Berries & Peels
Bergamot
Citrus bergamia
The tree can grow up to 12 feet high with star-shaped flowers and smooth leaves, bearing citrus fruit that resembles a cross between an orange and grapefruit in the shape of a pear.
Bergamot oil can be used in the treatment of depression, stress, tension, fear, hysteria, infection, anorexia, psoriasis, eczema and general convalescence.
Aroma: A citrus base with a fruity and sweet smell combined with a slightly spicy floral aroma.
Blends with: Clary sage, Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, Juniper Berry, Orange, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Vetiver and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: Bergamot oil can cause severe burns when used on sensitive skin, especially if it has been recently exposed to sunlight.
Properties: analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, antibiotic, anti-spasmodic, stomachic, calmative, cicatrisant, deodorant, digestive, febrifuge, vermifuge and vulnerary.
Juniperus communis
The plant is a small, bushy shrub or tree depending on its maturity; the height can vary anywhere from 3 to 35 feet tall. It is most commonly found in the Himalayan region anywhere from 8,800 ft to 15,400 ft above sea level.
Juniper Berry essential oil is credited as being a supportive and restoring making it a great oil for meditation. The oil is also popular in weight loss and detox blends because it is a diuretic and is considered to be a purifying agent.
In traditional Indian medicine, the oil is applied externally to relieve rheumatic pain as a means of combating alopeci.
Aroma: Juniper Berry has a fresh, rich-balsamic, woody-sweet and pine needle-like odor reminiscent of evergreen oils.
Blends with: Clary Sage, Sandalwood, Bergamot, Geranium, Rosemary, Chamomile, Eucalyptus.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Juniper Berry
Juniperus communis
The plant is a small, bushy shrub or tree depending on its maturity; the height can vary anywhere from 3 to 35 feet tall. It is most commonly found in the Himalayan region anywhere from 8,800 ft to 15,400 ft above sea level.
Juniper Berry essential oil is credited as being a supportive and restoring making it a great oil for meditation. The oil is also popular in weight loss and detox blends because it is a diuretic and is considered to be a purifying agent.
In traditional Indian medicine, the oil is applied externally to relieve rheumatic pain as a means of combating alopeci.
Aroma: Juniper Berry has a fresh, rich-balsamic, woody-sweet and pine needle-like odor reminiscent of evergreen oils.
Blends with: Clary Sage, Sandalwood, Bergamot, Geranium, Rosemary, Chamomile, Eucalyptus.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Properties: antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, depurative, diuretic, rubefacient, stimulating, stomachic, sudorific, vulnerary and tonic.
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Cedarus deodora
Himalayan Cedarwood is a tall evergreen tree that can grow up to 150 feet high and is found on the slopes of the Himalayas in northern India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Himalayan Cedarwood oil has been shown to possess insecticidal and antifungal properties and has shown potential to control fungal deterioration of spices during storage.
Also referred to as the Tibetan Cedarwood since it shares much of the same territory with the Tibetan people. The ancient Egyptians used the oil for embalming and also for cosmetic and perfume.
Aroma: Himalayan Cedarwood has a dry and woody aroma, slightly camphoraceous, smoky and balsamic. Very subtle with a hint of spice.
Blends with: Blends well with citrus oils as well as Chamomile, Eucalyptus and Rosemary.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
The cinnamon tree is an evergreen native to China and Vietnam. It has shiny, leathery green leaves and small, white flowers with oval shaped purple berries.
Cinnamon Bark essential oil is a highly respected antiseptic and is a perfect additive to creams, lotions and shampoo. The herb has been used as a healing aid for upset stomach and gas, diarrhea, rheumatism, kidney ailments and abdominal pain.
The Egyptians used it for foot massages as well as a remedy for excessive bile. It was used as an ingredient of mulled wines, love potions and a sedative at birth.
Aroma: Cinnamon Bark has a warm, spicy scent that is somewhere between clove and cinnamon. It is slightly herbaceous with pepper notes.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Frankincense, Lavender, Ylang Ylang and other citrus and floral notes.
Cautions: None known.
Pinus pinaster
The evergreen tree can grow up to 130 feet tall and has reddish-brown bark that is deeply fissured with needle-like green "leaves" that grow in pairs. At maturity, the tree will produce orange-yellow flowers and brown cones.
Pine essential oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties availing it for cases of arthritis, joint and muscle aches, gout and rheumatism. It also can be used to treat intestinal disturbances, inflamed gall bladder, urinary tract infections and chronic cystitis.
Pine oil has a long history of use in saunas, steam baths and as an additive to bath and massage products targeting sore muscles.
Aroma: A woody, turpentine - like, sweet resinous, fresh, pine evergreen scent.
Blends with: Citronella, Clary Sage, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Juniper Berry, Lavender, Rosemary, Tea Tree.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
An evergreen tree with numerous branches sporting reddish colored bark and heartwood as well as leathery, thick green leaves.
Rosewood is credited with being antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, anti-parasitic cellular stimulant, immune system stimulant, tissue regenerator, tonic, antidepressant, antimicrobial, and as an aphrodisiac. It is also regarded as a general balancer to the emotions.
Rosewood essential oil can be used in facial treatments targeting extremely dry skin. The oil can also be used to nourish the scalp and keep hair looking healthy and shiny.
Rosewood has been introduced to aromatherapy only recently. Research in October of 1995 has shown this oil to have the highest inhibition rate of all the oils tested against gram positive and gram-negative bacterial growth.
Aroma: Rosewood has a fantastic warm and woody scent, while at the same time being both floral and fruity.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Frankincense, Geranium, Rosemary, and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: Not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid during pregnancy.
Santalum Album
Sandalwood trees are heavy and yellow in color with a very fine grain. Unlike other aromatic woods, Sandalwood retains its distinct aroma for decades after harvest.
Sandalwood essential oil is found in many perfumes and other fragrances. The oil is widely used throughout the Hindu and Buddhist religions. Because of its low fluorescence, the Sandalwood can serve as an immersion oil for ultra-violet and fluorescence microscopy. Medicinally, the oil can treat acne and other facial blemishes.
Sandalwood forests are located in India, Australia, Indonesia and the Pacific Islands.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Anthemis nobilis L. - syn. Chamaemelum nobile L.
Chamomile is extensively grown in central and eastern Europe. Leaves are lacy and finely divided on stems capped with small, white daisy-like flowers.
Chamomile essential oil is useful in the treatment of aches and pains in muscles and joints. Treatment of PMS symptoms with Chamomile is also beneficial especially when the symptoms are stress related.
Chamomile has long been used for medicinal and skin therapy, particularly in its native regions of Europe, whereas today it is widely recognized as a sleep aid.
Aroma: Chamomile aroma has often been referred to as "apple and hay" because of its sweet smelling, natural herbaceous scent.
Blends well: Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Rose, Rosewood andYlang Ylang.
Cautions: None known.
Syzygium aromaticum
Cloves are the rich, brown, dried and unopened flower buds of the Syzgium aromaticum, an evergreen tree of the myrtle family.
Clove essential oil is used to treat pain and also serves as an antiseptic. Clove oil can be used during dental procedures and is an excellent remedy to dental discomfort. It can also be used to treat bronchitis, common cold, cough, fever and sore throat.
Cloves are commonly found in Indonesia and Madagascar.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Pelargonium graveolens
The geranium is a hairy perennial shrub, often used in hedgerows. It stands up to 3 feet high with pointed leaves with serrated edges and pinkish-white flowers.
Geranium essential oil can be used as an astringent, haemostatic, diuretic, antiseptic, antidepressant, tonic, antibiotic, antispasmodic and as an anti-infection agent. This oil also holds an uplifting quality that is said to have a great balancing affect that extends to the skin.
The plants originated from South Africa, Madagascar, Egypt and Morocco and were introduced to the European countries in the 17th century.
Aroma: Geranium is a strong smelling oil with a floral aroma and a hint of mint.
Blends with: Bergamot, Citronella, Clary Sage, Jasmine, Juniper Berry , Lavender, Lemon and Lemongrass.
Most species of Jasmine flowers are white, although some produce a yellow flower. Jasmine is believed to have originated in the Himalayas in western China and grow throughout India.
Traditionally, jasmine essential oil has been considered both an aphrodisiac and a calming influence. The restorative nature of the oil makes it a natural remedy to stress and depression.
Jasmine flowers are gathered at night when the scent of Jasmine is strongest to begin the oil extraction processes.
Aroma: A warm, rich floral scent that can be described as sweet or sensual.
Blends with: Bergamot, Geranium, Orange, Rose and Sandalwood.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy, except during childbirth.
Properties: anti-depressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, anti-spasmodic, cicatrisant, expectorant, galactagogue, parturient, sedative and uterine.
Lavandula angustifolia
Lavender is considered an evergreen woody shrub, up to one meter tall with pale green, narrow linear leaves and violent blue flowers.
Lavender essential oil is credited as being analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodiac, antiviral, bactericide, calminative, cholagogue, cicatrisant, cordial, cytophlylactic, decongestant, deodorant and as a diuretic.
Lavender is the essential oil most commonly associated with burns and healing of the skin. It also has antiseptic and analgesic properties that will ease the pain of a burn, while preventing infection.
Aroma: Lavender from Kashmir has a sweet, green scent that is well-suited for aromatherapy.
Blends with: Bergamot, Chamomile, Citronella, Clary Sage, Geranium, Jasmine, Lemon, Orange, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Pine, Rosemary, Rosewood and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: None known.
Extracted from the leaves of rose petals, one once of essential oil requires anywhere from 1,500 to 10,000 pounds of rose petals, depending on the quality.
Rose essential oil is a major component of most perfumes. Despite the labor-intensive processes required to produce the oil, demand remains high.
The species used in production can be found in Bulgaria, Turkey, Russia, Pakistan, India, Uzbekistan, Iran, China, Morocco, France and Egypt.
Cautions: None known.
Cananga odorata
Blends with: Bergamot, Lavender, Rosewood and Sandalwood.
Properties: antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive, sedative
Cypress
Cypress is a tall evergreen tree with slender branches, small flowers and round brownish-gray seed cones.
Cypress essential oil is mainly used in aromatherapy when there has been excessive loss of fluid such as chronic diarrhea, menstrual loss or heavy perspiration. It is employed in spa treatments as an ingredient to reducing cellulites, improving fluid retention and improving poor circulation.
It is indigenous to the Mediterranean but now grows wild in many parts of the world. Cultivation and distillation are mostly in France, however some production takes place in Morocco and Spain.
Cautions: None known.
Lemongrass is a fast growing, tall, aromatic perennial grass that grows up to 4.5 feet high. It is native to Asia, but is now mostly cultivated in the West Indies, Africa and Tropical Asia.
Lemongrass essential oil is known for its invigorating and antiseptic properties. It can be used in facial toners as its astringent properties help fight acne and combat oily skin.
Traditional Indian medicine has long used Lemongrass to treat infectious illness and fever.
Aroma: A beautiful combination of earth, herbaceous and citrus tones.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Juniper Berry, Pine, Rosewood, Sandalwood and Vetiver.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid if you have glaucoma or extremely sensitive skin.
Cymbopogon martinii var motia
The wild growing palmarosa plant has long, slender stems and grassy leaves which contain its fragrance.
Palmarosa essential oil properties include use as an antiseptic, anti-bacterial, cicatrizant, digestive, febrifuge, hydrant, stimulant (digestive or circulatory) and tonic. It is also used as a fragrance component in the cosmetic, perfume and soap industries.
Palmarosa was once known as "India's Geranium Oil" and used in combination with high-quality roses native to India.
Aroma: Geranium is a strong scent that features a floral aroma with a hint of mint.
Blends with: Bergamot, Citronella, Clary Sage, Jasmine, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, and Lemongrass.
Cautions: None known.
Mentha piperata
The peppermint plant is a summer-growing perennial with upright square stems reaching 3 feet at maturity.
Peppermint leaves contain menthol, which is a proven aid to digestive problems. Peppermint essential oil is also effective in treating sinus ailments, relieving muscular discomfort or limiting the effects of monthly cycles or menopause. Its refreshing nature is an excellent combatant against bad breath.
Peppermint essential oil is one of the world's oldest medicinal herbs with documented use in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome.
Cautions: None known.
Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary is an evergreen shrub with ash-colored bark and leathery, thick leaves which feature a dark green topside and a bleak white underside.
Rosemary essential oil is best known for its uses to treat extremely dry skin. Rosemary oil also nourishes the scalp and keeps hair looking healthy and shiny.
Because it grows in such proximity of the sea. its aroma was referred to as the "dew of the sea" while its leaves were once burned in hospitals to cleanse the air.
Aroma: Palmarosa essential oil has a sweet, floral fragrance with a hint of rose.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Geranium, Rosewood, Sandalwood and floral oils.
Cautions: Not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid in pregnancy.
Sage is native to the Mediterranean region, especially the Baltic areas, and was introduced into North America during the seventeenth century.
Aroma: Sage essential oil has an earthy, fruity and floral aroma that is both nutty and herbaceous.
Blends with: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Chamomile, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Orange,
Rosewood, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Melaleuca alternifolia
The Tea Tree is a small tree or shrub with needle-like leaves. It can grow up to 21 feet in height and thrives in marshy areas.
Tea Tree essential oil has been used in vapor therapy to treat colds, measles, sinusitis and viral infections. Tea Tree oil can also be used to combat acne, oily skin, head lice and dandruff.
The aboriginal people of Australia were among the first to recognize the medicinal properties of the tea tree.
Aroma: Tee Tree essential oil has a fresh, antiseptic and medicinal scent. It also has mint and spice undertones.
Blends with: Cinnamon, Clary Sage, Clove, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Rosewood, Rosemary.
Cautions: May cause dermal sensitization in some people.
Woods, Barks & Roots
Cedarwood
Cedarus deodora
Himalayan Cedarwood is a tall evergreen tree that can grow up to 150 feet high and is found on the slopes of the Himalayas in northern India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Himalayan Cedarwood oil has been shown to possess insecticidal and antifungal properties and has shown potential to control fungal deterioration of spices during storage.
Also referred to as the Tibetan Cedarwood since it shares much of the same territory with the Tibetan people. The ancient Egyptians used the oil for embalming and also for cosmetic and perfume.
Aroma: Himalayan Cedarwood has a dry and woody aroma, slightly camphoraceous, smoky and balsamic. Very subtle with a hint of spice.
Blends with: Blends well with citrus oils as well as Chamomile, Eucalyptus and Rosemary.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Cinnamon Bark
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
The cinnamon tree is an evergreen native to China and Vietnam. It has shiny, leathery green leaves and small, white flowers with oval shaped purple berries.
Cinnamon Bark essential oil is a highly respected antiseptic and is a perfect additive to creams, lotions and shampoo. The herb has been used as a healing aid for upset stomach and gas, diarrhea, rheumatism, kidney ailments and abdominal pain.
The Egyptians used it for foot massages as well as a remedy for excessive bile. It was used as an ingredient of mulled wines, love potions and a sedative at birth.
Aroma: Cinnamon Bark has a warm, spicy scent that is somewhere between clove and cinnamon. It is slightly herbaceous with pepper notes.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Frankincense, Lavender, Ylang Ylang and other citrus and floral notes.
Cautions: None known.
Pine
Pinus pinaster
The evergreen tree can grow up to 130 feet tall and has reddish-brown bark that is deeply fissured with needle-like green "leaves" that grow in pairs. At maturity, the tree will produce orange-yellow flowers and brown cones.
Pine essential oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties availing it for cases of arthritis, joint and muscle aches, gout and rheumatism. It also can be used to treat intestinal disturbances, inflamed gall bladder, urinary tract infections and chronic cystitis.
Pine oil has a long history of use in saunas, steam baths and as an additive to bath and massage products targeting sore muscles.
Aroma: A woody, turpentine - like, sweet resinous, fresh, pine evergreen scent.
Blends with: Citronella, Clary Sage, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Juniper Berry, Lavender, Rosemary, Tea Tree.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Rosewood
Aniba rosaeodora
An evergreen tree with numerous branches sporting reddish colored bark and heartwood as well as leathery, thick green leaves.
Rosewood is credited with being antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, anti-parasitic cellular stimulant, immune system stimulant, tissue regenerator, tonic, antidepressant, antimicrobial, and as an aphrodisiac. It is also regarded as a general balancer to the emotions.
Rosewood essential oil can be used in facial treatments targeting extremely dry skin. The oil can also be used to nourish the scalp and keep hair looking healthy and shiny.
Rosewood has been introduced to aromatherapy only recently. Research in October of 1995 has shown this oil to have the highest inhibition rate of all the oils tested against gram positive and gram-negative bacterial growth.
Aroma: Rosewood has a fantastic warm and woody scent, while at the same time being both floral and fruity.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Frankincense, Geranium, Rosemary, and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: Not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid during pregnancy.
Sandalwood
Santalum Album
Sandalwood trees are heavy and yellow in color with a very fine grain. Unlike other aromatic woods, Sandalwood retains its distinct aroma for decades after harvest.
Sandalwood essential oil is found in many perfumes and other fragrances. The oil is widely used throughout the Hindu and Buddhist religions. Because of its low fluorescence, the Sandalwood can serve as an immersion oil for ultra-violet and fluorescence microscopy. Medicinally, the oil can treat acne and other facial blemishes.
Sandalwood forests are located in India, Australia, Indonesia and the Pacific Islands.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Flowers & Buds
Chamomile (Roman)
Anthemis nobilis L. - syn. Chamaemelum nobile L.
Chamomile essential oil is useful in the treatment of aches and pains in muscles and joints. Treatment of PMS symptoms with Chamomile is also beneficial especially when the symptoms are stress related.
Chamomile has long been used for medicinal and skin therapy, particularly in its native regions of Europe, whereas today it is widely recognized as a sleep aid.
Aroma: Chamomile aroma has often been referred to as "apple and hay" because of its sweet smelling, natural herbaceous scent.
Blends well: Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Lavender, Rose, Rosewood andYlang Ylang.
Cautions: None known.
Clove
Syzygium aromaticum
Clove essential oil is used to treat pain and also serves as an antiseptic. Clove oil can be used during dental procedures and is an excellent remedy to dental discomfort. It can also be used to treat bronchitis, common cold, cough, fever and sore throat.
Cloves are commonly found in Indonesia and Madagascar.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Geranium
Pelargonium graveolens
The geranium is a hairy perennial shrub, often used in hedgerows. It stands up to 3 feet high with pointed leaves with serrated edges and pinkish-white flowers.
Geranium essential oil can be used as an astringent, haemostatic, diuretic, antiseptic, antidepressant, tonic, antibiotic, antispasmodic and as an anti-infection agent. This oil also holds an uplifting quality that is said to have a great balancing affect that extends to the skin.
The plants originated from South Africa, Madagascar, Egypt and Morocco and were introduced to the European countries in the 17th century.
Aroma: Geranium is a strong smelling oil with a floral aroma and a hint of mint.
Blends with: Bergamot, Citronella, Clary Sage, Jasmine, Juniper Berry , Lavender, Lemon and Lemongrass.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Jasmine
Most species of Jasmine flowers are white, although some produce a yellow flower. Jasmine is believed to have originated in the Himalayas in western China and grow throughout India.
Traditionally, jasmine essential oil has been considered both an aphrodisiac and a calming influence. The restorative nature of the oil makes it a natural remedy to stress and depression.
Jasmine flowers are gathered at night when the scent of Jasmine is strongest to begin the oil extraction processes.
Aroma: A warm, rich floral scent that can be described as sweet or sensual.
Blends with: Bergamot, Geranium, Orange, Rose and Sandalwood.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy, except during childbirth.
Properties: anti-depressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, anti-spasmodic, cicatrisant, expectorant, galactagogue, parturient, sedative and uterine.
Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia
Lavender is considered an evergreen woody shrub, up to one meter tall with pale green, narrow linear leaves and violent blue flowers.
Lavender essential oil is credited as being analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodiac, antiviral, bactericide, calminative, cholagogue, cicatrisant, cordial, cytophlylactic, decongestant, deodorant and as a diuretic.
Lavender is the essential oil most commonly associated with burns and healing of the skin. It also has antiseptic and analgesic properties that will ease the pain of a burn, while preventing infection.
Aroma: Lavender from Kashmir has a sweet, green scent that is well-suited for aromatherapy.
Blends with: Bergamot, Chamomile, Citronella, Clary Sage, Geranium, Jasmine, Lemon, Orange, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Pine, Rosemary, Rosewood and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: None known.
Rose (Indian)
Rose essential oil is a major component of most perfumes. Despite the labor-intensive processes required to produce the oil, demand remains high.
The species used in production can be found in Bulgaria, Turkey, Russia, Pakistan, India, Uzbekistan, Iran, China, Morocco, France and Egypt.
Cautions: None known.
Ylang Ylang
Cananga odorata
Ylang Ylang is a tall tropical tree that can grow 60 feet high with large and tender pink, mauve or yellow flowers.
Ylang Ylang essential oil can assist with problems such as high blood pressure, rapid breathing and heartbeat, nervous conditions, impotence and frigidity.
In Indonesia, Ylang Ylang flower petals are strewn upon the bed of newlywed couples.
Aroma: Ylang Ylang essential oil has a sweet, exotic, floral scent.
Blends with: Bergamot, Lavender, Rosewood and Sandalwood.
Properties: antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive, sedative
Cautions: None known.
Herbs & Leaves
Citronella
Cymbopogon Winterianus
Citronella oil is extracted from a resilient grass native to Sri Lanka and Indonesia that grows approximately 3 feet in height.
Citronella essential oil is credited with having therapeutic properties as an antiseptic, deodrant, insecticide, parasitic, tonic and stimulant. The oil can also help with minor infection, but is more commonly known for its ability to assist in combating colds and the flu. Citronella can also treat excessive perspiration as well as oily hair and skin.
Recent history indicates that Citronella has become the insect repellent of choice for health conscious customers.
Aroma: Citronella Java has a well rounded lemon citrus scent, though it is much softer than actual Lemon, and features subtle wood tones.
Blends with: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Geranium, Lemon, Orange, Lavender and Pine.
Cautions: Citronella may irritate sensitive skin.
Cypress is a tall evergreen tree with slender branches, small flowers and round brownish-gray seed cones.
Cypress essential oil is mainly used in aromatherapy when there has been excessive loss of fluid such as chronic diarrhea, menstrual loss or heavy perspiration. It is employed in spa treatments as an ingredient to reducing cellulites, improving fluid retention and improving poor circulation.
It is indigenous to the Mediterranean but now grows wild in many parts of the world. Cultivation and distillation are mostly in France, however some production takes place in Morocco and Spain.
Cautions: None known.
Lemongrass
Cymbopogon flexuosus
Lemongrass is a fast growing, tall, aromatic perennial grass that grows up to 4.5 feet high. It is native to Asia, but is now mostly cultivated in the West Indies, Africa and Tropical Asia.
Lemongrass essential oil is known for its invigorating and antiseptic properties. It can be used in facial toners as its astringent properties help fight acne and combat oily skin.
Traditional Indian medicine has long used Lemongrass to treat infectious illness and fever.
Aroma: A beautiful combination of earth, herbaceous and citrus tones.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Juniper Berry, Pine, Rosewood, Sandalwood and Vetiver.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy. Avoid if you have glaucoma or extremely sensitive skin.
Palmarosa
Cymbopogon martinii var motia
Palmarosa essential oil properties include use as an antiseptic, anti-bacterial, cicatrizant, digestive, febrifuge, hydrant, stimulant (digestive or circulatory) and tonic. It is also used as a fragrance component in the cosmetic, perfume and soap industries.
Palmarosa was once known as "India's Geranium Oil" and used in combination with high-quality roses native to India.
Aroma: Geranium is a strong scent that features a floral aroma with a hint of mint.
Blends with: Bergamot, Citronella, Clary Sage, Jasmine, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, and Lemongrass.
Cautions: None known.
Peppermint
Mentha piperata
The peppermint plant is a summer-growing perennial with upright square stems reaching 3 feet at maturity.
Peppermint leaves contain menthol, which is a proven aid to digestive problems. Peppermint essential oil is also effective in treating sinus ailments, relieving muscular discomfort or limiting the effects of monthly cycles or menopause. Its refreshing nature is an excellent combatant against bad breath.
Peppermint essential oil is one of the world's oldest medicinal herbs with documented use in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome.
Cautions: None known.
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary is an evergreen shrub with ash-colored bark and leathery, thick leaves which feature a dark green topside and a bleak white underside.
Rosemary essential oil is best known for its uses to treat extremely dry skin. Rosemary oil also nourishes the scalp and keeps hair looking healthy and shiny.
Because it grows in such proximity of the sea. its aroma was referred to as the "dew of the sea" while its leaves were once burned in hospitals to cleanse the air.
Aroma: Palmarosa essential oil has a sweet, floral fragrance with a hint of rose.
Blends with: Cedarwood, Geranium, Rosewood, Sandalwood and floral oils.
Cautions: Not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid in pregnancy.
Sage
This evergreen is a highly aromatic and perennial shrub that grows about 2 feet high. It does best in dry, sunny climates and in well-drained soil. The leaves appear rough-textured, gray-green in color and have a camphor-like aroma.
Sage essential oil has been used to improve short-term memory when administered in the form of a dietary supplement. Sage oil possess astringent, antiseptic, antispasmodic and antibacterial properties.
Sage is native to the Mediterranean region, especially the Baltic areas, and was introduced into North America during the seventeenth century.
Aroma: Sage essential oil has an earthy, fruity and floral aroma that is both nutty and herbaceous.
Blends with: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Chamomile, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Orange,
Rosewood, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy.
Tea Tree
Melaleuca alternifolia
The Tea Tree is a small tree or shrub with needle-like leaves. It can grow up to 21 feet in height and thrives in marshy areas.
Tea Tree essential oil has been used in vapor therapy to treat colds, measles, sinusitis and viral infections. Tea Tree oil can also be used to combat acne, oily skin, head lice and dandruff.
The aboriginal people of Australia were among the first to recognize the medicinal properties of the tea tree.
Aroma: Tee Tree essential oil has a fresh, antiseptic and medicinal scent. It also has mint and spice undertones.
Blends with: Cinnamon, Clary Sage, Clove, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Rosewood, Rosemary.
Cautions: May cause dermal sensitization in some people.
