Species? Chemical name? Latin name?

If you have never come across these words being used with regard to EOs you’re probably feeling surprised and clueless. This is partly the result of an information overload about EOs. A lot of general information circulated about EOs is unfortunately inadequate and inaccurate. This is also the result of a shockingly large number of commercially sold EOs not having any Latin name printed on the packaging [which also brings into focus the more serious subject of authenticity that deserves a separate discussion altogether]. If you go around seeking and purchasing EOs based on just their generic names, you might be doing yourself a huge disfavour.

You might think that the technical jargon is best left to clinical or professional aromatherapists. Sure, a layperson need not bother with them. Unless they want to purchase essential oils, and use them safely and for the correct indications. If you do not self blend but utilise the services of a trusted, qualified aromatherapist then it’s fine.

The general name of an essential oil is simply its common name. It is what most people would have heard and how most people would refer to it as. Lavender, Tea tree, Orange, Rose, Rosemary, Sweet Basil, Eucalyptus, Thyme are all examples of common names of EOs.

Why you need to know the botanical name of the EOs

• To know if and how it is best suited for the therapeutic uses you are seeking from it
• To know the age group it may and may not be used for
• To confirm the physical/ health conditions its use may be cautioned, or restricted for
• To know the safe dilution ratio it may be used in

This becomes very relevant because certain plants, from some plant families have more than one naturally occurring species, chemical types etc. Not all, but a considerable number of plants have them. These variations of the same plant might then produce EOs that have very different natural chemical composition from each other; sometimes drastically so. Also, sometimes, entirely different and unrelated EOs might be referred to by the same common name. And, you will be surprised just how much the source plant of an EO can change the entire way you may or may not use a certain essential oil.

Lavender essential oil

For instance, in case of Lavender, the plant has many species. The ones most commonly used for EOs are Lavendula Angustifolia, and Lavendula Latifolia. Although both can be used for certain conditions like cold, pain relief etc. it is Lavendula Angustifolia that is generally being spoken about for its gentle and soothing properties for hair, skin, sleep, stress, and emotional support. It is also safe enough to be used by almost everyone. Lavendula Latifolia, on the other hand, is not advised to be used for children up to the age of 10 years, by epileptics, and also usually by pregnant women. So, you see how potentially unsafe it could be if you happen to have the latter species in a bottle that just says ‘Lavender EO’,  and it ends up being used in a manner that research has cautioned against, or deemed as unfit.

Quick Tip

For average, healthy adults, Lavendula Angustifolia is better for tension and stress associated headaches; and Lavendula Latifolia is better for sinus and cold related headaches.

Rosemary essential oil

Similarly Rosmarinus officinalis a popularly used and therapeutically powerful essential oil, has various species. If you are looking to use it for respiratory support such as relief from congestion or headaches etc., use the 1,8 cineole kind. However, it might not be the best type of Rosemary EO to use at bedtime. This is because, it is mentally stimulating and might lead to sleeplessness, especially for people prone to insomnia. It is also best avoided for people with hypertension and is also not safe to be used for anyone with epilepsy or by kids under 10 years age whether topically as a cold chest rub or by inhalation through a diffuser.

For cold/respiratory support at night, you may buy and use the Verbenone type of Rosemarinus Officinalis. This may also be used for kids, due to its milder nature. I also prefer to use this when customizing blends for acne for kids who are 11 or 12 years old.

Quick tip

A few drops of Rosemarinus Officinalis ct.1,8 cineole in a carrier oil may be dabbed onto the wrists and behind the ears when you need to stay mentally alert before an exam or an interview. The saying ‘Rosemary is for remembrance’ would have sprung into use from this type of Rosemary.

Thyme essential oil

Another example of an EO which has many variations is Thyme, Thymus vulgaris. This is a powerful immune support and anti infection EO. Among its various types, the thymol or carvacrol types are great for anti-infection support such as acute respiratory infection. They are harsh for the skin though and other safety considerations beyond a limited ratio. So make sure to use them for a short duration, well diluted, and along with skin friendly EOs such as linalool version of Thyme. The linalool version is gentler, skin soothing, and can be used for a longer period.

Quick Tip

Thymus vulgaris ct. linalool is great to be used as part of a wound healing blend, for acne blends and is gentle enough for all age groups.

These few examples should suffice to tell you how the whole story of an essential oil often lies where you are not looking—in its complete scientific or Latin name. After you know what you now do, can you imagine going into a store picking up a bottle which just states ‘Lavender EO’ or just states ‘Chamomile EO’? I hope not. In case of an EO with many varieties, this becomes absolutely crucial. And remember, even when there is only a single type of EO produced by a plant, global industry authenticity standards and best practices demand that its Latin name be printed clearly on the bottle. So before you purchase any EO, make sure to research from a credible source about the exact scientific name that will best serve your particular purpose, or seek out a qualified aromatherapist.

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Not all essential oils are the same or even similar by any standard when it comes to their natural chemical makeup, their energetics, and quite importantly, their routes of application. It is fairly common knowledge by now, even amongst lay enthusiasts, that EOs need to be diluted before topical application. However, there are essential oils that are specifically skin-soothing and skin-friendly; some that are not particularly so; and some that might cause an adverse reaction on your skin. There are many essential oils that fall in the latter two categories and discussing all of them will perhaps need a small book of its own. But as a beginner you are probably interested in buying and testing out just a few oils; usually from amongst the ones that are most popularly used. Let’s look at some common essential oils that need particular caution for topical application.

Clove bud essential oil [Eugenia caryophyllata]

This is the commonest form of clove oil used; the others being clove leaf, and clove stem. The fact that whole clove has been traditionally used as a common home remedy for reducing tooth pain speaks volumes of the powerful analgesic properties of this oil. It also has great anti-infection and antioxidant properties; it increases circulation and warms the skin. However, its chemistry makes it somewhat irritating and harsh for the skin and mucous membranes. It can also be skin sensitising. The best way to use clove bud EO is highly diluted with a good carrier oil such as coconut, almond or jojoba oil. You could mix in a couple of more skin friendly EOs that are complimentary to the therapeutic purpose you’re using clove for. I would not use more than 2 drops clove bud EO in 30ml carrier oil. Also, use this oil only for few days at a time, when in acute need of its comfort, and not on a regular basis.

Black Pepper essential oil [Piper nigrum]

This is also traditionally used for some similar purposes as above. It is hot in nature due to its chemistry, and therefore its EO too can cause irritation and skin sensitisation, especially if it is old or oxidised, and if not used with caution. It is not suitable for massage purposes. It is also unsuitable to be used for bathing. Use not more than 2 drops black pepper EO in 30ml carrier oil

Lemongrass essential oil [Cymbopogon citratus]

This is a very popular oil due to its antimicrobial, antifungal, cooling and refreshing properties. However, it is not particularly skin friendly due to its primary chemical constituent. It can be a potential skin and mucous membrane irritant and sensitizer. It should therefore be used in a well diluted manner mixed with other skin friendly EOs having similar therapeutic properties. Use not more than 3 – 4 drops of this in 30ml carrier oil.

Peppermint essential oil [Mentha x piperita]

This is a great smelling oil with many therapeutic qualities to boast of. But again, it can be harsh and irritating on the skin if used in excess proportions [undiluted is of course, out of question]. It must be avoided for body massages; and must not be used in a bath so as to avoid skin irritation and reddening. It is great to add to a soak for tired feet though! Use 5-8 drops in 30ml carrier oil.

Bergamot essential oil [Citrus bergamia]

Coming from a citrus fruit, this is one of the most uplifting, refreshing, stress releasing, and air deodorising oils, as are most citrus essential oils. It is great for using in diffusers. However, it has some concerns for topical application, the most serious one being that it is the most photo toxic oil out there. Topically applying a blend containing even just a few drops more than the safe prescribed limit, and unknowingly exposing that part in direct sun, puts you at a very high risk of a serious sun burn or skin damage, which may sometimes be permanent. If you still want to use this otherwise lovely EO as part of a topical blend, make sure it’s on a body part that will be covered under clothing for at least 18 hours.

Lemon essential oil [Citrus limon]

This is the most popularly used citrus EO for many of the same properties as of Bergamot. It’s also an astringent and great against acne. However, like most citrus oils this too tends to have a very limited shelf life, and can be skin sensitising if oxidized. This is also phototoxic [not all citrus essential oils are], though thankfully not to the same degree as Bergamot. As long as you are not using more than 8 – 10 drops in 30ml, and preferably with other more skin soothing oils in a topical blend, it’s in the safe zone. As in case of all essential oils, this holds good only for a pure, and well stored EO.

Ylang Ylang essential oil [Cananga odorata]

This is an exotic and intensely floral EO, widely used in perfumery and cosmetics. It is great for skin care blends, and for comfort in times of anger and stress. However, ironically, it can be skin sensitising too, and so, in home blends, must not be used more than a few drops in 30ml, whether it is for skin application or for use in a bath. It should be completely avoided for use on skin that is hypersensitive, inflamed and irritated in any way.

One can reap the benefits of essential oils even when they might not be particularly skin friendly, but, in order to do so one must know how to use them correctly. As with most other things in life, in aromatherapy too, when in doubt simply avoid!

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Essential oils are produced by distillation and steaming. This process separates the water and oil-based content from the plant. These oils can be extracted from the bark, leaf, fruit, seed and even the root of the plant. Just one drop of these essential oils has a plethora of health benefits and can be used to treat many diseases.

Let’s look at which essential oils provide relief in sore throat and how to use them.

Lemon

Lemon essential oils are extracted from the skin of the lemon. Lemon skin is beneficial because it has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It is also rich in vitamin C content. These properties help keep the throat moist and increase salivation.

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oils have decongestant, antioxidant and anti-microbial properties that help ease the pain of sore throat. Peppermint has an essential oil called menthol which helps calm and soothe the soreness of the throat; it also helps avoid the build up of thin mucus that leads to coughing. Menthol provides a cooling sensation to the throat.

Oregano

Oregano essential oil has antiviral and anti-fungal properties. This is a good oil to use when you start seeing the first signs of a sore throat.

Clove

The essential oil of clove is beneficial because it is known to boost the immune system. Clove oil has antimicrobial, antiseptic, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties that can provide instant relief from sore throat pain. Just by chewing on a clove bud itself can aid sore throat.

Thyme

Thyme oil helps to relieve a scratchy throat due to its strong antioxidants and antimicrobial properties. It is the most used and trusted medicinal herb since ancient times. A 2011 research states that thyme oils can inhibit growth of bacteria in patients with oral or respiratory infections. Thyme oil is a good solution for antibiotic resistant infections.

How to use these essential oils for sore throat?

There are four ways you can use these oils:

1. By inhaling

A great way to soothe your sore throat is by inhaling steam with two drops of essential oils added to the water. Drape a towel over your head and breathe in the steam medicated with essential oils. You can also add two drops of essential oil on the palm of your hands; rub them together so they spread all over your hands. Then place your hands over your nose and take four to six deep breaths.

2. By consuming

According to The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils, one drop of essential oil in water mixed with a teaspoon of honey is a safe and effective way of consuming essential oils.
Caution: Beware of some essential oils in the market—they maybe blended or diluted with synthetics that are unsafe for consumption. Always check whether the essential oil you have is safe for oral consumption.

3. By applying on skin

Add ten drops of essential oils to two teaspoons of natural unscented lotion. Apply this mixture on your neck, behind the ears and on the chest.

4. By gargling

Add two drops of essential oil to half a glass of warm water and gargle for a minute to get rid of a sore throat. This is especially beneficial in sore throat because the oils directly comes in contact with the throat.

The usage of essential oils are too many to count. In addition to good nutrition, plenty of fluids, hot teas, gargling and proper rest, essential oils can give relief to an aching throat.

If your sore throat is severe and goes on for more than a week, please seek professional help.

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How to use essential oils for skin

The importance of using essential oils for skincare the right way cannot be overemphasised. Here are a few rules:

A little goes a long way

These are very concentrated plant materials. In almost all cases, a single drop is plenty, and in many cases, less than a drop is needed to nourish, soothe or protect your skin.

Always test for sensitivity

Everyone is different and what may be the most popular essential oil may actually be irritating to your particular skin. If you are using the highest quality available and still experiencing issues, try switching to another brand. The good thing about essential oils is that you can always find one with similar compounds and properties, so there is always a substitute.

Dilution is important

You may be able to use some oils undiluted, especially if they are pure, but doing so can increase your risk of skin sensitivity, both now and down the road. And dilution is actually extremely helpful. Because of the small molecules of essential oils, they have a tendency to evaporate quickly on the skin. Dilution helps diminish evaporation, and increase absorption, getting more benefit to your skin. At the same time, depending on the type of dilution you choose, it can also moisturise and nourish your skin. [Coconut oil, for instance, is great for the skin and works great as a carrier oil for your essential oils, too]

Choose the right carrier oil for you

Coconut oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil tend to be the favourites for diluting essential oils for skin, but everyone’s skin is different. You can also add your essential oil to your moisturiser, sunscreen, or aloe vera. Those last three may be tricky though. Basically you want a lipid [a fat] to mix with the essential oil and not all moisturisers and creams are lipids. This means that they may not mix well or protect your skin. You must experiment and be sure to only use fat solubles with “hot” oils.

Essential types for skincare

Let’s understand which essential oils are suited for different skincare needs.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is widely used to soothe minor skin irritations and redness. Because it has a calming effect on the emotions, it can be a good oil to use for any skin concerns that show up when we’re under stress. And its properties help keep the problem areas clean. You can try the following:

1. Add a drop of lavender to your mascara to encourage lash health
2. Dilute 1 drop in about a teaspoon of your favourite carrier oil or lipid-based moisturiser to dab on blemishes
3. Add to witch hazel (about a drop per ounce) to make your own toner.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense is a favourite of many, probably because of its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and even older scars. This might be because of its monoterpene content and its ability to promote healthy cellular function. The best way to use frankincense is to add it to your daily moisturiser. You can pre-mix this in some moisturisers or add a small dab to your daily routine.

Helichrysum Essential Oil

Helichrysum is another essential oil renowned for its skincare properties. It helps to soothe your skin after a long day in the sun, improves complexion, and is known to reduce the appearance of both wrinkles and blemishes. Many people like apply a small dab of this on problem areas, but you can also mix a drop in aloe vera, coconut oil, or your favorite moisturiser, and apply where needed.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Melaleuca, or tea tree, has a cleansing and rejuvenating effect on skin, and is especially popular for breakouts. It can also help to clean and promote healthy skin, especially with minor irritations. However, use caution with this oil. Tea Tree is most likely to be synthetic, adulterated, or contaminated, and because of this, many people may actually experience skin irritation from it. Try dabbing some high-quality tea tree oil directly on blemishes, or add it to your daily face wash regimen.

Sandalwood Essential Oil

Sandalwood is another precious [and also, expensive] essential oil for the skin. It’s calming, soothing, and often used in anti-aging blends. I love to apply a small dab over my forehead to help calm my mind before bed, since this is right over my “thinking lines,” too. If mixed with a carrier oil such as almond, jojoba, or coconut, it can make a great moisturiser for dry, itchy skin. You can also mix a small amount in lotion or aloe vera to make your own after-shave cream or gel.

Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano’s high levels of antioxidants are great for two things: keeping the skin clean and clearing up minor skin concerns and boosting the immune and digestive systems. You may have noticed that your immune and digestive systems often cause skin problems in the form of blemishes, complexion, lack of colour or vibrancy, and even minor irritations, dryness, or other concerns. Oregano is a very hot oil though and therefore you should never use it undiluted. Start by adding one drop to a teaspoon of carrier oil and working your way up from there as needed. Try dabbing the diluted mix onto blemishes on your feet, hands, or nails, or apply the dilution over skin irritation. Avoid the face though, as even in diluted form, it may still be too strong for sensitive areas [besides, you don’t’ want to come away smelling like an Italian restaurant!].

Lemon Essential Oil

Using lemon essential oil topically comes with a different precaution. Most citrus oils are known to be “photosensitive”. This means that going out into the sun after their application can cause irritation or even extreme sunburns, depending on various factors [even if you apply sunscreen]. That said, lemon makes a great astringent to take care of oily skin, improve complexion, and can even be dabbed on problem areas on the skin to help promote healthy tissue and cleansing. Try mixing several drops per ounce in something like witch hazel and using it on problem spots on your back.

As with all things, your unique skin and its needs will mean that certain oils will work great for you, while others won’t. Don’t be afraid to experiment, but don’t go crazy either. Be sure to follow the guidelines and precautions above and be a conscientious consumer by learning as much as you can about the oil you’re using.

The post The right way to use essential oils to boost your health and beauty appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

Why a head massage?

Shiro abhyanga, also known as a head massage, has always been recommended by ayurveda as an integral part of hair care. It helps to reduce fatigue, stress and headaches. A massage also helps to boost circulation, stimulate the follicles that can result in faster hair growth.

How should you massage your hair?

Massaging your scalp from front to back while concentrating on the forehead, temples and the nape of the neck helps to relax and soothe the tired nerves. Dip your fingertips in the oil and let the oil spread evenly when massaging. Once done, wrap a hot towel around the head for at least 15 – 30 minutes to nourish your hair. Wash off with a natural shampoo and rinse with a conditioner.

Essential tip: Always warm the oil before application. You can either warm it in a copper vessel or dip the container with oil in boiling water, creating a double boil, to warm it.  Never heat the oil in a microwave as that can reduce its healing properties.

Using essential oils

Along with the right diet and physical fitness, you should know what you are applying or using on your hair. The use of essential oils is a tried and tested method of treating various hair issues. There are many different essential oils that you can use for different hair problems.

Note that essential oil cannot be applied directly on the hair—it has to be mixed with a base or carrier oil for effective treatment. You can premix essential oils with the base oil or choose to create your own concoction as and when you want to apply it. Some of the base oils that you can use are olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil or sweet almond oil. You can mix one or more of the mentioned essential oils.

Essential oils for different hair problems

When using the essential oils, you can either use just one or combine a few for effective treatment.

Dry hair: Rose, Lavender, Sandalwood and Geranium

A hot oil treatment is effective for dry hair. Mix any of these essential oils with slightly hot carrier oil and massage starting from the roots and moving towards the scalp. Try a base of jojoba and/or almond oils as these are more nourishing for dry hair.

Dandruff prone hair: Tea tree, Peppermint and Eucalyptus

These essential oils are known for their natural antiseptic properties. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a base of coconut or almond oil and massage on the hair and scalp. For extra effectiveness, you can also add tea tree oil to your regular shampoo to reduce the intensity of dandruff.

Hair loss: Rosemary and Peppermint

Hair loss can be for many reasons. It is also attributed to stress, anxiety or hormonal imbalance. Essential oils of rosemary and peppermint work wonders to reduce the intensity of hair fall. These oils are cooling and relaxing.

Normal Hair: Geranium and Lavender

Even normal hair needs nourishment to retain its lustre. Mix the oils of geranium or lavender with coconut or sweet almond oils. These oils help to calm the tired mind and, when applied regularly, help to keep your tresses nourished and healthy.

Premature Greying: Ginger and Lavender

To combat premature greying, use sesame oil. Combine about half a teaspoon each of ginger and lavender essential oil with six tbsp of sesame oil. Shake well and store in a glass bottle. Apply this at least thrice a week.

DIY recipes

We’ve listed two quick recipes that you can make with easily found ingredients in your kitchen. The good thing about concocting your own recipes is that you are aware of what you are using on your hair and your skin.

DIY hair oil to combat dandruff

Heat about five tbsp pure coconut oil till it is warm. Add to this one small tablet of camphor and about 8 – 10 fenugreek seeds. Let the oil cool to the room temperature. Strain and store the oil in an airtight container. Warm lightly before every application. Let it stay on for at least an hour or overnight for best results. Wash off with a mild, natural shampoo.

DIY hair mask

Soak five tbsp of fenugreek seeds overnight in water. Grind these into a slightly coarse paste and apply on the scalp and your hair. Leave it for at least an hour before washing your hair.

There are a lot of other factors like smoking, increased consumption of caffeine, using chemical based products, colouring, or using very hot water for washing hair that can contribute to hair woes. Opting for healthy food, using chemical free products and a healthier, happier lifestyle can help you keep those hair issues at bay.

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This is what aromas can do to us. Aromatherapy harnesses this effect of aromas on our body to heal it.

It uses the aromas of essential oils that are extracted from the various parts of a plant—flowers, leaves, stems, seeds, bark or roots, for the same.

Aromatherapy is particularly effective for problems that require soothing the nerves and clearing the blocked passages that cause discomfort and pain.

It helps in relieving insomnia, headache, body pain, tiredness, depression, stress, tension and the likes. Here we list some common ailments and aromas oils that can help ease them.

Migraines, headaches

In a migraine/headache, the blood vessels of the brain dilate or contract a lot causing throbbing pain in the ear and around the temples.

Oils that help: Chamomile, lavender and marjoram.

What to do: Add a few drops of any of the above essential oils to a hot towel and place it on the head [make a compress].

You can also soak yourself for 10 – 15 minutes in warm water to which 10 drops of the oil have been added. Avoid massaging the oil into your head during a migraine as it increases the discomfort instead of easing it.

Sinusitis

In a sinus attack, the passages around the nose get swollen. You feel stuffy, have congestion and experience inflammation of the area around the eyes.

Oils that help: Eucalyptus and peppermint. Eucalyptus oil has antiviral, antiseptic, antibacterial and analgesic properties. Peppermint too has these properties and is also good for inflammation.

What to do: Add the essential oil to boiling water and inhale the steam; it helps clear congested sinuses and also eases associated headaches.

However, don’t use too many drops or inhale the steam for more than 15 minutes as in both cases the oil loses its effectiveness. People with congestive heart failure, epilepsy, pregnant women and children should not opt for steam inhalation.

Acidity [heartburn]

Over-production of acid by gastric glands in the stomach leads to acidity. Acidity causes burning sensation in the chest, sour acid reflux, dyspepsia and peptic ulcers.

Oils that help: Black pepper, peppermint, sandalwood.

What to do: Inhale the aroma of these oils or use them with the help of a compress.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis presents itself with red areas or scales on the elbows, knees, arms, scalp, ears, legs and back. There is a strong mental component to the cause of psoriasis.

Oils that help: Bergamot, cedarwood, geranium.

What to do: Mix a few drops of any of these oils with a carrier oil and massage the affected area of the skin. Alternately, you may also add the essential oil and carrier oil mix to your bath and soak in it for 15 minutes.

Arthritis

Arthritis is an acute disorder of the joints. It is characterised by inflammation and pain in the joints.

Oils that help: Roman chamomile, juniper, camphor, caraway, lemon, sage and thyme. Each of these oils has effective anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

What to do: Add a few drops to a carrier oil like pomegranate seed oil, hemp seed oil, emu oil and jojoba oil [all these have anti-inflammatory properties as well] and gently massage into arthritic joints using a small amount of the mixture.

However, if your doctor has specifically prohibited massage for you, soak the joint in water mixed with the oil instead.

Painful periods

Menstrual period can cause dull stomach or backache or even severe cramps. Irritability and mood swings can worsen the condition.

Oils that help: Cajuput, sage, aniseed, Roman chamomile, cypress, juniper, marjoram, melissa, peppermint and rosemary. These oils have antispasmodic properties; they also calm the nerves and relax the muscles, making you feel drowsy.

What to do: Mix any of these oils with carrier oil used as gel or lotion and gently massage the abdomen. It helps release pain and tension from the lower belly. The same oils can be added to a warm, relaxing bath after mixing with a carrier oil.

Premenstrual syndrome [PMS]

Premenstrual syndrome [PMS] begins during ovulation [say 5 – 11 days before menstruation] and stops with the beginning of menstruation. It affects a woman’s physical and emotional wellbeing.

Oils that help: Clarysage, Roman chamomile, geranium, lavender, melissa, rose and neroli.

What to do: Gently massage the abdominal area with any of these oils mixed with a carrier oil. You can even have a warm relaxing bath adding the essential oil to the water mixed with a carrier oil.

Asthma

Asthma is a disorder of the bronchial passage and the lungs, making breathing difficult.

Oils that help: Basil, cajuput, lemon, sage, thyme, eucalyptus, aniseed, cypress, hyssop, lavender, marjoram, melissa, peppermint, pine, rosemary, clove, origanum, geranium, German chamomile and frankincense.

German chamomile prevents the release of histamine as it contains chamazulene. Frankincense, marjoram and rose facilitate deep breathing, helping expand the lungs. Relaxants such as chamomile, rose, geranium, lavender and marjoram help in reducing bronchial spasms.

What to do: Aromatherapy is best recommended in-between asthma attacks. Use peppermint and ginger oils as chest rub as they have de-congestive properties. Apply these to the chest for six months using upward strokes.

During an asthma attack, inhale lavender steam. Lavender helps relax the lung spasms as the steam opens the air passages.

This arrests the attack right in the track, reducing its severity. Lavender also relaxes the mind, helping dissipate the panic you feel when you can’t catch your breath.

If steaming makes breathing more difficult, use an aromatherapy diffuser or humidifier to inhale the vapours. You may also rub your feet with the oil. Avoid essential oils, if fragrances are a trigger.

Remember: Avoid eucalyptus oil during attacks.

Colitis

Colitis or ulcerative colitis results in bloody diarrhoea, pain, gas, bloating and hard stools.

Oils that help: Cajuput, lemon grass, tea tree, lavender, rosemary, patchouli and peppermint.

What to do: Use these oils as a compress, gel or lotion on stomach by mixing with carrier oil. Peppermint and patchouli are specifically more effective in colitis.

Piles

Piles is a painful condition where blood vessels, mainly veins around the rectum or anus, get abnormally enlarged and dilated.

Oils that help: Cypress, juniper, frankincense and myrrh.

What to do: Use these oils as a gel or add them to bath after mixing with carrier oil. Blend four drops of cypress to 5ml [a teaspoon] of grapeseed base oil and add this to bath water.

Liver problems

Abnormalities of the liver can seriously hamper your health. When the liver is affected with cirrhosis, it becomes leathery and loses its capacity to function and even regenerate.

Oils that help: Lemon, peppermint, rosemary and juniper.

What to do: Mix a few drops of any of these oils with a carrier oil and use as a gel or a lotion.

Kidney stones

Stones in the kidney is an extremely painful condition caused due to build up of minerals in the kidney.

Oils that help: Lemon, fennel, geranium, ammi visnaga and hyssop.

These oils have relaxing, analgesic and diuretic properties. Ammi visnaga oil is specifically recommended for kidney stones, as it is lithotriptic—it can dissolve bladder and kidney stones. It also has broncho-dilatory properties.

What to do: These should be used as gel or lotion by combining a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil. The ammi visnaga oil can be inhaled or even taken internally.

Depression / anxiety / nervousness

Disturbances of the mind are caused by hormonal or situational factors.

Oils that help: Basil, bergamot, clarysage, thyme, Roman chamomile, camphor, geranium, lavender, frankincense, rose, jasmine, ylang ylang, neroli and sandalwood.

What to do: Add any of these to your bath after mixing with a carrier oil or use as gel/lotion. You can even inhale the vapours.

Remember…

• Always dilute an essential oil with a carrier oil and never apply directly to the skin or consume orally.
• Read the instructions on the bottle before using or selecting these oils as some oils can be exciting while others sedative. Wrong selection/use may lead to complications.
• Some oils can cause problems when exposed to sunlight and also irritate the skin if the dosage is incorrect.
• Some oils need to be stored in dark coloured bottles as they lose their properties when exposed to direct light.
• Always store oils in an aluminum or glass bottle with dropper but never in plastic as the plastic reacts with the oil.
• Essential oils are highly inflammable; do not use them near fire or to burn candles.
• These oils are concentrated and hence costly. Use them judiciously and always start with a small dosage.

Carrier oils

Carrier oils are safe to use directly on the skin. They too have their own therapeutic properties. For instance, sweet almond oil provides relief from dryness, soreness, itching and inflammation.

It helps soothe wrinkled and dry hands. It is the best oil to use for babies. Oils of grapeseed, coconut, peanut, sesame, sunflower, olive, walnut, wheat germ, hazelnut, jojoba, carrot, corn and castor are commonly used carrier oils.

The rule of thumb to follow when mixing an essential oil with a carrier oil is that for those from 12 – 60 years is 1 – 3 drops of essential oil in 1tsp or 5ml carrier oil for a facial massage; 5 – 10 drops of essential oil in 3tsp or 15ml carrier oil for a general massage; up to 20 drops [20 is the maximum limit] of essential oil in 2tsp or 10 ml carrier oil to apply locally; and maximum 10 drops of essential oil in a bowl or a bath.

Halve the dose for children between six and 12 years of age. And those above 60 years of age should add 1 – 6 drops of essential oil in 2tsp or 10ml carrier oil. This ratio also applies to children between four and six years of age.

For kids between one to four years of age, mix 1 – 3 drops of an essential oil in 2tsp or 10ml carrier oil and for babies under one year, mix one drop essential oil in 2 tsp or 10 ml almond oil.

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Healing properties

You can use chamomile to treat a number of ailments:

• Depression: Use the essential oil to lift your mood and ease symptoms of depression. Research shows that chamomile significantly reduces feelings of sadness, depression, and sluggishness and induces a happy feeling.
• Lack of sleep: Chamomile contains chrysin [a flavonoid that relieves anxiety and promotes sleep] and glycine [a nerve relaxant]. These are the main ingredients responsible for its soothing properties.
• Stomach cramps: Chamomile contains anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory constituents. Hence it is effective in treating stomach and intestinal cramps. A cup of chamomile tea in the morning and evening provides great relief.
• Premenstrual syndrome [PMS] and menstrual cramps: Drinking chamomile tea twice a day has been found to be beneficial in treating PMS and menstrual cramps. It works by raising as it raises levels of glycine in the urine, which helps calm muscle spasms.
• Migraine: Research shows that chamomile is a wonderful cure for migraine. It works best if you have a cup of tea just when you notice the initial signs of a migraine starting [aura].
• Burns: Chamomile oil is useful in treating burns. Rub a small amount of oil gently across the burned area once, to ease discomfort. The essential oils present in chamomile act by soothing irritated skin or tissue.
• Skin: Chamomile is useful for lightening your skin tone due to its essential oils. To keep your skin healthy and lighten a tan, add few chamomile flowers to your bath water or a add a few drops of the essential oil.
• Cold: The immune-boosting and antibacterial properties of chamomile tea help in fighting cold.
• Irritable bowl syndrome: The anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties of chamomile relax smooth muscles lining of the stomach and intestine. It thus reduces cramping and pain in the bowels and helps relieve excessive gas and bloating in the intestines.

A word of caution

Chamomile is not recommended if you are currently taking blood thinners, since it contains a substance called coumarin that is also a blood thinner. Individuals who are allergic to other plants in the same family such as daisy, aster and chrysanthemum may have difficulty using chamomile. It is best to avoid consuming chamomile during pregnancy as it may lead to abortion.

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