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Here we will have a brief look at ten essential oils
considered by some to comprise the ‘basic home care kit’.
While by no means exhaustive, this list will go a long way
to providing effective (and often pleasant!) treatments for
you and your family for things like cuts and scrapes,
sunburn, digestive troubles, stress related conditions and
more. In the second article, we will cover specific
applications and uses of each oil.
Oil #1: Lavender
Lavender has often been called the ‘medicine chest in a
bottle’ for its broad range of applications. Every home
should keep Lavender on hand, even if no other oil is used,
as it is so very effective on burns. It’s anti-inflammatory
action is responsible for the beginnings of modern
aromatherapy, as Dr. Jean Valnet discovered Lavender’s
healing properties after being burned in a laboratory
accident. Lavender is considered to speed wound healing and
reduce scarring. The oil is also pleasantly calming, and can
be used to reduce stress in a variety of situations – a
commonly used technique is to apply Lavender oil ‘neat’
(undiluted) to the soles of the feet of patients recovering
from almost any ailment.
Oil #2: Tea Tree
When first examined for it’s antiseptic properties, Tea Tree
essential oil was found to be 100 times more powerful than
carbolic acid – the medical standard at the time. Tea tree
has an extremely broad range of antibiotic, antiviral and
antifungal properties that have been confirmed by modern
scientific research. Often used topically on small wounds,
Tea Tree is also commonly found in oral hygiene
preparations, and can also be effectively employed for
Candida, athlete’s foot and acne, among other things.
Oil #3: Peppermint
An excellent digestive tonic, Peppermint essential oil can
sooth many stomach complaints. For the traveler, it’s
effectiveness on calming motion sickness can be of great
help. Further, at least eight controlled studies have shown
Peppermint oil to be effective in reducing symptoms of
irritable bowel syndrome, a painful condition of the
intestines. Beyond it’s support of the digestive system,
Peppermint is delightfully stimulating to the mind,
brightening and sharpening mental focus. Finally, Peppermint
is considered by some to be a more effective insect
repellent than citronella when used on the body (rather than
in the surrounding air).
Oil #4: Chamomile
Ah, the great tension reliever, Chamomile oil. This
extremely gentle essential oil is useful for a wide variety
of nervous conditions, and is often indicated for cases of
stress in children (including teething and general
‘crankiness’). Rubbing into the solar plexus is a commonly
used application if that is where one tends to ‘hold
tension’. Chamomile essential oil is available in to
varieties, German or Blue Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The
Roman variety is most often used for stress relief, whereas
the German variety has the added bonus of being an extremely
effective anti-inflammatory.
Oil #5: Eucalyptus
Another essential oil with a broad range of properties,
Eucalyptus is most often used for respiratory conditions,
being useful in clearing congestion with coughs and colds.
However, it’s effects are certainly not limited to the
airways – because of it’s broad range of effects, it has
been called the aromatherapists ‘designer oil’. Eucalyptus
oil can cool the body in Summer (or due to fever – use in a
compress), and support the immune system in Winter.
Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most staphylococcus
bacteria, again being supportive of bronchial infections. It
is considered equally effective in cases of cystitis,
candida, and sunburn, to name a few, as well as being an
insect repellent.
Oil #6: Geranium
Geranium (sometimes known as ‘Geranium Rose’) works
wonderfully on both physiological and psychological levels.
It’s floral aroma is brightening and uplifting, while also
working as a sedative. Malte Hozzel has made this statement
regarding this oil: "Geranium’s vital, sensual presence is
not subtle, but direct & unavoidable, making it one of the
oils of choice for aphrodisiac qualities. (Geranium
Essential Oil) inspires natural beauty & enjoyment, uplifts
instantly & "tonifies" the mind & intellect in a powerful,
nearly demanding attitude. Mobilizing hidden creative &
emotional reserves, helping us to rise to our own earthly &
spiritual identify. A fiery beauty for the spells of all
worlds." Particularly noted for it’s effect on female
physiologic conditions, Geranium oil can be effective for
menopausal problems, uterine and breast complaints.
Oil #7: Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil is an effective physical and mental
stimulant, whether used in a diffuser or in a morning bath.
It’s slightly spicy, rather than floral aroma, has a warming
effect particularly useful for arthritic joints and other
muscular complaints. It also has a long history of treatment
for colds and flu – Rosemary was a component of ‘Four
Thieves Vinegar’, which robbers rubbed upon their bodies to
prevent infection when up to no good during the plague years
of the middle ages. Also, Rosemary is the essential oil most
often associated with improving hair growth in cases of
Alopecia.
Oil #8: Thyme
Thyme oil is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic
and diuretic, though it should be employed with great care.
There are many types of Thyme oil available, but only the
‘linalol’ chemotype is appropriate for use with children;
all varieties should be diluted prior to topical
application. Given the precautions, Thyme can be a first
line of defense in cases of flu, being used in a room
diffuser. It also supports elimination of toxic wastes from
the body (particularly noted for excessive uric acid), and
it’s warming quality can eliminate mucous and phlegm. It’s
application for the digestive system is that of a powerful
anti-parasitic, and for the muscular system, it can be
helpful for rheumatic aches and pains. Thyme oil may also be
supportive in cases of hair loss.
Oil #9: Lemon
A recent study on test-taking college students showed the
diffusion of Lemon oil into a room improved test scores more
than any other oil. In addition to it’s mind-brightening
qualities, it can also disinfect room air and act as a
natural deodorant. Lemon has been noted to support liver
function, and is also commonly used to assist in weight loss
and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon adds a pleasant
top note, and can create a synergistic effect with other
oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used as both a
fragrance and flavoring agent.
Oil #10: Clove
The power of Clove essential oil is noted upon the first
sensing of the aroma – it is quite strong, sharp and earthy.
Clove oil has been found to be the strongest anti-oxidant of
any essential oil, and is a component of ‘longevity’
formulas. It is also an extremely potent antibacterial,
effective against a broader range of microbes than any other
oil except perhaps Oregano – Clove oil has even been
employed to sterilize surgical instruments. Clove also has
analgesic properties, and can be used to temporarily reduce
the pain of toothache. Clove oil (or ground cloves) is also
a component of Dr. Huda Clark’s anti-parasite protocol,
helping eliminate parasites from one’s digestive system.
This is a very powerful oil which should be diluted to 1% or
less for topical application.
So, there we have a possible ‘top ten’ essential oils for
the home medicine chest, a selection with an extremely broad
range of uses for common ailments seen in a family setting.
It is important to note that all essential oils are
powerful, and they should be treated with caution and
respect. Always refer to a trusted source before making
specific applications of any oil, as many can be irritating
or possibly toxic if used incorrectly.
To help employ these oils in your home, however, we will
examine more specific uses of each essential oil in part II of this article.
This will assist you in using these wonderful medicines of nature in your daily
routine. |
