CLARY SAGE - CALIVA SCLAREA

The oil is extracted from the flowering tops and leaves of this perennial herb. It is grown for oil in England, France, Morocco and througout the Mediterranean.
This was once one of the most valued herbs, used for stomach upsets, infertility and all nervous problems. In latin 'clary' means clear eye:  the herb was named so as it made such a soothing, healing eye lotion.
This essential oil has a green, balsamic and aromatic smell. It is mildly antiseptic, an uplifting tonic, warming and relaxing.
In Aromatherapy it is very useful for PMT and menstrual cramps, for depression, hysteria, negativity, panic, indecision, fatigue, stress, headaches and skin irritation or  inflammation.

                          HOME USES:

Massage, baths. A few drops in a bath soothes a backache, sprains and pains, cramps, bad moods, itchy skin, and leaves you feeling energised. It is good to use in face, neck and scalp massages to help rid you of headaches and tension.

NB: Not to be used during pregnancy.

ROSEWOOD - Aniba Rosaeodora

The oil is extracted from the wood of this tropical evergreen tree which is grown commercially in Peru and Brazil.

This fragrant wood has been prized for making English furniture particularly in 19th century. The Amazon indians use it medicinally for treating wounds and skin problems. The wood now is used to make chopsticks, soaps and toiletries, and for flavouring food and drink.

In Aromatherapy it is used for skin complaints from Acne, scars and wrinkles to dull, dry complexions. It is an intimate, deeply relaxing oil. 

HOME USE: Massage, baths, inhalation. Can be used from a full body massage to a facial, it benefits both skin and mood in one! Added to a bath it helps round out other oils and is appreciated by both men and women equally. It also makes an excellent, intimate, sexy, relaxing room scent.

ROSEMARY - Rosmarinus Officinalis

The oil is extracted from the flowering tops of this evergreen shrub. It is grown commercially in England, California, the Mediterranian and China. It has been revered as a sacred plant for centuries. It has been used for magic and medicine and was also on the menus of most early civilisations. It has also been burnt to drive away infection, eaten for liver and digestive disorders, and inhaled for respiratory and nervous disorders.
The essentail oil has a fresh woody,green, minty smell. It is antiseptic, stimulating, astringent, invigorating and cleansing.
In Aromatherapy it is used for headaches, breathing problems, poor circulation, fluid retention, dandruff. It balances the mind and aids intellectual function and helps memory retention. It is ideal for students, teachers, writers etc. It boosts the immune system and is valuable in easing rheumatism and tense muscles. This aromatic oil relates to the Solar plexus chakra.

HOME USES: Massage, baths, inhalation. Great for a warming body massage and for any aches, or as a head and scalp massage for greasiness, lack of concentration or headaches. It can be added to a bath as a pick-me-up, for mental and/or physical tiredness. It can be inhaled to relieve coughs, bronchitis and other respiratory problems.

NB: Should not be used during pregnancy, or by those with epilepsy.

ROSE - Rosa Damascenea, Rosa Centifolia

The oil is extracted from freshly picked petals. They are cultivated mainly in France, Morocco, Bulgaria, China and India. 
Rose was loved by the gods, written about by poets, given to  loved ones. The Romas said that rosewater banished hangovers and its sensual smell helped orgies continue all night!
The scent of the essential oil is as sweet as the flower. It has an instant uplifting, positive effect.

In aromatherapy it is used for melancholia, depression, stress, female problems, infertility, headaches, insomnia. It is excellent for the skin, particularly wrinkles, puffiness, broken veins and dryness.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation. It is an excellent room scent as it gives a feeling of happiness and pleasure as well as being romantic.
It can be used as a facial or full boy massage. Add 10 drops to a baths for relieve a headache or hangover, or to buck you up after a difficult day.

PINE (LONGLEAF) - Pinus Palustris

The oil is extracted from the twigs, cones and needles of the tree. It is grown commercially in North America and Northern Europe.

Pine was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans for respiratory problems and muscular aches and pains. It is still  used today throughout Scandinavia - the needles are burnt to drive away insects, infections and clean rooms or germs.

The essential oil has a very strong camphor, balsamic smell akin to crished pine needles and is both antiseptic and stimulating.

In aromatherapy it is a strong germ killer and tonic, is excellent for viral infections eg. coughs, colds, bronchitis and flu. It helps clear toxins from the body. Also great for muscular aches, arthitis and rheumatism.

USE AT HOME:Massage, baths, inhalation, poultice. For easing a cough or blocked nose - massage into the chest area.
Rub into aching joints. In the bath, improves circulation and relieves muscular pain.
If used undiluted on a damp cloth it it an efficient household disinfectant for the bathroom or to deodorise shoes.

PETITGRAIN -Citrus Auantium Amara

This oil is extracted from the leaves and twigs of the bitter orange tree. It is grown commercially in South America, North Africa and France. It has been used in eau de cologne for hundreds of years due to its refreshing, deodorising and stimulating effects. It is still used today in perfumes, but also in cosmetics and as a flavouring for drinks. 

The essential oil has a sharp tangy orange smell and combines both stimulating and relaxing properties. It is an ideal remedy for any type of stress or fatigue.

In aromatherapy, it is used for treating insomnia, fatigue, low energy, backache, muscular tension or any type of nervousness.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation.

 It is wonderful warm bath for relaxing after a hard day or to help with sleeplessness. For tension - massage into the lower spine, upper back, nape of neck and  temples.

For instant relief from nerves or fatigue - inhale a few drops from a tissue.

NB: All citrus oils should be kept in a cool dark place to preserve and keep them fresh.

PEPPERMINT - Mentha Piperita

 This oil is extracted from fresh or semi dried leaves and flowers of the herb. It is cultivated in UK, USA, Europe and China but it grows worldwide.

Mint was prized in Japan and China for centuries and has also been found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 1000 BC. Traditionally it was used as a tea or the leaves were chewed to cure stomach or nervous problems.

The essential oil is almost 1/3rd menthol which is why it invigorates, clears the head, is stimulting and refreshing and cooling.

In aromatherapy it is excellent for headaches, mental fatigue, muscular pain, varicose veins, sunburn, insect bites, nausea and indigestion.It is also good for PMT or menopausal flushes.

USES AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation, compress. A few drops on a tissue can clear  your head, whether due to a headache, mental fatigue or a cold.

 Also to alleviate nausea from travel or morning sickness.

3-4 drops in a basin will refresh tired feet.

Use sparingly for massage or in the bath.

NB: This oil is very potent, never apply indiluted to skin, or just before going to sleep. Always use in moderation.

PATCHOULI - Pogostemon Cablin

The oil is extracted from dried leaves and shoots of this bushy herb. It is cultivated in South America, Malaysia, Indonesia, China and India.

Patchouli has been much revered in the East since ancient times. It was used to scent linen and clothes. It only reached the West in the 19th century when it was used mainly to perfume paisley shawls. It is still used today in modern perfumery and was worn alone as a symbol of peace by hippies during the 60's.

The essential oil has a sweet, woody, earthy smell which is pungent and lasting. It stimulates in small amounts but can sedate when used more generously. It is an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. In aromatherapy it is used for burns, acne, dandruff, fungal infections, tiredness, tension, eczema, oily skin or scalp. It is a heady sensual oil.

It stimulates and treats the Base chakra.

USE AT HOME.Massage, baths, inhalation, poultice, compress.

It is a lovely relaxing or energising body massage, a therapeutic head/scalp massage and a great oily skin facial.

A few drops in a bath will stimulate. If used in larger amounts it will sedate.

ORANGE - Citrus Sinensis

This oil is eaxtracted from the peel of fresh fruit from the sweet orange tree. This tree grows woldwide, but oil is mainly produced in Italy, France, Spain, California, Florida, Israel and Brazil.

Oranges are widely used in Chinese medicine. The Romans drank orange flower water after orgies to reduce their hangovers. It has been  used for many years to boost the immune system and fight colds.

The essencial oil is 90% limonese, which is why it refreshes and stimulates whilst leaving you relaxed. It is also a good skin rejuvenator.Good when used for inflammed or greasy skin.

In aromatherpy it is excellent for calming children, or anyone who is feeling lethergic or over tired. It can be used for sun exposed skin, wrinkles or sallow, dull complexion. It helps us with creativity, relieves depression, eases stress and nervousness.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation, poultice, compress.It is a wonderful relaxing massage after a hard day, or for a facial massage. It makes a great body moisturiser, and if added to a bath it will calm fractious children.

NB. Use in moderatio as it can irritate skin especially if exposed to sunshine after application. 
Store in a cool dark place.

NEROLI - Citrus Aurantium Bigaradia

The oil is extracted from freshly picked blossoms of the bitter orange tree. It is grown commercially in Italy, Sicily, France and North Africa.

Neroli oil was first discovered in the late 1600's. The Roman  god Jupiter gave an orange to his sister Juno when he married her, and brides have carried the blossom to calm nerves ever since.

This essential oil has a natural smell of wonderful, bitter orange blossom. It is a hypnotic sedative, calming, relaxing and anti-depressant. It inhances creativity, alleviates depression, anguish, fear, social phobias, tachycadia and tension.

In aromatherapy it is excellent for all kinds of stress or tension, over excitement, anxiety, insomnia, and is also good for improving dry or mature complexions.

USE AT HOME:  Massage, baths, inhalation.


As Neroli is a natural tranquilliser use it with other relaxing oils for the best bath imaginable. 

It is wonderful for any relaxing massage - scalp, back, neck, face, hand or foot. - and it improves the skin texture at the same time.
Inhale a few drops on a tissue to lift your mood.

NB: It is perfectly safe to use during pregnancy.

MYRRH - Commiphora Myrrha

Oil is extracted from resin collected from the stem and shoots of the tree. It grows in North Africa, northern India and the Middle East.

Myrrh, one of the three gifts given to the baby Jesus, which was much prized by ancient civilisations. It was used for incense, embalming, perfume and in religious ceremonies. It was used medicinally to treat wounds and chest problems.

The essential oil has a rich spicy, camphorish smell. It is warming, relaxing, healing, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent and a good expectorant.

In aromatherapy it is excellent for healing skin, for eczema, mature skin, poor circulation, arthritis, and any nasal or chest congestion.
It eases gum inflammation, treats fungal infections. Brings peace to an agitated mind.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation. Myrrh is wonderful for use in winter as it has a rich smell and a warming effect. 
A few drops in a bath relieves stress.
Also used as:

•  Warming foot massage
•  Anti wrinkle massage
•  Facial massage
•  Soothing hand massage
•  Dry skin massage

If inhaled from a tissue or with steam it will relieve a chesty cough and is a great expectorant.

NB:Do not use during pregnancy.
                

MIMOSA - Acacia Dealbata

The oil is extracted from these beautiful bright flowers which grow at the ends of the twigs. It is native to Australia but is now grown in Europe and is cultivated in France and Italy.

For centuries the Australian Aboriginies have used this to treat tummy upsets, diarrhoea, cuts and infected wounds. Today, the bark of the tree, which is rich in tannins, is used in the leather industry.

The essential oil is sweet, honey like, green, floral smelling. It is relaxing, soothing, calming, antiseptic and astringent.



In aromatherapy it is useful for general skincare and invaluable for its cheering effects to treat depression, melancholy, emotional upsets, over-sensitivity or any type of nervous tension.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation.
Added to a warm bath, it is an uplifting soak wich soothes the spirits as well as your skin!
It makes a lovely scalp, neck and face massage.
A few drops added to a bowl of hot water placed on a radiator will put everyone in a great mood!

MARJORAM - Origanum Majorana

The oil is extracted from the dried flowering heads of this shrub. Although it originated in Asia It is now grown all over Europe and is cultivated for oil in Tunisia, Germany, Morocco, Hugary and Egypt.

Marjoram was sacred in India and Egypt. Whilst in Greece it was a symbol of enduring love. All ancient cultures used it for digestive, nervous and respiratory problems.

The oil has a peppery-spicy, camphor and thyme smell. It is relaxing and soothing, warming and fortifying.

In aromatherapy it is very useful for headaches, menstrual problems, panic attacks, anguish, problems of the heart, loneliness, tummy aches, insomnia, tension, bruises, aches and pains, strains, chilblains, lumbago, bronchitis or coughs and colds.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation.

A few drops in a hot bath will boost circulation and lift the spirits, as well as soothing muscular aches and pains.

As a massage, it is particularly good for a stiff neck, headache, migraine, aching joints, muscular pain or after excessive exercise.

It can be inhaled in steam to relieve a chesty cough or congestion.

NB: Do not use during pregnancy.

MARIGOLD - Calendula Officinalis

The oil is extracted from the flowers of the herb. It is native to the Mediterranean but is now grown commercially in Morocco, France, Hungary, Bulgaria and Northern Europe.

Marigold or Calendula as it is also called, has been used as a folk remedy for centuries, to treat skin problems, strengthen weak eyes, and comfort the heart and raise spirits. In todays world it is used for nappy rash, varicose veins and dry, cracked or sensitive skin.

This oil has a woody, musky smell which is a little unpleasant but this is outweighed by its soothing therapeutic properties.

In aromatherapy, it is best used for healing burns, cuts, eczema, itchiness, over-dry, inflamed or sensitive skin. It is also wonderful for relieving insect bites, rashes and sunburn.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths. Marigold is a wonderful healer but due to its smell it is best to use in small doses.
Adding a few drops to a warm bath will help skin complaints.
It can be diluted with a carrier oil for massages.
NB: This is perfectly safe for home use as long as it is well diluted before application. 

MANDARIN - Citrus Reticulata

The oil is extracted from the peel of ripe fruit. The trees are native to southern China and the Far East but are now grown for oil in Mexico, Italy, Brazil, Florida and the West Indies.

Mandarins were named so because, for centuries, the fruit was traditionally given to the Mandarin Lords of China. The fruit did not reach Europe until around 1880.
It is now mainly used to flavour drinks and food, and as a fragrance in perfumes and toiletries.

The essential oil has  a sweet lemon and orange smell, and is a sedative, digestive aid and has a calming effect.
In aromatherapy it is used for stretch marks, scars, fluid retention, tummy ache. Also for stress, irritability, insomnia, restlessness and nervous tension - helping us to mentally relax.

USE AT HOME:Massage, baths, inhalation. It is a great slimming massage for buttocks, hips and thighs and also reduces stretch marks.
A few drops in a hot bath will give deep relaxation and feeling of being uplifted. 
A few drops on a tissue can be inhaled whenever one is feeling tense or tired.

NB: Use in moderation as it can irritate the skin especially if exposed to sunlight after application. Always store in a cool dark place.

LIME - Citrus Aurantifolia

Like lemon this essential oil is extracted from the peel of the unripe citrus fruit. Limes are grown for oil production in Florida, Italy, Mexica and the West Indies. 

Again, like lemons, limes were once given to British sailors to prevent scurvy - this is how the nickname "limey" came about. It is used today as food and drink flavouring, a fragrance for cleansers and mens toiletries.

The essential oil has a sharp, clean, sweet citrus smell. It is an antiseptic, antiviral, anti-bacterial and is a great warming stimulant and tonic.

In aromatherapy it is useful for greasy skin, varicose veins, cellulite, rheumatism, depression, sore throat, breathing problems, colds, flu, fever or infection.

USE AT HOME: Massage, bath, inhalation, poultice.

 It is great for a leg, anti-cellulite or warming friction massage.

 It can be diluted and rubbed into the chest for colds, or as an astringent facial. 

In winter it makes a wonderful warming bath and in summer a refreshing, energising bath.

For breathing problems it can be inhaled or applied as a poultice for fever.

NB: This essential oil should be used in moderation as it can irritate the skin , especially if there is exposure to sunshine after application. 

Always store in a cool dark place.

LEMONGRASS (Fevergrass) - Cymbopogon citratus

This oil is extracted from the fresh or dried wild grass. It is grow commercially in India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Africa and the West Indies.

Lemongrass is also known as Fevergrass and has been used for centuries  to treat fever in India.  In addition it has been used traditionally to cure skin complaints and was burnt to kill germs. Now it is used to flavour foods, drinks and toiletries.

The essential oil has a warm lemon, grassy smell. It is soothing, healing, invigorating, anti-bacterial, antiseptic and deodorising.

In aromatherapy it is most useful for open pores, athletes foot, boils, excess perspiration, poor circulation and as an insect repellent.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation, poultice, compress.When diluted well with a carrier oil, it can be massaged directly into inflammed skin, armpits, feet and hands. It will boost circulation, speed healing and deodorise.

The oil can be applied to the hems of curtains to repel insects and also to shoes or rubbish bins to deodorise.

A few drops in a hand or foot bath will warm the extemities  and reduce sweating.

NB: Lemongrass essential oil is safe for home use as long as it is well diluted.

LEMON Citrus Limon

This oil is extracted from the fresh rind of the fruit. It is grown commercially in Florida, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Israel and California. 

Lemon was used by the ancient Romans to relieve stomach upsets and to sweeten their breath. For many years the British Navy used it to prevent Scurvy. The essential oil has a tangy fresh citrus smell. It is stimulating both mentally and physically, invigorating, astringent, deodorising, diuretic, and antiseptic. 

In aromatherapy it is useful for clearing the head, whether you have a cold or are suffereing from mental exhaustion. It will energise an aching body, boost circulation, treat cellulite, warm hands and feet.

USE AT HOME: Massage, baths, inhalation, poultice.

A few drops in a hot bath will boost circulation. Inhale from a tissue to relieve tiredness or to relieve the symptoms of a cold. Used on a cloth it makes a wonderful cleaner around the house/sickroom for disinfecting and deodorising.

NB. Use this oil in moderation as it can irritate the skin. Do not expose skin to sunlight after application.

Store in a cool dark place.

LAVENDER Lavendula Augustifolia

This oil is extracted from the flowering tips of this shrub.

It is cultivated in Britain, Australia and southern European countries.

Traditionaly Lavender has long been a bathtime favourite, and the ancient Romans used it to speed healing.

Since the 18th sentury it has been used in soap, perfumes, pot-pourri and talcum powder.

This is one of the most commonly used essential oils. It's both relaxing and stimulating, a powerful healing antiseptic. It is calming, refreshing, invigorating and it lifts the spirits. 

In aromatherapy it is excellent for tension, tiredness, depression, skin  problems such as acne, athletes foot, burns, dermatitis, insect bites, itching, oily skin, scars, sores and stretch marks.

 It is also good for cuts and bruises, chicken pox, allergies, anxiety, asthma, cystitis, dysmenorrhea, earache, flatulence, headache,

hypertension, labour pains, migraine, rheumatism, scabies, sprains and strains, stress, vertigo or whooping cough.  

It is gentle and therefore can be applied undiluted to burnt skin or insect bites and is safe to use during pregnancy.

USES AT HOME: Massage, bath, inhalation, poultice, compress.

• Add a few drops to a hot bath to make you feel pleasantly drowsy and to relieve anxiety.
• Added to a cool bath it will refresh and energize. 
• Adding a few drops to a tissue and inhaling, will clear your head and lift your spirits.
• As a massage it is great for relieving tense muscles and mental fatigue.  
• Balances the Base Chakra.

LAUREL Lauarus Nobilis

The oil is extracted from the leaves of this tree. It is cultivated in France, Italy, Greece and the Bulkan countries.

The ancient Greeks believed that laurel was protected by the gods:their mythology states that the maiden Daphne was turned into a laurel tree to escape from Apollo.

 The Romans also prized it: Caesar wore a laurel crown after victorious battles.

Over the centuries it has been use as a culinary herb and a powerful cure-all.

It has a strong medicinal smell with a warm and spicy twist. 

It is relaxing, warming, antiseptic and is a great immune system booster.

Used in aromatherapy for aches and pains, period cramps and fluid retention. It is also good for those who find they constantly catch colds and flu as it will increase resistance.

USES AT HOME: Inhalation, poultices.

 It can be used  on a saucer over a radiator in bedroom to dispel viral infections. It can also be inhaled in  steam by bending over a basin of hot water.

It is a useful massage to relieve fluid retention, PMT, aches or any chest problems.

WARNING: Use in moderation and well diluted as it can irritate sensitive skin.

Do NOT use during pregnancy.