Essential Oils Descriptions & Precautions R-Z


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Raventsara: Clove/eucalyptus-type odor, a mild version of Rosemary fragrance. It is highly anti-viral. Anisata is from the bark of the tree and Aromatica is from the leaves. Both are used for clearing the sinus and breathing passages, loosening tight muscles, relieving menstrual discomfort and aches and pains. Very safe on the skin, good for cold sores, shingles and genital herpes. It is a muscle relaxant and analgesic. Do not use anisata while pregnant. Blends well with chamomile, lavender and pine.

Rose Otto: Deep, sweet and flowery, an exquisite perfume. Also known as Damask Rose from Bulgaria. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, bactericide, diuretic, emmenagogue, laxative, sedative and stomachic. Since it is an emmenagogue, it is best avoided in pregnancy. Has a soothing effect on the emotions, particularly depression, grief, jealousy and resentment. Lifts and heart and eases nervous tension and stress. Gives a woman positive feelings about herself. Clams premenstrual tension, promotes vaginal secretions and regulates the menstrual cycle. Its beneficial action on infertility aids "male" problems too probably by increasing the semen. Helpful with sexual difficulties, particularly frigidity and impotence. Release the "happy" hormone dopamine. Activates sluggish blood circulation, relieving cardiac congestion and toning the capillaries. Relieves nausea, vomiting and constipation to some extent. Has a purging action on toxins, the Romans valued it for hangovers. Has a soothing action on sore throats and eases coughs. Useful for all skin types, though particularly good for mature, dry, hard or sensitive skin. Valuable treatment for broken thread veins. Blends well with bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, geranium, lavender, orange and sandalwood.

Rosemary: A refreshing herbal fragrance. It is analgesic, antidepressant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, cicatrizant, digestive, diuretic, hypertensive and stomachic. Not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid in pregnancy since it is an emmenagogue. Might antidote homeopathic remedies. Clears the head and aids memory. Good for mental strain. Revives the senses. Clears headaches and migraines, especially when connected to gastric problems. May assist with vertigo. Helps to tone temporarily paralyzed limbs. Helps ease gout and tired, overworked muscles. Normalizes blood pressure. Could ease colitis, flatulence and stomach pains. Seems to relieve menstrual cramps and scanty periods. Its diuretic properties may be useful with water retention during menstruation and may be effective with cellulite and obesity. Blends well with basil, cedarwood, frankincense, ginger, grapefruit, orange and peppermint.

Rosemary verbenone: This chemotype of Rosemary shows how populations of a single species can differ in chemical composition. This type is soft, warm, sweet, and most skin-friendly. Its best known use is as a facial oil for extremely dry skin (combine with carrot seed, lavender, 2% in hazelnut or fractionated coconut oil). The verbenone chemotype is even more effective at clearing catarrh than standard Rosemary. It is less stimulating generally and especially less of a mental stimulant, so it can be used in the evening. Dilute before adding to baths, may be a skin irritant.

Rosewood (Bois de Rose): Sweet, woody, floral and slightly spicy aroma. It is analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, deodorant, and insecticide. It is said to stabilize the central nervous system and could therefore have an overall balancing effect. Helpful when feeling low, overwhelmed with problems. May give a helpful boost to a lowered immune system. Its acclaimed aphrodisiac properties may work wonders in restoring libido and could have some effect on sexual problems such as impotence and frigidity. Reputedly helpful for persons who have suffered sexual abuse. May relieve headaches when accompanied by nausea and may also relieve jet lag. Its deodorizing action helps the body cope with excess heat and moisture. Also valuable as an insect repellent. Blends well with cedarwood, coriander, frankincense, rose, sandalwood and vetiver.

Sandalwood: Woody, sweet and exotic aroma. Antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, diuretic, expectorant and sedative. Its lingering aroma often persists in clothing after washing. Avoid in states of depression as it may lower the mood even further. Its aphrodisiac properties are well known. Alleviates cystitis (massage in the kidney region where it has a purifying and anti-inflammatory action). Its aphrodisiac properties can relieve sexual problems such as frigidity and impotence. Its antispasmodic action on the body should encourage relaxation. May have a cleansing action on the sexual organs, once was used to alleviate sexually transmitted diseases. Could be useful in promoting vaginal secretions. Helpful with chest infections and sore throats. Aids sleep during colds and flu. Stimulates the immune system and keeps infection at bay. May also treat heartburn and may be helpful with diarrhea. Particularly good for dry eczema as well as ageing and dehydrated skins. Relieves itching and inflammation. Blends well with basil, black pepper, frankincense, geranium, lavender, lemon, neroli, rose, and vetiver.

Spearmint: Very similar to peppermint, slightly sweeter. Antispasmodic, emmenagogue, insecticide, parturient and stimulant. If used in full body massage, use only a minute amount; massage in local areas may be preferable. Possibility of eye irritation, as well as sensitive skin. Avoid in pregnancy. Could antidote homeopathic remedies. Stimulates a tired mind. Helpful with digestive problems such as vomiting , flatulence, constipation and diarrhea. Seems to relax stomach muscles, relieves hiccups and nausea. May help with seasickness. Releases retention of urine and apparently dissolves kidney stones. It controls overabundance of breast milk as well as hardening of the breasts. By the same token, it could stem the flow of heavy periods and leucorrhoea. It is said to promote easier labor during childbirth. Good for headaches, bad breath and sore gums. May help sores and scabs. Blends well with basil, grapefruit and rosemary.

Spruce: Fresh pine, bitter orange peel aroma. Recommended for relief of stress and anxiety. Also recommended for muscle aches and pains, aching joints, poor circulation, muscle spasms. It is been known to be helpful for bronchitis or asthma. Blends well with Lavender and Clary sage.

Tagetes: Also called Mexican Marigold (not to be confused with pot marigold or Calendula officinalis). Its scent has been used as a deterrent to house flies. The oil has a minty, sweetish, fruity odor and is a well-known fungicide and antiparasitic. Many people find the aroma somewhat disturbing. Kills roundworms in the gut. Also indicated for respiratory infections, absence of menstruation outside pregnancy, athlete's foot, and ringworm. Considered antispasmodic, bactericidal, fungicidal, vermifugal and emmenagogic. Not to be used on pregnant women and children, considered a neurotoxic and abortive. Excessive skin use is discouraged, as it can cause serious photosensitivity, do not use prior to exposure to simulated or natural sunlight. This oil is extremely difficult to work with, for the penetrating aroma has the curious property of becoming stronger when combined with other essences. It may be acceptable when blended with orange, lemon or lavender. Tagetes should be used in concentrations of less than 0.5%.

Tangerine: Sweet and tangy aroma. It is antiseptic, antispasmodic, sedative and stomachic. Could be phototoxic; care should be taken not to expose the skin to strong sunlight after treatment. Has an almost hypnotic effect on the mind. May well be helpful with stress and tension due to its soothing action on the nervous system. Assists with gastric complaints, such as flatulence, diarrhea and constipation. Stimulates flow of bile which helps to digest fats. Assists with tired and aching limbs since it is a tonic to the vascular system. Could help smooth out stretch marks, particularly when blended with lavender and neroli. Blends well with basil, bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, frankincense, neroli, orange and rose.

Tea Tree (Ti-Tree): Fresh and sanitary, rather pungent aroma. Like lavender, it would take five pages to list all the redeeming qualities of this oil. It is antibiotic, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericide, cicatrizant, expectorant, fungicide, insecticide and sudorific. May cause irritation on sensitive areas of skin; however, along with Lavender, it is just about the only oil that is recommended to be used "neat" or straight from the bottle without dilution. It has a refreshing, revitalizing effect on the mind, especially after shock. Its most important usage is to help the immune system fight off infectious diseases. Activates the white corpuscles to form a defense against invading organisms and helps to shorten the duration of illness. Sweats toxins out of the body. Indicated for influenza, cold sores, and gingivitis. A series of massage with this oil before surgery will help to fortify the body. Its strong antiviral and germicidal properties are useful in repeated infections. Its fungicidal properties help clear vaginal thrush and is of value with genital infections generally. Alleviates urinary tract problems such as cystitis. Gives relief to genital and anal itching as well as general itching from chicken pox to rashes caused by insect bites. Said to give some protection against x-ray therapy in breast cancer. It will apparently reduce scarring when applied before treatment as the protective film will guard against very deep penetration of the x-rays. Helps to ease otitis. Reduces pus in infected wounds. Clears ports and blemishes caused by chicken pox and shingles. Useful with burns, sores, sunburn, ringworm, warts, tinea, herpes and athletes foot. Helpful with dry conditions of the scalp as well as dandruff. Blends well with cinnamon, clove, cypress, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, and thyme.

Thyme, red: A rather sweet and strongly herbal fragrance. It is well known as being antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, cardiac, cicatrizant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant and insecticide. This is a very potent oil, one of the strongest antiseptics and toxicity is possible with prolonged use. Not to be used in cases of high blood pressure nor in pregnancy. Activates brain cells, thereby aiding memory and concentration. Revives feelings of exhaustion and combats depression. Fortifies the lungs when treating colds, coughs and sore throats particularly tonsillitis, laryngitis and the like. Rather warming and helps to eliminate phlegm. Helps the body fight disease. Raise low blood pressure. Since its stimulating effect facilitates the removal of uric acid may be recommended for rheumatism, gout and arthritis. May stop nosebleeds. Helps with sluggish digestion and wind. Speeds delivery in childbirth and expelling the afterbirth, could cause miscarriage. A tonic for the scalp and may be effective with dandruff and hair loss. Blends well with bergamot, cedarwood, chamomile, and lemon.

Valerian root: Highly sedative in action. Due to its "dirty-socks" smell it is not an oil for perfumery. As a relaxing/sleep inducing blend it has no equal. It is also known to calm down dogs and cats, although cats do tend to be more sensitive to essential oils than dogs. Use with caution on dogs and cats.

Verbena: Smells of sweet lemons. It is antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, digestive, emollient, insecticide and stomachic. Recent pharmacological tests have proven this oil to be phototoxic and a strong skin sensitizer. Not recommended for massages. It is famous for banishing depression due to its tonic, soothing effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. Works on the digestive system, especially controlling stomach spasm and cramp, nausea, indigestion and flatulence. Stimulates the appetite. A cooling action on the liver mitigates inflammation and infection, as in cirrhosis, and could be beneficial in cases of alcoholism. Helpful for bronchitis as well as nasal and sinus congestion. Said to avert convulsions. Soothes asthmatic coughs. Calms heart palpitations; may deal with nervous insomnia. Its reputation as an aphrodisiac probably stems from its ability to calm underlying tension. Keeps down skin puffiness. Blends well with basil, bergamot, chamomile, geranium, neroli, rose, and rosemary.

Vetivert: Deep, smoky, earthy aroma. It is antiseptic, aphrodisiac, sedative, nervine. It is a calming oil, excellent for stress and tension. Settles the nerves. May be useful in helping people ease off tranquilizers. Said to cleanse the aura (the energy field around the body) and to strengthen the auric shield which can be instrumental in keeping out disease. Very helpful in cases of mental and physical exhaustion. It assists with increasing blood flow, thereby being able to alleviate muscular aches and pains. A tonic to the reproductive system and its relaxing quality seems to have some effect on tension underlying sexual problems. Helpful in cases of insomnia. May have a healing effect on acne. Blends well with frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, rose, sandalwood and ylang ylang.

Wintergreen: Very refreshing aroma. Use with caution, the EO is approximately 99% salicylate, the main ingredient in aspirin (irritant, sensitizing). Use tiny amounts in muscle/joint blends, patch test. Not recommended for usage in persons who take aspirin regularly.

Yarrow: Common name is Milfoil (Achillea millefolium). Its aroma is dry and herbaceous with pale yellow to brilliant blue color. It's a well known anti-inflammatory and is indicated for prostate or menstrual problems and neuralgia. Because of its high content of Azulene, Yarrow oil is used in skin care for acne, eczema and inflammation to minimize varicose veins and reduce scars. Yarrow provides protection from ticks. It is also used to counter the ill effects of radiation therapy.

Ylang Ylang (all grades): Sweet, floral, heavy aroma. The grades (I, II, III and Complete) indicate from which part of the steam distillation process the oil was obtained, with grade I being of the highest quality, Complete being made up of all fractionations of the oil and grade III being an excellent ingredient for soapmaking. Ylang Ylang Complete is the complete, total product without any fractionation; it has a finer, more intense creamy-sweet nuance. Ylang Ylang both relaxes and arouses; in Europe, therapists use it for sexual dysfunction. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, sedative. Excessive use may lead to headaches and nausea. Could possibly irritate sensitive skins and indicated against use on inflammatory skin conditions and dermatitis. Could well ease feelings of anger, anxiety, shock, panic and fear. Useful with rapid breathing and heartbeat; its sedative properties could help bring down high blood pressure. Has a tonic and stimulating effect on the scalp promoting a more luxurious hair growth. Blends well with bergamot, citronella, jasmine, lavender, lemon, rose, sandalwood and verbena.

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You should acquire some basic knowledge of the usage and precautions of essential oils prior to using them. It is generally recommended that most essential oils be diluted in carrier or fixed oils and not applied directly to the skin with the exception of lavender and tea tree, although allergic reactions to these two oils have been reported by a small percentage of users.

If you’re pregnant or have any of the following conditions, you should exercise extreme caution prior to using any of the oils which may affect persons with heart problems, high or low blood pressure, diabetes, epilepsy, and/or immune deficiency. Dosages for children and the elderly should be diluted further. There are many excellent reference books available on the subject of essential oils and aromatherapy. We strongly recommend the user of essential oils to read up on the subject or attend classes to further become familiar with these fabulous oils. And as always, we strongly recommend you to seek qualified medical attention for any unresolved, undiagnosed or major medical condition. We sell all our products to persons who wish to use the raw materials to create a finished product or obtain a desired result.
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