Essential Oil Descriptions

Disclaimer:  Information provided is not designed to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any illness, or injury and is provided for informational purposes only.  Always consult a medical doctor, or other alternative medical practitioner when suffering from any disease, illness, or injury, or before attempting a traditional or folk remedy.  Keep all products away from children.  As with any natural product, they can be toxic if misused. 

Sources:
The Complete Illustrated Guide to Aromatherapy - Julia Lawless
The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy - Valerie Ann Worwood
The Guide to Aromatherapy - http://www.fragrant.demon.co.uk/
Essential Oil Descriptions -
naturesgift.com

Anise Star Essential Oil

Illicium verum

Common uses:  Energizing, toning, deodorant, relaxation, mildly euphoric
Sources: 
Spain , China
Production Method:  Steam extraction
Blends:  amyris, bay, cardamom, caraway, cedarwood, coriander, fennel, mandarin
Safety:  Slight dermal toxicity.  Always use recommended dilution or less.

Basil Essential Oil

Ocimum basilicum

Common uses:  Bronchitis, Fatigue, Colds, Loss of concentration, Migraine, Gout, Aches and pains
Sources:  Europe, United States, Reunion, Madagascar, Seychelles
Production Method:  Whole plant - Steam extraction
Blends:  bergamot, birch, cypress, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, marjoram, black pepper, clary sage, hyssop, neroli
Safety:  Some concern about basil's high content of methyl chavicol which can be a carcinogen.   Always use recommended dilution or less.

Bergamot Essential Oil

Citrus Bergamia

Common uses:  Fevers, Acne, Tension, Wounds, Coughs, Stress (antidepressant)
Sources: 
Italy , Morocco , Guinea
Production Method:  Peel of Fruit - Cold pressing
Blends:  chamomile, cypress, eucalyptus, geranium, jasmine, juniper, lavender, lemon, palmarosa, patchouli, ylang ylang, coriander, neroli
Safety:  Do not use prior to or just after exposure to sun or tanning lights. 

Birch Essential Oil

Betula Lenta

Common uses:  Gout, rheumatism, eczema,ulcers, analgesic
Sources: 
USSR , Holland , Germany
Production Method:  Distillation of bark
Blends:  basil, chamomile, cypress, geranium, juniper, lavender, lemongrass, marjoram, peppermint, patchouli, vetiver
Safety:  Is slightly toxic.  Always use diluted and avoid use for long periods of time due to buildup in the body.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Cedrus Virginiana

Common uses:  Bronchitis, Catarrah, Acne, Arthritis, and as a diuretic
Sources: 
North America
Production Method:  Steam distillation of wood
Blends: bergamot, cypress, eucalyptus, juniper, rosemary, patchouli, vetiver, sandlewood
Safety: Should be avoided by people with high blood pressure or heart problems. 

Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

Athemis nobilis

Common uses:  Nerves, Migraine, Acne, Inflammation, Insomnia, Menstrual problems, Dermatitis
Sources: 
England , France , Hungary , Bulgaria , Yugoslavia
Production Method:  Steam distillation of flowers and leaves
Blends:  eucalyptus, rosemary
Safety:  very gentle oil 

Cinnamon Essential Oil

Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Common uses:  Flu, Rheumatism, Warts, Colds, Coughs, Viral infections
Sources: 
Sri Lanka , India , Madagascar
Production Method:  Water or steam distillation of twigs and leaves
Blends:  citrus oils, cypress, frankincense, geranium, juniper, lavender, rosemary, caraway, clove, myrtle, nutmeg
Safety:  Can cause skin irritation, moderate dermal toxicity 

Citronella Essential Oil

Cymbopogon nardus

Common uses:  As an insecticide, Deodorant, Tonic, Stimulant
Sources: 
Madagascar , South America
Production Method:  Steam distillation of all parts
Blends:  bergamot, lemon, orange, lemongrass
Safety:   

Clary Sage Essential Oil

Salvia sclarea

Common uses:  Depression, Nerves, Sore throat, Aches and pains, Debility (sedative)
Sources:  Spain, USSR, France
Production Method:  Steam distillation of flowering tops
Blends:  bergamot, cedarwood, citrus oils, cypress, geranium, juniper, lavender, sandlewood
Safety:  Avoid use during pregnancy, and don't use while consuming alcohol (increases effect) 

Clove Essential Oil

Eugenia Caryophyllata

Common uses:  Nausea, Flatulence, Bronchitis, Arthritis, Rheumatism, Tooth ache, Diarrhea, Infections (analgesic, antiseptic)
Sources:  Phillipines, Molucca Islands, East and West Indies
Production Method:  Water distillation of flower buds
Blends:  basil, cinnnamon, grapefruit, lemon, nutmeg, orange, peppermint, rosemary, black pepper, citronella, rose
Safety:  Skin and mucous membrane irritant and sensitizer.   Always use highly diluted, and avoid use on sensitive or damaged skin.  Do not use during pregnancy.

Cypress Essential Oil

Cupressus sempervirens

Common uses:  Menopausal problems, Circulatory conditions, Rheumatism, Colds, Whooping cough, Nervous tension, Hemorrhoids, Wounds (astringent)
Sources:  Mediterranean
Production Method:  Steam distillation of leaves and twigs
Blends:  bergamot, clary sage, juniper, lavender, lemon, orange, sandlewood
Safety:  flammable 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus globulus

Common uses:  Sore throat, Coughs, Bronchitis, Sinusitis, Skin infections, Ulcers, Sores, Rheumatism, Aches and pains (antiseptic, antiinflammatory)
Sources:  Australia, Tasmania, China, Spain, California, Brazil
Production Method:  Water or steam distillation of leaves and twigs
Blends:  geranium, lavender, lemon, sandlewood, juniper, lemongrass, melissa, pine, thyme, coriander
Safety

Fennel Essential Oil

Foeniculum vulgare

Common uses:  Digestive problems, Menapausal problems, Obesity, Constipation, Kidney stones, Nausea, as a diuretic
Sources: 
Japan , India , Mediterranean , Russia , Romania , Northern Europe
Production Method:  Steam distillation from seeds
Blends:  basil, geranium, lavender, lemon, rosemary, sandlewood, rose
Safety:  Slight dermal toxicity, use one-half recommended dilution or less 

Fir Essential Oil

Ocimum basilicum

Common uses
Sources: 
Madagascar , France
Production Method:  steam distillation
Blends:  blue chamomile, cedarwood, frankincense, lavender, lemon, myrtle, rosewood
Safety:  Can be a skin irritant on sensitive skin, always use diluted. 

Frankincense Essential Oil

Buswellia carteria

Common uses:  Sores, Wounds, Fevers, Coughs, Colds, Stress, Bronchitis, Laryngitis, Nervous Conditions, Tension
Sources:  Somalia, China, Ethiopia, Southern Arabia
Production Method:  Steam distillation from bark
Blends:  basil, black pepper, galbandum, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, orange, patchouli, sandlewood, most other oils
Safety:   

Geranium Essential Oil

Pelargonium graveolens

Common uses:  Depression, Menstrual problems, Diarrhea, Diabetes, Sores, Neuralgia, Bleeding, Circulatory conditions, Eczema, Sore throats, Nervous tension, Kidney stones
Sources:  Reunion, Madagascar, Egypt, China, France, Algeria, Morocco, USSR
Production Method:  Steam distillation from leaves, stalks and flowers
Blends:  cedarwood, citronella, clary sage, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lime, neroli, orange, petitgrain, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, most other oils
Safety:  Acts as a diuretic.  It can lower blood sugar, and should be avoided if hypoglycemic. 

Ginger Essential Oil

Zingiber officinalis

Common uses:  Rheumatism, Muscular aches and pains, Sprains, Broken bones, Colds, Nausea, Diarrhea, Alcoholism, Digestive disorders
Sources:  China, Japan, India, West Africa
Production Method:  Steam distillation from the roots
Blends:  spice oils, citrus oils, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, myrtle, rosemary, spearmint, cinnamon, coriander, clove, elemi, lemon, lime, orange,
Safety:  Can be irritating to the skin, use diluted.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

Citrus paradisi

Common uses:  Tonic, Obesity, Kidney and Liver problems, Migraine, Depression (tonic and aid in drug withdrawal)
Sources: 
Israel , USA
Production Method:  Cold expression from rind
Blends:  basil, bergamot, cedarwood, chamomile, cypress, frankincense, geranium, juniper, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, rosewood, ylang ylang
Safety:   

Helichrysum Essential Oil

Helichrysum angustifolium

Common uses:  Bacterial infections, Rheumatism, Muscular aches and pains, Weakness, Lethargy, Depression, Respiratory problems, Colds, Flu, Fever (fungicide).  Great for bruises.
Sources: 
Europe
Production Method:  Steam distillation of flowering tops
Blends
Safety:   

Hyssop Essential Oil

Hyssopus officinalis

Common uses: Bruises, Rheumatism, Arthritis, Coughs, Colds, Sore throat, Viral infections, Blood pressure, Circulatory problems, Nervous tension, Asthma (tonic)
Sources:  Southern Europe, Brazil, Palestine
Production Method:  Steam distillation from leaves and flowering tops
Blends:  celery, fennel, lavender, orange, rosemary, tangerine
Safety:  Do not use while pregnant, suffering from epilepsy, or if you have high blood pressure. 

Juniper Essential Oil

Juniperus Communis

Common uses:  Liver problems, Obesity, Rheumatism, Acne, Coughs, Ulcers, Urinary infections (diuretic)
Sources:  Europe, North America, North Asia, North Africa
Production Method:  Steam distillation from berries
Blends:  bergamot, citrus oils, cypress, geranium, lavender, melaleuca, melrose, rosemary, clary sage
Safety:  Flammable.  Do not use during pregnancy. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavendula officinalis

Common uses:  Burns, Inflammation, Cuts, Wounds, Eczema, Dermatitis, Fainting, Headaches, Influenza, Insomnia, Hysteria, Migraine, Nausea, Nervous Tension, Infections, Bacterial conditions, Sores, Ulcers, Acne, Boils, Asthma, Rheumatism, Arthritis
Sources:  England, France, Tasmania, Yugoslavia, USA
Production Method:  Steam distillation from flowering tops
Blends:  citrus oils, chamomile, clary sage, geranium, bergamot, clove, rosemary, eucalyptus, patchouli, rose, jasmine
Safety: None

Pharmaceutical name:  Lavandula officinalis Chaix (syn. Lavandula angustifolia Miller)(Labiatae)
Ancient names:  Nardos, Nardostachus (Gr)  Pseudonardus foemina/masculinum (Lat)

Lavender is part of the Labiatae family, comprising a lot of aromatic herbs:   thyme, savory, oregano, peppermint, sage etc.  We now find lavender or lavandin on all the continents:  tradition tells us  that French lavender originated in Persia or the Canary Isles. We find lavender around the Mediterranean , North America , Australia ( Tasmania ).   M Felix Eysseric said that he found lavender in Sweden , adapted to the bitter winter cold and probably protected by the snow.   "Lavandula Officinalis (in several varieties) grows wild in the south of France , in Italy , Corsica and Yugoslavia . It is cultivated widely all over the world, however not always successfully. Some of these areas are in Argentina , Brazil , Bulgaria , Cyprus , England , Greece , Hungary , Italy , Japan , U.S.S.R, Spain , Tanganyika , Tasmania , Turkey and Yugoslavia . There is some experimental cultivation and distillation in the far western state of Washington , USA . English distilled lavender oil from English grown lavender plants deserves special mention. (maybe in another post since I will be focussing on French lavender). Of the other countries mentioned, only Italy is exporting quantities of any significance. The production in Tasmania is mainly absorbed by Australia ; Japan produces 2-3 metric tons per year which is far from sufficient for its own needs, and even the Russian production does not cover local consumption.  The annual production in France varies from about 50 metric tons to almost 100 tons. It is difficult, however, to establish accurate figures for the production of this oil since it is subject to very extensive cutting, adulteration and other kinds of "handling" during which processes many other locally distilled oils and synthetic perfume materials are used in quantity."

"Although lavender has been taxonomically classified as Lavandula vera de Candolle, L.officinalis Chaix and L.angustifolia Mill., it is the latter name which is the correct derivation for the commercially grown aromatic member of the Labiatae family   (Tucker and Hensen 1985)  The French oil excels all other types in quality, possessing a characteristic sweetness of odor; certain sections of Southern France produce lavender oils with a high ester content unequaled elsewhere. Other producing regions: Italy , Southern Russia , Hungary , England , Australia ( Tasmania ), United States ." 

Wild lavender and cultures of lavender and lavandins: There are in France three "Lavender" growing wild: -Lavandula vera
-Lavandula stoechas
-Lavandula spica
From this one there are some "subspecies":
-Lavandula vera DC or Lavandula officinalis Chaix. It grows from 700-1800 meter altitude in the Haute Provence, France. The best quality comes from more than 1000 meter. There are two natural varieties of the Lavandula vera: -variety "Fragrans", preferring dry ground with a lot of sun -variety "Delphinensis", preferring the fresh valleys and more from the sun protected places. Naturally, in the altitude around 700-800 meters there is a contact with the Lavandula vera and the Lavandula spica, thus creating through the bees a natural hybrid form, known as "Lavandin". These "Lavandins" have intermediary properties of their "parents" and are habitually sterile. The first plantations of "Lavandins" came from transplantations of wild ones to adapted fields,but only in 1925 the technique of cloning was developed and enabled the apparition of several clones. There is a very important reason for this "cloning" because the yield can be 2-5 times higher compared with Lavandula vera.

Clones: The first successful clone was the Lavandin abriale (made by prof. Abriale), and had a huge success from 1930 on, replacing most of the transplantations. a plant disease "fatigue" appeared and the abrialis was partly replaced by the Lavandin super. Lavandin abrialis was almost completely left behind later by the Lavandin Grosso. (from 1975 on) In fact, Lavandin abrialis represents less than 10 percent of the production in France . Lavandin grosso. This clone was developed by M. Grosso, from Gault (Vaucluse). This clone is robust and productive and became very popular from 1972-1975 onwards. Lavandin Grosso represents 3/4 of the cultivated production areas,  and in certain regions more than 90 percent (Plateau de Valensole). The yield of Lavandin grosso is three times greater than the Abrialis clone. Chemically, Lavandin super and Lavandin abrialis are closest to the original Lavandula vera. There are other lavandin clones, less known: the 41/70, Special Grégoire, 33/70, Sumian etc

Lavender clones: The clone method was also used with the Lavandula vera, thus creating the clones "Matheronne" and "Maillette", the Maillette is most widespread, specially in the Eastern countries and thus replacing the original Lavandula vera. The Matheronne lavender variety has many advantages in culture and yield, but produces an essential oil that is not very soluble and therefore difficult in perfume use. The culture of this variety is almost abandoned. Some lavender varieties are cultivated solely for the use of the dried flowers, not for the distillation of essential oil. Around 1985-90  3000 hectares of lavender fine were cultivated in France (most Lavande fine and Maillette), 12000 hectares were cultivated with lavandin (3/4 Grosso, a little   lavandin abrialis and  lavandin super. Spike or spike lavender, Lavandula latifolia, resembles true lavender, but grows somewhat taller (80 to 90 cm). The colour of the flowers is grayish rather than bluish. The volatile oil contained in the flowers possesses an odor reminiscent of lavender, but harsher, more camphoraceous.

The quality of lavender essential oils:  "...talking about quality...even the mention: conformation to the French Pharmacopeia is not a guarantee: The French Pharmacopeia contains only some essential oils. This is for instance what it mentions about lavender: Essence de lavande Aetheroleum lavandulae ...from Lavande officinale: Lavandula vera D.C. Lavandula officinalis, Chaix ex-Villars. The essence contains a proportion of esters "exprimes" in linalyl acetate varying between 35 and 55 p 100. Characteristics: liquid pale yellow..... Now, the finest lavender officinalis harvested in the Haute Provence at more than 1400 m have up to 70 percent linalyl acetate, this would discard them from the quality mentioned in the French Pharmacopeia. Any perfume industry in Grasse is able to "make" a lavender oil from synthetic products, without traces of natural lavender, conform to the given "standards", and to the Pharmacopeia. This "Lavender" oil will not be counter indicated for medical use, but the real one, not conform to the "standards", will!.............." "Distillers located at high altitude produce oils of higher ester content, not only because of the fact that high-altitude, wild growing plants contain more esters, but also because of the fact that high altitude distillation means lower-temperature boiling. Consequently, the distilled oil is not exposed to 100 degree C. hot steam, but perhaps only to 92 or 93 degree C. Even this small decrease in temperature means that the hydrolysis of the natural linalyl esters take place at a much slower rate. A rapid distillation at slightly reduced pressure (high altitude) may thus produce an oil with nearly all the natural linalyl esters."

 Bibliography:
The Complete Illustrated Guide to Aromatherapy - Julia Lawless
The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy - Valerie Ann Worwood
The Guide to Aromatherapy - http://www.fragrant.demon.co.uk/
Essential Oil Descriptions -
naturesgift.com
- The Energies of Western Herbs-Peter Holmes-vol II, 491
 -Gildemeister und Hoffmann, french translation, 1900? 1914
-Philippe Mailhebiau, La nouvelle Aromatherapie, Edition Jakin, 2 e edition 1994 ISBN: 2-940115-00-1 (translated in vivo :)   )
-Dr Brian M Lawrence different books from 1979-1994 Allured Publishing Corporation USA
-Stephen Arctander, Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin, 1961 ISBN 0-9311710-36-7 1994 Allured Publishing Corporation USA
-Huiles Essentielles-hydrolats, distiller Henri Viaud, Editions Presence, Sisteron, 1983, ISBN: 2-901696-33-3
-The Essential oils, Guenther, Robert E Krieger 1949
-Lavandes et Lavandins Christiane Meunier, Edisud 1985?1992 ISBN 2-85740-597-0
-AFNOR Receuil de normes Françaises 1992, 4 e Edition ISBN 2-12-177541-2
AFNOR- Tour Europe-Cedex 7 92049 Paris La Defense France
-Michel Vanhove, Belgium, own experiences and discussions with french distillers.
-Detailed description of Lavender compiled by Greg ZenScents,Limited
http://www.zenscents.net from the above sources.

Lemon Essential Oil

Citrus Limonum

Common uses:  Sore throat, Nervous conditions, Blood pressure, Digestive problems, Gall stones, Debility, Fever, Anxiety (tonic), Astringent, Antiseptic
Sources:  Brazil, Israel, USA, Argentina
Production Method:  Cold expression from rind
Blends:  chamomile, eucalyptus, fennel, frankincense, geranium, juniper, peppermint, sandalwood, ylang ylang, neroli, clary sage, bergamot, citronella, orange flower
Safety:  Photosensitive, do not use prior to or just after exposure to sun or tanning lights.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Cymbopogon citratus

Common uses:  Infections, Headaches, Sore throat, Respiratory problems, Fever (tonic), Antiseptic, Insect repellent
Sources: 
Brazil , Sri Lanka , Central Africa
Production Method:  Steam distillation of whole plant
Blends:  basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, melaleuca, rosemary, jasmine
Safety:  May cause skin irritation. 

Lime Essential Oil

Citrus aurantifolia

Common uses:  Fever, Rheumatism, Sore throat, Headache, Anorexia, Alcoholism, Depression, Anxiety (astringent and tonic)
Sources:  Brazil, Mexico, Italy, West Indies, USA
Production Method:  Cold expression from rind
Blends:  clary sage, citronella, lavender, neroli, rosemary
Safety:  Photosensitive, do not use before or just after exposure to sun or tanning lights. 

Mandarin Essential Oil

Citrus nobilis

Common uses:  Insomnia, Nervousness, Liver problems, Digestive weakness, Anxiety (tonic and tranquilizer)
Sources: 
Italy , Brazil , Spain , Argentina , China
Production Method:  Cold expression from rind
Blends:  basil, bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, lime, neroli, orange, rose
Safety:  Photosensitive, do not use prior to or just after exposure to sun or tanning lights. 

Marjoram Essential Oil

Origanum marjorana

Common uses: Sprains, Bruises, Colds, Rheumatism, Intestinal cramps, Menstrual problems, Anxiety, Asthma, Bronchitis, Insomnia, Circulatory disorders, Muscular problems
Sources:  Hungary, Egypt, Spain, France, Germany, Portugal
Production Method:  Steam distillation from the flowering tops and leaves
Blends:  bergamot, cedarwood, chamomile, cypress, lavender, orange, nutmeg, rosemary, rosewood, ylang ylang, mandarin, eucalyptus, thyme
Safety:  Very strong sedative.  Do not use during pregnancy (may stimulate menstrual flow).  Long term use may permanently decrease sexual desire. 

Myrrh Essential Oil

Commiphora myrrha

Common uses: Wounds, Mouth ulcers, Dermatitis, Bacterial infections, Bronchitis, Diarrhea, Fungal infections, Candida
Sources: 
Somalia , Ethiopia , North Africa
Production Method:  Steam distillation of bark resin
Blends:  frankincense, lavender, patchouli, sandalwood, spice oils, clove
Safety:  Use one-half recommended dilution or less.  It is said to stimulate menstrual flow, and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Orange Essential Oil

Citrus sinensis

Common uses:  Depression, Anxiety, Constipation, Nervous conditions, Muscular spasms (tonic, sedative, and antiseptic)
Sources:  USA, Brazil, France, Spain
Production Method:  Cold expression or steam distillation of rind
Blends:  cinnamon, clove, cypress, frankincense, geranium, juniper, lavender, nutmeg, rosewood, petitgrain, orange, citrus oils
Safety:  Photosensitive, do not use prior to or just after exposure to sun or tanning lights.  May cause irritation on sensitive skin.

Oregano Essential Oil

Origanum vulgare

Common uses:  Bronchitis, Viral infections, Rheumatism, Respiratory problems, Muscular pains, Digestive problems
Sources: 
North Africa , Europe , Egypt , Asia
Production Method:  Steam distillation of leaves and flowering tops
Blends:  basil, fennel, geranium, lemongrass, myrtle, pine, thyme, rosemary
Safety:  Can cause irritation on sensitive skin. 

Patchouli Essential Oil

Pogostemon patchouli

Common uses:  Skin inflammations, Fungal infections, Acne, Eczema, Dandruff (antiseptic), Diuretic, Insecticide
Sources:  China, Indonesia, Madagascar, Japan
Production Method:  Steam distillation of leaves
Blends:  bergamot, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, ginger, lavender, lemongrass, myrrh, pine, rosewood, sandalwood, vetiver, cedarwood, clove, rose, neroli
Safety:  May act as a mild sedative effect in some people.

Black Pepper Essential Oil

Piper nigrum

Common uses:  Colds, Aches and pains, Influenza, Flatulence, Rheumatism
Sources: 
India , Indonesia , Brazil , Southeast Asia
Production Method:  Steam distillation of berries
Blends:  sandalwood, lavender, rosemary, marjoram
Safety:  Skin irritant, always use diluted, and use care. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Mentha piperata

Common uses:  Inflammation, Nausea, Indigestion, Fevers, Flatulence, Headaches, Migraine, Liver problems, Arthritis (stimulant)
Sources: 
USA , Europe , China
Production Method:  Steam distillation of whole plant
Blends:  bergamot, geranium, lavender, marjoram, rosemary, sandalwood
Safety:  May cause skin irritation, use diluted and avoid use on sensitive skin ('stings') 

Petitgrain Essential Oil

Citrus aurantium

Common uses:  Anxiety, Insomnia, Depression (antiseptic), Tonic, Aid to convalescence
Sources: 
France , Italy , Paraguay , Brazil
Production Method:  Steam distillation from leaves and twigs
Blends:  citrus oils, lavender, clary sage, rosemary
Safety:   

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosmarinus officinalis

Common uses:  Gout, Headaches, Fatigue, Rheumatism, Skin infections, Muscular aches and pains, Sprains, Dandruff, Alopecia, Obesity, Spinal injuries (nerve stimulant), Heart tonic and liver decongestant, Analgesic
Sources:  Spain, France, Yugoslavia, Japan
Production Method:  Steam distillation from flowers and leaves
Blends:  basil, cedarwood, frankincense, lavender, peppermint, rosewood, citronella, thyme, petitgrain, cinnamon
Safety:  Use one-half recommended dilution.  Do not use during pregnancy, if you have high blood pressure, or have epilepsy. 

Sage Essential Oil

Salvia officinalis

Common uses:  Sores, Bacterial infections, Bronchitis, Catarrh, Rheumatism, Arthritis, Sprains, Fibrocitis (astringent)
Sources:  Mediterranean, China
Production Method:  Steam distillation of flowers and leaves
Blends:  bergamot, lemon, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, pine, citrus oils
Safety:  DO NOT use during pregnancy, if you have high blood pressure, or have epilepsy. 

Sandalwood Essential Oil

Santalum album

Common uses:  Acne, Catarrh, Cystitis, Menstrual problems, Skin infections, Fungal and bacterial infections (sedative)
Sources:  Indonesia, India
Production Method:  Water or steam distillation of wood
Blends:  cypress, frankincense, lemon, myrrh, ylang ylang, patchouli, spruce, rose, clove, lavender, black pepper, bergamot, geranium
Safety:   

Spearmint Essential Oil

Mentha spicata

Common uses:  Flatulence, Indigestion, Intestinal cramps, Fever, Nausea, Colic, Hemorrhoids
Sources: 
Europe , Mediterranean , Russia , USA
Production Method:  Steam distillation of leaves and flowering tops
Blends:  basil, grapefruit, rosemary, bergamot, jasmine, lavender, sandalwood
Safety:  Use one-half recommended dilution or less. 

Spruce Essential Oil

Tsuga canadensis

Common uses
Sources: 
Madagascar , France
Production Method:  steam distillation
Blends:  birch, eucalyptus, frankincense, helichrysum, ravensara
Safety:  May cause irritation on sensitive skin. 

Tangerine Essential Oil

Citrus reticulata

Common uses
Sources: 
Madagascar , France
Production Method:  steam distillation
Blends:  basil, bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, orange
Safety:  Photosensitive, do not use prior to or just after exposure to sun or tanning lights.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Melaleuca Alternifolia

Common uses:  Fungal infections, Viral and bacterial infections, Colds, Influenza, Cold sores, Warts, Verrucas, Inflammation, Acne, Burns, Candida, Shock, Hysteria
Sources:  Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand
Production Method:  Water or steam distillation from leaves and twigs
Blends:  citrus oils, cypress, eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, spice oils, thyme, clary sage, geranium, marjoram, clove, nutmeg
Safety:  May cause irritation on sensitive skin. 

Thyme Essential Oil

Thymus vulgaris

Common uses:  Bacterial infections, Urinary infections, Rheumatism, Viral infections, Lethargy, Sores, Wounds (stimulant and tonic), to raise immunity
Sources: 
Mediterranean , Egypt
Production Method:  Steam distillation of leaves and flowering tops
Blends:  bergamot, citrus oil, cedarwood, juniper, melaleuca, oregano, rosemary, lemon, lavender, marjoram
Safety:  May cause irritation on sensitive skin.  Do not use when pregnant or if you have high blood pressure.

Vetiver Essential Oil

Vetiveria zizanoides

Common uses:  Nervousness, Insomnia, Rheumatism, Muscular relaxant, Antiseptic, Tonic
Sources: 
Indonesia , Phillipines, Comoro Islands
Production Method:  steam distillation from the roots
Blends:  sandalwood, jasmine, patchouli, lavender, clary sage, mimosa, ylang ylang
Safety:   

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Cananga odorata

Common uses:  Palpitations, Anxiety, Depression, High blood pressure, Sedative, Tonic
Sources: 
Indonesia , Phillipines, Comoro Islands
Production Method:  Water or steam distillation of flowers (yellow flowers yield best oil)
Blends:  bergamot, lavender, lemon, narcissus, neroli, sandalwood, vetiver
Safety: