Aromatherapy essential oils - health happiness comfort the art and science of using
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essentials for well being
health ~ happiness ~ comfort
Aromatherapy
the art and science of using
essential oils
positive af firmation
I am peaceful ~ I am calm ~ I am able to achieve a restful state
essentials for well being
Aromatherapy
What is aromatherapy?
every day
How does aromatherapy work?
Aromatherapy is the art and At the most basic level, aromatherapy works by affecting our sense of smell.
science of using pure essential oils Scent connects us with our emotions, feelings, creativity and intuition.
extracted from natural plants and A scent can bring us into our body and help us to remember powerful
flowers. Essential oils are used to feelings. Beautiful scents can balance our mood, lift our spirits and emotions
calm, balance and give energy to additionally, essential oils have been used in medicine to heal the body
the body, mind and spirit. when infected by bacteria, viruses and fungi.
What are essential oils? Who uses essential oils?
Essential oils are obtained from Aromatherapy is used in the home, workplace, retail environment and
flowers, plants, trees, shrubs and in health care. Trained health care professionals are using essential oils in
roots or from the peels of fruits. combination with conventional medicine. For instance, an infected wound
The oils are either steam distilled or a skin and soft tissue infection may need an antibiotic, but an essential
or expressed. The climate, weather oil may also be applied topically as adjunctive therapy. Many essential oils
and temperature at distillation can possess antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties.
affect the quality of the oil, which
in turn will affect the chemical
structure. Other conditions
When using essential oils for essential oils
personal and health-related care, may be useful for
it is best to use plant parts that are
include headaches,
free from toxic chemicals, such
as pesticides or herbicides. Toxic gingivitis, sinusitis,
chemicals applied to growing insomnia, support
plants can react with the oils made
and create a poor or toxic essential for the immune
oil. Sometimes oils are mixed with system, cold and flu,
products like alcohol or other
burns, insect bites
man-made chemicals to create
perfumes or lotions. While the and various skin
scent from these products may be conditions.
pleasant, the health benefits may
not be. Look for pure essential oils
when buying for health reasons.
essentials for well being
Aromatherapy user guide
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Lemon (Citrus limon) Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Lavender is noted for its floral scent Lemon is often selected for Tea tree oil is highly regarded and
and woody undertones and is its pleasant crisp, clean scent. one the world’s most researched
one of the most commonly used Concentration and alertness may essential oils for its medicinal
essential oils in the world today. This be increased with the diffusion of properties. The pungent odor
refreshing and balancing aroma lemon into the environment. It is associated with tea tree oil is similar
is frequently used for relaxation. also uplifting and sharpens our to eucalyptus and camphor. Tea
Other common uses include anxiety, focus with decision-making. Use this tree oil is commonly used for skin
insomnia, burns, infections, wounds, oil in the morning or afternoon to infections, wounds, ringworm, cold
candida and insect bites. promote energy levels. Additionally, sores, acne, mouth/throat infections,
Therapeutic properties: lemon has antiseptic properties. toenail fungus, athlete’s foot,
Analgesic, antibacterial, psoriasis, dandruff and head lice.
Therapeutic properties: Antiviral,
antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, astringent, tonic, Therapeutic properties:
antifungal, antiviral, antispasmodic antispasmodic, antiseptic, diuretic Antifungal, antibacterial,
Applications: Inhalation, diffusion, antiviral, wound healing
Applications: Massage, bath,
compress, bath, massage and direct inhalation, diffusion. Always mix with Applications: Inhalation, diffusion,
application to skin a carrier oil if applying directly to the compress, direct application to the
skin. Avoid sun exposure after topical skin. Do not apply to skin undiluted
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) application, as this oil is phototoxic. without a patch test to check for
Enjoy this refreshing and mentally allergies and skin sensitivities. May
stimulating essential oil. Its minty- use undiluted on skin if no allergic
fresh scent is easy to recognize and response is present.
is frequently an ingredient in gum,
candy and herbal teas.
Therapeutic properties:
Analgesic, expectorant,
antispasmodic and anti-nausea
Applications: Inhalation, diffusion,
bath, massage. Always mix with a
carrier oil if applying directly to the
skin. Avoid internal use, especially
for those with G6PD deficiency, atrial
fibrillation, post-cardiac surgery and
on 5-FU chemotherapy.
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Geranium (Pelargonium Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
Try this fresh citrus scent with slightly graveolens)
When you think of ginger, you This is one of the gentlest and safest
spicy undertones to lift your mood Enjoy this herb-like fragrance that may think about food. Indeed of essential oils impacting the body,
and stimulate your immune system. suggests a subtle combination of ginger is often used in cooking and mind and spirit. Mandarin offers a
You may recognize this scent if rose, citrus and woody undertones. baking. The essential oil of ginger calming influence promoting restful
you like Earl Grey tea. Bergamot Geranium’s scent is physically and offers a peppery, sharp and yet sleep and is especially good for
mixes well with other citrus scents emotionally balancing and helps warm aromatic scent. The warmth children and the frail elderly. This oil
providing a fragrant, mellow sensory to reduce stress and anxiety. This associated with ginger is good for brings out joy and lifts moods and
experience. It is beneficial for oil is popular among women for reducing symptoms such as joint reduces irritability.
reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, hormonal-related problems such as swelling associated with arthritis. Therapeutic properties:
depression and acne. PMS, fluid retention and menopausal Ginger settles the digestive system Anti-nausea, astringent, digestive,
symptoms. Geranium is also helpful and relieves nausea, including
Therapeutic properties; diuretic, relaxant, sedative.
for dermatitis, wound healing, morning sickness.
Antispasmodic, sedative, analgesic,
inflammation, eczema, burns, Applications: Inhalation, dilution,
antidepressant, tonic, antifungal Therapeutic properties:
ringworm and insomnia. bath, massage, compress and direct
Applications: Inhalation, diffusion, Anti-emetic, anti-inflammatory, application to the skin with a carrier
Therapeutic properties: analgesic, antispasmodic
compress, bath and massage. Avoid oil. Avoid sun exposure after topical
sun exposure after topical application, Sedative, antibacterial, antiviral,
Applications: Inhalation, bath, application, as this oil may be mildly
anti-inflammatory, antifungal
as this oil is phototoxic. massage, compress and direct phototoxic.
Applications: Inhalation, diffusion, application to the skin with a
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) baths, massage and direct application carrier oil.
to the skin with a carrier oil.
This familiar, sharp and somewhat
pungent scent of eucalyptus is
easily recognized and found in Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
many over-the-counter drug store The sharp woody scent of rosemary
products. Eucalyptus oil is effective conveys a feeling of warmth. This
for symptom relief from the common stimulating oil is used to increase
cold and sinus congestion by acting energy, improve mental clarity
as a decongestant. This oil is cooling and offer an alert state. Rosemary
and increases concentration and is helpful in relieving respiratory
alertness. congestion and muscular aches
and pain.
Therapeutic properties:
Antibacterial, antiviral and analgesic Therapeutic properties:
Mild stimulant, analgesic,
Applications: Inhalation, diffusion,
anti-inflammatory
steam bath, compress and massage.
Always mix with a carrier oil if Applications: Inhalation, diffusion,
applying directly to the skin. massage, compress, bath and direct
application to the skin with a carrier
oil. Avoid with hypertension and
seizure disorders.
essentials for well being
Aromatherapy applications
Scenting a room Warm compress 3 to 5 drops of essential oil in 2 to 4
Scenting an entire room requires a diffuser. A diffuser is a device that gently A soothing scented compress is teaspoons of carrier oil. Lavender oil
heats or blows air across the oil and into the room air. Diffusers vary by easily made by placing 5 drops of is easy to begin with and provides
manufacturer and it is best to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use. essential oil in 3 ounces of warm a relaxing experience. Carrier oils
One to eight drops of pure essential oil placed on a pad in the diffuser is water. Stir solution. Dip folded recommended for this includes
often recommended (less is best). cotton cloth or washrag into grapeseed, sesame, jojoba and
solution and wring out. Apply to sweet almond. Avoid mineral and
Never mix a carrier oil and essential oil together and use in a diffuser.
desired area. Repeat as desired. This hydrogenated oils.
Create you own special blend by mixing different essential oils together and
then place on the pad in the diffuser. application is wonderful for cramps,
headaches, muscle aches and pains. Shower
You can save the scent by removing the pad when not in use and storing
Create a scented steam room in the
in a plastic bag. To create a fresh scent in a small area, place cotton ball in Direct inhalation comfort of your home when using
small cup and add one or two drops of essential oil. This is a great way to
Inhalation is a very effective method essential oils with your shower
scent your personal workspace.
to receive the benefits of essential experience. Place 3 to 5 drops of
oils. Place 3 drops of the preferred essential oil on the wall or perimeter
essential oil on a tissue or cotton of your shower stall. The steam will
ball and inhale. Repeat as necessary. help release the scent. This method
Extend the use and portability of works well for sinus congestion
the direct inhalation experience by when eucalyptus oil is selected.
placing a tissue or cotton ball into a
small plastic baggie. Carry the small Baths
baggie with you in your pocket, Aromatic baths can promote
purse, gym bag or place on your relaxation and a sense of well being
desk. This method works well for and are especially good for stress
sinus congestion, stress and anxiety. conditions and those with insomnia.
Try eucalyptus for sinus congestion Additionally, a soak in a tub can be
and lavender or mandarin to reduce beneficial for skin and inflammatory
stress and anxiety. conditions, aches and pains and
sore muscles. Mix 5 to 10 drops
Massage of essential oils in Epsom salts,
The ability to create a soothing unscented liquid soap or milk before
experience for the body through putting into the water. The oil will
the sense of smell and touch is bind to the salt, soap or milk and
achieved when using essential oils then mix with the bath water. Do
with massage. This approach is not add oil directly to bath water.
ideal for stress, tension and loving The oil will float on top of the water
touch. For a full body massage, mix and put you at risk for an eye splash.
essentials for well being
Aromatherapy
Acne Energy Insomnia
solutions and safety
1. Essential oils are not water-soluble. Avoid contact with eyes. If a splash
Tea Tree Enhancement Bergamot occurs, use a small amount of milk, baby shampoo or a carrier oil to absorb
Lavender the oil from the eye area, then rinse with water for 5 minutes.
Basil
2. Wash your hands before and after using essential oils.
Anxiety/ Lemon Mandarin
Roman 3. Do not use internally unless directed by a trained health care practitioner.
Relaxation Peppermint
4. Patch test prior to applying directly to skin to check for allergy.
Rosemary Chamomile
Basil Sandalwood To patch test: Mix 2 to 5 drops of essential oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil
Bergamot Sweet Marjoram such as grapeseed or olive oil. Put 2 to 5 drops of the solution on the white
Geranium Fungal part of a band-aid and apply to the inner forearm. Remove the band-aid
Lavender Infections after 12 to 24 hours. If no redness or inflammation occurs at the site, you may
Pain
Mandarin Eucalyptus move ahead and apply to skin. You do not need to patch test for inhalation.
Black Pepper 5. The majority of oils should be mixed with a carrier oil such as grapeseed or
Geranium
Burns Juniper olive oil. Oils such as tea tree, lavender, petitgrain and German chamomile
Tea Tree
Lavender may be used straight on the skin if no allergy exists.
Geranium Lemongrass
Lavender Hormone 6. Medical history is important. Individuals with known kidney or liver failure,
Peppermint history of estrogen-based cancer, seizure disorder, asthma, hypertension,
Balance Rosemary
Digestive tachycardia, post-cardiac surgery or receiving chemotherapy need
Geranium to proceed with caution with certain oils and consult a certified clinical
Constipation Viral/Cold/Flu aromatherapy health care practitioner.
Black pepper Lemon Peel 7. Photosensitivity may occur with citrus oils causing a sunburn or rash.
Rosemary Peppermint It is best to avoid applying citrus oils to skin exposed to sunlight.
Nausea Ravensara 8. Certain oils should not be used with children and pregnant women.
Ginger Spike Lavender Consult with a trained health care practitioner for appropriate use.
Peppermint Tea Tree 9. Do not self diagnose. Consult your provider for a diagnosis and work
with a qualified aromatherapist for clinical use.
10. Aromatherapy is not a substitute for medical care.
Essential oils to avoid with certain conditions
• Hypertension: hyssop, rosemary, sage, thyme
• Seizure disorder: hyssop, sage, fennel, rosemary, spike lavender
• Estrogen dependent cancers: clary sage, fennel
• Asthmatics should use a diluted mixture of essential oils at first
to avoid adverse reactions
• Skin irritants: thyme, cinnamon, clove and birch are examples
of oils that cannot be used directly on the skin
• Pregnancy: Do not use if pregnant unless under the
guidance of a practitioner
promoting self care
mind ~ body ~ spirit ~ energy
Aurora
Medicine
Integrative
AuroraHealthCare.org • 414-219-5900
may you be X39432 (11/12) ©AHC
healthy ~ happy ~ well ~ and filled with loving kindness
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