Merry Thursday all my loyal and new friends!
Today I am going to share with you each essential oils unique qualities. Most essential oils fall into one of eight broad categories, so if you are preparing a recipe and cannot find the oil it calls for you can look to this guide to pick another oil from the same group as the oil called for.....this is great to print and hang where you can see it.
~Peace~
Essential Oils & The Groups They Fall Into
Antiseptic~These oils have a camphorous smell, and have strong antiviral, antiseptic and cleansing properties. They can be used to disinfect the atmosphere, as well as cuts and scrapes:
- Cajeput
- Eucalyptus
- Tea Tree
Fresh~These oils have a stimulating effect on the mind and body. They are natural disinfectants and are good for easing digestive and urinary complaints:
- Cypress
- Niaouli
- Peppermint
- Pine
- Spearmint
Citrus~These oils all have a stimulating effect on the mind and body, especially the immune system. They can perk up tired minds and muscles, and are also good natural skin toners:
- Bergamot
- Citronella
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Lemongrass
- Melissa
Warm Citrus~Some citrus oils have a warmer, more floral scent. These often share properties with the floral oils as well as with sharper citrus scents:
Floral~These oils have a relaxing , calming effect on the mind and body, helping to release stress and tension in the muscles and balancing the emotions. Their uplifting aromas relieve mood swings, depression and headaches:
- Chamomile
- Geranium
- Juniper
- Lavender
- Niaouli
- Palmarosa
Heady Scents (Floral)~The following oils have a heavier floral scent, and also share characteristics with the woody/earthy oils. They tend to be more expensive than other oils, but as their aromas are intense, they need be applied only in small quantities to be beneficial. Their aromas can last for hours or even days:
- Jasmine
- Neroli
- Petitgrain
- Rose
- Rose Otto
- Rosewood
Woody/Earthy~The heady scent of these oils has an extremely calming effect on the mind an emotions, promoting feelings of peace and well-being. These soothing and relaxing qualities are useful for when you feel stressed or anxious, and some of these oils even help to reduce high blood pressure an alleviate palpitations. In addition, many are considered to be aphrodisiacs, helping to calm nervous tension and heighten sensual pleasure. They are also good for treating skin conditions-especially mature or dry skin-due to their nourishing and moisturizing properties:
- Benzoin
- Cedarwood
- Frankincense
- Myrrh
- Patchouli
- Sandalwood
- Vertivert
- Ylang Ylang
Herby~These oils have a refreshing, uplifting effect on the emotions and the body. They can stimulate your circulation, helping to warm tired and aching muscles. They are also good natural antiseptics:
- Aniseed
- Basil
- Bay
- Clary Sage
- Fennel
- Marjoram
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
Spicy~These oils have warming properties that are good for treating respiratory infections, tired muscles, arthritis and rheumatic aches. Their relaxing aromas lift the mood and banish stress:
- Black Pepper
- Cardamon
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Ginger
- Nutmeg
Merry Thursday all my loyal and new friends!
Antiseptic~These oils have a camphorous smell, and have strong antiviral, antiseptic and cleansing properties. They can be used to disinfect the atmosphere, as well as cuts and scrapes:
