Basil
In “Aromatherapy – Scent and Psyche,” Peter Damian states the nervine properties of basil effectually stimulate the sympathetic nerves and strengthen the adrenal cortex. Adrenal cortex: The outer portion of the adrenal gland located on top of each kidney. The adrenal cortex produces steroid hormones, which regulate carbohydrate and fat metabolism and mineralocorticoid hormones, which regulate salt and water balance in the body. Need energy? Basil oil is one of the best oils to boost your energy level. Basil grows on you. Try it as a new pick-me-up!
Ginger
Inhaled from a tissue, ginger alleviates indigestion and morning sickness during pregnancy. If you are traveling a lot this summer, you need this oil! Also, ginger is good at promoting sweating. Sweating cleans out the pores and allows your body to eliminate toxins. Add a few drops to your favorite carrier oil and rub on your body before you start your work-out or walk!
Grapefruit
The oil is very helpful in boosting the immune system, has diuretic properties, and removes excess water from the body. Grapefruit essential oil has an uplifting and relaxing effect on the mind. It induces positive feelings of hope, cures depression, and relieves anxiety and stress. One whiff and your spirit seems to jump with joy!
Lemon
Writing in her 1931 book on herbal medicine, Maude Grieve says, “The lemon is the most valuable of all fruit for preserving health.” This powerful essential oil is used mostly for its antibacterial properties. Lemon is one of the best oils in skin care, is detoxifying, and is, therefore, great for blemishes. Also, its rejuvenating properties will brighten dull skin.
Palmarosa
Helps to open the heart and brings inner peace. It is also thought to be beneficial to the skin because of its moisture balancing effects. A few drops in your night cream helps keep the skin radiant and youthful. Looking to rid the air of the smell of smoke, musty odors or any unpleasant smell? You will do well in keeping this oil around.
Rose Absolute
Rose = Love. The fragrance enlivens the connection between our physical and spiritual identity. Rose absolute can help during various phases of a woman’s reproductive health and also can assist in hormonal balancing. The oil has a beautiful floral aroma and can be worn as perfume. Rose awakens our capacity for self-love and self-nurturing and helps us love others as well. Rose really does get to the heart of the matter. According to an old Persian saying, “Rose is the only thing you can take with you when you die because it’s not of this world.”
Vanilla Absolute
Is earthy and sensual, and very unique in character. It stabilizes emotions and is supportive for calming and relaxing conditions of exhaustion and anxiety. It has an aphrodisiac effect and is the perfect love potion to get you in the mood. Need more sleep? Just a few drops of vanilla essential oil on your pillow are all you need to have a good night’s sleep. It can work as a perfume as well. Yes, vanilla rocks!
These oils and absolutes are great additions to your aromatherapy kit!
References (5)
1. Valerie Ann Worwood, The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, 1991
2. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, 2nd edition,
The International Centre
of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2003
3. Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press,
USA, 1995
4. Mojay G. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, Henry Holt and Company Inc.,
England, 1996
5. Tisserand R. The Art of Aromatherapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1977