KYI ~ Essential Oils

A word of caution regarding Essential Oils; please be very careful with any product that contains Essential Oils if you are pregnant, have diabetes, epilepsy, heart conditions or for small children and babies. Although they have great therapeutic properties, they could be detrimental to your health. Please consult your physician prior to using any products containing Essential Oils. Also, beware of companies who claim that their oils are essentialors, but really aren't. Essential Oils such as sandalwood, rose, jasmine, vanilla, etc. cost several hundreds to several thousands of dollars per pound. That is why you might find blends such as our "My Secret Garden", which contains Bulgarian Lavender EO, English Rose FO and a spec of Patchouli EO. If we were to use Rose EO in this blend, the price would be out of reach for most people, including us. For further information regarding Essential Oils, I highly recommend "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils" by Julia Lawless.

Anise seed INCI: Pimpinella anisum The oil of this aromatic seed has a scent similar to licorice and is useful in the treatment of digestive and respiratory ailments. In a massage oil, anise seed oil can help alleviate muscular aches and pains, indigestion and flatulence. Anise is also useful in thinning and expulsion of bronchial mucus. When used in soap, anise is said to mask the human scent making it a great fisherman's or outdoorsman's soap!

Balsam Peru INCI: Myroxylon Pereirae (Balsam Peru) Oil Earthy, exotic and lingering all describe this woodsy-vanilla like scent. With just a little added to your lotions, creams and body sprays you will be in touch with your sensual side in no time! How do I describe it? Orgasmic - there, I said it and I'm not ashamed either (well, maybe a little!). You will fall in love with this essential oil!

Cedarwood, China INCI: Cedarwood has a warm, woody smell that blends nicely with other woody oils like vetiver & sandalwood, citrus oils, floral oils such as jasmine and neroli, basil, eucalyptus and chamomile oils. It is a powerful antiseptic, astringent and insect repellent. Use cedarwood oil to treat respiratory congestion, dandruff, oily skin, eczema, acne, athlete’s foot, cystitis, nervous tension and kidney/bladder infections. Cedarwood is a nice addition to a man's fragrance blend. Do not use during pregnancy or on small babies.

Cedarwood, Virginia INCI: Juniperus Virginiana Oil A woodsy, balsamic and the most earthy blend with just a touch of sweetness. This one blends well with grapefruit and sweet orange for an invigorating blend that has incredible holding power. This variety of cedarwood helps combat acne, oily skin, greasy hair and dandruff. It helps relax tension and promotes peaceful slumber. It has a very pretty, yet rustic scent that makes it a popular oil for blending. Cedarwood is also uplifting when used in room fragrance products.

Cinnamon Leaf INCI: Cinnamomum zeylanicum Cinnamon Leaf oil is a warming, highly aromatic, spicy oil that should not be used in skin applications but works wonderfully to cleanse and purify the air, killing germs and bacteria. Cinnamon taken internally stimulates blood circulation and warms the body. It can help relieve nausea, reduce high blood pressure and strengthen the immune system. Do not use directly on skin.

Citronella INCI: Cymbopogon nardus Citronella has a lemony aroma and is well known for its effectiveness as an insect repellent. Used in bug repellent lotion bars, flea shampoos and great for making mosquito repellent candles to be used outdoors.

Clary Sage, Bulgaria INCI: Salvia sclarea Clary Sage is a beautiful smoky floral that calms and balances the spirit. It reduces stress and brings on a feeling of tranquility. It is especially balancing on female hormones and can be used to treat PMS, menstrual cramps, postnatal depression, menopause & irregular cycles. It combines well with jasmine, geranium, lavender, bergamot, orange, ylang ylang, rosewood, sandalwood & chamomile. Do not use when pregnant.

Clove Oil INCI: Eugenia Caryophyllate Clove is a very warm, spicy aromatic oil which is most effective as an antiseptic when diffused and is a wonder for toothaches and abscesses when dabbed on the tooth (very, very carefully). Clove is a "hot" spice oil and can burn if used on the skin undiluted. Clove is stimulating to the mind, enhances concentration and can act as an aphrodisiac. It blends well with lavender, bergamot, orange, vanilla, vetiver, ylang ylang & other florals. It can help sweeten some medicinal smelling blends. A great oil for potpourris and other home fragrance products. Clove is irritating to the skin and mucous membranes so extreme care should be taken when using on the skin. It must be diluted to less than .75% Avoid during pregnancy and do not use on babies or young children.

Dillweed INCI: Anethum Graveolens Dill seed oil is a warm spicy oil generally used to aid in digestion and to relieve flatulence and colic. It can promote lactation in nursing mothers and help bring on a late period. It blends nicely with citrus oils, neroli and mint oils. DO NOT use if pregnant.

Eucalyptus, China INCI: Eucalyptus globulus Eucalyptus globulus is best known for its respiratory effects and relief for congestion. It is highly antimicrobial and a must have for the winter months. Use it in a diffuser to keep colds away. Stimulates circulation and warms the body, increases concentration, and is useful for relieving rheumatic aches and pains. Dabbed on with a q-tip, it can help stop the irritation of a bug bite. A good insect repellent and treatment for lice and athletes foot. It has a dominating scent but blends well with pine, lemon, lime, cedarwood, bergamot & tea tree. Use at half strength as a diffuser for children's rooms. Do not use in children's products.

Ginger, China INCI: Zingiber officinale Ginger is highly used as a natural remedy. It is a warm oil, that is relaxing, helps relieve nausea, indigestion, alleviates soreness and stiffness in muscles, increases circulation and strengthens the immune system during cold season. Use carefully on the skin because it can irritate if not properly diluted. Blends well with citrus oils, sandalwood, frankincense, cedarwood, palmarosa etc. Must be diluted well before using on skin or in the bath. Use with caution during pregnancy.

Lavender 40/42, France INCI: Lavandula Angustifolia This is a pleasant, not so camphorous lavender oil. Used for burns, wounds, stress relief, headaches, disinfections, air purifying, as a decongestant, etc. Lavender is the most popular essential oil for bath, skin care and aromatherapy products due to the fact that it is so safe to use and has so many beneficial properties. Use at half strength on babies and children. Do not overuse – it can become a powerful stimulant if overdosed.

Lavender, Bulgaria INCI: Lavandula officinalis Bulgarian Lavender is a high-quality, full-bodied lavender that is less camphorous than most lavenders. Enough can't be said about the uses and properties of lavender. It is a must have for the remedy chest. It can be used to relax and relieve stress, relieve headaches, reduce high blood pressure and heal burns and wounds. It kills germs and can be used in a diffuser to purify the air and reduce the spread of colds and viruses. It can also reduce cramps. This is the safest oil to use for babies and children. Bulgarian Lavender is my favorite! Avoid if you have low blood pressure.

Lemon, USA INCI: Citrus limonium With its light fresh citrus scent, it's no wonder that the Greeks used Lemon Essential Oil to perfume their clothing. In England, Lemon Essential Oil is used in hospitals to freshen the air and uplift the spirits. The oil is expressed from the outer part of the fresh peel. High in Vitamins A, B, and C. Our Lemon Essential Oil is produced in the USA, the tree grows up to 20 feet and has fragrant flowers. It is known to be an antimicrobial, disinfectant, antiseptic, insecticidal, astringent and bactericidal. Can help with bronchial problems and asthma. Lemon Essential Oil is refreshing and may help to sharpen the senses. It also may reduce stress, promote a restful sleep, be relaxing, calming, and reduce cellulite when used in a body massage oil. It is popular because of its clean fresh scent and it blends very nicely with many other oils. The astringency of lemon makes it good for oily skin and hair. Avoid direct sunlight for a few hours after use because of its photosensitizing effect.

Lemon Eucalyptus, Tasmania INCI: Eucalyptus Citriodora See Eucalyptus and Lemon Essential Oils above.

Lemongrass, India INCI: Cymbopogon flexuosus Lemongrass is stimulating, refreshing, increases alertness and concentration, relieves fatigue, aids in digestion, relieves aching muscles, soothes gastric infections and acts as an insect repellent. Used on the skin in highly diluted form, it is astringent and helps treat acne and oily skin. A good skin toner but must be used with caution on the skin. Lemongrass functions as a 'top' note in blends and smells like lemon with an earthy note. Use with caution on skin and do not use near mucous membranes.

Litsea Cubeba INCI: Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil Litsea Cubeba is an herbal, lemon scent and a must have for all soapmakers. Add a little "sunshine" to your daily bath today! Litsea Cubeba is an anchoring scent and blends well with Sandalwood, Patchouli and White Sage Fragrance Oils. Litsea, also known as May Chang, has been used in Chinese traditional medicine to treat digestive disorders, headaches, aches, pains and nausea. It can also be used to treat acne, oily skin, asthma and flatulence. It is very popular in perfumes because of its lemony scent. It can help to anchor other citrus top notes that seem to fade quickly. Litsea blends well with florals and other citrus oils. Do not apply to broken or sensitive skin. Litsea can be a sensitizer.

Niaouli, Australia INCI: Melaleuca quinquenervia Niaouli is a strong antiseptic, antibacterial oil. It is very useful during the cold season to treat head or chest colds. It can help relieve skin conditions like psoriasis and acne. It quickly heals wounds and burns. It is a good pick me up oil to have in the remedy chest. Niaouli blends nicely with basil, citrus oils, lavender, tea tree and eucalyptus. Do not use on babies or children.

Sweet Orange, Spain INCI: Citrus Sinensis Has a sweet, fresh, fruity scent. It is a very nutritious fruit containing vitamins A, B and C. Cold pressed from the fresh, ripe peel and is known to be an anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal. It may also help to reduce cellulite, stress, anxiety and acne. It is calming and helps to promote a restful sleep, along with being uplifting and may improve alertness. Sweet Orange Oil will help with colic in babies and reduce fever and headaches. It is also a very good degreaser – you’ve seen the commercials! Blends well with: Lavender, Lemon, Clary Sage, Grapefruit, Myrrh, Cinnamon, Clove, and other spices. I prefer it alone with no other notes to interfere with this delicious smelling EO! Avoid direct sunlight for a few hours after use because of its photosensitizing effect.

Valencia Orange, Spain INCI: Citrus Sinenis This is a 5-folded oil, which are concentrated citrus oils and offer several benefits. Through distillation, the turpenes are removed, thereby rendering the folded oil safe for use in leave-on products such as lotion. The concentrated scent offers resistance to oxidation, which makes the scent last longer!

Palmarosa, India INCI: Cymbopogon martini Palmarosa is very similar in scent to geranium and is often sold as Rose Geranium (which it is not). It helps calm the nervous system and acts as a natural balancer. It aids in digestion, helps with skin problems, treats acne, rejuvenates mature skin, is said to be good for stretch marks and is good for both oily and dry skin. Emotionally, Palmarosa is said to help in the release of anger and grief. It blends nicely with bergamot, rose, geranium, citrus oils, ylang ylang and other floral oils. Avoid while pregnant and do not use on babies.

Patchouli, Indonesia INCI: Pogostemon Cablini Patchouli has a warm, mellow scent that was most popular in the 60's. From Indonesia, this bushy herb growing up to 3' with a hairy stem, has large fragrant furry leaves and white flowers with a bit of purple. It is known to be an antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, stress reliever, astringent and a deodorant. This oil may help acne, athlete's foot, chapped skin, dandruff, dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema and wounds. Patchouli helps to tighten the pores of the skin and is used to combat wrinkles. It regulates oily skin and dandruff and reduces cellulite. When used in a diffuser, Patchouli helps to break up mucous and reduce a fever. Patchouli is a very popular oil for bath and skin care and blends nicely with sandalwood, cedarwood, orange, rose, geranium, lavender and other florals, especially rose. We use it as a fixative in some of our perfumes; My Secret Garden is one of them. Patchouli has a sedative effect when used in small quantities.

Peppermint, China INCI: Mentha piperita A very popular oil for bath products and pick me up remedies! Peppermint will relieve a headache or indigestion, reduce mental fatigue, increase alertness, relieve nausea, relieve itching and help you stay awake when necessary. We use Peppermint, along with Eucalyptus and Tea Tree in our For Your Feet treatment package. It will cool and soothe your achy tired feet and treat athletes foot or fungal problems at the same time! It repels insects effectively too! Not for babies. Should not be used on mucous membranes or sensitive areas.

Peppermint, USA (second distillation) INCI: Mentha piperita Redistilled oils are reheated after the steam distillation. A portion of the the oil (waxes, di methyl sulfide) is then taken out of the peppermint giving the redistilled oil a higher menthol content and a more traditional mint (candy cane) smell. Not for babies. Should not be used on mucous membranes or sensitive areas.

Petitgrain, Spain INCI: Citrus Aurantium Petitgrain is a light, fresh floral citrus from bitter orange leaves that has been used throughout the history of perfumery. It is a calming, uplifting, antidepressant. It helps relax the mind and acts as a mild sedative. It is good for relieving stress and anxiety. It blends well with so many other oils such as; Clary Sage, Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Rosewood.

Rosemary, Spain INCI: Rosemarinus officinalis The oil of rosemary is a stimulant and should be used with caution. It can help increase circulation and relieve pain in the joints. It can help control dandruff, oily scalp and skin, acne and is said to encourage hair growth. Rosemary is high in camphor and is traditionally used in decongestant blends and pain (muscle) relief blends (think 'Vicks Vapor Rub'). This distinctive smelling essential oil is considered stimulating in nature and is often found in energizing blends. Avoid during pregnancy or if you suffer from high blood pressure or seizures.

Spearmint, China INCI: Mentha Spicata With a slightly milder, sweeter aroma than peppermint, spearmint is a great invigorating, wake me up oil. It increases alertness, opens up the respiratory system, and lifts the spirit. It is better suited for children than peppermint and is good for tummy upsets, nausea and fever. Spearmint blends well with lavender, jasmine, bergamot, orange & sandalwood.

Tangerine, Italy INCI: Citrus reticulata Tangerine is a sweet, peace inducing citrus that is a great oil to have around for lifting your spirits and calming your nerves after a stressful day. It can really help put a smile back on your face and is a wonderful oil for babies and children. Use it in a diffuser when you want to spend some quality time with your kids. It helps reduce hyperactivity and jitteriness. Tangerine blends with so many oils and can be used in peaceful blends as well as perk up blends. Use with caution if you are going to be exposed to the sun. It is a photosensitizing oil.

Tea Tree, Australia INCI: Melaleuca alternifolia Tea Tree has gained immense recognition as the strongest anti fungal, antiviral, antibacterial oil in aromatherapy. It can be diffused or used neat and is a very popular addition to skin care formulations for its germ-killing properties. Diffuse it during cold season to keep germs from spreading. Use in masks and toners to combat acne, in lip balms to fight cold sores. Used in a balm, tea tree can quickly heal wounds and keep infection from setting in. Use it in mouth washes to treat oral disease. Tea tree blends well with lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, niaouli, spikenard, sandalwood, vetiver etc. Using this oil neat can cause skin irritation despite the many recommendations for using the oil without dilution.