[E406]Extraction Of Essential Oils

Essential oils provide a fantastic natural alternative to
common ailments we see at home. Those interested in
alternative remedies and natural health, wellness and
fitness will appreciate these natural wonders. The of
essential oils are broad, ranging from topical antiseptics
and anti-inflammatories to analgesics, digestive system
tonics, and anti-depressants. While essential oils should
not be a substitute for professional medical care, they can
be successfully employed for many minor complaints, and as
adjuncts to other therapies. Here we will have a brief look
at ten essential oils which may comprise the 'basic home
care kit'. While by no means exhaustive, this list will go
a long way to providing effective (and often pleasant!)
treatments for you and your family for things like cuts and
scrapes, burns, digestive troubles, stress related
conditions and more.
Tea Tree Essential Oil - When first examined for it's
antiseptic properties, Tea Tree essential oil was found to
be 100 times more powerful than carbolic acid - the medical
standard at the time. Tea tree has an extremely broad range
of antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties that have
been confirmed by modern scientific research. Often used
topically on small wounds, Tea Tree is also commonly found
in oral hygiene preparations, and can also be effectively
employed for Candida, athlete's foot and acne, among other
things.
Lavender Essential Oil - Lavender is the most widely used
essential oil due to its broad range of healing properties
along with its popular aroma. Lavender is most well-known
for its soothing scent, often used in diffusers or on the
bedsheets to improve sleep or to help 'wind-down' at the
end of a stressful day. Lavender is the first line of
defense for minor burns; its healing powers actually ignited
the modern medical aromatherapy revolution through a
chemist's laboratory accident. The first liquid available
to quench his burning hands was lavender oil - the
remarkable speed of healing prompted the writing of the
first modern aromatherapy text in France.
Chamomile Essential Oil - Distilled from delicate white
flowers, the oil of Chamomile is also a great stress
reliever, very useful in households with children. The oil
can be utilized undiluted as a foot or belly rub to bring
calm in chaotic times - it is a very highly regarded oil for
this effect. (For infants, a 1% dilution of true Vanilla
essential oil will have an equal effect, and may be more
comforting to the very young).
Peppermint Essential Oil - Peppermint is often employed for
tummy troubles and for motion sickness. A drop in a cup of
warm water is excellent for those who can tolerate its
potent taste; a drop in a teaspoon of honey is effective for
younger ones. Spearmint should be used instead for children
under three years. Peppermint is also an excellent mental
stimulant, bringing clarity and alertness (though it should
not be used in cases of epilepsy due to its potency).
Peppermint can be inhaled from a tissue or diffuser (with
care taken not to touch the sensitive skin under the nose) -
it is the oil of choice for use in car diffusers to keep the
driver alert and to clear the stuffy air. Peppermint is also
an effective mosquito repellent, and can be added in small
amounts to neutral skin creams or suntan lotions for this
effect.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil - Another essential oil with a
broad range of properties, Eucalyptus is most often used for
respiratory conditions, being useful in clearing congestion
with coughs and colds. However, it's effects are certainly
not limited to the airways - because of it's broad range of
effects, it has been called the aromatherapists 'designer
oil'. Eucalyptus oil can cool the body in Summer (or due to
fever - use in a compress), and support the immune system in
Winter. Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most
staphylococcus bacteria, again being supportive of bronchial
infections. It is considered equally effective in cases of
cystitis, Candida, and sunburn, to name a few, as well as
being an insect repellent.
Geranium Essential Oil - Geranium or Geranium Rose also
works wonderfully on both physiological and psychological
levels. It's floral aroma is brightening and uplifting,
while also working as a calming agent. Adding the oil to a
bath, or spraying on the body with a water mixture after a
long day's efforts can work wonders for revitalizing mind
and body, particularly for women. Geranium oil can be
effective for menopausal problems, uterine and breast
complaints, and again is worth further investigation for
these issues. On a completely different front, Geranium Rose
is gaining popularity as a tick repellent for pets; utilize
on the coat in a dilute water spray or place one or more
drops directly on the animal's collar for this effect.
Helichrysum Italicum Essential Oil - This is the wonder oil
for sports injuries and bruises of all kinds. Its effects
are recounted time and time again by active sports and
fitness enthusiasts sustaining injuries of all kinds. Highly
regarded in the aromatherapy literature, Helichrysum
Italicum can be applied directly to any impact-related
injury to dramatically reduce healing time. Only a small
amount is needed for each application, and can be used
sparingly if cost is an issue - Helichrysum Italicum oil can
be diluted to 10% in a carrier for regular application to
chronic injuries, aches and pains. It can provide similar
healing action to damaged skin, particularly when blended to
three percent dilution in Rosehip Seed and Hazelnut oils.
Thyme Essential Oil - Thyme is a potent antiviral,
antibiotic, and antiseptic oil. There are many types of
Thyme, with only the linalool chemotype appropriate for use
with children. Thyme can be a first line of defense in cases
of flu or sinus infections, being inhaled regularly from a
diffuser. Alternatively, for sinusitis, a drop can be placed
on a small square of tissue paper, with the paper then
rolled so that the drop is in the inside. The paper can then
be placed in the nostril to the oil can slowly be
'diffused' into the sinus cavity. Further research can
help you find particular uses for this wonderful oil.
Lemon Essential Oil - A recent study on test-taking college
students showed the diffusion of Lemon oil into a room
improved tests cores more than any other oil. In addition to
it's mind-brightening qualities, it can also disinfect room
air and act as a natural deodorant. Lemon has been noted to
support liver function, and is also commonly used to assist
in weight loss and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon
adds a pleasant top note, and can create a synergistic
effect with other oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used
as both a fragrance and flavoring agent.
Clove Essential Oil - Clove is a powerful oil in many
respects. It can be added in small amounts to your Lemon
antiseptic blend for an extra punch, and for a pleasing
'spicy' aroma addition. Clove oil has long been used
topically for toothaches, and can hold one over until a
visit to the dentist can be scheduled. The oil is taken in
small amounts internally by some; it is the strongest
anti-oxidant oil known (by an order of magnitude over any
other), and is included in many anti-parasite protocols when
performing an intestinal cleanse. In the cooler months,
it's aroma lends itself to creating a warm, homey
atmosphere.
This round's out a wonderful beginning 'home care kit'
for the natural health, wellness and fitness enthusiasts.
These oils can offer a wonderful introduction to the world
of aromatherapy, particularly due to their obviously
practical uses. There are a great many more varieties of
oils, with a corresponding number of healing properties for
both the body and the mind. As always with essential oils,
there potent nature demands a certain amount of respect with
their use - start slowly in any case, and consult a
knowledgeable practitioner if you have any questions about
their application. Most of all, enjoy the experience of
including these healing liquids in your life and have fun!