Quick Guide to Essential Oils
If you have made the decision to commit to living your best life possible, you know that health and well-being is a journey and not a destination. Zanata’s provides a road map to support you on your journey. Rather you are starting today or have been on this path for a while, we are here to provide; guidance, support, direction, and information to encourage and assist you to becoming a best you that you can be. We strongly believe that in order to achieve your goal you must aim towards a balance of mind, body and spirit. This can be done in a variety of ways; diet, exercise, meditation, aromatherapy, herbology, acupuncture, message therapy, and much more. Natural remedies are a good way to achieve your goal without the burdensome side effects and high cost of drugs.
AROMATHERAPY
Essential oils are all the rave these days. Everywhere you look, you will find something infused with essential oils. Most of us know that lavender can be used to help calm a child, or for inflammation and pain, and we know that tea tree oil can be used for bacterial and fungal infections but what do we really know about these oils and how to really use them. Unfortunately, I cannot give you everything you need to know in this short guide, however, here is some food for thought.
How Essential Oils Works
Essential oils work through the process of absorption. This can be done via the olfactory senses, externally through the skin, internally through orifices (generally where there is mucus membrane), and ingested. Once absorbed the chemical components enter the blood stream and begin working. The most effective method of absorption is different for each of the oils. However, inhalation and topical are the methods most often used. Other methods include; diffusers, baths, humidifiers, sprays, and mouthwashes or gargles. (Some essential oils can be used for culinary purposes, however, caution must be taken and only used as directed.)
Essential Oil Uses (not all inclusive)
Arnica (Arnica montana) – Most often used for pain. Found as a main ingredient in many natural pain ointments and gels.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) – Immune system, sinus congestion, antidepressant, and concentration.
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) – Energy, anxiety, and air freshener.
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) – Refreshing and uplifting, stimulant, and diuretic.
Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) Deodorant, bug repellant, and antiseptic.
Cinnamon Leaf (Cinnamomum verum) – Energizing, insect bites, stimulates circulation, revitalizing, and focus.
Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) – Focus, antirheumatic, antiseptic, and diuretic. Blends well with other oils
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiata) – Respiratory, expectorant, antiseptic, aches and pains, immune system.
Frankincense – (Boswellia carterii) – Calming, grounding, women’s health, and wounds.
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) – Balances hormones, stimulates lymphatic system, antidepressant, skin cell regeneration, wounds and burns.
Ginger (Zingiber officianle) – Warming, nausea, motion sickness, GI, and sharpens awareness.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – Balancing, calming, antiseptic, and inflammation.
Lemon (Citrus limonum) – Purifying, astringent, and bactericide
Lemon Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora) – Antiseptic, aches and pains, and bacteria
Marjoram (Origanum marjorana) – Muscle pain, cramps, bruises, calming, warming, and respiratory.
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) – Antiseptic, pain, indigestion, flatulence, nausea, invigorates and stimulates the mind.
Oregano (origaum vulgare) – Stimulant, antibacterial, and fungicide.
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) – Anti-inflammatory, and fungal skin problems.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) – Stimulates concentration, headache, muscle pain, motion sickness, and GI tract.
Rose Hip (Rosa rubiginosa) - Dry skin, scarring, itchy skin and antioxidant
Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) – Great for hair, concentration, pain, and inflammation
Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) – Uplifting, astringent, and refreshing (deodorizer)
Tea Tree (Malaleuca alternifolia) – Immune boost, acne, antiviral, and antibacterial
Essential Oil Safety/Recommendations
Essential oils are an excellent complement and/or alternative to medicine. When used as directed in most cases essential oils are generally recognized as safe. Points to consider when using essential oils…
· Remember that natural does not mean harmless
· If you are pregnant consult your physician before use. These essential oils are generally recognized as safe if you are pregnant…Neroli, Mandarin, Rose (after first trimester (AFT)), lavender (AFT), and Roman Chamomile (AFT)
· Use only pure essential oils. Using oils that are not pure can be contaminated and not provide the same results.
· Take precaution when using oils on children and elderly
· Conducting a patch test is recommended
· Store essential oils and carrier oils properly to avoid oxidation and rancidity
· Ensure you become familiar with the properties, toxicity, contraindication, application method and precautions of the essential oil before use. Contact your physician, Naturopath or Aromatherapist for more information.
Use These Essential Oils For: (use in combination or individually, when applying to skin dilute in a carrier oil)
Relaxation: Geranium, Clary Sage, Neroli, and Bergamot
Colds: Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Marjoram, and Lemon
Disinfectant: Eucalyptus, Lavender, Tea Tree Thyme
Insect Repellent: Citronella, Pine, Peppermint, and Clary Sage
Pet Fur Conditioner: Pine and Cedarwood
References:
Alliance of International Aromatherapist. (2016). Essential Oil Therapy. Retrieved from www.alliance-aromatherapists.org
Buckle, J. (2015). Clinical Aromatherapy: Essential Oils in Healthcare (3rd ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier
