Essential Oils Descriptions & Precautions L-P


Home



Lantana camara: This oil is quite rare. It is known to be anti-catarrah, antiviral, antitumor, cicatrizant, emmenagogue, mucolytic. Skin: wounds, cuts, ulcers (avoid use on sensitive skin). It may help with bronchitis and asthma as well as with viral infections. Stimulates liver and gallbladder. Induces & regulates menstruation. Best avoided in pregnancy due to large ketone percentage.

Lavender: Lavender 40/42 preferred by the soapers; a very high grade of Lavender from Bulgaria grown at 600-800 meters; and organic Lavender SIMPLES certified from the Provence region of France. It would take many pages to outline all the benefits and properties of lavender. It is analgesic, antidepressant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericide, cicatrizant, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, fungicide, sedative. Soothes the spirit, relieves anger, valuable in manic-depressive cases. Has a sedative action on the heart, assists in bringing down high blood pressure, relieves insomnia, relieves muscular spasms and rheumatic pains. Useful with menstrual problems. Clears the spleen and the liver. May be useful in nausea, vomiting and colic. Keeps insects at bay. Purifies the air. Promotes growth of new skin cells, great healing effect on burns and sunburn, acne, psoriasis, boils, fungal growths, and scarring. Blends well with bergamot, chamomile, citronella, lemon, and pine.

Lavandin Grosso: This is a hybrid Lavender which grows wild in areas where true Lavender is cultivated or grows wild. The essential oil has a slightly camphorous smell. It is far less sedative than Lavender and is very effective as an inhalation for colds, sinusitis and other respiratory problems. May clear headaches, good for muscular stiffness. Blends well with bergamot, clary sage and lemon.

Lemon: Fresh, sharp citrus aroma. It is antiacid, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, astringent, bactericide, diuretic, emollient, insecticide, and laxative. Helps to clear thoughts. Tonic to the circulatory system, liquefies the blood and aids flow, thereby easing pressure on varicose veins. Used to bring down high blood pressure. Helpful in nosebleeds. Eases painful cold sores and herpes. May be helpful with constipation and cellulite. Relieves headaches and migraines. Soothes insect bites and stings. Blends well with chamomile, eucalyptus, lavender and rose.

Lemongrass: Sweet and lemony aroma. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, bactericide, diuretic, fungicide and insecticide. Stimulates the mind, lifts the spirit. Stimulates appetite, helpful with colic and indigestion. Prevents spread of contagious diseases. Great for aching muscles. Relieves tired legs. Relieves fatigue, assists with jet lag. Aids in the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Blends well with cedarwood, basil, lavender, neroli, niaouli and tea tree.

Lime: Sharp, bittersweet aroma. It is antiseptic, antiviral, astringent, disinfectant, insecticide, restorative. Very stimulating in cases of apathy, depression and anxiety. Eases coughs and chest congestion. Encourages appetite, may assist in anorexia. Assists in treating alcoholism because of its disinfecting and restorative properties. Blends well with bergamot, geranium, lavender, rose and ylang ylang.

Litsea Cubeba: Citrus and fruity fragrance with floral undertones. Also known as May Chang, it is a cinnamon relative from China. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, insecticide and stimulant. Very uplifting and stimulating. It is a known tonic to the heart and respiratory system. May be helpful in cases of bronchitis and asthma. Could relieve flatulence and nausea. Known to be useful with lactation difficulties. Blends well with lavender, neroli, and verbena.

Marjoram, Spanish: Warm, penetrating and slightly spicy aroma. It is analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive, expectorant, sedative and laxative. Calms the nervous system. May give a feeling of comfort in cases of grief and loneliness. Very effective in dealing with painful muscles, mostly in the lower back area. Assists with swollen joints, good as an after-sports rub. Seems to lower high blood pressure. Soothes digestion, may help with stomach cramps, constipation and flatulence. May be effective against sea sickness. Alleviates stuffed-up feeling during colds. May be useful in relieving painful periods. Blends well with bergamot, cedarwood, orange, and rosewood.

Melissa: (Sweet Balm, Lemon Balm) Distilled from lemon balm, this is true Melissa and we have the GC analysis available. Most of the Melissa essential oil offered by other is a mixture of lemon-scented oils which might even include citronella; this is considered "the most adulterated essential oil in the industry". Not so with our true Melissa. It takes approximately 1.5 tons of the plant to obtain a pound of true Melissa essential oil, thus the expensive price of this true, unadulterated essential oil. This true Melissa is organically grown in England. The aroma of True Melissa is light, fresh and distinctly lemony. Its odor is uplifting and calming at the same time. This oil has proved useful in: oily skin, acne, cold sores, herpes, fungal infections, chronic coughs, colds (with headache), slowing rapid breathing, lowering blood pressure, colic, nausea, indigestion, menstrual pain & problems, regulating menstrual cycle, anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraine, tension, anger. May irritate sensitive skin and should only be used in small dilutions (4-6 drops per ounce of carrier oil) as well as avoided in pregnancy. Always use in the lowest recommended concentrations.

Myrrh: Smoky and slightly musky aroma. It is antiseptic, astringent, deodorant, disinfectant and diuretic. Best avoided during pregnancy as it is an emmenagogue. Seems to lift feelings of weakness, apathy and lack of incentive. Also has a cooling effect on heated emotions. Due to its drying action is effective against excessive mucous in the lungs. Recommended to use in cases of bronchitis, colds, sore throats, and coughs. Excellent for mouth and gum disorders; it is the best treatment for mouth ulcers, gingivitis and bleeding or spongy gums. Eases flatulence and hemorrhoids. Stimulates and invigorates the immune system. Of great benefit in cases of scanty periods, leucorrhoea and clearing obstructions in the womb. Blends well with clove, frankincense, lavender and sandalwood.

Myrtle: Fresh, slightly sweet and penetrating. Antiseptic, astringent, bactericide, and expectorant. May soothe feelings of anger. Particularly useful with pulmonary disorders especially when accompanied by night sweats. Combats excessive moisture, bronchial catarrh and clears sinusitis. Eases hemorrhoids and diarrhea. Could stem leucorrhoea, said to be an effective tonic to the womb. Keeps vermin away. Could be useful in treatment of acne as well as clearing blemishes and bruises. May also alleviate the scaling appearance of psoriasis. Blends well with coriander, lavender, rosemary and tea tree.

/b>Neroli: Beautiful floral fragrance. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, deodorant, digestive and sedative. Very relaxing, rather hypnotic, relieves chronic anxiety, depression and stress. Good in cases of insomnia. Assists with nerve pain, headaches and vertigo, even bouts of yawning. Due to its calming effect may be beneficial to sexual problems and said to be an effective aphrodisiac. May relieve menopausal symptoms of irritability and tearfulness. Due to its antispasmodic action calms the intestines which can be helpful with colitis and diarrhea. Blends well with bergamot, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lime, rose and ylang ylang.

Niaouli (MQV): Slightly sweet, penetrating aroma. It is analgesic, antiseptic, bactericide, cicatrizant, insecticide and decongestant. Clears the head and may aid in concentration. Helps to fight infection by increasing white blood cell and antibody activity. Excellent for chest infections, bronchitis, asthma and sinusitis. May be effective in dealing with urinary infections. Due to its pain relieving properties, may be of aid in rheumatism and neuralgia. Blends well with coriander, fennel, juniper, orange and peppermint.

Nutmeg: Spicy, warm and nutty odor, clear oil. Considered analgesic and neurotonic. Indicated for extreme tiredness and used in massage blends for aching joints. Inhaled can cause nausea. One drop of Nutmeg with 20-40 drops of Orange is wonderful for the home. Blends well with citrus oils.

Oakmoss Absolute: A lichen, usually found growing on oak trees, and sometimes on other species such as spruce and pine. It is a viscous liquid with an extremely intense aroma reminiscent of a damp forest floor. Its odor is uplifting, cooling and calming; it is reputed as an aphrodisiac. This oil has antiseptic and expectorant qualities. Not advisable to use this oil for professional aromatherapy, but it can be used as a mood-enhancing skin perfume or environmental fragrance. Its properties are more emotional and spiritual than physical. Can irritate sensitive skin. Blends well with cedarwood, citrus, pine, florals and vetiver.

Orange, Bitter & Orange, Sweet: Zesty, refreshing citrus fragrance. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive and sedative. Prolonged use and high dosage may irritate sensitive skin and there’s a chance of phototoxicity on skin exposed to the sun. Relieves gloomy thoughts and depression. Dispels stress. Revives one when bored. Calms the stomach in nervous states, assists with diarrhea and constipation. May encourage appetite; don’t use if dieting. Seems to have good effect on colds and bronchitis. Very good for painful and sore muscles. May relax insomnia brought on by anxiety. Has a possibility of bringing down high level of cholesterols in the blood. Blends well with cinnamon, coriander, clove, frankincense, jasmine, lavender and rose.

Oregano: Herby, woody, yet slightly spicy. Analgesic, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, disinfectant, emmenagogue, expectorant, laxative, and stomachic. A very potent oil, could irritate the mucous membranes. Best avoided in pregnancy. Its main effect seems to be on the digestive system, soothing the stomach, liver and spleen. Calms intestinal spasm. May combat acidity, stomach gas and encourage appetite. May alleviate symptoms of asthma and whooping cough. Its warming and pain relieving action may be beneficial to period cramps, rheumatism and muscular pain. Apparently, has some effect on pediculosis (infestation by skin parasites). Blends well with basil, fennel, geranium and pine.

Palmarosa: Floral, slightly dry fragrance with a hint of rose. It is antiseptic, antiviral, bactericide, and febrifuge. Refreshes and clarifies the mind. May be effective in cases of fever by reducing temperature. Acts as a tonic to the digestive system. Stimulates the appetite, may be helpful in cases of anorexia nervosa. May ease stiff joints. Blends well with bergamot, citronella, jasmine, lavender, petitgrain and rose.

Parsley Seed: Somewhat herby aroma with spicy undertones. It is antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, digestive, expectorant, emmenagogue, laxative and parturient. Some precautions to be taken with this very powerful oil: Care is needed with dosage, otherwise dizziness may result. Should not be used in pregnancy nor during painful menstruation as it may induce contractions of the womb. Best avoided in cases of kidney disease and peptic ulcers. Debatable whether should be used in massage. It is a very strong diuretic, stimulates the kidneys and could effectively clear cystitis and urinary stones. Rather useful in childbirth since it stimulates contractions during labor. Could well promote flow of breast milk and seems to relieve hardening of the breasts. While having a calming action on the digestion, it also stimulates the appetite. Useful too with flatulence. Apparently, takes the sting out of insect bites. Clears wounds and bruises by stimulating the blood flow. Good for keeping head lice away. Blends well with lavender, lime and orange.

Patchouli: A strong, earthy fragrance, sweet and spicy also. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, deodorant, fungicide and insecticide. May cause loss of appetite. Its odor may be little too persistent for some people. Due to its strong astringent and cicatrizant properties, may be helpful for loose skin, especially after dieting. Seems to curb appetite also. Excellent in cases of diarrhea. Its diuretic properties are useful in cases of water retention and cellulite. Well known to increase libido. Relieves effects from insect bites. It is known as a tissue regenerator which helps regrowth of skin cells and the forming of scar tissue. Heals rough, cracked skin. Blends well with black pepper, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, lavender and myrrh.

Pennyroyal (European): This EO should be used with extreme caution. Its scent is herbaceous and minty. It is a well known emmenagogue; do not use during pregnancy. Has some use in menstrual difficulties, often used to bring on menstruation. It’s valuable in repelling insects on animals. Can be diluted either in alcohol or vinegar as a rub to kill fleas. Many aromatherapists will not use this oil. It blends well with cedarwood and peppermint.

Pepper, Black: Sharp, spicy aroma. Its analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, cardiac, detoxicant, digestive, diuretic, laxative and stomachic. There’s the possibility of skin irritation; too much too often may over stimulate the kidneys. It is very stimulating to the mind, gives stamina where there’s frustration. Useful for muscular aches and pains and muscular stiffness as it assists with dilation of local blood vessels. Good to use before excessive exertion. Assists with rheumatoid arthritis and temporary limb paralysis. Stimulates appetite. Expels wind, quells vomiting. Restores tone to colon muscles. Banishes excess fat, possibly by aiding digestion of protein; generally expels toxins. May be helpful with anemia as it aids the formation of new blood cells. Can bring down high temperatures in very small amounts. Helpful with bruises. Blends well with basil, bergamot, cypress, grapefruit, lemon, and sandalwood.

Peppermint: Sharp, menthol fragrance. Analgesic, anesthetic, antispasmodic, astringent, decongestant, emmenagogue, expectorant, insecticide and stimulant. Should be kept away from eyes, likely to irritate skin and mucous membranes. Best avoided by pregnant women and nursing mothers as it may discourage flow of milk. May antidote homeopathic remedies. Said to relieve states of anger, hysteria and nervous trembling, excellent for mental fatigue and depression. On the body, it has a dual action: cooling when hot and warming when cold. As a remedy for colds, it halts mucous and fevers and encourages perspiration. Extremely important for its effect on the digestive system. Has a slightly anesthetic effect on stomach muscles. Good for travel sickness, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, colic and nausea. Its stimulating qualities are useful for shock, vertigo, anemia and dizziness. Its cooling and pain relieving action seems to ease headaches, migraines and toothaches. Scanty menstruation, painful periods and mastitis could well respond to this oil. Not much liked by insects and vermin. Blends well with cedarwood, cypress, lavender, niaouli and pine.

Petitgrain: Has a fragrance that is alternately woody and floral. It is antidepressant, antispasmodic and deodorant. Calms anger and panic, refreshes the mind. Eases breathing and relaxes muscle spasms. Helpful with painful digestion by calming stomach muscles. Could help in clearing up skin blemishes and pimples. Blends well with bergamot, cedarwood, lavender, neroli, orange, rosewood and sandalwood.

Pine: Fresh, forest aroma. It is antiseptic, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, and sudorific. Known to refresh a tired mind and mental fatigue. It is a powerful antiseptic and helpful in cases of bronchitis, laryngitis and influenza. Has good effect on respiratory problems. Effective with cystitis and prostate problems and known as a general kidney cleanser. Its warming properties may relieve rheumatism, gout and arthritis, may be beneficial for muscular pain and stiffness. Reputedly effective on male sexual problems, possibly impotence. Blends well with cedarwood, clove, myrtle, and niaouli.

Home