Originates:

Native to Egypt and Greece

Family:

Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)

Aroma:

Sweet & warm spicy aroma very similar to fennel

Part of plant used:   

Seeds

Description:  

Less than a metre high annual herb that has   delicate leaves and white flowers

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Bay, cedarwood, eucalyptus, dill, fennel, ginger, mandarin, Peppermint, rosemary, spearmint

Indications

BODY
Helps to relieve dyspepsia, colic and flatulence. To help relieve digestive problems blend with peppermint & nutmeg

MIND & SPIRIT
Comforting effect to the mind. Said to be good for introverts, fearful or withdrawn individuals

PRECAUTIONS
Trans-anethole, its major constituent has been known to cause dermatitis – avoid in alleging and inflammatory skin conditions

Originates:

Tropical Asia & Africa

Family:

Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Aroma:

Refreshing, sweet, herbaceous fragrance

Part of plant used:   

Leaves and flowering tops

Description:  

Annual herb, with a powerful aromatic scent

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Bergamot, black pepper, cajeput, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, ginger, hyssop, lavender, lemon, marjoram, neroli, niaouli, rosemary, peppermint, pine, thyme, tea tree

Indications

BODY
Beneficial action on the respiratory system. Relieves sinus congestion, bronchitis, asthma, influenza and whooping cough. In Ayurvedic medicine it is combined with Black Pepper to treat malarial fever

MIND & SPIRIT
Basil is one of the most useful cephalics (stimulating to the mind). Said to clear the head and give the mind strength and clarity. Used for nervous disorders especially those suffering with weakness or indecision

PRECAUTIONS
Avoid using in pregnancy Can cause irritation of the skin.

Originates:

Italy, France

Family:

Asteraceae (Compositae)

Aroma:

Fruity warm herbaceous fragrance

Part of plant used:   

Flower heads

Description:  

Small perennial herb with feathery leaves and daisy white flowers which are larger than that those of German chamomile. The plant has an apple-like scent

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Bergamot, clary sage, geranium, lavender, lemon, sweet marjarom,neroli, orange, rose absolute or otto, rosewood, sandalwood, ylang-ylang

Indications

BODY
Useful oil for women with PMS and irregular periods, best used in bath or massage oil. Good for stomach, gall bladder and throat infections. Use a moist warm or hot compresse for children suffering from colic. Inhaled it relieves emotional anxiety, hayfever and other allergies.

MIND & SPIRIT
Mild sedative for children resulting in a calming but not depressing effect.

Skin & hair
Roman chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties, while German chamomile oil is preferred in skin care

PRECAUTIONS
Non-toxic,non-irritant and non-sensitising

Originates:

Indonesia, Sri Lanka

Family:

Lauraceae

Aroma:

The bark oil has a sweet, spicy, warm scent, while cinnamon leaf oil is spicy and warm but with a rather harsh smell

Part of plant used:   

Bark or leaf

Description:  

Atropical evergreen tree up to 15 metres high. The bark is removed from the tree when it is between six to eight years old and placed in long strips and left to dry in the sun. The strips are then rolled in to tubes or 'quills' as familiar in the culinary spice.

Method of extraction:

Water or steam distillation

Blends well with

Black pepper, clove, eucalyptuys, frankincense, ginger, grapefruit, lavender,lemon, orange, rosemary, tangerine, thyme, tea tree

Indications

BODY
Regarded as one of the strongest antiseptic oils therefore good for preventing infectious and contagious diseases.

MIND & SPIRIT
When inhaled cinnamon is excellent for feelings of depression, exhaustion, fainting, weakness and debility.

Skin & hair
Traditionally used in clearing warts.  Not recommended for use in skin care.

PRECAUTIONS
Leaf oil is relatively non-toxic. Cinnamon bark oil should never be used on the skin as it is considered a dermal toxin, irritant and sensitiser.

Originates:

Sri Lanka

Family:

Poaceae (Gramineae)

Aroma:

A Fresh powerful,lemony fragrance which is yellowy brown in colour

Part of plant used:   

Fresh, part dried or dried leaf

Description:  

A tall, aromatic perennial

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Bergamot, cajeput, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, sage, tea tree, thyme

Indications

BODY
Commonly used as an insect repellent. When inhaled it helps fight against colds, flu and minor infections. Deodorising properties make it excellent for refreshing tired sweaty feet, activating the whole body.

MIND & SPIRIT
Due to Citronella's uplifting properties it is beneficial for easing feelings of depression.

Skin & hair
Traditionally used for combating oily skin and excessive perspiration.

PRECAUTIONS
May cause dermatitis in some individuals.

Originates:

Sri Lanka

Family:

Poaceae (Gramineae)

Aroma:

A Fresh powerful,lemony fragrance which is yellowy brown in colour

Part of plant used:   

Fresh, part dried or dried leaf

Description:  

A tall, aromatic perennial

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Bergamot, cajeput, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, sage, tea tree, thyme

Originates

France,Russia

Family:

Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Aroma:

A heavy,nutty, fruit-floral-herbaceous fragrance

Part of plant used:   

Flowering tops and foliage

Description:  

A perennial herb up to 1 metre high or a short biennial with large, hariy leaves and small purple or blue flowers

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Bergamot, cedarwood, German & Roman chamomile, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, lavender, sweet marjoram, neroli, orange, rosewood, sandalwood, ylang-ylang

Indications

BODY
Eases PMS, helps to regulate scanty periods and painful cramps in lower back. Encourages labour.

MIND & SPIRIT
Valuable oil for treating nervousness, weakness, fear, paranoia and depression.

Skin & hair
Helps to reduce excessive production of sebum so good for clearing greasy hair and dandruff.

PRECAUTIONS
Avoid during pregnancy.

Originates

France,Russia

Family:

Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Aroma:

A heavy,nutty, fruit-floral-herbaceous fragrance

Part of plant used:   

Flowering tops and foliage

Description:  

A perennial herb up to 1 metre high or a short biennial with large, hariy leaves and small purple or blue flowers

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Bergamot, cedarwood, German & Roman chamomile, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, lavender, sweet marjoram, neroli, orange, rosewood, sandalwood, ylang-ylang

Originates

Australia

Family:

Myrtaceae

Aroma:

Camphorous odour with a woody sweet undertone.

Part of plant used:   

Fresh leaves and cones

Description:  

A tall evergreen tree with a statuesque conical shape which bears small flowers and round brownish-grey cones or nuts.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Aniseed, basil, cajeput, cedarwood, citronella, frankincense, ginger, hyssop, juniper, lavender, lemon, sweet and Spanish marjoram, myrtle, niaouli, pine, peppermint, rosemary, spearmint, tea tree, thyme.

Indications

BODY
Traditional remedy for asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu, throat and sinus infections, rheumatism and headaches.

MIND & SPIRIT
Refreshing and stimulating Eucalyptus assists concentration.

Skin & hair
Good for toxaemia or sepsis, wounds and ulcers.

PRECAUTIONS
Non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitising. Toxic when taken internally.

Originates

Grows in Mediterranean countries

Family:

Umbelliferae

Aroma:

Camphorous odour with a woody sweet undertone.

Part of plant used:   

Crushed seeds

Description:  

A perennial or biennial herb approximately 2 metres high that has feathery leaves and golden yellow flowers.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Basil, clary sage, cypress, geranium, grapefruit, juniper, lavender, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, rose, sandalwood.

Indications

BODY
Warming and drying according to traditional Chinese and Galenic medicine. Good for digestive problems, relieves nausea, colic, hiccups, flatulence and indigestion.
Useful in regulating the menstrual cycle.
used in cold conditions and bronchitis and also whooping cough.

MIND & SPIRIT
Believed to give courage and strength in adversity.

Skin & hair
Due to Fennels oestrogenic properties it is said to be useful in skincare, helping to minimise the effects of wrinkles.
Considered sensitising to the skin so care must be taken.

PRECAUTIONS
Relatively non-toxic, non-irritant. Can cause sensitisation in some people.
Avoid during breast feeding and for those who suffer from epilepsy.

Originates

Asia

Family:

Rutaceae

Aroma:

A citrusy fragrance which is fresh and sweet.

Part of plant used:   

Peel of the fruit

Description:  

A small bitter fruit similar to a lemon which grows on a small evergreen tree.

Method of extraction:

Cold expression of the peel of the unripe fruit and steam distillation of the whole ripe fruit.

Blends well with

Bergamot, cedarwood, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, mandarin, neroli, nutmeg, orange, palmarosa, petitgrain, rose, rosemary, rosewood, tangerine, vetiver, ylang-ylang.

Indications

BODY
Considered a digestive stimulant as are most citrus oils. Useful for treating sore throats and influenza due to its disinfectant properties. The lime oil produced by cold expression also has detoxifying benefits.

Mind and spirit
Refreshing and uplifting. Good for tired minds and fatigue, anxiety and depression.

Skin & hair
Helps to clear oily congested skin.

PRECAUTION
Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitising. Cold expression oil is phototoxic.

Originates

Spain

Family:

Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Aroma:

A slightly eucalyptus type odour that is warm and penetrating.

Part of plant used:   

Dried flowering herb.

Description:  

A strongly aromatic perennial plant with dark green oval leaves and small reddish-purple flowers gthat grow on a hairy stem up to 60cm high.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation.

Blends well with

Bergamot, black pepper, cajeput, clary sage, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender,lemon, nutmeg, peppermint, roseymary, tea tree, thyme.

Indications

BODY
Beneficial for most respiratory ailments. Used to relieve muscular spasm, rheumatic pains, sprains and strains. Will ease menstrual cramps when as a massage or hot compress over the lower abdomen.

Mind and spirit
Marjorm has a warming and comforting effect on the heart therefore considered useful for conditions relating to grief. Has a calming effect on the nervous system, relieves anxiety and stress. Effective treatment for insomnia.
Place a drop of Majorom Essential Oil behind your ear to relieve hangover headaches and also to balance the central nervous system

Skin & hair
Helps to disperse bruises. Believed to be beneficial for treating chilblains.

PRECAUTION
Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitising. Must not be used during pregnancy.

Originates

Produced in Brazil, California, Italy and Spain

Family:

Rutaceae

Aroma:

An intense sweet fresh citrus aroma that is yellow, orange in colour.

Part of plant used:   

Fruit peel

Description:  

A member of the orange family with smaller leaves and fruits.

Method of extraction:

Cold pressed.

Blends well with

Bergamot, German and Roman chamomile, black pepper, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lemon,lime, sweet marjoram, neroli, orange, palmarosa, petitgrain, rose, sandalwood, tangerine, ylang-ylang.

Indications

BODY
Considered a mild sedative for the nervous system. Often used for infants suffering from hiccups or colic. Relieves flatulence.

Mind and spirit
Refreshing and uplifting quality often used to eliminate depression and anxiety.

Skin & hair
Often used to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy when blended with neroli and wheatgerm oils.

PRECAUTION
Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitising. 

Originates

Asia

Family:

Lauraceae

Aroma:

A slightly eucalyptus type odour that is warm and penetrating.

Part of plant used:   

Fruit

Description:  

Belongs to the same family as the rosewood or cinnamon tree. A small tropical tree with fragrant, lemongrass-scented leaves and flowers.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation.

Blends well with

Basil, bergamot, geranium, ginger, jasmine, lavender, lemon, neroli, orange, petitgrain, rose, rosemary, rosewood, ylang-ylang.

Indications

BODY
Heart and respiratory system tonic.

Mind and spirit
Stimulating and very uplifting.

Skin & hair
Useful for the treatment of acne and oily skin due to its tonic and astringent effects on the skin.

PRECAUTION
Non-toxic, non-irritant. Possible sensitising in some individuals.

Originates

North east Africa and south west Asia

Family:

Burseraceae

Aroma:

Rich, spicy, warm balsamic odour that is a dark brown oily liquid.

Part of plant used:   

The crude oleoresin

Description:  

Myrrh is derived from Commiphora shrubs which grow up to 10 metres high. The trunk produces a natural oleoresin which is a pale yellow liquid that hardens into reddish brown tears known as myrrh.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation.

Blends well with

Frankincense, lavender, palmarosa, pathcouli, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, tea tree, thyme.

Indications

BODY
Myrrh prevents infection, clears toxins and promotes tissue repair. Stimulates the stomach with its warming properties and is useful for treating diarrhoea, flatulence and poor appetite. Myrrh also stimulates the uterine and promotes menstruation thus relieving painful periods. Often used during prolonged, difficult childbirth labour. Traditionally used to aid coughs, bronchitis and colds.

Mind and spirit
Myrrh is believed to enhance spirituality. Traditionally used as an incense fragrance along with frankincense.

Skin & hair
Used in skin creams for deep cracks on the heels and hands. Excellent aid for wounds that are slow to heal, weepy eczema and athlete's foot.

PRECAUTION
Non-sensitising, non-irritant, possibly toxic in high concentrations. As Myrrh is a uterine stimulant it must not be used in pregnancy.

Originates

Austrialia and New Caledonia.

Family:

Myrtaceae

Aroma:

A warm spicy, sweet odour that is pale yellow in colour.

Part of plant used:   

Leaves and young twigs.

Description:  

An evergreen tree that has a flexible trunk and spongy bark, pointed linear leaves with spikes of sessile flowers.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation.

Blends well with

Basil, cajeput, eucalyptus, fennel, juniper, lavender, lemon, lime, myrtle, orange, pine, rosemary, peppermint, tea tree, thyme.

Indications

BODY
Blend with peppermint, eucalyptus, pine and myrtle to treat respiratory conditions. Excellent antiseptic for treating bronchitis, catarrh and sinus. Also used to treat cystitis.

Mind and spirit
Clears the head due to its uplifting and stimulating properties.

Skin & hair
Useful for washing infected wounds. Treating acne, boils, ulcers, burns and cuts.

PRECAUTION
Non-sensitising, non-irritant, non-toxic.

Originates

Cultivatedi n Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies.

Family:

Myristicaceae

Aroma:

A warm spicy, sweet odour that is pale yellow in colour.

Part of plant used:   

The dried nutmeg seed.

Description:  

An evergreen tree with a greyish-brown smooth bark, dense foliage and small dull-yellow flowers.

Method of extraction:

Steam or water distillation.

Blends well with

Bay, black pepper, cajeput, clary sage, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, lavender, lime, mandarin, orange, peppermint, petitgrain, rosemary, ylang-ylang and most other spice oils.

Indications

BODY
Nutmeg is most useful as a digestive stimulant, assisting people who are unable to assimilate food. Ideal for treating flatulence, nausea, chronic vomiting and diarrhoea. In South East Asia Nutmeg is traditionally used as a tonic for the reproductive system. Helps to regulate scanty periods and eases pain. Beneficial for muscular aches and pains as well as rheumatism due to its warming properties.

Mind and spirit
Nutmeg stimulates and invigorates the mind.

Skin & hair
Not recommended for skin care use.

PRECAUTION
Non-sensitising, non-irritant, generally non-toxic. Must not be used in pregnancy.

Originates

China and India.

Family:

Rutaceae

Aroma:

Are refreshing and zesty citurs fragrance.

Part of plant used:   

Fresh ripe or almost ripe outer peel.

Description:  

An everygreen tress with fruit which has a sweet pulp and non-bitter membrane.

Method of extraction:

Cold pressed.

Blends well with

Bergamot, cinnamon, clary sage, clove, cypress, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, juniper, lavender, neroli, nutmeg, petitgrain, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, tangerine, ylang-ylang.

Indications

BODY
Similar properties to that of Neroli oil (obtrained from orange blossoms). Used to treat constipation and is also helpful for treating chronic diarrhoea. Orange oil stimulates lymph fluids, making it beneficial to treat swollen tissue.

Mind and spirit
Assists in relaxation. An ideal oil to use as an introduction to aromatherapy. Children tend to love the smell of orange and it is often used to help them sleep.

Skin & hair
Beneficial for treating dry, irritated or acne skin conditions.

PRECAUTION
Non-sensitising, non-irritant, generally non-toxic.

Originates

China, India, Indonesia and Malaysia

Family:

Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Aroma:

A sweet, rich herbaceous-earth fragrance which improves with age.

Part of plant used:   

Dried leaves.

Description:  

A perennial bushy herb with a sturdy, hairy stem that has large fragrant furry leaves and white flowers.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation.

Blends well with

Bergamot, black pepper, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, ginger, lavender, lemongrass, myrrh, neroli, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, ylang-ylang.

Indications

BODY
Significant deodorising effect. Used in cases of fluid retention and cellulite.

Mind and spirit
Good for dealing with anxiety and depression.

Skin & hair
Helps to stimulate regrowth of skin cells. Assist healing rough, cracked skin, sores and wounds. Beneficial for treating acne, fungal infections and scalp disorders.

PRECAUTION
Generally non-sensitising, non-irritant, non-toxic.

Originates

USA, Tasmania

Family:

Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Aroma:

A strong, sharp refreshing menthol fragrance.

Part of plant used:   

Leaves and flowering tops.

Description:  

A perennial herb that grows up to 1 metre high.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation.

Blends well with

Basil, bergamot, cajeput, cedarwood, cypress, eucalyptus, lemon, lime, mandarin, marjoram, niaouli, pine, rosemary, spearmint, thyme.

Indications

BODY
Excellent to use for sinus congestion, infection or inflammation. Beneficial in the treatment of colds and flu.

Mind and spirit
Thought to help people who are unable to concentrate or who have mental fatigue.

Skin & hair
Relieves any form of skin irritation or itching if used in a dilution of 1% or less. Can help reduce skin redness due to inflammation or acne. A very refreshing skin tonic.

PRECAUTION
Generally non-irritant (except in concentration), non-toxic. Use in moderation.

Originates

Northern Europe, North America.

Family:

Pinaceae

Aroma:

A strong turpentine like aroma.

Part of plant used:   

Needles

Description:  

Evergreen tree that grows up to 40 metres high.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Cajeput, cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, cypress, eucalyptus, lavender, Spanish & seet marjoram, myrtle, niaouli, peppermint, rosemary, thyme, tea tree.

Indications

BODY
The antiseptic and expectorant properties of Pine make it use for treating asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis and influenza.

Mind and spirit
Good for mental fatigue when use as inhalation. Promotes feelings of energy and wellbeing. Effective in treating cystitis and prostate problems. Pine's warming properties help to relieve rheumatism, gout, sciatica and arthritis.

Skin & hair
Not used in skin care as it is a dermal irritant.

PRECAUTION
Dermal irritant so best not to use in massage or in baths.

Originates

Mountain regions of Spain.

Family:

Lamiaceae (Labiatae).

Aroma:

A fresh-herbaceous, camphorous, slightly pinelike odour.

Part of plant used:   

Leaves.

Description:  

An evergreen shrub, similar to the garden sage with narrower leaves and small purple flowers. the plant has a scent reminiscent of spike lavender.

Method of extraction:

Steam distillation

Blends well with

Cedarwood, citronella, eucalyptus, juniper, clary sage, lavender, pine, rosemary.

Indications

BODY
Useful as an inhalation for asthma, colds, coughs, fever and laryngitis. Used to treat jaundice and liver congestion due to its depurative and digestive properties.

Mind and spirit
Used for headaches, nervous exhaustion and stress related conditions.

Skin & hair
Useful for treating acne, cuts, dandruff, dermatitis, eczema, excessive sweating, gingivitis, gum infections and sores.

PRECAUTION
Non-toxic,non-irritant and non-sensitising. 

Originates

Asia

Family:

Santalaceae.

Aroma:

Sweet, exotic, woody aroma.

Part of plant used:   

Timber, inner heartwood.

Description:  

A small, evergreen tree that must be over 30 years old before it is ready for the production of sandalwood oil.

Method of extraction:

Steam or water distillation

Blends well with

Basil, bergamot, black pepper, cypress, atlas cedarwood, frankincense, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lemon, myrrh, neroli, orange, palmarosa, rose, vetiver, ylang-ylang.

Indications

BODY
Recommended for treating catarrh and dry coughs. Useful for treatment of chronic and acute diarrhoea, colic and gastritis.

Mind and spirit
Calming effect which helps to reduce tension and confusion. Beneficial for treating nervous depression, fear, stress and a hectic daily lifestyle.

Skin & hair
Good for dehydrated skin. Relieves itching and inflammation. Excellent to use in oily skin conditions.

PRECAUTION
Non-toxic,non-irritant and non-sensitising. 

Good Source of:

Rich in vitamins and minerals.

Texture:

Light, semi-oily texture makes this oil helpful in massage blends.

Characteristics:

Pale yellow

Body:

Can be used as a light massage oil as it is easily absorbed. Good for all skin types, especially sensitive or dry, dehydrating, maturing skin 

Skin:

Good oil for face, beauty treatments and all skin types, especially sensitive or dry, dehydrating, maturing skin 

Precautions:

Should be refrigerated after opening

Good Source of:

Essential fatty acids, Vitamins A, B, E and beta carotene, minerals and protein.

Texture:

Penetrates easily

Characteristics:

Rich, dark green (unrefined).

Light yellow with few nutrients and little odour (refined).

Body:

See precautions.

Skin:

Good for dermal regeneration.

Beneficial for aging, dry, dull, dehydrated and eczema.

Precautions:

Best to blend with other oils such as sweet almond 10-25% otherwise it may overpower a blend.

Good Source of:

This is an infused oil containing the active principles of the marigold flower, Calendula officinale

Texture:

Characteristics:

It has anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic qualities and blends well with Hypericum
(St. John's Wort)

Body:

Valuable oil for treating wounds, scars, burns, inflammation and other injuries as it aids in tissue
regeneration.