Your Simple Guide to Aromatherapy by Dr. R.J. Peters & Tamar Goldstein - HTML preview

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Some Common Essential Oils

Eucalyptus

 

cough or a cold. It has also been used in the treatment of flu. Other uses have

 

included easing the pain of arthritis and muscular aches and pains. Eucalyptus

 

should be diluted, and avoided during pregnancy.

 

Geranium Possible uses for this oil include acne, bruises, burns, cellulitis, poor

 

circulation, cuts, some skin conditions, swelling, hemorrhoids, hormonal imbalances,

 

insomnia, kidney stones, lice, liver congestion, menopause, neuralgia, ringworm,

 

shingles, sore throat, spider veins, stress, and tonsillitis. May cause skin irritation in

 

some; do not use if pregnant or lactating. It also turns out to be a great mosquito

 

repellent.

 

Rosemary This oil has been used in the treatment of acne, arteriosclerosis,

 

asthma, bronchitis, candida, cellulite, poor circulation, colds, colitis, dandruff,

 

dermatitis, dysmenorrhea, digestive upsets, eczema, fatigue, flatulence, flu, fluid

 

retention, gout, hair loss, headache, infections, insect repellent, liver problems, low

 

blood pressure, muscle pain, ovarian problems, palpitations, scalp stimulator,

 

sinusitis, stress, tachycardia, varicose veins, and whooping cough. Do not use when pregnant, or if there is high blood pressure or epilepsy. It can also

 

be a mild skin irritant. However, it is also very relaxing.

 

Thyme has been used for abrasions, abscesses, acne, and animal bites, as well

 

as a general antibacterial, antibiotic, anti fungal, and antiparasitic. Some also have

 

found relief for arteriosclerosis, arthritis, athlete's foot, boils, bronchitis, cold sores,

 

colds, constipation, cuts, bladder infections, dandruff, and as a disinfectant. Thyme

 

oil contains toxic phenols which can irritate the skin and mucous membranes and

 

cause sensitization of the skin to sunlight in some individuals. Use in moderation,

 

highly diluted. Thyme Oil should NEVER be put directly on the skin. It should

 

always be mixed with another oil. Serious burning can occur from direct,

 

concentrated contact.

 

Lemon uses of this oil include treatment of acne, anemia, anxiety, arthritis,

 

asthma, boils, brittle nails, bruises, bronchitis, colds, corns and cuts, It also has been

 

found effective in dealing with insect bites, intestinal parasites, mouth ulcers,

 

nosebleeds, tonsillitis, varicose veins, and warts. Avoid sunlight following

 

application, as it may cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is not for babies or

 

young children.

 

Basil Possible uses include treatment of stress related headaches, migraines

 

and allergies. It has been used for asthma, bronchitis and sinus infections. It can

 

also be effective in some cases of constipation, nausea, vomiting, cramps, and other

 

menstrual problems. It may relieve gout, arthritis, and may help to control acne.

 

In general, it refreshes the skin and can also be used on insect bites.

 

Although basil oil usually stimulates, in excess it can have a stupefying effect and

 

should not be used during pregnancy or on children under 16. Since it can irritate

 

sensitive skin, it must be used with care on people with sensitive skin, and also must

 

be avoided during pregnancy.

 

Peppermint may be used for antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and

 

antispasmodic effects, as well as for bronchitis, colds, constipation, dermatitis,

 

indigestion, relief of diverticulosis, dysmenorrhea, flatulence, gingivitis, hay fever,

 

headaches, heartburn, heatstroke, hemorrhoids, insect repellent, itching, jet lag,

 

muscular aches, nausea, rheumatoid arthritis, ringworm, scabies, sinusitis,

 

sunburns, tendonitis, toothaches, upper abdominal pain, varicose veins, vomiting,

 

and water retention. The oil is nontoxic but may sensitize the skin to sunlight. It also

 

may be an irritant in higher concentrations. It should never be put directly on the

 

skin. Always mix it with another oil. Serious burning can occur from direct concentrated contact.

Section 5

One of the most pleasant, relaxing and therapeutic ways of experiencing aromatherapy,