Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica, Juniperus virginiana, or J. Mexicana)
Most “cedarwood” oil comes from juniper!
Healing Power: North American Indians used this scent to treat respiratory infections, and today it is believed to ease coughing and other cold and flu symptoms. It’s also an effective insect repellent.
For Best Results: Inhale or use as a compress. Causes skin irritation in some people. May increase menstrual flow. Avoid if pregnant.
Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Pressed from daisy-like flowers, it has a fruity aroma.
Healing Power: Known for its calming effects, it is thought to reduce inflammation and fight skin infections.
For Best Results: Use topically or add 6–10 drops to running bathwater. Low toxicity makes it particularly safe, even for children.
Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
Not to be confused with the common sage, Salvia officinalis.
Healing Power: Its antiseptic and astringent qualities help relieve skin inflammation, including acne. It also is used to ease tension headaches.
For Best Results: Mix up to five drops in about 10 ml of water and use in an aromatic oil burner. Do not use if drinking alcoholic beverages. Avoid if operating machinery or driving. Do not use while pregnant.
Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
Distilled from the cones of the cypress tree.
Healing Power: This aroma is said to build emotional and mental resolve. Inhaling it may help relieve the symptoms of throat and respiratory infections.
For Best Results: Place a few drops on a radiator or in a saucer of water and leave in a warm part of the house. May cause allergic reactions. Avoid if you suffer from high blood pressure.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Its head-clearing aroma is a key ingredient in Vicks VapoRub.
Healing Power: A powerful antiseptic and healing agent, it also is renowned as a treatment for respiratory complaints.
For Best Results: Massage mixed with a carrier oil onto the chest, or add three drops to the dust bag of your vacuum cleaner to repel dust mites and freshen the air throughout your home. Nontoxic externally, but internally it is very toxic—3.5 ml is usually fatal.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
A staple of Asian cuisine, ginger is used in Indian medicine to combat arthritis.
Healing Power: Noted for its warming and decongestant properties, ginger also helps fight off colds and flu and reduces fever by inducing perspiration.
For Best Results: Massage mixed with a carrier oil onto the chest, inhale, or add six drops to running bathwater. May irritate the skin if applied undiluted..
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)
The oil is taken from the fresh, blue flower spikes.
Healing Power: Alleviates stress and depression, induces relaxation and sleep, and promotes circulation.
For Best Results: Use topically or add 10 drops to bathwater. Sheets washed in water containing lavender oil may promote sleep. Nontoxic, but the scent may trigger nausea if too much is used.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Now wild throughout the United States, this plant is native to Europe and Asia.
Healing Power: Relieves pain when applied externally to sore muscles. Also fights fever and helps to ease headaches and respiratory infections.
For Best Results: To ease skin infections and inflammation, add three to five drops to bath water. For relief of respiratory ailments, add two drops to a bowl of steaming water and inhale the vapor for five minutes.
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Products made with this plant have a menthol-citrus scent.
Healing Power: Widely recognized as a powerful tool against a variety of harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds, and parasites.
For Best Results: Only a small amount of peppermint is required, whether used topically or in bathwater. Keep eyes closed when inhaling its scent and wash hands thoroughly after use. Keep away from the faces of small children; may cause wheezing or an involuntary gagging response.
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