smell
provokes - if you don't, you will feel uneasy and not be able to realise any potential
benefits.
USING ESSENTIAL OILS
Use aromatherapy for massage, bathing, inhalation or vaporisation to help maintain
wellbeing and create a blissful atmosphere at home.
Some aromatherapy products are “ready to use”. These include massage oils, bath oils and
body creams and lotions where the essential oils have already been diluted. Always read
the label before use.
MASSAGE
Pure essential oils are highly concentrated so, with the exception of tea tree and lavender,
they should never be applied neat to the skin. Always dilute into carrier oil before massage
- their potency will ensure you get the full effects, even from a small amount. Sweet
Almond, Coconut and Grapeseed carrier oils are light and easily absorbed while
Wheatgerm, Jojoba and Vitamin E oils are richer but great for hair and dehydrated or
mature skin. These last three oils should also be diluted 1 part to 10 parts Sweet Almond
or Grapeseed oil.
Once you have prepared your carrier, add your chosen essential oils using 5 drops for
every 10ml of carrier oil, unless stated otherwise on the product packaging or in the
“Essential Oils Selector”. You can mix two or three complementary oils together - using 2
or 3 drops of each - to get the specific effect you want. During massage the skin absorbs
the oils as you inhale the aroma. Warm a small amount of the pre-blended oil between your
palms then smooth over the area to be massaged using relaxing strokes or an invigorating
friction movement.
BATHING
Add 6 - 8 drops of essential oil to 10ml of carrier oil and disperse through the bath for a
therapeutic 15-minute soak. Your body will absorb the oils and you will inhale the aroma
from the bath steam.
INHALATION
Dilute 3 - 4 drops of essential oil in a bowl of hot (but not boiling) water, then cover your
head with a towel, close your eyes and inhale the steam for a few minutes. Alternatively,
add a few drops to a handkerchief and breathe in.
VAPORISATION
Create a mood around the home by releasing 10 to 20 drops of essential oil into the air
using a burner, diffuser, vaporiser or vaporising ring. Different types are available,
although most are electrical or require candles.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between essential oils and aromatherapy oils?
Essential oils are high grade, undiluted and extracted from one source. Aromatherapy oils
may only contain a small amount of essential oil and are probably cheaper.
How can I make sure I've chosen a high-grade oil?
A label that says 'pure essential oil' and includes the Latin name is an indication of quality.
A high-grade oil should also come in dark tinted bottles, as oils are light sensitive.
Why are some oils more expensive than others?
Essential oils are priced individually according to the extraction process and amount of raw
ingredients needed. For example, it takes 60,000 rose blossoms to make one drop of rose
oil, making it one of the most expensive.
Are there any side effects?
If you experience a minor skin reaction, stop using that particular oil and check you have
diluted it properly.
What if I am already taking conventional medicine?
Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy. It may be used at the same time as
conventional medicine, but not as a substitute, so ask your GP or pharmacist first. Also
remember that some essential oils are not suitable for use during pregnancy.
Can aromatherapy help my children?
People of all ages can benefit, but read the instructions when using essential oils on
children, as some are unsuitable.
How should I store essential oils?
Stored correctly, in a cool dark place with the lids tightly closed, most essential oils
should last 12 to 18 months. Do not store near medicines, including herbal or homeopathic
remedies.
ESSENTIAL OILS SAFETY
When using pure essential oils at home, remember the following:
• Do not take by mouth.
• Never apply neat oils to the skin, always dilute them in a carrier oil or base lotion first
to avoid skin irritation.
• If you suffer from epilepsy or skin allergies, are pregnant, breastfeeding or using
homœopathic remedies, consult your GP before using pure essential oils.
• Always seek advice from your GP or pharmacist before using essential oils in pregnancy.
• Keep bottles out of reach of children.
• If a child accidentally swallows any essential oils, seek urgent medical advice.
• Keep oils away from the eyes. If you do get oil in your eyes, wash immediately with
plenty of warm water and seek urgent medical advice.
• Pure essential oils are flammable, do not put them on or near a naked flame.
• Asthmatics should avoid directly inhaling oils, as this could trigger an asthma attack.
• Avoid contact with polished, painted or plastic surfaces.
• Aromatherapy oils are not medicines. If you suspect you may have a medical condition
you should always seek the advice of your GP.
• Citrus pure essential oils should not be used before exposure to sunlight or sunbeds.
ESSENTIAL OILS SELECTOR
The oils have been listed alphabetically to help you choose which to use.
The following essential oils are covered in this section:
FRAGRANCE FAMILY
CITRUS FLORAL GREEN SPICY WOODY
Bergamot Geranium Clary Sage Black Pepper Benzoin
Citronella Lavender Eucalyptus Cinnamon Cedarwood
Grapefruit Patchouli Kanuka Ginger Cypress
Lemon Rose Peppermint Juniperberry Frankincense
Lemongrass Ylang Ylang Petitgrain Myrrh Pine
Lime Roman Tea Tree Rosewood
Chamomile
Mandarin Rosemary Sandalwood
May Chang Sweet
Marjoram
Melissa Thyme
Orange
BENZOIN (Styrax benzoin) WOODY
Sources: A sweet oil with an aroma reminiscent of vanilla.
General effects: Soothing.
Traditional uses: Has a warming, comforting effect. Can be both stimulating and soothing.
Blends well with: Frankincense, Lemon, Rose, Myrrh and Sandalwood.
Cautions: Dilute well as this oil may cause irritation. Skin sensitisation is possible.
BERGAMOT (Citrus bergamia) CITRUS
Sources: A clear oil with a dry, floral, citrus aroma, taken from the peel.
General effects: Antiseptic, soothing, uplifting.
Traditional uses: Has both a soothing and uplifting effect. Refreshes the atmosphere and
lightens the mood.
Blends well with: Cypress, Lavender and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: Do not use before exposure to sunlight or sunbeds.
BLACK PEPPER (Piper nigrum) SPICY
Sources: A clear pale green oil with a hot spicy aroma.
General effects: Antiseptic, warming, stimulating tonic.
Traditional uses: Warms and eases the body after a strenuous workout.
Blends well with: Sweet Marjoram, Lavender, Frankincense and Rosemary.
Cautions: Dilute well as this oil may cause irritation.
CEDARWOOD (Cedrus atlantica) WOODY
Sources: An amber coloured oil with a woody, camphoric aroma.
General effects: Stimulating, energising, uplifting.
Traditional uses: Quells tension after a busy day.
Blends well with: Rosemary, Ylang Ylang, Pine, Bergamot and Eucalyptus.
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant.
CINNAMON (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) SPICY
Sources: Oil for aromatherapy should be from the leaf only and has a warm spicy aroma.
General effects: Stimulating and warming.
Traditional uses: For warming and stimulating both body and mind.
Blends well with: Citrus oils, Frankincense, Eucalyptus and Lavender.
Cautions: Oil from the bark should never be used on the skin. Leaf oil should be well
diluted to avoid skin irritation.
CITRONELLA (Cymbopogon nardus) CITRUS
Sources: Fresh, citrus aroma from the grass.
General effects: Deodorising.
Traditional uses: To provide an uplifting tonic, with refreshing properties.
Blends well with: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender and peppermint.
Cautions: Dilute well before use on the skin.
CLARY SAGE (Salvia sclarea) GREEN
Sources: A clear oil with a warm, nutty aroma from the leaves and twigs.
General effects: Antiseptic, soothing, relaxing, calming and balancing.
Traditional uses: Lulls you into an untroubled frame of mind. Comforts and restores your
sense of equilibrium.
Blends well with: Cedarwood, Lavender, Geranium and Juniperberry.
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant.
CYPRESS (Cupressus sempervirens) WOODY
Sources: A pale oil with a woody, balsamic aroma from the needles and cones.
General effects: Antiseptic, relaxing, calming and soothing.
Traditional uses: Acts as a refreshing antiseptic. Quells tension brought on by the
pressures of life. Helps to stabilise body and mind.
Blends well with: Lemon, Juniperberry, Cedarwood and Bergamot.
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant.
EUCALYPTUS (Eucalyptus globulus) GREEN
Sources: A clear oil with a sharp, camphoric aroma from the leaves and twigs.
General effects: Antiseptic, cooling, head clearing and stimulating.
Traditional uses: As a stimulating tonic, to help clear the head.
Blends well with: Sweet Marjoram, Rosemary, Lavender, Tea Tree and Lemon.
Cautions: Do not use on children age 3 or under.
FRANKINCENSE (Boswellia carterii) WOODY
Sources: A pale yellow oil with a rich, sweet aroma from the Boswellia tree.
General effects: Antiseptic, astringent and soothing.
Traditional uses: Relaxes the mind and soothes the emotions.
Blends well with: Black Pepper, Geranium, Lavender and Clary Sage.
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant.
GERANIUM (Perlagonium graveolens) FLORAL
Sources: A pale oil with a sweet rose aroma from the leaves and flowers.
General effects: Comforting, balancing and soothing.
Traditional uses: Promotes a harmonious atmosphere. Relaxes and soothes to help regain a
sense of balance in the mind and body.
Blends well with: Lavender, Roman Chamomile and Patchouli.
Cautions: None.
GINGER (Zingiber officinalis) SPICY
Sources: An oil with a rich, spicy aroma from the dried root.
General effects: warming
Traditional uses: To warm and stimulate the body and mind.
Blends well with: Frankincense, Cedarwood, Rose, Neroli and Citrus Oils.
Cautions: Dilute well before use on the skin to avoid irritation.
GRAPEFRUIT (Citrus paradisi) CITRUS
Sources: A pale yellow oil with a fresh citrus aroma, extracted from the peel.
General effects: Uplifting, refreshing and energising.
Traditional uses: A refreshing and uplifting pick-me-up invigorating the senses. Acts as an
antiseptic.
Blends well with: Lavender, Geranium and Clary Sage.
Cautions: Do not use before exposure to sunlight or sunbeds.
JUNIPERBERRY (Juniperus communis) SPICY
Sources: A pale oil with a fresh woody aroma from the berries.
General effects: Antiseptic, balancing and purifying.
Traditional uses: Relaxes and refreshes tired muscles or aching limbs, stimulates the
senses.
Blends well with: Rosemary, Lemon, Lavender and Cypress.
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant.
KANUKA (Leptospermum ericoides) GREEN
Sources: A clear oil with a warm, pungent aroma from the ???
General effects: Antiseptic.
Traditional uses: A powerful antiseptic. Stimulates the senses.
Use alone or according to personal preference.
Cautions: None.
LAVENDER (Lavandula officinalis) FLORAL
Sources: A clear oil with a light, soft aroma of fresh flowers.
General effects: Comforting, calming and relaxing.
Traditional uses: Induces a relaxed mood. Helps to ease the mind and soothe nerves,
dissolves tension, promoting restful feelings.
Blends well with: Clary Sage, Juniperberry, Geranium, Eucalyptus and Lemon.
Cautions: None.
LEMON (Citrus limonum) CITRUS
Sources: A pale yellow oil with a crisp citrus aroma, taken from the peel.
General effects: Antiseptic, refreshing, stimulating and uplifting.
Traditional uses: Refreshes, stimulates and uplifts the mood.
Blends well with: Roman Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Juniperberry and Lavender.
Cautions: Do not use before exposure to sunlight or sunbeds.
LEMONGRASS (Cymbopogon citratus) CITRUS
Sources: A yellow oil with a sharp citrus aroma from the leaves of the grass.
General effects: Stimulating, refreshing and energising.
Traditional uses: Energises and refreshes. Stimulates the senses.
Blends well with: Bergamot, Geranium, Lavender and Rosemary.
Cautions: Possible skin irritation in sensitive individuals, dilute well.
LIME (Citrus aurantifolia) CITRUS
Sources: A pale green oil with a sharp citrus aroma from the peel.
General effects: Stimulating, uplifting and refreshing.
Traditional uses: Creates a refreshing atmosphere. Stimulates and uplifts a tired mind and
body.
Blends well with: Other Citrus oils, Lavender, Rosemary, Ylang Ylang and Clary Sage.
Cautions: Do not use before exposure to sunlight or sunbeds.
MANDARIN (Citrus Reticulata) CITRUS
Sources: An orange oil with a sweet aroma, taken from fruit.
General effects: Relaxing, calming and soothing.
Traditional uses: Creates a relaxing air when tired and stressed.
Blends well with: Geranium, Lavender and other citrus oils.
Cautions: Do not use before exposure to sunlight or sunbeds.
MAY CHANG (Litsea cubeba) CITRUS
Sources: A yellow oil with a sweet, sherbet, citrus aroma.
General effects: Uplifting and soothing.
Traditional uses: Uplifts and refreshes the senses helping to clear the head. Can also have
a soothing effect at the end of a busy day.
Use alone or according to personal preference.