The Aromatherapy Home Medicine Chest ? Part I: The Essential Oils

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.

Misty Rae Cech is a Naturopath and Yoga teacher in Boulder, Colorado. She is the owner of Ananda Apothecary, an online dispensery of pure organic essential oils and flower essences. Misty employs essential oils and flower essences in her practice, finding them a wonderful natural way to support her clients.

Higgins & Burke Six Flavor Tea Bag Assortment, Variety Tea, 120/Carton

In The News:

---

'Alternative' Medicine Is Mainstream
Wall Street Journal - 6 hours ago
This is a watershed in the evolution of integrative medicine, a holistic approach to health care that uses the best of conventional and alternative ...
Integrative Medicine Hawaii Health Guide
all 3 news articles

Wall Street Journal Blogs
Exxon CEO doubts Obama's alternative energy goal
Reuters India, India - 16 hours ago
In a speech at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, Obama said he wanted the United States to double its output of alternative energy sources ...
Obama Team, Exxon Mobil Chief Trade Jabs on Energy Wall Street Journal
Exxon favors carbon tax over cap and trade for CO2 curbs MarketWatch
Exxon Mobil CEO prefers carbon tax Bizjournals.com
Forbes - WELT ONLINEall 53 news articles

New York Times
Obama vows to double US output of alternative energy
AFP - 12 hours ago
FAIRFAX, Virginia (AFP) — President-elect Barack Obama pledged Thursday to double US production of alternative energy in three years, as part of a raft of ...
Video: Obama Pushes Economic Plan CBS
Obama plans alternative energy boost Energy Risk (subscription)
Obama's green energy plans build hopes, skepticism Reuters
Petroleumworld.com - GlobeSt. comall 3,129 news articles

Photo Release -- U-Haul Launches U Car Share -- the Alternative to ...
MSNBC - 1 hour ago
8, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- U Car Share is expanding its growth as it partners with the city of Portland by launching the alternative to vehicle ownership. ...

Times Online
‘There Is No Alternative’ Is No Answer
Forward, NY - 12 hours ago
But the idea of ein breira — there is no alternative — is easily transformed into a refuge for the intellectually lazy, a bankrupt alibi for all manner of ...
Video: Gaza civilians braced for new attacks RussiaToday
Fighting in Gaza, a Dollar Alternative, and Obama's Foreign Policy ... Council on Foreign Relations
Bomb a Ghetto, Raise a Cheer The Nation.
Middle East Online - Daily Star - Lebanonall 10,919 news articles

The best alternative medicine for children
CNN - 19 hours ago
Several alternative treatments have been shown to be safe and effective for kids, experts say. "We would both end up miserable," says Kruse-Field. ...

PhillyDeals: PhillyDeals: Finding alternatives in slowing market
Philadelphia Inquirer, PA - 3 hours ago
Now he's looking for alternative ways to make money from real estate as the market slows. Harden dropped out of Temple University in 1991 to fight at Don ...

Europe Looks to Alternative Sources for Energy
Wall Street Journal - Jan 7, 2009
By GUY CHAZAN As Europe counts the cost of Russia's latest gas shut-off, there are signs it could give a boost to alternative sources of gas that currently ...
Video: Ukraine is blackmailing us Putin RussiaToday
Delo Urging Europe to Look for Alternative to Russian Gas STA - Slovenska Tiskovna Agencija
A Gas Crisis in Europe Prompts Talk of Alternatives New York Times
TREND Information - guardian.co.ukall 7,487 news articles

Entropic Communications and Actiontec Debut Wired Home Networking ...
MSNBC - 5 hours ago
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- International CES Booth 25829 -- Entropic Communications, Inc. (Nasdaq:ENTR), a leading provider of silicon ...

CNET News
Linksys offers full wireless alternative to Sonos
CNET News, CA - Jan 7, 2009
After hinting at a "digital stereo" product in The New York Times last week, Cisco unveiled the details of its Wireless Home Audio System today, ...

alternative - Google News

Freedom Is Found In Detachment

I am looking for freedom in my life. And I know the only way I can find it is through detachment.Every morning as I am preparing to... Read More

Tai Chi Breathing Reduces Residual Air in Ineffective Retention Space

Breathing is the source of life: if breathing stops, do does life. On average, an adult breathe 16-18 times per minutes, each time about 500ml of air... Read More

The Flu Hysteria and Your Family

(originally in Nov. 2004 ZoneNet Newsletter)In this flu season, America is faced with a dilemma: we are some fifty million flu shots short. Public health officials say... Read More

The Sense of Smell and Emotional Response

Smell is a specialised chemical sense. It is interesting to note that the olfactory cells are the only place in the human body where the central nervous... Read More

More Vegetable Constipation Remedies

Here are more constipation remedies using vegetables. Use vegetables every day for good health. When you have constipation then you want to eat more vegetables and fruits... Read More

Constipation Relief With Fruits Part III

Here's another group of fruits that you can use to get constipation relief. Use these every day for desert or in between meal. Use more than normal... Read More

Parasites: The Missing Diagnosis?

Parasites, commonly thought of as only affecting those in developing countries, actually affect 1 in 6 people in North America and are the most common disease condition... Read More

Alter Your Perceptions

This article first appeared in The Sept. 2004 issue of The ZoneNet newsletterNo matter how fast we run, many of us are haunted by the urge to... Read More

Whipped Shea Butter & Its Many Uses

Shea butter, also referred to as karite, which means "life" has been used across the African continent for centuries. It hails from Central and Western Africa. It's... Read More

Your Body?s Secret Wisdom-- Eating from the Tree of Life

Your body's secret wisdom is as ancient as humankind and encoded in every cell. It knows the perfect food for you to eat at any point in... Read More

Use Essential Oils and Herbs in a Sitz Bath for Hemorrhoid Relief

Sitz bath using juniper and lavender oilsIf you have swollen hemorrhoids, a sitz bath can help you reduce them and speed your recover. Fill a tub with... Read More

Anxiety & Panic - Two Steps to Take Before the Healing Process Begins

Anxiety sufferers are usually at a loose end after trying methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Hypnosis, Sessions with psychologists, Meditation, Herbal Alternatives and probably the most... Read More

Evening Primrose Oil Benefits

The evening primrose oil which we use is extracted from the seeds of Oenthera biennis, a plant native to North America. The evening primrose plant resembles a... Read More

Homeopathy: A Natural Health 101 Article

What It IsIn Homeopathy, extremely dilute preparations are given to a patient to spur the patient's immune system into action and re-balance the body's "vital force". The... Read More

How Can Green Tea Benefit My Family?

No doubt you've heard of Green Tea and the health benefits you can experience from drinking it.Are you giving your family this powerful antioxidant daily?Here is a... Read More

What Disorders Can Acupuncture Treat and How Does It Work?

How did acupuncture start?The story was met with widespread disbelief.During a visit to China in 1978, cardiologist Doctor Isadore Rosenfeld witnessed open-heart surgery on a patient, anaesthetised... Read More

4000 Year Old Secrets of Green Tea

The Chinese have known about the medicinal benefits of green tea for over 4,000 years. But recent studies are just starting to unlock these ancient secrets of... Read More

Pain Relief: Is There an Alternative?

Do you rely on Vioxx, Celebrex or Aleve (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs) to ease pain? If you suffer from inflammatory arthritis or pain due to injuries,... Read More

Gearing Up for Flu Season

Well, flu season is coming upon us quickly, and most people would love to skip getting sick this year. The biggest question is?How? Here are the easiest... Read More

Using the Subconscious for Pain Relief - What?s In It For You?

If you're in chronic pain, you probably want 7 things. If you can learn to use visualization statements to program your subconscious, you may be able to... Read More

The Effects of Stress

Stress can affect you in four different ways:The Physical Effects of StressThese result in a physically perceived overload. These are present in many forms. One of the... Read More

Five Simple Steps For Treating Heel Pain

If you experience a sharp pain in your heel at the first step in the morning, chances are you have plantar fasciitis (plan * tar fash* ee... Read More

How to Sense Low Levels of Asbestos in Your Daily Environment. (Part II)

Most people find it difficult to believe that a tiny dust material, too small to see, can cause such havoc with the human body. As a construction... Read More

Complementary Therapy The Route To Better Back Health

Find Out How to Reduce and Eliminate Chronic Back Pain Using Non-Traditional TherapyComplementary therapy is concerned with health and wellness from a mind, body and spirit approach.... Read More

Junk Food Is Not Easier To Eat

There is something to be said about fast food being more convenient then healthy food that helps you be thin. I will give you that. But wait,... Read More

Aromatherapy - Essential Oils for Physical and Psychological Well-being

What is Aromatherapy?It is the practice of using volatile plant oils (and essential oils) for physical and psychological well-being.Before I get started take note that fragrance oils... Read More