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Spring 2007
The Benefits of Herbal Oils
BY KAREN A. PATTERSON
As we emerge from winter,
nature's essential oils can help soothe the
lingering effects of the weather and improve overall health and well-being.
Essential oils are the complex, volatile substances
that are extracted from various parts of herb plants for their unique scent
and flavor. When we rub our fingers over a sprig of lavender or walk through
an aromatic herb garden, a residual trace of fragrant oil stays with us.
True to their name, herbal oils are essential to the plant's survival,
attracting certain insects for pollination while repelling others that pose
a threat. Due to their concentrated and essential nature, the oils are
considered the lifeblood of the plant.
Many cosmetics, perfumes, colognes, soaps, lotions, and shampoos contain
herbal oils which lend their healing, soothing and aromatic properties to
the product. They enhance bath water, moisturize the skin, as well as clean
and condition the hair. And when used in medicines as a flavoring, they
effectively mask the medicinal taste. Oils, such as eucalyptus, are used in
vaporizers to treat congestion and other upper respiratory ailments when
inhaled. And they can also be dispersed into the air through an aromatherapy
air diffuser.
Certain oils are more aromatic than others. For instance, lavender is
stronger than sage, and mint is stronger than aloe vera, but each serves a
different purpose depending on its potency.
Health food stores carry a variety of highly concentrated oils that are
contained in vials or bottles. Select only pure essential oils rather than
synthetic or artificial substitutes, that are not as effective and can be
flammable especially when used around open flames. Since their shelf life is
relatively short, about a year, always buy small quantities.
Following are a few of the most popular herbs.
Arnica (Arnica montana) - An aromatic oil that can be used on bruises and to
relieve arthritic pain, inflammation of phlebitis, and swelling when rubbed
on the effected area. Do not use internally.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) – When inhaled through a vaporizer or diffuser,
basil oil relieves the symptoms of coughs, emphysema, asthma, bronchitis,
colds and congestion.
Chamomile, German (Matricaria chamomilia) – Of the three varieties of
chamomile – German, Roman and Wild – the German is considered to be more
potent than the others. It is an effective anti-inflammatory and, as such,
treats infections, wounds, and skin irritations. It also helps to reduce
fevers, and relieve muscle spasms and joint pains.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) – A product from the "fever tree," this
antibacterial oil helps reduce fever, ease respiratory ailments, treat skin
problems, and, when used in a diffuser, relieve mental exhaustion and
depression.
Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum) – As one of the richest ancient oils, it is
an excellent perfume and is considered a "woman's oil" because it is
effective in treating a host of women's unique physical complaints.
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) – This rich, potent oil contains more than
200 beneficial active compounds. It helps restore vitality and provides a
calming effect on people who are nervous, agitated, or are suffering from
insomnia. It is also an excellent antiseptic, analgesic, and antibacterial
that cleans, soothes and speeds the healing of burns, cuts and insect bites.
Peppermint (Mentha xpiperita) - A popular oil, it refreshes the body, mind
and spirit, often improving a person's concentration and memory. It relieves
nausea and dizziness, eases minor digestive problems, such as heartburn, and
treats headaches when rubbed on the temples.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – Substances contained in rosemary oil can
stimulate circulation and the nervous system, rejuvenating both the mind and
body. It also relieves muscle aches when a diluted amount is massaged into
the sore area.
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) – Well known for its positive results
in treating depression, this deep red oil is used in skin care and the
treatment of bruises, burns and sprains.
Due to their volatility, essential oils should be used sparingly, and
caution should always be practiced when using any oil. Never apply them on
the skin at full strength because they may cause severe irritation, so
testing them on a small part of the skin first, such as the inside of the
wrist, is advised. And never take them internally unless properly advised by
a health care provider.
Karen Patterson is the author of Herbs for All Seasons. Your
questions can be sent to her at
[email protected].
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