Essential Oils 101
Aromatherapy is the use of very concentrated essences of various botanicals and can have powerful effects on your health and well-being. Each essential oil has its own potential benefits due to biologically active volatile compounds naturally occurring in the plant composition. Oils often work synergistically, and using a combination of oils often creates a more powerful effect than any one individual oil.
However quality is crucial to reap the benefits, and precautions must be made to be certain the oils are pure, therapeutic grade essential oils from plants - NOT synthetic and potentially toxic and allergenic fragrances or perfumes. And the Latin name is significant, as many plants have different species, giving the extracted essences varying attributes and safety precautions. You will find the Latin name italicized in parenthesis to always be sure you’re getting correct information about the specific oil you’re purchasing.
It is also important to use oils with caution and be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially during pregnancy and for sensitivities. Our founder, Angela Wurzelbacher is a Certified Aromatherapist and has received her credentials through Aromahead Institute, recognized and approved nationally by The Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIA), The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) & The International Federation of Drugless Practitioners (IFPA). Her passion drives her continuing education beyond her current level and keeps her on the cutting edge of what’s new and exciting in the world of wellness through aromatherapy. For a personalized consultation contact us today.
(Abies balsamea)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Builds immune system; fights infection; dries mucus and calms coughs; antimicrobial (kills airborne germs); uplifting; decongestant; stimulates the respiratory system, adrenal glands and circulatory system; energizing; fresh clean aroma.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Anti-inflammatory; eases arthritis and muscular aches/pains; supports respiratory system when applied to chest.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute in carrier oil before topical use. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Supports immune system; helps alleviate bronchial congestion; significantly reduces craving for cigarettes; helps reduce nausea and digestive issues.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Helps stimulate circulation; during cold & flu season add a drop to chest rub to warm body and stimulate immunity; helps reduce neck pain and fever; active against pathogens.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute with carrier oil before topical use. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Picea mariana)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Supports respiratory system; clears mucus and congestion; calms inflammation; helps energize when feeling sluggish; coniferous, fresh warm aroma.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Soothes sore muscles; calms muscle spasms, including coughs; helps soothe aches and pains associated with illness.
SAFETY TIPS: Anyone who suffers from asthma or any other respiratory disorder should smell lid of bottle before use to ensure there are no sensitivities. Dilute properly. Contact a healthcare professional before use for children or pregnant women.
(Cedrus deodara)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Supports respiratory system; eases chest tightness from illness or stress; relieves congestion and clears mucus; repels insects; soothes nervous system; helps clear infections; helps to feel relaxed and uplifted.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Rejuvenates damaged skin; soothes irritated skin; heals acne; eases chest tightness; helps clear infections; calms inflammation; soothes nervous system; repels insects.
SAFETY TIPS: Minimal safety concerns; dilute with carrier oil before applying to sensitive skin. Consult a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Eugenia caryophyllata)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Helps clear mucus; cleanses air of germs (antimicrobial);warm, sweet, spicy aroma.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Stimulates hair follicles; improves circulation; eases muscle aches and pains; reduces puffy skin on face and under eyes; relieves digestive discomfort when massaged (diluted) onto abdomen; helps ease congestion; hastens healing of wounds, cuts, bruises and athlete’s foot; helps reduce all types of pain, including toothache or gum pain.
SAFETY TIPS: Always dilute with carrier oil before topical use. Consult a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Eucalyptus radiata)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Best for supporting healthy breathing; clears congestion and mucus; increases circulation; reduces inflammation; loosens tightness in chest and head; aids in healing infection; eases headaches; helps provide energy and focus.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Helps reduce pain; has cooling effect; aids in healing infection; supports respiratory system; increases circulation; reduces inflammation; loosens tightness in chest and head.
SAFETY TIPS: Not recommended for children under 10 (cedarwood is preferred for children.) Before use, smell the lid of the bottle to be sure there are no sensitivities.
(Boswellia carteri)
When the Frankincense tree is wounded it produces a healing resin which seeps over the wound, creating protection and nourishment for the tree. Frankincense essential oil is extracted from this resin, giving it the same incredible attributes for healing and nourishment to our bodies as well.
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Disinfects air; supports respiratory system; clears mucus, congestion and infection; relieves headaches; helps to feel relaxed and uplifted.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Promotes healthy cell regeneration; keeps existing cells/tissues healthy; reverses signs of aging; reduces appearance of stretch marks/scars; treats dry skin; speeds healing of cuts, acne, burns, rashes and sores; strengthens hair roots; disinfects; reduces inflammation & calms arthritis.
SAFETY TIPS: Considered very safe with no known adverse affects. Consult a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Pelargonium graviolens)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Supports the immune system; helps uplift the spirit and ease anxiety and depression; has antibacterial, anti fungal, and antioxidant properties. Add a few drops to our Lotus Diffuser to uplift the mood, kill airborne germs and add a beautiful aroma that resembles a rose bouquet.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Helps manage pain and inflammation; improves circulation; eases muscle spasms; deeply skin nourishing; anti-fungal; balances production of sebum for scalp when added to shampoo; helps fade scars and heal wounds; prevents skin sagging and wrinkling and helps give muscles a toned appearance. Can be used as a deodorant due to its fragrant scent and antibacterial action.
SAFETY TIPS: Generally non-irritating, however it is best to dilute with carrier oil before use. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Zingiber officinale)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Relaxes nervous system, eases stress, depression and anxiety, and supports sleep. Helps calm cycles of overthinking and circuitous thoughts, eases fatigue and helps with insomnia.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Helps manage pain and inflammation; helps maintain skin moisture; promotes hair growth, helps clear and heal acne; acts as conditioning agent for hair; antimicrobial to help reduce skin irritation and redness; helps speed up the healing of wounds and infections and to avoid sepsis and tetanus; anti-aging.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute in carrier oil before topical use. Due to its high potency, use sparingly to avoid headache or nausea. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Lavandula angustafolia)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Supports respiratory system; soothes allergy and sinus congestion; supports emotional balance and stress; helps clear infections; calms nervous system and supports deep sleep; freshens air with sweet floral aroma.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Use for daily skincare; soothes skin irritation/inflammation; repels insects; helps clear infections; soothes burns and reduces scars; heals bruises, cuts, bites and stings; relieves muscle/joint pain, acne and wounds. Wonderful as natural cleaning product.
SAFETY TIPS: One of the safest and gentlest essential oils. The only safety tip is “don’t leave home without it!”
(Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck)
Best choice for natural cleaning blends; helps remove stains.
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Supports respiratory health; keeps heart lively throughout the day and inspires happiness and energy; reduces infection and congestion; clears mucus.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Disinfecting; kills nail fungus and strengthens nails; helps heal cold sores and blisters; helps soften calluses; reduces swelling.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute properly. Purchase only organic essential oil, as conventional lemons contain high pesticide residue. Consult a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women. Store in refrigerator for longer shelf life.
(Cymbopogon flexuosis)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Has a calming, lemony scent; repels insects; has antimicrobial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, sedative and antidepressant properties. Blends well with Frankincense or Lemon to uplift the mood and stimulate the immune system.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Analgesic properties help reduce pain and inflammation; inhibits infections including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus); use in foot bath to reduce fever. Add 1 drop of Lemongrass to 1 oz. Jojoba Oil for an effective insect repellent.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute with carrier oil before use. Do not use with antidepressant drugs. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Citrus aurantifolia)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Provides respiratory support; soothes allergy and sinus congestion; supports immunity; clears mucus; eases nausea; aids in feeling energized and reducing stress.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Eases symptoms of cold, cough, flu, sinusitis, sore throat and chest congestion (mix a few drops in carrier oil and rub on neck and chest); is great for use in homemade cleaning products.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute with carrier oil before use. Due to high pesticide content in conventional limes we recommend using only organic. Store in refrigerator for longer shelf life.
(Pogostemon cablin)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Use in inhalers or lava pendants for uplifting aroma and to ease depression and bereavement. Due to its thick consistency use caution when using in diffuser.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Use as deodorant; helps reduce fine lines - nutritive for aging skin; clears acne; moisturizes skin; eases depression and bereavement; helps reduce scar formation; rejuvenates damaged skin and soothes skin irritation; calms inflammation; eases bug bites and stings; repels insects; helps with relaxation; treats dandruff and oily hair; has deep, rich, earthy sweet aroma.
SAFETY TIPS: Considered very safe with no known adverse affects. Consult a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Mentha piperita)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Eases nausea and indigestion; relieves headaches; clears mucus and congestion; reduces infection; offers a burst of energy.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Relieves headaches; has “icy-hot” cooling sensation - a sign that it’s working to reduce inflammation and help with circulation; lends a burst of fresh energy; reduces swelling; soothes sore muscles and joints; also great in cleaning blends.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute in carrier oil before topical use and avoid using near eyes or in bath. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Rosmarinus officinalis)
DIFFUSER/INHALER Helpful with respiratory conditions associated with allergies and cold or flu; helps increase mental alertness and alleviate mental fatigue.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Can be used in skincare blends for regeneration and acne; has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties; massage with rosemary can increase alertness and attentiveness. Great for hair-try adding a drop in shampoo for a nourishing, refreshing effect in morning.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute in carrier oil before topical use. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Citrus paradisi)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Eases symptoms of depression; helps reduce airborne germs and supports immunity, helping to prevent illness; uplifting for mood; has sweet, refreshing aroma. Wonderful for homemade cleaning products.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Relieves menstrual cramps, headaches, muscle pain, and arthritis; helps diminish cellulite; stimulates lymph nodes. MUST BE PROPERLY DILUTED FOR TOPICAL USE IN CASE OF SUN EXPOSURE TO AVOID SEVERE BURN AND/OR DISCOLORATION
SAFETY TIPS: Minimal safety concerns; dilute with carrier oil before applying to sensitive skin or before exposing skin to sunlight or tanning facilities. Consult a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women. Store in refrigerator for longer shelf life.
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Supports immune response; alleviates nausea and digestive issues; helps with congestion, specifically due to bronchitis.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Helps with pain, swelling and inflammation; antioxidant; supports digestion and prevents gas and diarrhea; promotes perspiration and helps skin eliminate waste; increases blood flow to reduce inflammation; reduces excess mucus in respiratory system.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute with carrier oil before topical use. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Cedrus sinensis)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Provides respiratory support; soothes allergy and sinus congestion; supports immunity; clears mucus; eases nausea; aids in feeling relaxed, clears acne; restored and uplifted; relieves pain; eases depression; sweet, fruity aroma uplifts the spirit.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Helps to clear infection and calm inflammation; supports digestion; supports immunity; is great for use in homemade cleaning products.
SAFETY TIPS: Gentle enough to use in blends for children over 5 - dilute with carrier oil before use. Due to high pesticide content in conventional oranges I recommend organic. Store in refrigerator for longer shelf life.
(Melaleuca alternifolia)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Kills airborne germs, supports respiratory system; soothes allergies and sinus congestion; clears mucus; eases sore throats and coughs; reduces infections; provides energy, focus and optimism.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal; helps heal acne, rash, cold sores, warts, athlete’s foot, psoriasis, eczema; repels insects.
CLEANING USES: Eradicates mold and kills bacteria on surfaces and in the air; freshens laundry.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute in carrier oil before topical use. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
(Cananga odorata)
DIFFUSER/INHALER: Relaxes nervous system, eases stress, depression and anxiety, and supports sleep. Helps calm cycles of overthinking and circuitous thoughts, eases fatigue and helps with insomnia. Add 1 drop to our beautiful Lava Pendant to experience its euphoric effects.
TOPICAL APPLICATION: Helps manage pain and inflammation; helps maintain skin moisture; promotes hair growth, helps clear and heal acne; acts as conditioning agent for hair; antimicrobial to help reduce skin irritation and redness; helps speed up the healing of wounds and infections and to avoid sepsis and tetanus; anti-aging.
SAFETY TIPS: Dilute in carrier oil before topical use. Due to its high potency use sparingly to avoid headache or nausea. Contact a healthcare professional before use with children or pregnant women.
Carrier Oils and Waxes
Marula Oil (Sclerocarya birrea)
Skin Health: Repairs damage caused by pollutants, reduces appearance of fine lines, eases acne, and helps retain moisture. Helps heal irritation, inflammation, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, sunburns, and rejuvenates the complexion. Very high in antioxidants and has a silky consistency.
Hair Health: Protects scalp against harmful bacteria and inflammation, balances scalp’s natural oils, and strengthens strands against damage caused by environmental stressors. Helps reduce frizz.
Safety Tips: Although considered safe, it’s best to do a skin test in a small area before use on sensitive skin.
Castor Seed Oil (Ricinus communis)
Anti-inflammatory: Useful in treating irritated skin, including acne, dermatosis and psoriasis.
Antimicrobial: Has been found to be an effective agent against bacterial infections resisting invading pathogens.
Cleansing: naturally astringent and helps pull impurities from skin.
Moisturizing: Due to its oily nature it adds a protective layer that prevents moisture from leaving skin. The presence of triglycerides also help maintain moisture.
Nourishing: Has a remarkable effect on dry skin, oily skin and aging skin. Due to the presence of vitamin E, castor oil offers antioxidants that help reduce signs of aging.
Stimulates Hair Follicles and strengthens weak, cracked nails. (Add lemon essential oil for healthy strong nails.)
Safety Tips: Although considered safe, it’s best to do a skin test in a small area before use on sensitive skin.
Jojoba Oil/Wax (Simmondsia chinensis)
*Very similar to the esters that make up 26-30% of human sebum (closest in composition to natural oils in skin.)
Skin Health: Has anti-inflammatory properties which help to tame chaffing and chapping, reduce redness caused by drying, ease the effects of eczema and rosacea, and keep skin calm and comfortable. The vitamin E and B-complex vitamins help in skin repair and damage control.
Hair Health: Scalp related problems caused by hardened build-up of sebum that clogs the hair follicles may be reversed by applications of jojoba oil which can readily loosen and dissolve these hair plugs, enabling a healthy scalp and facilitating hair growth.
Safety Tips: Although considered safe, it’s best to do a skin test in a small area before use on sensitive skin.
Beeswax
Skin Health: Creates barrier which helps to seal moisture into the skin and helps protect from environmental toxins and irritants, but still allows the skin to breathe. It also contains vitamin A which improves hydration and promotes cell regeneration. Treats diaper rash, psoriasis, and eczema. Relieves pain, clears acne, reduces stretch marks, and helps in collagen production.
Candles: Paraffin wax and chemical laden waxes spread toxins throughout the air and can endanger your health. Opt for candles made with organic beeswax and cotton wicks, and if you prefer scented candles look for aromatherapy candles which purify the air and promote health with plant oils.