Essential Oils Guide: Uses, Health Benefits & Safety of Our Top 117

117 Essential Oils and Their Benefits: The Ultimate Essential Oil Reference GuideThe use of essential oils is an ancient practice, and it’s seeing a revival in modern-day use. With them, you can holistically experience life-changing benefits emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and physically.

With literally thousands of routes to navigate when shopping the essential oil world, it can get overwhelming to get started. Whether you’re a beginner, amateur, or an experienced essential oil pro, our Essential Oils Guide will mentor you each and every step of the way. Prepare to be roused in every aspect of your life!

What are Essential Oils

bottle of lavender essential oilFundamentally, essential oils are highly volatile aromatic compounds. Have you caught a whiff of a fully-bloomed rose? A sniff of freshly-picked lavender? Anyone with the sense of smell has already experienced the aromatic qualities of essential oils.

But, what does volatile mean? Volatile means the ability to change and adapt its original nature to that of its surroundings. When it comes to essential oils, it means the oils are able to change from a solid or liquid state to that of a gaseous one.

Essential oils are the sap or oil that’s made by the plant to protect it. Humans take the oils and use the medicinal, healing, antimicrobial, and of course, aromatic qualities for their health and benefit.

Where do Essential Oils Come From?

medicinal herbs and flowersTrue, high-quality oils are derived by physical means from plant material. Essential oil sources can be anything from the leaves, stems, and bark of plants and the peels of fruit, as well as glandular trichomes – whoa, how’s that for a spinner! Glandular trichomes?

On some plants, like herbs, the glandular trichomes are the external secretory structures that produces the oils to protect the plant from invaders, help it to chemically change its composition to adapt to its environment, and to ensure its own survival while it competes against other plants for growing space and nourishment.

Only the best essential oils have been extracted from the plant material by way of physical methods such as distillation or expression.

  • Distillation via steam, steam and water, water, dry distillation. After distillation has occurred, the oils are separated from the water.
  • Expression via cold-press.

One other physical method to mention is the maceration and distillation method. Some strong and odiferous plant materials like onions, garlic, and wintergreen (to name a few) are macerated in warm water for essential oil release.

Differences Between Essential Oils

To date, there are over 3,000 volatile aromatic compounds! Furthermore, the nature and delicate ratio of aromatic constituents varies between plants, species, geography, season, weather, time of day picked, and production method.

While Lemon essential oils provide excellent revitalizing and antiseptic benefits and is safe to ingest, this may not be true of other essential oils. Wintergreen, on the other hand, is for diluted topical use only and provides pain relief including arthritis symptom treatment.

Essential oils can be used in many different ways and for many various benefits. They can be used singly or even combined to create complex and powerful blends depending on your desired benefits and user experience.

Incorporating Essential Oils into Your Daily Life

The neat thing about essential oils is its proclivity to use them in many different ways and for many purposes. Do you want to replace your store-bought toothpaste? Add them to your beauty routine? Freshen up your home? How about using essential oils to burn fat and slim down? Here’s a few, fresh ideas to incorporate them into your daily life.

Inspire Your Emotional State

Are you feeling down, depressed, or outright mad? Essential oils each have their own unique ability to inspire, uplift, and calm your anxiety or troubled mind.

Power Through Your Day

Are your low energy levels getting the best of you? Essential oils can be energy-boosting and can get you feeling your best and can restore balance to your life.

House-Cleaning Made Easy

You don’t have to be a victim to using harsh, toxic chemicals in your home to get the benefits of a clean, germ-free household. Essential oils can replace your cleaners, chemically-made candles, and can even be used in the laundry!

Beautify Your Skincare Routine

Did you know that you can use essential oils for a clear complexion, to rediscover your natural glow, and reverse the effects of aging? Cleopatra was onto something when she would bathe in a luxurious tub of almond oils.

How to Use Essential Oils

While the number of ways to use essential oils is endless, there’s also a wrong and right way to integrate them into your life. Here are the three most commonly-accepted applications of essential oils that can also be done singly or combined depending on the oils.

Aromatic Use

essential oil diffuser necklaceThere’s no debate when arguing that the sense of smell can trigger emotional, mental, and psychological responses. That’s because essential oils have direct access to the mucus membranes in your nose that signal the cranial nerves to transmit impulses to the brain. The easiest application for aromatherapy is diffusion. There are many different types of diffusers available from ultrasonic to oil diffuser necklaces.

Some other popular aromatic uses of essential oils includes the simple hand-to-nose method. Place a drop or two into the palms of your hands, rub together, cup to the nose, and breathe.

While you’d think that all plants and flowers smell good, there are some that shouldn’t be used aromatically. Make sure you read your essential oil labels or instructional guide for the safest and most appropriate use.

Topical Use

This is by far one of the most effective ways to get the full benefits of essential oils. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to request a rub down!

Essential oils are molecularly low-weight and lipid soluble, so they’re able to penetrate the skin with ease. Once applied, they stay local to the applied area, but they can be distributed throughout the body when enhanced with a light massage.

Carrier oils, such as Fractionated Coconut Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, provides even more ease for the user, reduces skin sensitivity, enhances absorption, and moisturizes the skin.

Internal Use

It shouldn’t be too foreign for you to consider essential oils for ingestion. If anything, something the ancient world and modern day has in common is the use of oils in cooking. To push your mind a little bit further, essential oils are also used for dietary purposes such as weight-loss, mood enhancers, and supplements.

However, the body can only use and handle a certain amount of essential oil consumption. You need to use the oils as directed and not in excess. Because essential oil composition is unique and complex, the organs in your body will react differently to the volatile aromatic compounds. But, because they’re lipid soluble, the liver is able to metabolize it and then egest it.

How to Choose the Highest Quality Essential Oils

bottles of assorted essential oil brandsYou might be poking the wasp’s nest in your search to find the highest quality essential oils. That’s because in the essential oil world, you might be perceived as challenging someone’s beliefs and credibility of their products. But, either way, determining its effectiveness and quality must be done.

Essential oil quality grades varies with multiple factors. Manufacturers, sources of oils, where the plants were cultivated, storage, and even international regulation agencies setting standards for essential oil quality can all be considered. But, to make the shopping experience a little easier, you can start with a trusted brand.

It’s essential that you buy your oils from a reputable, trusted, and legitimate source, especially if you intend on using them for health-related purposes. In the United States, there are no essential oil quality control standards, so it’s important that you have a series of things to look for when buying essential oils.

Essential Oil Country Source

This may not be a big deal for many consumers since differentiation between oil sources isn’t expected by the average buyer. But, well-learned essential oil users would appreciate the info because they would know quality varies between countries. By listing this tid-bit, the company is marketing to both experienced users and general consumers.

Latin Name

Don’t buy an essential oil with just the English name of the plant. Look to see if the brand also provided the Latin or the botanical name since there are many variations of the same plant. For example, the more commonly-used sweet Basil has the Latin name, Ocimum Basilicum. The other popular Holy Basil is also known as Tulsi. In Latin it’s Ocimum Sanctum and/or Ocimum Tenuiflorum.

Purity

There are different grades of essential oils, so you should always be informed if it’s not 100 percent pure and can’t be used alone. You might have to dilute and mix with carrier oils with every use.

Cost

Do the prices of the essential oil brands you’re considering compete with other reputable brands? If it’s significantly cheaper, you may be purchasing a low grade, impure, or fake oil.

Transparency

Legitimate and trustworthy essential oil brands will provide transparent information about the source of their oils, processing methods, and even their oil’s organic status.

Useful Essential Oils Reference Guide

With literally hundreds of different ways to use the same oil in various recipes for several different applications, where would you even begin to start? Even professional essential oil users had to start somewhere right? This is where everyone, beginner or expert, would benefit from a reference guide for essential oils.

Pocket and Quick-Reference Guides

Essential Oils Pocket ReferenceAn essential oils guide book such as the Essential Oils Pocket Reference is an excellent example of what many trustworthy essential oil brands provide for consumers.

This version is extremely popular because it’s been made user-friendly with its oil directory and seven main chapters all in a convenient pocket size booklet.

Pocket size booklets can also be quick-reference guides.

An example of this is the Quick Reference Guide for Using Essential Oils. This spiral-bound book still provides extensive information on oils, health conditions, and charts to get you using oils like a pro in no time!

Full-Reference Guides

However, if you want everything in the palm of your hand, it’s going to be a full-size version that has a list of essential oils and their benefits. It can be updated annually to remain useful to consumers. The Reference Guide for Essential Oils Soft Cover by the Higleys was released in 2016, is very popular, and it replaced their previous version.

Other Essential Oil Guides

Essential Oils for Weight LossThings get even more interesting when emotional benefits are explored. One such example would be Emotions & Essential Oils, 4th Edition: A Modern Resource for Healing. Turn to the page with the oil you want to use, and it will give you a comprehensive look at its emotional benefits and how it will affect you.

If you find an odor offensive and you look up the emotional meaning behind that essential oil, you may find that its emotional ties relate to your circumstances but you’re not ready or are unwilling to face the healing benefits the oil can provide.

These reference guides even go beyond emotions. Some exceptional beginners guide to essential oils can be purchased free of charge when you access them through online apps. You can get a quick reference guide for using essential oils for specific purposes such as Essential Oils for Sleep, Essential Oils for Allergies, Essential Oils for Weight Loss, and even Essential Oils for Dogs.

The information available to consumers has come a long way. You can have your very own aromatherapist consultant when you have a 24/7 essential oils guide book!

A-Z List of Essential Oils & Their Uses

Now, let’s cut right to the chase shall we? Here, we’ll tantalize your senses, tease your taste-buds, and offer much-needed healing and revitalizing benefits.

We’ll introduce a list of essential oils and their uses that are commonly sold by the most successful and best essential oil brands to date! Also, our cautions should be taken as a generality, since you must confirm with the labeling or reference guide of your essential oil brand for appropriate use.

A ~ B ~ C ~ D ~ E ~ F ~ G ~ H ~ I ~ J ~ K ~ L ~ M ~ N ~ O ~ P ~ Q ~ R ~ S ~ T ~ U ~ V ~ W ~ X ~ Y ~ Z

A

Allspice Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Pimenta Dioica or Pimenta Officinalis

Health Benefits: As an anesthetic, it only provides local relief. This is helpful to relieve neuralgia, joint strain, bone and muscular injuries, and bites or stings from insects. It’s known to be an essential oil for colds, headaches, and sinusitis. It can stimulate digestion and blood circulation. It also inhibits bacterial growth and protects wounds from infection.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Pregnant women should use Allspice essential oil in conservative doses.

Angelica Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Angelica Archangelica

Health Benefits: Angelica root has been coined the “Oil of Angels” because it’s used for its aromatherapy benefits. It provides feelings of calming, soothing, and relaxation. Also, it’s known for its anti-spasmodic benefits that relate to digestive pains and issues, muscle spasms, and inflammatory properties.

As a carminative, it also helps you to pass gas providing relief from indigestion, headaches, cramps, nausea, and high blood pressure. It also has many other roles as a depurative that purifies the blood, a diuretic that promotes urination, a diaphoretic that promotes sweating, and a stimulant that supports metabolic processes. While there’s plenty more the Angelica essential oil is capable of, these are its well-known health benefits.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use when diluted with a carrier oil. It’s not suitable for use by nursing or pregnant women and you should avoid direct sunlight for about 12 hours after use.

Anise Essential Oil

aniseBotanical Name: Pimpinella Anisum

Health Benefits: Commonly used as a spice and flavoring in foods and beverages, it’s also used as a mouth freshener and digestive agent. Anethol makes up 90 percent of the constituents of Anise essential oil and is the primary aromatic scent.

As an antiseptic, it helps to heal skin wounds faster, and it also stimulates blood circulation when applied topically as an antirheumatic agent that relieves pains associated with rheumatism and arthritis.

It’s also a decongestant for the lungs and respiratory tract and an expectorant to loosen catarrh and phlegm in the lungs. It provides digestive relief and surprisingly, it’s also an insecticide and is toxic to insects and small animals.

Caution: Suitable for internal and topical use. Pregnant women should avoid it during pregnancy, and small doses are vital when administered to children. Because it has narcotic-like effects when used in excess, correct dosage is extremely important. Those with certain types of cancer should first consult with a doctor because it does affect estrogen hormones.

Arborvitae Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Thuja Plicata

Health Benefits: With a warm and earthy aroma, Arborvitae is a cleansing and purifying agent that stems from the “Tree of Life”. It’s constituents comprise of tropolones which are known to create a barrier against seasonal and environmental threats which also make it an excellent, natural insecticide.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Pregnant women should avoid use. Topical use requires dilution to avoid skin sensitivity. Don’t apply to the eye region, inner ears, or other sensitive areas.

B

Balsam/Idaho Fir Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Balsam Canada or Abies Balsamea

Health Benefits: This essential oil has a grounding and calming effect from the woodsy aroma. It stimulates the mind, relaxes the body, and supports the respiratory system and immune system. It also protects against free radical damage.

It provides daily relief of aching and sore muscles from physical activity, and it also supports the urinary system and hematologic (blood) system.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Don’t apply near the eyes or mucus membranes.

Basil Essential Oil

basilBotanical Name: Ocimum Basilicum

Health Benefits: Basil is high in linalool content which makes it an ideal essential oil for both body and mind. It promotes feelings of calming and revitalization, especially when you have feelings of tension, anxiety, stress, depression, and lack of focus. It’s also useful in treating digestive issues like nausea, constipation, indigestion, and flatulence.

Topically, it has a cooling effect which makes it beneficial for acne prone skin types. It also promotes relief from the flu, colds, allergies and fever. It helps to fight bronchitis, infections, and sinusitis. It promotes eye health and even alleviates nausea from motion sickness.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid use.

Bay Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Laurus Nobilis

Health Benefits: Bay essential oil has a myriad of benefits including relief from neuralgia, hysteria, epilepsy, stress, anxiety, and coughs and aches from spasms.

It helps to reduce fever, improves appetite, promotes digestive health, removes bile from stomach, inhibits bacterial growth and protects from infection, and promotes sweating for the excretion of toxins.

Caution: Suitable for internal and topical use. Aromatic use should be used with caution as it can irritate mucus membranes. Pregnant women should avoid use.

Bergamot Essential Oil

bergamotBotanical Name: Citrus Bergamia

Health Benefits: Many emotional benefits can be reaped from Bergamot. It helps to dispel feelings of anxiety, tension, stress, depression, and sadness. Interestingly, it also kills intestinal worms, tones respiratory and digestive systems, supports wound healing, and relaxes nerves and muscles.

The acne prone can benefit from its removal of scar and acne benefits. While it reduces pain the body, it also cures infections relating to the kidneys and intestines.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Avoid sunlight for 12 hours after application.

Birch (White/Silver) Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Betula Pendula

Health Benefits: This powerful oil can purify blood, remove toxins from the body, and cure skin diseases and infections. It can also help to lower and regulate blood sugar levels, relieve joint and muscle pains, and reduce overall body temperature during fever.

It’s also great for wrinkles and sagging skin. Furthermore, it protects skin against both bacterial and fungal infections and stimulates circulatory, digestive, and excretory systems.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use. Pregnant women should not use Birch essential oil.

Bitter Almond Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Amygdalus Communis or Amara

Health Benefits: Impressively, it can be used to prohibit the growth of cancerous cells. Along with that, it’s also beneficial for curing bacterial and fungal infections. It also kills off intestinal worms. It’s rich in antispasmodic properties that aid in digestive and muscle functions. It also promotes a healthy frequency and quantity of urination for urinary tract infections.

Caution: Suitable for internal and topical use. Care and correct dosage must be taken when using Bitter Almond essential oil. It’s not safe for use on children, the elderly, and ill people.

Black Pepper Essential Oil

black pepperBotanical Name: Piper Nigrum

Health Benefits: Traditionally, it’s been used as a spice and flavoring in cooking, but it also provides exceptional health benefits. Black Pepper is also high in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes that are renowned for their antioxidant activity.

It helps to ward off seasonal and environmental threats as well as boosts healthy circulation. Because it’s warming, it promotes healthy sweating and urination, removes gases from the intestines and stomach, and is an effective remedy to cure rheumatism and arthritis.

Black Pepper also provides relief from cramps, muscle spasms, and convulsions.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Topical use should be monitored carefully since it exhibits warming sensations. Avoid excessive use and high doses since it can cause uneasiness, insomnia, vomiting, and loose motions.

Black Spruce Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Picea Mariana

Health Benefits: This fresh, calming, and restorative scent leaves a trail of health benefits in its wake. It’s known for its ability to clear blockages, both emotional and physical kinds. Aromatically, it promotes emotional healing when dealing with nervousness, hyperactivity, lethargy, and melancholic mindsets.

Physically, it can support the endocrine system with its polycyclic terpenoid compounds that promote hormonal balance and equalization. It also benefits those with respiratory issues, muscular and rheumatic pains, and it supports a healthy urinary system.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Blue Cypress Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Callitris Intratropica

Health Benefits: This antiseptic essential oil hails from the bark of a tree in Australia, and is also known as “Blue Gold”. The naturally blue oil has been a historical oil to the Aborigine people and was the official fragrance of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games – and for good reason. It relieves aching muscles post-workout, soothes irritated skin from shaving, and moisturizes and hydrates skin from environmental moisture loss.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use.

C

Calamus Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Acorus Calamus

Health Benefits: If you’re the sleepless type, then you’ll benefit from this insomnia-banishing oil. It also helps to dispel headaches and stimulate blood circulation. It also aids the body in preventing both internal and external infections, stimulates the metabolism, and promotes hormone secretion throughout the body.

But, that’s not all. It also has antispasmodic benefits that relieve muscle and gut spasms and tones down the symptoms of neurotic disorders such as epileptic fits and hysteric attacks. It also provides pain relief for those with arthritis, rheumatism, and gout.

Caution: Suitable for topical use. Internal use is strongly discouraged because it has a compound called asorone and is considered carcinogenic. Narcotic side effects may occur if you use Calamus internally. Pregnant women should strictly avoid use.

Camphor Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Cinnamonum Camphora

Health Benefits: An astounding benefit of Campor oil is its ability to reduce the severity of nervous disorders. It also facilitates digestion and blood circulation, provides relief from spasms and cramps, and also treats measles and the flu.

Awesomely, it also boosts libido and helps to cure erectile dysfunction. As an excellent disinfectant, germicide, and insecticide, it can treat food poisoning, insect bites, cure inflammation, and act as a local anesthetic.

Caution: Suitable for internal and topical use. Extreme caution must be exercised when ingesting Camphor oil as it can be fatally poisonous when taken in excess. 2 grams can be lethal and you may experience extreme thirst, vomiting, extreme drop in body temperature – all symptoms of poisoning.

Caraway Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Carum Carvi or Apium Carvi

Health Benefits: Historically, caraway seeds were used for their medicinal properties and were known as the cure for almost all types of disease. As an antiseptic and disinfectant, antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, emenagogue, expectorant, stimulant, and tonic, it has a plethora of health benefits.

It promotes cardiac health, kills intestinal worms, relieves respiratory spasms, cures depression and fatigue, and surprisingly, it increases lactating mother’s milk. Also, it cures dangerous coughs, wards off histamine allergies, and supports menstruation and menopause.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. There aren’t any inherent side effects of Caraway essential oil. However, dilute for topical use since skin irritation can occur from highly concentrated formulas.

Cardamom Essential Oil

cardamomBotanical Name: Elettaria Cardamomum

Health Benefits: Often used as a flavoring in cooking, it also has some amazing digestive benefits. It helps to soothe tummy troubles, stimulates the secretion of enzymes and hormones, and also helps to cure muscular and respiratory spasms. Additionally, if you’re somewhat deficient in the bedroom, it can help out with that! It’s very effective in curing sexual weakness and impotence.

It can also help to lower blood pressure and can even boost weight loss. Its distinct and minty scent enhances mood to promote an uplifting and positive state of mind. But, because of that minty scent, it’s often used in candies and teas – bonus way to get those health benefits!

Interestingly, it can also neutralize the effects of tobacco use, insect bites, and mild poison ingestion.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Nursing and pregnant women should steer clear of Cardamom.

Carrot Seed Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Daucus Carota

Health Benefits: Carrot seeds are extracted from wild carrots, and in Europe, it’s known as “Queen Anne’s Lace”. While it contains many beneficial components, it’s mostly known for its carotene and vitamin A – both antioxidants famous for promoting eye health. However, not commonly known is its ability to regulate obstructed menses, retain youthful skin and a clear complexion, and remove toxins from the body.

It’s also an alternative supplement to curing kidney, prostate, mouth, and stomach cancers. It’s also has protective qualities that prevent macular degeneration and sexual weakness.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. No inherent side effects are known. But, it’s better to play it safe and use with caution.

Cassia Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Cinnamomum cassia

Health Benefits: A close relative to Cinnamon, it’s known for its warming benefits that go back to Biblical times. Thousands of years of use have proven it effective for promoting emotional well-being and optimal physical health. In Asia, it’s known as Chinese Cinnamon and flavors food and beverages.

Furthermore, it helps out the digestive system, helping to rid toxins, cures diarrhea, and treats nausea and vomiting. It also protects against microbial infections in the kidneys and elsewhere. Parents will appreciate that it also helps to fight off viral infections.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Pregnant women should avoid Cassia. Since it’s warming, it’s best to dilute for topical use as it can cause skin irritation and sensitivity.

Catnip Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Nepata Cataria

Health Benefits: Also known as Cat Mint. As its name suggests, it does pertain to cats – it acts as stimulant. Interestingly enough, it has the opposite effect in humans and acts as a sedative and is a medicinal treatment for many ailments.

It neutralizes the symptoms of an acidic body, stimulates hormonal secretion, and cures muscular, respiratory, and intestinal cramps. It’s highly effective in curing insomnia, tension, anxiety, and nervousness.

Awesomely, it helps to treat vertigo, convulsions, and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, you can expect to see reduced blood pressure and support for weight loss.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Pregnant ladies need to steer clear of Catnip.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

cedarwoodBotanical Name: Juniperus Virginiana

Health Benefits: Cedarwood can be derived from different regions, so it may also be known as Cedrus Doedara, Cedrus Atlantica, and Cedrus Libani. Although complicated with several names, there’s little differences when it comes to medicinal use, of which there are many!

Fascinatingly, it has anti-seborrhoeic properties that helps to Seborrhoeic Eczema! It’s anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, an astringent, diuretic, expectorant, fungicide, and a sedative.

Expect to see cured toothaches, strengthened gums, stimulated metabolism, cured acne, and fungal infections gone! Additionally, it stimulates regular menstruation, eliminates cough, and removes phlegm.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Highly concentrated, you should dilute when using topically. Pregnant women should avoid Cedarwood, and internal use is discouraged. It can damage the digestive system, induce extreme thirst, vomiting, and nausea.

Celery Seed Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Apium Graveolens

Health Benefits: A common flavoring used in culinary dishes, this essential oil also offer diuretic benefits as well as to reduce blood pressure. It also has beneficial sedative effects that has made it an herb used for hundreds of years. It can treat arthritis and rheumatic pains, calm nervousness and hysteria, support menstruation, and alleviate gastric ulcers.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use.

Cilantro Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Coriandrum Sativum

Health Benefits: This culinary herb has been written down in the ages as an excellent flavor twist to dishes. When used internally, it acts as a powerful cleanser, promotes healthy digestion, and detoxifies the body. Applied topically, it soothes and cools the skin.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Always dilute for topical use as it may cause skin sensitivity.

Cinnamon Essential Oil

cinnamonBotanical Name: Cinnamomum Zeylanicum

Health Benefits: While most people know Cinnamon as a dried and ground spice in flavoring dishes, it also has several medicinal benefits. Traditionally, it’s been used to treat several health disorders that include diarrhea, heavy menstruation, cramps, arthritis, yeast infections, colds, and the flu.

It doesn’t stop here. It also helps to remove blood impurities, facilitates the healing process, and even removes pain from stiff muscles and aching joints. Lactating mothers can see a boost in their milk supply whereas everyone can benefit from the cognitive support of healthy brain activity.

It can also stimulate circulation and act as a sexual stimulant.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Using topically, it should be diluted to prevent skin irritation and sensitivity.

Citronella Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Cymbopogon Nardus or Cymbopogon Winterianus

Health Benefits: If you have an issue with body odor, Citronella is a natural deodorant. Not only does it provide a pleasant, citrus, lemon-like scent, but it’s also beneficial for helping out with cramps, menstrual and muscular spasms, fights stomach issues and infections, and promotes the removal of toxins. Apart from its antiseptic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties, it also helps to combat depression, stress, and anxiety.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Citronella should not be used on small children. Topical applications should be diluted and used with care as it can produce skin sensitivity and irritation. Not safe for use on skin with dermatitis.

Clary Sage Essential Oil

clary sageBotanical Name: Salvia Sclarea

Health Benefits: If you’re a wine connoisseur, then you’ll recognize this oil as a “muscatel oil” that’s responsible for giving muscatel wines its grape-like flavors. This is why muscatel wine drinkers may experience its anti-depressant, aphrodisiac, and sedative benefits – they’re onto something.

As an essential oil, it also curbs bacterial growth and infections in the digestive tract, colon, and urinary tract. Notably, it also helps to battle drug addictions, boosts libido, treats impotency, and tones skin muscles and hair.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. However, if do consume alcohol or take drug medications, it can enhance intoxicating effects as it’s a natural sedative and relaxant.

Clove Essential Oil

cloveBotanical Name: Eugenia Caryophyllata

Health Benefits: The antioxidant-rich oil is renown for its antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, aphrodisiac and stimulating properties. Mainly, it consists of eugenol that can be very stimulating when used as a warming massage oil. Ancient Chinese and Indian civilizations have been using Clove for centuries for its culinary and medicinal benefits.

Benefits that stem from its rich mineral components such as iron, calcium, hyaluronic acid, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and vitamins A and C. With a ton of support under its belt, benefits include treating premature ejaculation, controls diabetic sugar levels, and boosts the immune system. Also, it provides youthful-looking skin, heals wounds, soothes sore throats and even eliminates your bad breath – no wonder dentists have been using clove!

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. However, both internal and topical applications should be diluted. You can experience violent allergic reactions to eugenol when using a lot at once. Start with small, diluted doses if you’re unaccustomed to using Clove. Since it can also cause reduced blood sugar levels, diabetics should use with caution. Not for use for small children as it may cause intestinal discomfort.

Copaiba Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Copaifera Officinalis

Health Benefits: One of the most effective anti-inflammatory substances on the planet, this essential oil is rich in beta-caryophyllene. Its sweet aroma disguises its powerful, active components. It’s known for improving skin appearance and skin health, respiratory health, and pain relief. It also eliminates infection, improves anxiety and mood disorders, it’s diuretic in nature, and antifungal.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Excessive internal use can contribute to stomach problems.

Coriander Essential Oil

corianderBotanical Name: Coriandrum Sativum

Health Benefits: Famous for its helping hand in culinary dishes, it also sports some medicinal benefits too. If you’re fed up with your ever-increasing weight, Coriander is a natural lypolytic that helps your body break down fats. It’s also an aphrodisiac.

You’ll also get mood-enhancing benefits, pain relief from excess gas, cramps, and muscle and joint pain. It also stimulates hormones and enzymes, something you need to be aware of to avoid excessive use.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Used excessively, it can create a mental, cloudy fog that may temporarily shut down your senses.

Cypress Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Cupressus Sempervirens

Health Benefits: If you’ve ever been lucky enough to enjoy a day or at least an hour at the spa, you’ve most likely been slathered with Cypress. It has several healing properties such as antiseptic, astringent, antispasmodic, hemostatic and styptic, sudorific, hepatic, vasoconstrictor, and more. Ultimately, you can get health benefits that relate to curing all types of spasms, blood clotting promotion, and relaxant and sedative benefits.

It also optimizes healthy liver function, improves lung efficiency, strengthens gums, tightens muscles, and can also replace your store-bought deodorant. Emotionally, cypress can help you through difficult times such as major changes in your life or loss.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Not for ingestion. Pregnant women should steer clear of Cypress.

Cumin Essential Oil

cuminBotanical Name: Cuminum Cyminum

Health Benefits: As a common spice that’s used globally, it hardly needs an opening introduction, but as an essential oil, its benefits do require the spotlight. Cumin essential oils in its most raw and pure form (extracted from the seeds) are exceptionally more powerful than the seeds themselves.

They comprise of Cuminic Acid, Cymene, Dipentene, Limonene, Phellandrene, and Pinene which have astonishing health benefits. It aids in digestion, helping to prevent the buildup of excess gas, removes toxins from the body, and treats cholera and diarrhea. It even helps to tone up your muscles and even out your skin.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Because it’s susceptible to photo-toxicity, avoid direct sunlight after topical application. Pregnant women cannot use Cumin essential oils. Use mild and low doses to avoid strong odors that cause headaches.

D

Davana Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Artemisia Pallens

Health Benefits: The Indians have used this oil since time began, and it has been apart of their religious customs from the start. They were onto something when they discovered its antiviral, antidepressant, antiseptic, emenagogue, expectorant, relaxant, and vulnerary benefits.

This means that you can prevent microbial infections and tetanus, cure coughs, colds, and the flu, and get relief from menstrual cramping, nausea, and pelvic pain. Additionally, wounds will heal faster and you’ll pert and peppy as each day passes.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. While this is a non-toxic essential oil, topical use should be diluted to avoid skin irritation and sensitivity.

Dill Essential Oil

dillBotanical Name: Anethum Graveolens

Health Benefits: Many ancient cultures have used Dill in their own unique customs. The Egyptians used it to ward off evil spirits, the Greek associated it with wealth status, and the Romans believed it brought them good fortune – something their gladiators would desperately need. However modern day health benefits seem to correlate with history’s uses.

It supports healthy digestive systems, protects the skin from wound infections, and helps wounds and lesions heal faster. For users not of the gladiator kind, it also helps to increase milk supply for lactating mothers.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. While it’s safe for lactating mothers to use, pregnant women should refrain from use.

Douglas Fir Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Pseudotsuga Menziesii

Health Benefits: While this type of fir is native to North America, you can also source the oil from young fir trees in New Zealand. While it threatens the eco-system of the “Land of the Gods”, it will have the opposite effect on your mind and body. It has an uplifting and positive effect on your mood and senses. But, it also has wonder skin benefits such as purifying the skin for a clear complexion, breakout prevention, and even skin tone.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Not for internal use.

E

Elemi Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Canarium Luzonicum

Health Benefits: Hailing from the Philippines and surrounding areas, it’s been known to make its way right to ancient Egypt where they used it on their mummies. Its typical use is for soap, perfume, cosmetics, and even paint. But, its medicinal properties is what earns it its revered reputation. It’s an antiseptic, analgesic, expectorant, stimulant, and tonic.

Your immune system will be boosted, you’ll be protected from microbial infections, and you’ll be relieved of pain stemming from earaches, fever, and the cold. Breathing troubles, congestion in the nose or lungs, and sinusitis will no longer be an issue.

It can also treat joint pain, digestive issues, chills, and mumps. Furthermore, it will stimulate optimal circulation and even support the secretion of hormones and enzymes from the endocrinal glands.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use. Not for internal use at all. Not for use on babies and small children since it can cause skin irritation and sensitivity.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

EucalyptusBotanical Name: Eucalyptus Globulus

Health Benefits: The world’s main source of this essential oil still comes from the Eucalyptus authority in the world – Australia. While there are hundreds of species of Eucalyptus, this oil specifically comes from the “fever tree”. Fittingly, it can reduce body temperature and fevers as well as treat the common hay-fever allergy.

It’s also well-known for its respiratory support and muscle relaxant properties. There are so many benefits to using Eucalyptus oils that it would take its very own page. To keep it short, expect to see benefits for tuberculosis, pneumonia, influenza, sore throat, cough, acne, endometriosis, and herpes simplex virus.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Avoid excessive use since it can act as a toxic. While beneficial for the skin, incorrect use can cause airborne contact dermatitis.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Eucalyptus Radiata

Health Benefits: Another of the 700-plus Eucalyptus species found in Australia, it has purifying and cleansing properties. Although similar to the Globulus species, it has slightly different benefits, but both are known for its clean, medicinal, and sharp aroma. However, the Radiata is less aggressive with its scent and is slightly sweeter.

Radiata is high in terpineol which lends to antiviral and antibacterial properties, immune system stimulation, and is a great general tonic. It’s a warming and soothing oil that’s excellent for both aromatic and topical use, helping to clear the airways, lessen tension, and promote good oral health.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Do not consume.

F

Fennel Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Foeniculum Vulgare

Health Benefits: Used anciently in Rome, warriors would ingest Fennel for “strong-man” benefits to prepare for battle. Today, while physical conflict is discouraged, you’ll be pleased to know it has high medicinal value. As an excellent antispasmodic, it can help to reduce pains associated with menstrual cramping and other abnormal contractions in the respiratory system, muscles, and nerves. This should be your go-to for obnoxious and continuous hiccups and coughing. With cognitive benefits to add to the mix, it can stimulate brain and neuron activity, helping to lift the brain-fog, concentrate longer, and enhance moods. It’s also a great support to healthy digestion and is even safe for lactating mothers to take for increased milk supply.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Safe for nursing mothers, however pregnant women should avoid use. Also, because of the active, organic Trans Anethole compound, it does boost estrogen production. Women with breast and uterine cancer should not use Fennel. Because Fennel also has narcotic effects, those with a history of epilepsy should not use since over-use can cause hallucinations, convulsions, and mental imbalance.

Frankincense Essential Oil

frankincenseBotanical Name: Boswellia Carteri

Health Benefits: The “King of Oils” isn’t the king for mediocre benefits. It has extraordinary benefits that has made it famous with its roots stemming from ancient Egypt, Assyrians, Anglo-Saxon, and Babylonian civilizations.

Because of its high-frequency compounds, it can practically be used for anything and everything. But, it does have a notorious reputation for fading stretch marks and acne scars, improving digestion, and protecting from premature loss of hair and teeth.

It can also boost the immune system, support urinary health, help wounds heal faster, and it has anti-aging benefits! If in doubt, use Frankincense!

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Not suitable for pregnant women.

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Galbanum Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Ferula Galbaniflua

Health Benefits: Gaining its reputation from the days of ancient Rome and Greece, the native to Iran plant offers up a myriad of medicinal benefits. It starts with its roles as an anti-arthritic and anti-rheumatic treatment.

As a cicatrisant, those scars caused by acne, pimples, and chicken pox will disappear! But, it also helps to clear up the boils, acne lesions, and abscesses that caused them in the first place, helping to rid your skin and the body of toxins.

This botanical also has anti-aging effects, circulatory, and vulnerary benefits.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Avoid excessive use.

Geranium Essential Oil

geraniumBotanical Name: Pelargonium Graveolens

Health Benefits: This sweet and floral-smelling oil has everything to do with beauty – it’s the best-kept beauty secret of the ancient Egyptians. Since there are over 200 varieties of Geranium, this one specifically promotes healthy skin and hair.

Clear complexions, even skin tone, and improved texture are something almost everyone covets. For the hair, it promotes strong and healthy follicles and strands, deep conditions, and provides a healthy shine.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Dilute for topical use to avoid skin sensitivity.

Geranium Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Pelargonium Odorantissimum

Health Benefits: This type of Geranium has similar skin and hair benefits to the Pelargonium Graveolens type. Not only does it prevent muscles and skin from sagging, treats acne and scars, but it also tones up overall health.

While it promotes toxins to be removed from the body, it helps to prevent infections from bacteria developing on wounds, promotes cell health and regeneration of new cells, and even helps you get rid of intestinal worms.

Furthermore, it can fight Dementia, Alzheimer’s, depression, and anxiety.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Since it can influence hormonal secretions, pregnant and lactating mothers should not use.

German Chamomile Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Matricaria Chamomilla

Health Benefits: This type of Chamomile essential oil is well-known among those who need the extra liver and gallbladder support. As a hepatic, it influences the removal of bile from the liver and also promotes proper and optimal digestive function.

It can also improve cardiac health by reducing blood pressure and risk of heart disease.

German Chamomile helps to treat depression and also has external benefits from its antiseptic and antibiotic properties such as fading blemishes, scars, and spots on the skin.

Another health benefit is the oils ability to reduce pain in muscles and joints stemming from physical activity or arthritic and rheumatic pain.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. If you have an allergy to Chamomile or any member of the Ragweed family, you should avoid use.

Ginger Essential Oil

gingerBotanical Name: Zingiber Officinale

Health Benefits: If you love Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale or you know your food spices, then you already know of its important roles in digestion. As an essential oil, it can enhance those benefits!

Other than its calming effects on indigestion and nausea and its wonderful taste in culinary dishes and baked goods, it also has other medicinal benefits.

Extensive research has proven Ginger beneficial for its positive effects on joint health. Also, being that many Ginger essential oils are sourced from Madagascar, it’s no wonder that it’s an excellent remedy for treating malaria and yellow fever.

Ginger can also help out with food poisoning, respiratory disorders, health ailments, impotency, stress, hair care, and even cancer.

Caution: Safe for use aromatic, internal, and topical use. Ginger is especially strong, so small and mild doses are advised.

Goldenrod Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Solidago Canadensis

Health Benefits: In Latin, the term Solidago derives from the word solidare which means “to make whole”. As an essential oil, it attempts just that, and it has many benefits starting with promoting exceptional skin.

It also supports the bladder and urinary tract, treats respiratory issues, and is great for seasonal allergies. It has anti-inflammatory properties that make it an effective topical treatment for gout and arthritis. Other benefits include the ability to boost circulation and help out with your libido!

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

grapefruitBotanical Name: Citrus Paradisi, Citrus Racemosa, Citrus Maxima

Health Benefits: Although it’s known as the “forbidden fruit”, its benefits are accessible to all. Internally, it can support the metabolism, immune system, and fight off free radicals because it’s rich in antioxidants.

In can also increase your appetite, reduce blood pressure, stimulate the brain, support lymphatic systems, and remove excess toxins and water.

Externally, it can cleanse and purify the skin, treat oily skin and acne, and is a great overall disinfectant. Its aromas also help to energize, uplift, and invigorate even the sluggish of us.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Direct sunlight should be avoided after topical use. Pregnant women should avoid use. Spot test first for sensitivity or dilute when using topically.

H

Helichrysum Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Helichrysum Italicum

Health Benefits: The Egyptians weren’t the only ones obsessed with skincare, the Greek were too. They named the “Everlasting Flower” after the sun and gold.

It has amazing benefits for skincare by improving texture, protecting restorative skin properties, and beautifying overall complexion. But, apart from the skin, it can also work on other parts of the body like your heart.

It can reduce your risk of heart attacks caused by thickened blood and clears out blood clots from hemorrhage. It can also de-acidify the body, protect your spleen from infection, treat anemia, inhibits microbial and fungal infections, and is anti-allergenic in nature.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use. As an anticoagulant, those with a a history of surgery or those who are prone to internal hemorrhaging should avoid use.

Hong Kuai Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Chameacyparis Formosensis

Health Benefits: This uncommon oil was traditionally reserved for uncommon users. In Chinese, it means “the respected trees for the temple-building society”. Revered for its spiritual awareness benefits, you can see why it was saved for the temple-builders. Now, temple-builder or not, everyone can benefit from woodsy and earthy mood-enhancing essential oil. It promotes positive feelings, inspiration, boosts confidence, and reduces stress.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Hyssop Essential Oil

hyssopBotanical Name: Hyssopus Officinalis

Health Benefits: This herb is known as a sacred or holy herb and has been appropriately mentioned in the Old Testament as a purifying substance. True to its name, people of the ancient times were spot-on when it came to its medicinal effects. It has a myriad of health benefits, but main points to mention are its antiseptic skin benefits that help to fade scars, menstrual cycle regulation, and digestion aid.

It also reduces risks of nervous disorders, prevents and relieves spasms of the respiratory system, and stimulates both the immune system and circulatory systems.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use. The compound, pinocamphone, stimulates the nerves, so it should be avoided by pregnant women and those with a prevalence for epilepsy.

J

Jade Lemon Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Citrus Limon Eureka var. Formosensis

Health Benefits: This fruit gives off a rich, strong, and citrus aroma. It’s high in d-limonene which is extremely beneficial for uplifting, energizing, and invigorating your day. It also helps to bring clarity for focus, concentration, and to burst through emotional blocks.

Apart from its ability to invoke feelings of happiness, it’s also an antiseptic and is known to cleanse, purify, and detox the body, air, and even provide a punch for household chores.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. As a citrus oil, direct sunlight should be avoided for 12 hours after topical applications.

Japanese Cypress Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Chamaecyparis Obtusa

Health Benefits: Its Japanese name is Hinoki and is valued for its spicy and citrus-like aroma. It’s hot-resistant qualities might also lend to one of its Japanese translations as “fire tree”, and Cypress in Greek means to “live forever”. With these translations in mind, it’s no wonder the Hinoki essential oil is revered for its natural antimicrobial qualities that kill off bacteria, viruses, and fungus.

Mentally and emotionally, it relieves tension and stress, helping to promote feelings of relaxation and peace of mind.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Pregnant women should use with caution.

Jasmine Essential Oil

jasmine flowersBotanical Name: Jasminum Officinale

Health Benefits: If you’re a romantic in any degree, then you should know Jasmine’s romantic associations. But, there’s more that this blooming flower of the night offers than just a sweet fragrance and poetical inspirations.

While enhancing libido is a given benefit, it also offers a lot of support for women. It helps to regulate menstrual cycles, facilitates the birthing process, tones and protects the uterus from infection, and even reduces labor pains.

But, men can benefit from its antidepressant qualities, antiseptic properties, and even relief from insomnia and snoring!

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Because it’s highly sedative and relaxing, pregnant women shouldn’t use it until labor and delivery is imminent.

Juniper Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Juniperus Communis

Health Benefits: Other than smelling great and being used to flavor alcoholic gin beverages, it has a rich, traditional use with many benefits. Primarily, it’s an effective antiseptic and helps to remove toxins from the body.

It also removes excess gas, relaxes muscle cramps, and increases urine frequency and volume. Interestingly, it also helps to cure toothaches until you can get to a dentist, prevents and stops hair loss, and combats fatigue and depression.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. This oil should always be used in low dosages, avoided by pregnant women, and those with kidney problems should completely avoid use.

L

Lavandin Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Lavandula Hybrida and Lavandula Hortensis

Health Benefits: While not quite a true plant, it’s the result of a hybridized combo of two different plants. Similar to lavender, it’s aroma is much more powerful since it’s a hybrid. But, just because it’s a created species, it doesn’t mean it has nothing to offer.

It’s rich with antiseptic, analgesic, and expectorant qualities. So it’s going to clear up your cough and congestion, provide numbing effects, and detoxify and protect wounds from infections.

It’s also used to treat Alzheimer’s, vertigo, Parkinson’s, and convulsions. Women will also appreciate its ability to stretch marks stemming from pregnancy.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Lavender Essential Oil

lavenderBotanical Name: Lavandula Angustifolia

Health Benefits: Interestingly, Lavender is also known by its Latin name as Lavare which means “to wash”, and ‘to wash’ it does! Its scent has a pleasant, calming, and clean aroma that’s known to many around the globe.

But, it’s also used for topical and internal treatments to relieve pain, disinfect the scalp and skin, treat respiratory problems, relieve nervous tension, and stimulate blood circulation.

It ups your body’s defenses to combat typhoid, diphtheria, and tuberculosis. If you’re sleep-deprived, it can help out with your insomnia too!

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Although it’s safe for internal use, dosage should be carefully monitored to reduce serious health complications. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid use as well as diabetics. Skin sensitivity is possible. Spot test first or use diluted.

Ledum Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Ledum Groenlandicum

Health Benefits: The pioneers of the West know this plant for use in teas, and they drank it to make them strong. While it has antiseptic properties for many body cleansing benefits, it’s more commonly used for its energy-boosting support. It’s also harmonizing and balancing.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use. Skin sensitivity can occur. Dilution is recommended for topical use.

Lemon Essential Oil

lemonsBotanical Name: Citrus Limon

Health Benefits: This is one of the most versatile oils in the essential oil world! It has an array of benefits that range from skin care, relieving stress, and supporting the immune system helping with cough, asthma, allergies, insomnia, and stomach ailments.

Furthermore, it aids in weight loss, reduces fever, and fights against malaria and typhoid. Other benefits include its use in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, and beverages, and it also has multi-purpose roles in housecleaning chores.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Skin sensitivity can occur, so spot testing is necessary. Avoid direct sunlight for 12 hours after topical application.

Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Backhousia Citriodora

Health Benefits: This variation of Lemon oil has a fresh aroma that’s refreshing and uplifting – just like its many citrus cousins. Despite its citrus flavor aroma, it has non-acidic components that makes it versatile in foods and beverages. But, for health benefits, it supports the immune system by fighting off colds, inhibits infections, and cleanses and detoxifies the body.

It’s also used for mental clarity helping to energize, inspire, and purify.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

lemongrassBotanical Name: Cymbopogon Citratus, Andropogon Citratus, or Cymbopogon Flexuosus

Health Benefits: If you love your Chinese and Thai food, you most likely well-familiar with the sweet and unique flavor it provides. It’s known to promote healthy digestion, purify and tone the skin, heighten mental awareness, and promote positivity and happiness. Additionally, it helps to cleanse the kidneys, promote healthy urinary function, relieves excess gas, and even reduce fevers.

Unknowingly, it can also increase lactating mother’s milk supply. As an anti-inflammatory, it can reduce pain in muscles, joints, and teeth. Like many citrus oils, it inhibits bacterial and microbial growth and is an antiseptic for both internal and external wounds.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. When using topically, dilute to prevent skin sensitivity.

Lime Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Citrus Aurantifolia

Health Benefits: While Lemon oils typically hog the spotlight when it comes to its many benefits, Lime essential oil is deserving of its 15 minutes of fame too. It has many properties that include antiseptic, antiviral, astringent, aperitif, bactericidal, disinfectant, febrifuge, haemostatic, restorative and tonic substances.

It’s antioxidant-rich, so you know it’s going to help reverse the damage from free radicals such as skincare benefits and reducing the risk of cancer-related issues.

More commonly known is its ability to restore energy, fight against viral infections, promotes blood coagulation, and it relieves pain joints and muscles.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Avoid direct sunlight when applying topically. Also, dilute for topical use to avoid skin sensitivity.

M

Mandarin Essential Oil

mandarinBotanical Name: Citrus Reticulata

Health Benefits: If your kids are chumming down mandarins, also charmingly known as cuties and not so cute – tangerines, then you’ll be pleased to know they’re getting a high dose of several, natural compounds such as alpha thujone, alpha thujone, camphene, linalool, terpineol, and more!

As an adult, you too can expect immediate relief from stress, inflammation, stomach infections, and ulcers.

Mandarin oil also helps with healthy digestion and excretion, promotes the growth of new cells and tissue growth, optimal liver function, and purified blood.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Avoid direct sunlight after topical use due to photo-sensitivity. Topical uses should be diluted since it can irritate certain skin types.

Manuka Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Leptospermum Scoparium

Health Benefits: Manuka is already famous for its honey, but the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand have known the medicinal benefits of Manuka essential oil long before it was introduced into the aromatherapy industry.

While both the oil and honey derives from the Manuka tree, and it’s extremely “young” in most essential oil users’ reference guides, it can be valued and priced higher than even the legendary and well-respected Australian Tea Tree or Melaleuca oil – another competing issue between the close countries.

But, Manuka deserves its status as it as it has anti-dandruff, antiseptic, antifungal, anti-histaminic, and anti-allergenic properties – and more! It also reduces inflammation, promotes the healing of wounds, provides relief from depression, fatigue, stress, and anger, and even cures allergic reactions.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Marjoram Essential Oil

marjoramBotanical Name: Origanum Marjorana

Health Benefits: Ancient cultures used this as an internal oil and was seen as a symbol of joy and happiness. If you could use some happiness, then you’ll benefit from its many healing and calming properties.

Other than being a great addition to foods that certainly make you happy, like the Germans and their “Goose Herb”, it also supports and strengthens the immune and nervous systems.

Viral and bacterial infections are inhibited, chronic coughing is relieved, and relief from stress and anxiety is a give-in. It also lowers blood pressure, reduces your risk for heart problems, and keeps your brain on its toes.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Dilute for topical use to avoid skin sensitivity.

Mastrante Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Mastrante or Lippia Alba

Health Benefits: Traditionally in South America, it’s been used for its aroma to energize and clarify. Even with that said, it has a grounding scent that can encourage calmness and relaxation. But, because it contains limonene and carvone, it’s sought after by those who love their skin as it provide radiant and youthful-looking skin.

When used topically, it provides exceptional muscle-relaxing benefits when used with a massage before bed. Because it’s also a harmonizing oil, it’s often promoted for use when experiencing emotional shock such as loss, trauma, accidents, and romantic issues.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Melaleuca/Tea Tree Essential Oil

tea tree melaleucaBotanical Name: Melaleuca Alternifolia

Health Benefits: This is one of the most famous essential oils in history and to date! It has over 92 known compounds and unlimited uses that the Australians can’t keep to themselves. To keep this short, this oil is considered the cure-all – and that’s no exaggeration!

But, to highlight some its highly beneficial advantages, it can help with coughs, colds, congestion, and bronchitis, cures infections including mumps and measles, and of course, it boosts the immune system.

To further promote optimal well-being, it promotes the absorption of food nutrients, stimulates hormone secretion, and heals wounds quickly. While this health list is an injustice to all the benefits of Melaleuca, you can make up for it by trying it in every recommended way possible!

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Skin sensitivity can occur, so please use diluted, spot test, and use small doses. Internal use must be carefully monitored for serious complications such as hallucinations, stomach upset, severe rashes, blood cell abnormalities, and even coma.

Melissa Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Melissa Officinalis

Health Benefits: This oil is also known as Sweet Oil or Common Oil, and because of its sweet, citrus-like scent, it often attracted bees. Guess what Melissa means in Greek? Honey-bee. While bees go crazy over Melissa, humans should too.

It’s soothing, calming, memory-boosting, and relaxing. Medicinally, it can be an anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and a hypotensive. But, this isn’t all it can do.

It promotes perspiration, relieves body spasms, warms the respiratory system, and inhibits bacterial infection in the kidneys, urinary tract, colon, and intestines.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Dilute for topical use.

Mountain Savory Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Satureja Montana

Health Benefits: This is your all-over body oil that has general tonic benefits. It supports the immune, circulatory, digestive, and nervous systems. It’s sharp, herbaceous, and medicinal aroma is sometimes used in perfumes. But, other than its distinct aroma, it’s even been known to treat baldness!

More recently, it can be used to promote optimal oral health and can treat rotting teeth, toothaches, and infections. Chest congestion and bronchial issues can be treated with Mountain Savory.

It can also be used as a dietary supplement, be diffused for quality sleep, and can also improve focus and concentration for when you need it.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Not for use on small children, including babies under 18 months of age. Dilute for topical use to avoid skin sensitivity.

Mugwort Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Artemisia Vulgaris

Health Benefits: Sounds like something from Harry Potter? That’s because in England and other European countries, it was accused of being a plant that dabbled in witchcraft and black magic. However, despite its infamous reputation, it also has a famous one stemming from the Chinese for its various medicinal properties.

Benefits that include relief from spasm, hysteric, and epileptic attacks. It also cures digestive disorders, treats amenorrhea and dysmenorrhoea, eliminates tapeworms and roundworms, and treats nervous afflictions and disorders.

It also provides strong support for the menstrual cycle, digestive system, and kidney function.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use. Pregnant women must strictly avoid use. It’s considered a toxin, abortifacient, and irritant. When used incorrectly, it can cause serious poisonous effects such as irritations, toxic and narcotic effects on the nervous system and brain, and can motivate abortions. Those with a history of epilepsy should use with extreme caution or avoid use all together.

Mullein Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Verbascum Thapsus or Verbascum Sinuatum

Health Benefits: This oil was known as Candlewick – it’s nickname is obvious of its traditional use. It hasn’t been until much later that Mullein’s medicinal properties were discovered.

It helps to reduce fever, protect wounds from infection, cure inflammation in the nasal and respiratory tract, and provide relief from toothaches, headaches, the cold, and sinusitis.

On top of its cramping-dispelling, stress and anxiety-banishing, and nervous disorder-eliminating abilities, it effectively provides protection from both internal and external infections.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Mustard Essential Oil

mustard oil seed and flowerBotanical Name: Brassica Nigra (Black Mustard) or Brassica Hirta (White Mustard)

Health Benefits: Mustard oil has a very contradictory reputation, one that can spark contention depending on what part of the world you’re in. In Asia, it’s considered an excellent oil for internal use for flavoring food, aiding digestion, and stimulating circulation.

In Europe where it’s practically forbidden for sale or tolerated for topical use, it’s beneficial for inhibiting fungal infection, preventing hair loss, treating bacterial skin infections, and provides relief for rheumatic and arthritic pains.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. While it’s true that civilizations have used this oil for centuries and consider it safe, it is an irritant to the mucus membranes. Small doses are advised for initial applications until your skin and body becomes accustomed to it.

Myrrh Essential Oil

myrrhBotanical Name: Commiphora Myrrha

Health Benefits: Beyond Myrrh’s religious status, it once was famously part of an economic system – valued and worth its weight in gold. Native to Egypt, of course it has skincare benefits and was used as incense and in perfumes – not much has changed today.

But, beyond that vanities of the Egyptians, Myrrh essential oil can strengthen the immune system, stimulate blood circulation, and provide relief from infection inflammation.

Additionally, it can prevent hair loss, strengthen gums, and helps with muscle contractions.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Used in excess, it can be toxic. Pregnant women should strictly avoid use due to its stimulating contraction effects on the uterus that could possibly cause miscarriage.

Myrtle Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Myrtus Communis

Health Benefits: Women want everything associated with Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, and men will want everything to do with the bravest warriors, athletes, and soldiers who were honored with Myrtle leaves.

The ancient Greek caught onto its medicinal benefits that include microbial infection protection, clearing of nasal congestion, and relief from coughs and respiratory problems. But, if you’re not shy of being vain, it also helps to diminish wrinkles, deodorizes, and improves impotency and libido.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

N

Neroli Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Citrus Aurantium and Citrus Vulgaris

Health Benefits: If you wear Eau-de-Cologne, then you’re already familiar with Neroli essential oil. Made in perfumes, it also has healthy benefits for the body.

It treats typhoid and food poisoning, protects against coughs and colds, and is a powerful antiseptic. But, back to the shameless human’s desire to attract mates, it fades away acne scars and spots, cures skin infections, and is an aphrodisiac! With sedative-like effects, it can help to set the mood.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Avoid use of Neroli if you require concentration or are trying to avoid sleep.

Niaouli Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Melaleuca Viridiflora

Health Benefits: Another tree native to Australia, it has many benefits like its cousin Tea Tree oil. It has astonishing prowess in supporting both blood and lymph circulation, pain relief from arthritis, rheumatism, and gout, and also relieves aches and pains of all kinds, such as headaches, earaches, and toothaches.

It also helps to enhance a clear complexion by fading away scars from acne, pimples, and skin lesions. It clears congestion from all parts of the body including the nasal tracts, lungs, bronchi, larynx, trachea, and pharynx.

Additionally, it lowers fever, eliminates intestinal worms, and protects against bacterial growth, sepsis, and tetanus.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Nutmeg Essential Oil

nutmegBotanical Name: Myristica Fragrans

Health Benefits: While Nutmeg has many names, they all have the same things in common – its medicinal benefits, and of those, there are many. It has many roles as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, bactericidal, sedative, stimulant, and relaxing substance.

During the Elizabethan Era, it proved to be effective in combating the plague. That’s probably because it helps to treat congestion and cold symptoms, relieves stomach aches, detoxifies the liver, and is a purifying and cleansing substance.

It also regulates hormonal imbalances, treats kidney infections and disease, supports cardiac health, and is an antiseptic for aching gums and teeth.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

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Oakmoss Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Evernia Prunastri

Health Benefits: Even an ugly, wet, and sludge-looking moss has medicinal benefits. It acts as an antiseptic, demulcent, expectorant, and restorative. As an all-purpose antiseptic, it has purifying and cleansing properties.

It also provides relief from inflammation from irritation in and outside of the body, and it gets rid of coughs and congestion related to asthma and respiratory issues.

Those who keep a strict skincare regimen might want to consider throwing in Oakmoss essential oil into the mix as it helps to regulate excess sebum while maintaining skin moisture.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. May cause skin sensitivity. Dilute for topical use. Those with neurotic disorders such as epilepsy and hysteria should avoid use.

Ocotea Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Ocotea Quixos

Health Benefits: This essential oil has a very complex aroma but is clean and crisp. It hails from an Ecuadorian tree and is known to provide many wonderful skin benefits.

Additionally, it helps to support healthy digestion, is purifying, and even helps to provide appetite satiety. If you’re looking for regular bowel movements, skin cleansing benefits, and appetite suppressant support, Ocotea essential oil is a must-have.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Avoid direct sunlight for 12 hours after topical use.

Orange Essential Oil

orangesBotanical Name: Citrus Sinensis

Health Benefits: Also known as Wild Orange essential oil, it’s a well-known flavoring in many foods, confectionery, and beverages, but it’s also know for its use cosmetics.

However, there are medicinal benefits to be reaped such as support for the immune system, treating constipation, and relief from inflammation. Those who have facial products that include Orange essential oil also know the acne and dermatitis benefits it provides.

It’s also an antimicrobial that inhibits growth and disinfects wounds, relieves nervous and muscular spasms, promotes healthy urination, and the removal of toxins.

Pleasantly, Orange oil also relieves feelings of fatigue, depression, anxiety, stress, and anger – an attribute similar to most citrus oils.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Avoid direct sunlight for 12 hours after topical application. Avoid excessive internal use to prevent nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Oregano Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Oreganum Vulgare

oreganoHealth Benefits: Known as the “Delight of the Mountains”, it’s been historically used in ancient Greece as an antibacterial for treating wounds, infections of the skin, and even to prevent bacterial growth in food.

Modern-day use also incorporates it long-time uses with a few extra health benefits such as curing many types of inflammation, relief from allergy symptoms, eliminating intestinal worms, and reducing the symptoms of oncoming menopause.

It’s also a warming oil and protects against cancer, protects against macular degeneration, and support respiratory and immune systems.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Because Oregano essential oil is warming, it must be diluted for topical use. Avoid excessive use since it can cause skin sensitivity and can irritate mucus membranes.

While it’s also a hormonal and regulator and stimulator, pregnant women should strictly avoid use. Those with sensitivities and allergies to Lavender, Marjoram, Mint, and Sage may also be allergy-prone to Oregano.

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Palma Rosa Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Cymbopogon Martini

Health Benefits: Getting its name from its aroma, it smells like Rose oil and is often used as an alternative to Rose oil because it’s much more affordable.

In terms of health benefits, it reduces fever, is an excellent antiseptic and antiviral agent, aids in healthy digestion, and prevents bacterial infections. It’s also a mood-balancing oil that helps to beat fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

Those with aging on their minds can benefit from its anti-aging properties, moisture-balancing qualities, and its ability to cure skin lesions from skin disorders including cracks and Athlete’s foot.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Palo Santo Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Bursera Graveolens

Health Benefits: This type of oil is mainly reserved for its aromatic and topical benefits. When diffused, its inspiring and refreshing aroma helps to bring spiritual grounding and peace to the atmosphere.

Because it’s also a cleansing-type oil, it’s promoted for use in bringing about emotional balance and clarity – especially effective for meditation. When used topically, it’s quite effective for massage use after physical activity.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Parsley Essential Oil

parsleyBotanical Name: Petroselinum Sativum

Health Benefits: Every foodie knows the refreshing and herbaceous flavorings Parsley offers culinary dishes, especially when paired with meat. But, apart from its close relationship with food, it’s one of the oldest herbs known to mankind, and for good medicinal reasons too.

It helps to improve appetite and supports the digestive system by providing relief from gas, indigestion, and constipation. It also offers up antimicrobial and astringent qualities that help out with menstrual problems, wound sepsis, toxin removal, and relief from gout and arthritis pains.

It also has cardiac benefits by reducing blood pressure and risks of heart attack.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Because of its abortifacient and emmenagogue properties, pregnant women should avoid use. Parsley is mildly toxic on the liver and has non-sensitizing effects. Internal use must be regulated carefully.

Patchouli Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Pogostemon Cablin or Pogostemon Patchouli

Health Benefits: Often associated with its insecticide benefits, it also has amazing benefits for the skin and emotional well-being. As a member of the mint family, it’s close cousin is Peppermint and is strong and sweet smelling.

As far as anti-aging goes, it helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, restores a clear complexion, removes blemishes, and provides a natural glow. Emotionally, it has a grounding and balancing effect for tumultuous and transitioning periods for helping to fight depression.

Furthermore, it has other physical benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving libido and impotency, boosts energy, and supports the immune system. While it prevents fungal growth, it also eliminates body odor and treats eczema dermatitis and psoriasis.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. High concentrations can be irritating in aromatic and topical use.

Penny Royal Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Mentha Pulegium

Health Benefits: As you can see, the Mentha part of Penny Royal’s botanical name stems from its minty aroma. High in pulegone content, it can be extremely poisonous, even to the point of death.

Why would a death-causing poison be used as a holistic and homeopathic remedy? Because, depending on your health conditions, duration of use, and dosage concentrations, it can provide some life-changing benefits.

Low doses can cure stomach ailments, make arthritis and rheumatic pains tolerable, remove uric acid from the body, purify and stimulate blood circulation. It can also treat jaundice, gallbladder disease, convulsions, fainting, and sudden hysteric attacks.

Caution: Suitable for topical use. Internal use has been practiced, but only under the care of an expert as it can cause death, even in small doses. Pregnant women must not use Penny Royal essential oil – ever! Authenticity is not guaranteed, and use must be monitored by medical experts.

Peppermint Essential Oil

mintBotanical Name: Mentha Piperita

Health Benefits: Menthol has been used in everything from gum and candy to toothpaste, soaps, and even tobacco products. But, there are legitimate medicinal benefits to using Peppermint essential oil.

Although Peppermint is a hybrid between Watermint and Spearmint, numerous studies conducted by the scientific community have proven its many medicinal health benefits such as its immune, digestion, anti-fungal, and circulatory support.

It also stimulates cognitive activity, promotes healthy skin and hair growth, and even reduces the risk of herpes infection. It can eliminate nausea, headaches, seasonal allergies, and bad breath.

It’s also promoted for optimal oral care, clears the respiratory tract, and is even effective for gastroscopy and colonoscopy.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Due to skin sensitivity, spot testing is highly recommended as well as dilution for topical use.

Petitgrain Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Citrus Aurantium

Health Benefits: Also known as Bitter Orange, it has the many benefits that citrus oils provide. Scientific evidence supports its use for the immune system, internal cleansing, and healthy nervous system function.

While Petitgrain essential oil is commonly found in perfumes and cosmetic products, there’s a science behind it. It protects against fungal, microbial, and bacterial infections, eliminates body odor, and the aroma is strong, herbaceous, and fresh.

It also relieves depression, anxiety, stress, muscle spasms and cramps, and coughs and may treat abnormal heart palpitations, lowers hypertension, and aids in insomnia.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Pimento Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Pimenta Dioica or Pimenta Officinalis

Health Benefits: While you mightn’t be familiar with Pimento, you may be familiar with its other name, Allspice. Does the blended aromas of Cinnamon, Clove, Cardamom, and Pepper ring a bell?

Well, its medicinal benefits include relief from indigestion and flatulence, blood circulation just beneath the skin’s surface, protects against bacterial growth and infections from wounds.

It’s also a tonic for the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. It stimulates the secretion of hormones, supports generation of new cells, and provides relief from anxious, stressful, nervous, and anger-inducing feelings.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Pregnant women should avoid use. Can be irritating to the mucus membranes when used in high doses.

Pine Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Pinus Sylvestris

Health Benefits: There are a plethora of benefits Pine essential oil can offer, starting with its anti-inflammatory benefits associated with redness, clears mucus and phlegm, protects against sinus infections, and boosts the immune system.

It also cures skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne, fights fungal and viral infections, and supports an overall protection against a wide variety of germs.

Additionally, it also helps with treating stress and anxiety disorders, improves eye health, boosts the metabolism, and is a natural remedy for urinary tract infections.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Due to skin sensitivity, topical applications must be diluted. Children and the elderly must avoid use. Those with kidney disorders must also avoid use since it can possibly cause kidney damage.

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Ravensara Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Ravensara Aromatica

Health Benefits: The same way Tea Tree is hailed in Australia as a cure-all, Ravensara is the cure-all for the Madagascar region. Traditionally, it’s been used for centuries as a tonic and for fighting infections.

But, it can also cure respiratory issues, sexual dysfunction, and bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. It can also facilitate nutrient absorption, relax nerves and muscles, and treat abnormal blood and lymph circulation.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. As an aphrodisiac, pregnant women should avoid use due to its effect on hormone secretion stimulation.

Ravintsara Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Cinnamomum Camphora

Health Benefits: This essential oil is mostly used aromatically and topically for its cleansing and purifying benefits. But, medicinally, it can provide additional skin care benefits such as a clear complexion, oil control, and removing blemishes.

However, it’s an excellent oil for use during meditation, helping to cleanse the air, ground for clarity, and improve mental concentration.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

roman chamomileBotanical Name: Anthemis Nobilis

Health Benefits: The short-growing plant has been nicknamed “the physician’s plant” because it has many positive effects on nearby, growing plants but also on the body. Roman soldiers figured out that it made them more positive and courageous during battles.

However, if you’re not exactly preparing for war, you can expect relief from depression, anxiety, and stress, relief from arthritic and rheumatic pains, and liver and digestion support.

You can also lower your risks for heart problems since it can reduce blood pressure.

If you’re more concerned with your obvious aging signs, then it can help to fade scars and blemishes, protect the scalp and skin from infections, provide relief from eczema and cure acne.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. If you have an allergy to Chamomile or a member of the Ragweed family, avoid use.

Rose Essential Oil

rose oilBotanical Name: Rosa Damascena

Health Benefits: Roses can vary in shape, size, and even fragrances, but one thing stays consistent – its ability to invoke romantic feelings. If that’s all you know about Rose oil, then prepared to be humbled by its many medicinal uses.

It can fight off depression, boost confidence, stimulate regular menstrual cycles, and improve libido. It’s also a laxative! It has internal benefits of preventing bacterial and viral infections, cures spasms, convulsions, and cramps, and also protects the liver and stomach from infections.

Additionally, it speeds up blood coagulation, and it also provides anti-aging benefits by improving skin texture and restoring a youthful complexion.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use. High concentrations can cause headaches, and pregnant women should strictly avoid use.

Rosemary Essential Oil

rosemaryBotanical Name: Rosmarinus Officinalis

Health Benefits: Many cultures include the ancient Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Hebrew, revered this herb as sacred.

While commonly used for food preparation, it also has cosmetic and medicinal benefits. It was once used as an herbal remedy to cure delicate organs of the body that includes the brain, heart, and liver.

It promotes optimal skin, oral, and hair health. It effectively treats indigestion, stress disorders, and boosts cognitive activity.

Additionally, rosemary boosts the immune system is an overall great pain reliever. More specifically, it can reduce symptoms of the herpes virus, provides relief from respiratory infections, tones and prevents dry skin, and eliminates bad breath.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Can cause vomiting and spasms. Pregnant and lactating women must avoid use.

Rosewood Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Aniba Rosaeaodora

Health Benefits: A great anti-depressant, blood circulator, and digestion support. It also improves memory and protects against neurotic disorders. Additionally, Rosewood oil helps to heal wounds and removes pain from joints, toothaches, and headaches.

It can even treat acne and other skin diseases, coughs, vomiting, and nausea. True to the Rose family, it also boosts your libido. It does wonder for stimulating enzymes, acids, hormones, and bile secretion.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Rue Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Ruta Graveolens

Health Benefits: Ironically, this oil is actually in demand for its toxicity to provide medicinal benefits. While contradictive in nature, when used appropriately, it relieves indigestion, protects against fungal infections, treats dermatitis and Athlete’s foot, and kills bacteria.

Rue also reduces arthritic and rheumatic pains, provides neutralizing effects from poisonous and toxic effects from snakes and narcotics, and treats nervous hyper-activity.

Caution: Suitable for topical use. Pregnant women must strictly avoid use due to accidental abortions. It can be irritating to the mucus membranes. Avoid direct sunlight after use.

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Sage Essential Oil

sageBotanical Name: Salvia Officinalis

Health Benefits: With its healing and revitalizing benefits for the skin, reducing skin inflammation, fading scars, and fighting several skin diseases such as dermatitis, it’s no wonder it’s found in several cosmetic products.

While its anti-aging and beautifying effects are largely known, it also has other unknown medicinal benefits. It can reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, stimulate the brain, nervous and spleen systems, and can regulate menstrual cycles.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use. Pregnant women should avoid use since it contains camphor and camphene, and is toxic. Those who have nervous disorders such as epilepsy and hysteria should also avoid use.

Sandalwood/Hawaiian Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Santalum Paniculatum

Health Benefits: You don’t need a trip to Hawaii to experience the calming, relaxing, and soothing benefits of this type of Sandalwood. Its sweet and woody aroma make it a common combination in both aromatherapy and massage use. But, its medicinal properties offer more benefits.

It’s soothing, cleansing, and purifying for the skin, helping with a natural glow and clear complexion. It also promotes a positive and confident state of mind by lessening stress, tension, and anxiety.

Sandalwood can even help with weight loss and boosts the part of the brain that’s associated with memory and concentration.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Dilute for topical use.

Sandalwood/Indian Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Santalum Album

Health Benefits: Traditionally, it’s been used in religious ceremonies,specifically enhancing meditation, and the Egyptians know it well for use in the embalming process. But, medicinally, it has similar benefits to the Hawaiian Sandalwood essential oil when it comes to skincare benefits such as smoothing skin texture, it’s anti-aging, and it heals scars and spots.

Furthermore, it reduces high blood pressure, lowers bad cholesterol, and boosts immunity.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Dilute for topical use.

Spearmint Essential Oil

spearmintBotanical Name: Mentha Spicata

Health Benefits: Since Spearmint oil has lower concentrations of menthol content, it’s preferred for its mild aroma but similar medicinal benefits.

Benefits such as treating asthma, relaxing nerves and muscles, and it acts as a disinfectant. It also helps to boost concentration, promote circulation, and relieves headaches and stress.

It even treats wounds and ulcers as an antiseptic, treats menstrual problems, and supports optimal function of all body organs.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Pregnant women should avoid use.

Spikenard Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Nardostachys Jatamansi

Health Benefits: Traditionally, women of Nepal used Spikenard to improve skin issues and also to protect the uterus and ovaries for optimal reproductive function. It’s still used to this day for those very same benefits.

Additionally, it supports hormonal secretion, cures constipation, and is an effective remedy for skin infections caused by bacteria. It can calm and provide relief from stress, anxiety, and insomnia, cure fungal infections, and reduce many types of inflammation.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

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Tagetes Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Tagetes Minuta

Health Benefits: While this herb is not popular for aromatic use, it has shown some stunning benefits for topical use. It can protect against infections from bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, prevent sepsis from staphylococcus aureus, and can clear wounds and prevent maggot growth.

This oil also provides a myriad of pain relief from muscle and respiratory spasms to cramps and convulsions. It can also remove congestion and its associated side effects and promote uplifting, positive, and inspiring moods.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Dilute for topical use. Skin sensitivity can occur. Higher concentrations can be difficult to tolerate.

Tangerine Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Citrus Reticulata

Health Benefits: Please refer to Mandarin Essential Oil.

Caution: Please refer to Mandarin Essential Oil.

Tansy Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Tanacetum Vulgare or Tanacetum Annuum

Health Benefits: Thanks to common people, villagers, and gypsies, Tansy has been recognized as a medicinal plant, despite that it’s very poisonous.

Used appropriately, it can fight and protect against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, provide skin, respiratory, and digestive inflammation relief, and reduce high body temperatures.

Tansy can also stimulate hormonal and endocrine glands, provide allergy relief from histamines, and relief from stress and tension.

Caution: Suitable for topical use. Because it contains thujone, small doses can be fatal. Use with extreme care and appropriately. It also has narcotic effects, so those with severe nervous or neurotic disturbances should avoid use.

Tarragon Essential Oil

tarragonBotanical Name: Artemisia Dracunculus

Health Benefits: While this herb is also known as “Little Dragon”, no one as a clue as why it has this name. Despite its unknown naming history, there’s plenty enough known about its medicinal uses.

It inhibits microbe growth, improves appetite, and clears obstructed menses helping to relieve the pains associated with menstrual cycles. It also stimulates several systems including the endocrine, digestive, brain, nervous, and circulatory systems.

It can remove toxins from the body and stimulates digestive juices in the stomach.

Caution: Safe for internal and topical use. Children and pregnant women should avoid use. Because of its estragole content, also known as methyl chavicol, it’s poisonous. Applications must be taken with care and monitored.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Melaleuca Alternifolia

Health Benefits: Please see Melaleuca Essential Oil.

Caution: Please see Melaleuca Essential Oil.

Thuja Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Thuja Occidentalis

Health Benefits: This oil is popularly known in aromatherapy and holistic remedies. While it can relieve pains associated with rheumatism and arthritis, can eliminate intestinal worms, and support the urinary system, it really shines elsewhere.

It mainly provides hormonal and immune support by providing relief from menstruation and stimulates the secretions of hormones and enzymes.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Aromatic use must be done with low concentrations as it can irritate mucus membranes and can trigger reactions in those with neurotic disorders. Pregnant women should avoid use.

Thyme Essential Oil

thymeBotanical Name: Thymus Vulgaris

Health Benefits: This herb has been used all over the world for its many benefits – benefits that still hold notoriety today. The knights of the Middle Ages used it for courage, as you can. It was used to under pillows to promote a good night’s sleep, as you can.

The ancient Greek used it in their baths and as an incense, as you can. But, the Egyptians used it for embalming – as you might want to avoid.

Additionally, it cures congestion and coughs, safeguards wounds from infection, treats acne and blemishes, and helps with weight loss and indigestion. It can also boost memory and provide anti-depressant benefits.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Dilute for topical use. Not suitable for those with high blood pressure and who are pregnant.

Tuberose Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Polianthes Tuberosa

Health Benefits: With exotic names like “Night Queen” and “Mistress of the Night”, you should expect some exotic benefits that can add some romantic qualities come dark. It can stimulate blood circulation in the body that helps to cure impotency, erectile dysfunction, and increase libido.

More modestly, it can also prevent skin infections, remove body odor, and provide relief from anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Even small concentrations should be used for aromatic use since its scent is strong and powerful and can cause headaches.

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Valerian Essential Oil

valerianBotanical Name: Valeriana Officinalis

Health Benefits: This root is typically used for aromatherapy and topical applications as it has a grounding and calming effect. Naturally, it’s used to support quality sleep and emotional balance.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Vanilla Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia

Health Benefits: Apart from this famous and favorite food flavoring, its medicinal benefits are world-renown. As an antioxidant-rich and anti-carcinogenic plant, it protects against aging and protects against free radical damage preventing cancer.

It also reduces fever, reduces organ inflammation in many parts of the body, and relaxes the brain and nerves. It can even provide an enhanced libido, induce sleep, and enhance positive moods.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

Vetiver Essential Oil

vetiverBotanical Name: Vetiveria Zizanoides or Andropogon Muricatus

Health Benefits: Mostly popular for its aromatic benefits, it can ground and calm chaotic emotions, provide relief from anxiety and stress, and acts as a sedative to induce sleepiness, relaxation, and relief from nervousness.

Taken internally and topically, it can support the immune system, tone up every system of the human body, provide antiseptic benefits, and protect the nerves.

As a bonus, there are also aphrodisiac benefits thrown into the mix to increase libido and cure impotency.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use.

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White Fir Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Abies Alba

Health Benefits: This type of fir is known by every kid at Christmas time as it’s used for Christmas trees. Mainly, it’s an aromatherapy oil that’s used to evoke several feelings including empowerment, energy, comfort, and stability. While it stimulates your emotional senses, it’s also relaxing and grounding.

Caution: Safe for aromatic and topical use.

Wintergreen Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Gaultheria Procumbens

Health benefits: This type of Wintergreen has several benefits for both the body and mind. It’s used for pain relief from arthritis and rheumatism, spasm reduction, and promotes overall body relaxation.

It also reduces the risk of hemorrhaging, supports healthy urination, and removes gases preventing stomach pains. Wintergreen can also prove helpful with tightening both gums and muscle tissue while inhibiting hair loss. For women, they’ll appreciate the regulation of a healthy and normal menstrual cycle.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Not suitable for internal use, and should be diluted for topical applications. Not suitable for people with Salicylate sensitivity.

Wintergreen Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Gaultheria Fragrantissima

Health Benefits: This type of Wintergreen hails from Nepal and is known for its unmistakable minty and fresh aroma. It offers the same benefits as the North American Wintergreen mentioned above, and it also contains methyl salicylate that is extremely soothing to the body when applied topically.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic and topical use. Not suitable for internal use, and should be diluted for topical applications. Not suitable for people with Salicylate sensitivity.

Wormwood Essential Oil

wormwoodBotanical Name: Artemisia Absinthium or Artemisia Annua

Health Benefits: Interestingly, while its grotesque name fits its poisonous status, it has medicinal benefits when used appropriately. It can reduce fevers, improve digestion, and stimulate the discharge of bile from the liver to the stomach for excretion.

Fittingly to its name, it can eliminate parasitic worms from the body. It can also support healthy regulation of the menstrual cycle and relieve anxiety, depression, and stress.

Caution: Suitable for topical use. Because it contains high amounts of thujone, it’s a neurotoxin and is a potent poison. It should not be consumed andd should be monitored carefully during use. Those with neurotic disorders should avoid use.

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Yarrow Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Achillea Millefolium

Health Benefits: A common holistic remedy for several ailments and diseases, it can aid in curing coughs and colds, promote perspiration to remove toxins, and improves digestion including excessive gas. It also helps your skin to remain scar-free, helps to cure arthritis and rheumatism, reduce inflammation, and acts as an antiseptic and antispasmodic.

Caution: Suitable for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Skin sensitivity can occur. Dilution is recommended for topical use. Since it’s a neurotoxin, small doses are recommended for all types of use.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

ylang ylang oilBotanical Name: Cananga Odorata

Health Benefits: While this star-shaped flower has only been discovered recently for its medicinal benefits, it has long-time use in religious and wedding ceremonies. But, along the lines of medicinal use, it strengthens the nervous system, promotes overall healthy hair and skin, and is an effective remedy for seborrhea.

It can also lower blood pressure, prevent wounds from infection, promote fast-healing wounds, and provide relief from emotional upset including depression, fatigue, anger, and stress.

Caution: Safe for aromatic, internal, and topical use. Use in mild concentrations to avoid headaches, nausea, and skin sensitivity.

Essential Oil Safety

Using essential oils can be a beneficial and life-changing need to your health, mind, and spirit. But, there can be severe consequences if using essential oils inappropriately, not as intended for use, and in excessive amounts.

Common side effects of incorrect use of essential oils are:

  • Skin sensitivity
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Allergic reactions

However, these are just the mild side effects. Although natural, there are essential oils that are outright poisons but have medicinal uses when applied under a physician’s care and monitored carefully.

Potential dangerous and serious side effect complications include:

  • Coma
  • Lethargy
  • Hallucinations
  • Convulsions
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Spasms
  • Accidental miscarriage
  • Accidental abortion
  • Death

Always avoid any use of essential oils if you’re in doubt. Pregnant and lactating women should always be aware of use of any oil that affects reproductive, hormonal, and muscular systems. Unless an essential oil has been proven to be safe for use, pregnant and lactating women should refrain from use. Those on prescription medications or with diagnosed medical conditions should always discuss with a physician their intentions in using essential oils to avoid complications.

The most important thing to do when using essential oils is to spot test for sensitivity. Apply a drop or two to a mixture of a carrier oil for dilution and apply to the inside of the elbow. Wait after 24 hours for any negative side effects. If side effects occur sooner, wash and rinse off immediately, and seek medical care if necessary.

Where to Buy Essential Oils

Brand is not only a matter of personal preference, but it’s also a matter of quality, purity, reputation, and consumer service. Some of the best online brands have been around for ages and users from all over the world swear by these products and the brands’ reputation. Here’s a list of the top 10 brands of essential oils online.

Whether you’re looking to incorporate essential oils into your office space, household chores, or salon and spa business, you can be sure that you’ll reap in the many benefits for the mind, spirit, and body.

If it’s a fresh fragrance that you’re after, a topical treatment for a blister, or a life-changing preventative measure you’re undertaking, essential oils can prove their worth.