These beauties were considered sacred messengers in the old Anglo-Saxon belief about the god, Wotan. The fertility power of the geranium petals was an underlying belief, but they were also prominently display in ceremonies to attract prosperity and abundance. Modern research has identified the hormone balancing ability of geranium oil so those old fertility claims may not be as crazy as the medical profession said they were back in the 20th century.

Geranium oil has natural antiviral, antibiotic, anti-fungal, antidepressant, analgesic, antiseptic, and astringent properties and it also have deodorizing capabilities. The oil has cicatrisant properties as well so it is used to reduce the appearance of surgery scars, acne, and minor burns. The regenerative properties of this essential oil make it an excellent choice when wrinkles and flabby skin develop as the body ages. There are 700 different varieties of geraniums, but only ten of them produce the essential oil.

The astringent quality of the oil helps alleviate eczema and psoriasis and the antimicrobial properties help heal cuts, scratches, and other minor abrasions. The oil is also an effective treatment for ringworm. Bruises and even hemorrhoids can be treated with geranium oil since it interacts with cells not only in the skin, but with cells in other organs in the body.

This cellular interaction impacts the hormones so the oil is very effective when it comes to treating excessive hemorrhaging and menstrual problems. Hot flashes disappear since the oil is balancing hormone secretion. The oil also helps support normal liver and kidney functions because of its interaction with the adrenal glands.

The uplifting emotional qualities of geranium oil are also obvious. While the oil is creating a balance between dry and oily skin it is also relieving excess stress and anxiety at the same time. Hormonal messages are sent to brain as well as to the cells in the skin and other organs. A sense of well being permeates the body and mind so tension, depression, fluid retention, eczema, edema, bruises, cellulite, and menstrual irregularities are addressed, especially when the oil is used in an overall wellness program.

Geranium oil can be massaged into the skin or it can be diluted in a bath and blended with bergamot, lavender, citronella, jasmine, clary sage, neroli, and cedarwood to alleviate a plethora of skin issues and balance cellular regeneration.

                          

Ancient medical documents dating back to 1500 B.C. list frankincense, as well as myrrh, as remedies for certain illnesses. Frankincense oil held a regal position next to gold in that society (although it was not obtained in the same way we do modern distillation); it was used to treat skin blemishes and wrinkles, as well as viral infections and depression.

Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) is closely related to myrrh (Commiphora myrrha); both are species of balsams. Boswellia carteri, also known as olibanum, originated in the Middle East and Africa. The resin is harvested from these small knotted balsam trees, and then distilled to produce an essential oil.

The use of frankincense is well documented during biblical times to treat a number of physical, as well as spiritual issues, and new research is exploring the ability of frankincense oil to stimulate human growth hormone (HGH) production in the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. The pituitary gland slows down the production of HGH after the age of thirty, so the body begins to show signs of aging.

Facial lines and creases, as well as sags and wrinkles begin to surface as HGH production slows down, but when frankincense oil is used, wrinkles seem to disappear. Compounds known as sesquiterpenes are found in frankincense oil, and they fortify the limbic system, so the key glands that secrete the hormones responsible for not only the aging process, but for the health of the cells in all organs in the body are stimulated. Reducing wrinkles is one of frankincense oil’s strong points; all the better if it is a function of restored hormone functions in the body.

                          

The angelica plant is native to countries in colder climates like Russia, Lithuania, and Norway. Even the inhabitants of Iceland have had a close relationship with the angelica plant through the years. In Lapland the plant was considered inspirational, and in Norway it was used to make bread. The French developed liquor from the plant.

Angelica oil is well known for relieving joint pain, indigestion, flatulence, bronchitis, and some reproductive issues in women. Modern herbalists continue to rely on angelica oil to relieve muscle aches, rheumatoid arthritis pain, and stomach aliments.

This essential oil is also used in lotions, soaps, and perfumes, but the aromatherapy value of angelica oil, especially when it is combined with sandalwood, myrrh, cedar wood, and frankincense continues to increase as more people become aware of its healing qualities.

The fragrance of angelica oil is known to produce a sense of well being. Negative feelings and emotions are released, especially when a traumatic event disrupts normal life experiences. This essential oil is used to connect the physical consciousness with the spiritual consciousness in some cultures, and that practice s growing in popularity due to the history of the plant and the oil. Some cultures even call it “The Holy Ghost Oil.”

The Chinese use angelica oil to promote fertility, and it is currently listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as a remedy for bronchitis, and a catalyst to increase circulation. Other studies show that the oil has a positive effect on the adrenal glands. It can be also used as a nervine tonic when it is blended into the solar plexus. The carminative effect of angelica oil strengthens the digestive system, and rebuilds body strength when a chronic illness depletes body energy.

It’s always best to test a small amount of angelica oil for skin sensitivity. It may be phototoxic so the ultra-violet rays of the sun should be avoided when it’s applied to exposed skin. The internal use of angelica oil may also interfere with anticoagulant drugs. Aromatherapists rely on the oil as an antispasmodic, diaphoretic, expectorant, diuretic, and depurative that can ease the discomfort of internal as well as eternal issues. The essential oil from the root of the angelica plant is non-toxic and a valuable remedy. It has effectively earned the title: “The Oil of Angels” in the Western World.

                          

In the past the women of the area would work for twenty long hours producing oil from the fruit. The argan nuts were then hand crushed between stones and then the seeds were roasted. The roasted seeds were ground into a paste-like consistency that was pressed so the oil could be captured. The man hours it took to make the oil made the end product quite expensive. In modern times argan oil is processed with the help of machines, but it is still the most expensive oil in the world. The Argan tree is considered an endangered and rare species by UNESCO and that status makes the oil even more precious.

The cost for argan oil for beauty care is considerable but it’s worth it. The oil from the argan tree is rich in vitamin E as well as other anti-oxidants that support regeneration of skin cells and reduce free radicals. Even though the argan tree oil costs a lot more than olive oil and other fixed oils used to treat skin ailments it is considered to be one of the best anti-oxidant and personal care products in the marketplace.

The natural compounds as well as the high levels of natural vitamin E in the oil have exceptional anti-aging properties. When the oil penetrates the skin it has the ability to repair hair follicles. The omega 9 and omega 3 in the oil convey essential nutrients for the hair that is effective for conditions like dandruff, as well as frizzy and unmanageable dry hair.

Even muscles respond to organic argan oil. Muscles tend to stay firm and appear to be healthier when the oil is topically applied into different muscle groups. Arthritis as well as other debilitating conditions can be controlled effectively with argan tree oil when the oil saturates the joints and the surrounding muscles.

This natural wonder oil doesn’t contain cholesterol so it’s great cooking oil that potentially reduces the risk of heart disease. In fact, some analysts say it’s more efficacious than olive oil when it comes to preventing a breakdown in cell activity that can contribute to cancerous growth.

Most women who use it as a skin emollient notice the nutty toasted smell, but it dissipates once it is absorbed into the skin. Women from all over the world will tell you that acne, wrinkles, and problematic dry skin are reduced dramatically so the scent is not a problem.

Argan oil is an amazing natural remedy that can alleviate a variety of skin conditions without fear of harmful side effects. It is considered “liquid gold” in regards to correcting unhealthy cells and supporting the immune system.

                          

The New Testament as well as neo-paganism significance has kept myrrh in the minds of billions of people; it has never lost its ability to mystify cultures around the world.

Popular pharmaceutical uses for myrrh include toothpaste, mouthwash, and gargles because of its antiseptic qualities, but myrrh oil does much more than that when its energy moving abilities are recognized.

Myrrh essential oil has a special efficacy when it comes to heart, liver, and spleen functions, and it has the power to purge stagnant blood from the uterus. Over the years myrrh oil has been used in aromatherapy to alleviate arthritic, rheumatic, and circulatory issues and uterine tumors.

One of myrrh’s latest accomplishments is its ability to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol, which opens a plethora of doors in terms of treating internal wellbeing. Myrrh oil is used in a variety of medical as well as cosmetic products so the list of internal and external uses for myrrh is a long one, especially when new products are considered.

The Egyptians recently developed an oral drug which contains myrrh that treats parasitic ailments, and in Italy researchers have discovered that myrrh can produce analgesic effects by interacting with opioid receptors.

One of the most important uses for myrrh oil is on older, mature skin. Dehydrated, traumatized, dry, and very distressed skin will react to an aromatherapy oil treatment using myrrh oil. Even chapped heels react to myrrh oil. The oil prevents skin degeneration so after a few treatments the skin is rejuvenated. Myrrh oil interacts with skin cells so the free radicals that destroy the cells are eliminated. Toxins damage skin cells and the result of that damage manifests as dry, chapped skin in some areas, and saggy, wrinkled skin in other areas.

Myrrh oil contains limonene, eugenol, a-pinene, cuminaldehyde, m-cresol, cadinene, heerabolene, formic acid, acetic acid, and other sesquiterpenes and acids. The combination of these chemical compounds gives myrrh oil antiseptic, astringent, anti-microbial, diuretic, antiphlogistic, carminative, anti-inflammatory, balsamic, diuretic, cicatrisant, fungicidal, tonic, and vulnerary therapeutic properties.

Myrrh oil research continues where the ancients left off so it is safe to say that myrrh is still worth as much as gold in terms of health and skin care.

                          

Herpes is known as a viral infection for which there is said to be no actual cure. Skin lesions provide a visible reminder of the ailment, and for some they occur more often than others. Of course, when an outbreak does occur, it is painful and also rather unsightly. Adding insult to injury, these outbreaks usually happen when someone is stressed, which is perfectly understandable considering the impact of stress in our daily lives.

Ravensara oil offers topical relief while concurrently dealing with the viruses. Some people can use the oil ‘neat’ or undiluted as a spot treatment in smaller areas, such as for a cold sore; however, it is frequently mixed with a carrier oil or another non-sensitizing essential oil as a base. Either way, it can greatly decrease the amount of visible skin lesions and shorten the duration of any outbreak. Of course, using ravensara oil for cold sores, shingles, and herpes-related outbreaks may introduce the substance to highly sensitive skin areas, so a patch test is recommended before extensive use.

Although unlikely, be mindful of the potential for a possible skin irritation. Since the application of the essential oils is frequently very close to mucous membranes, there is a chance that over-mixing the essential oil results in too strong a substance that might lead to skin irritations. Experiment with different concentrations until finding the one that works just right for you.

                          

When allspice berries are steam distilled, very light and very heavy chemicals emerge. Those chemicals are combined to produce allspice berry oil. Leaves and stems are also used to produce allspice oil, but the berry distillation process produces better oil. The end product doesn’t contain as much eugenol so it’s kinder to sensitive skin.

The initial harvest of green allspice fruit takes place when the trees are eight years old. Ripe fruit loses its scent so there is a time element involved in producing quality allspice essential oil from the soon to be ripe fruit. Essential allspice berry oil can be combined with leaf and stem oil as well as cloves. This mixture produces a fiery oil, and it should be used with care.

For centuries allspice berry oil has been used to treat insect bites, headaches, colds, muscle distress, and sinus issues. It’s well known for its antioxidant value so long term users stand behind the claims that the oil reduces the signs of aging. Allspice berry oil is used to improve vision, to stop hair loss, improve hearing, and to relieve nervousness and mild anxiety. The analgesic and anesthetic properties of allspice berry oil as well as the warming, cheering, and comforting effects of the oil make it a rock star in the aromatherapy world.

The warm, spicy-sweet aroma, and balsamic body note cultivate a scent of pepper, nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon. Allspice berry oil is frequently combined with lavender, ginger, geranium, yiang-yiang, neroli, and patchouli to enhance healing properties, improve sleep patterns and to bring a sense of euphoria to each moment in the now.

The possible cancer preventing as well as the carcinogenic inhibiting qualities of the oil, plus the antibacterial, digestion, and circulation benefits of the allspice essential oil puts it in a unique class of aromatherapy oils that have an impact on the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the human psyche.

Allspice berry oil is used in mist spray form as well as a massage oil, and an inhaler. Steam inhalation and a bath additive are also popular ways to use this versatile oil that can reduce cellulite, relax the body, relieve cold symptoms, and reduce annoying flatulence.

In this modern age, allspice berry oil tops the list of natural aromatherapy essential oils that can help the cells regenerate without frustrating side effects.

                          

Most people in the US aren’t familiar with this incredible oil, but other parts of the world are familiar with helichrysum oil and its ability to relieve mental exhaustion, stress, and mild depression, plus it stimulates the right sphere of the brain, which enhances artistic and creative expression. The strong fruity/straw scent, light yellow to red color and thin texture of this aromatic herb make it a low key, but highly effective solution for stomach spasms, allergies, and excess water retention.

This essential oil can help heal stretch marks, skin blemishes, and scars due to wounds, boils, and rashes. Muscle aches and pains as well as digestive issues are relieved when the oil is diluted in a bath or inhaled during aromatherapy. A few drops of helichrysum oil and rose hip oil can banish acne and heal wounds with minimal scarring. Some loyal users claim it reduces signs of aging by keeping the skin smooth and wrinkle free.

One of the main constituents of this essential oil is neryl acetate, which acts as a muscle relaxant as well as an anti-spasmodic agent. Neryl acetate works in tandem with the eugenol, linalool, and limonene to produce skin healing as well as internal organ regeneration.

A few drops of the oil on burns as soon after the incident as possible will speed up the healing process, and when impact injuries manifest, apply the oil as quickly as possible to reduce swelling and reduce the healing time. Helichrysum oil is the only essential oil that contains di-ketones, which play a major role in scar tissue reduction and skin healing.

Some wounds heal with no scarring especially when helichrysum oil is combined with sea buckthorn oil or rosemary verbenone oil. Calendula oil also has excellent wound healing properties and can be combined with helichrysum oil as well.

The subconscious benefits of this wonder oil should not be discounted. Helichrysum oil is an effective energy releaser, which means it has an impact on emotional blockage. It can restore emotional freedom and stability when those elements are buried in stressful thoughts and perceptions.

                          

Fennel oil contains anethole, which explains why the oil is an essential part of aromatherapy. The polymers in fennel act as phytoestrogens so the medicinal uses for fennel oil were established centuries ago. The present Chinese pharmacopoeia promotes fennel for vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia recommends fennel for flatulent dyspepsia, anorexia, and colic in children.

Modern therapeutic applications for fennel oil are based on the past history of the essential oil as well as well established medical reports, phytochemical investigations, and various other studies. The result of those studies has made fennel oil a mainstream component in cough syrups, and carminative component in bowel and stomach remedies. Some people use fennel oil as a diuretic and a treatment for hypertension.

The first society to recognize the slimming attributes of fennel oil was the Greeks. They drank a cup of fennel tea fifteen minutes before eating a meal and notice a definite difference in their appetite. The Greeks decided that fennel oil fine tuned the digestive system so food was turned into energy instead of fat.

That thought process is not an old myth or wives tale. Fennel essential oil does remove blockage that impacts the liver, spleen, gall bladder, kidneys, and stomach. The antimicrobial properties of fennel oil promote weight loss in aromatherapy treatments and it treats gas, bloating, and indigestion at the same time.

The expectorant qualities of the oil thin out excess mucus, which helps treat respiratory issues that reduce the energy level and slow down normal cell regeneration. When energy is not converted to action of some kind it is stored in cells as fat. Fennel oil stimulates those cells and converts the fat back to energy.

In order to be effective in the fat burning process fennel oil impacts the metaphysical portion of the self as well. Fennel essential oil has the ability to enhance personal courage and strength. Those thoughts help the body burn fat.

The metaphysical explanation for this fat burning process is that fennel oil keeps negative energy at bay so positive energy manifests. The body reacts to positive energy by burning fat stored in cells in the stomach, thighs, and legs. Modern medicine is slowly recognizing metaphysical beliefs, and is using modern tools to measure fennel oil effectiveness in weight loss.

                          

Pliny, the Roman author and naturalist, claimed it was an aphrodisiac, and the Greek physician Dioscorides prescribed it for headaches, but his contemporaries used it as horse feed during breeding season. In modern aromatherapy, basil oil is used to lift the spirits and cheer the mind, especially when melancholy and sorrow overwhelm active thoughts.

Being a polymorph, basil oil comes in different strengths and is offered in a variety of scents and compositions. Scented oils range from the lemon, clove, and cinnamon and when the green and purple curly lettuce leaf basil plants are turned into oil they yield another type of oil.

There are two varieties that are used to extract large quantities of essential basil oil in this modern aromatherapy era. The first variety is the Exotic basil, which is grown and distilled on Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean. The European type of basil is also used to produce commercial essential oil. It was originally harvested and distilled in Southern France, but is now cultivated in America as well. The constituents that give basil oil its flavor and aroma are methyl chavicol, linalool, and eugenol.

Reunion basil contains camphor but very little linalool. It has a harsh, woody aroma so it’s not used on its own in aromatherapy since those qualities don’t conform to the energizing and refreshing elements found in a sense of well being. Basil oil is often mixed with lavender, geranium, clary sage, and bergamot to give it balance and a more pleasing aroma. Sensitive skin may react to the methyl chavicol so basil oil is often diluted with another carrier like vegetable oil to prevent skin redness.

The basic uses for essential basil oil are to stimulate the adrenal cortex, decrease anxiety, depression, and fatigue and to treat symptoms of bronchitis, indigestion, gout, fever, and colds. It has hot and cold qualities that can pep up circulation or invigorate sluggish skin. When basil is combined with thyme it’s a powerful antiseptic.

In aromatherapy basil oil is used in baths, inhalers, massages, and facial masks. Basil is still popular as a culinary seasoning, but the essential oil of basil is a valuable friend that can help relieve common cold symptoms as well as rejuvenate and promote emotional stability. Basil has been a soul protector as well as a body protector for centuries. It’s no wonder the early Egyptians offered it to the gods.