When you book an aromatherapy massage therapy, I have an abundance of beautiful, healing and rebalancing essential oils at my fingertips. I have listed the main ones here, to give you an idea of what each oil can do to help. Please do note that many essential oils have ‘cautions’ and ‘contra indications’ (which I have not listed here) and a qualified Aromatherapist will be able to evaluate the oils and ensure they are safe for you, personally, to use.
Basil (Ocimum basilcum)
| Skin: | An insect repellent and can be used on insect bites. Can also help treat acne |
| Mind: | Helps concentration and relieves intellectual fatigue |
| Body: | Clears chest problems and soothes the digestive system and stops stress related flatulence. Heals viral infections such as colds and flu. |
Benzoin (Styrax Styacaceae)
| Skin: | Helps to improve elasticity, heals cracked skin, heals sores and wounds and at the same time reducing redness, irritation and itching |
| Mind: | Has a calming effect on the nervous system, brings comfort to the depressed and emotionally exhausted |
| Body: | Beneficial for respiratory disorders, helps with circulation problems, eases general aches and pain and stiff muscles |
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
| Skin: | Effective for blemished, oily and sensitive skin. Highly antiseptic, this oil is perfect to help keep skin clear from spots and blemishes. |
| Mind: | Uplifting and useful for combating anxiety. Potent antidepressant , it is balancing and toning. |
| Body: | Stimulates the digestion and can be used to treat urinary tract infections. |
Black pepper (Piper nigrum)
| Body: | This warming, spicy essential oil is ideal for use after sport to relieve sore muscles and fatigue. It can also help relieve the pain associated with arthritis and rheumatism and it is reputed to have a tonic effect on the immune and digestive system. |
Chamomile blue (Matricaria chamomilla)
| Skin: | Powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is soothing and calming for skin allergies such as ezcema and other skin rashes |
| Mind: | Calming and soothing and can help with irritability and depression |
| Body: | Can help treat any kind of inflammation |
Chamomile roman (Anthemis nobilis)
| Skin: | Anti-inflammatory properties and is soothing and calming for skin allergies such as ezcema and other skin rashes |
| Mind: | Calming and soothing and is one of the best essential oils to help calm the mood swings and weepiness associated with menstruation. It is also used to help with insomnia. |
| Body: | Can help reduce muscular tension and dull persistent pain. It is also beneficial for headaches, PMS, menstrual cramps and allergies |
Cedarwood Atlas (Cedrus atlantica)
| Skin: | Can help relieve the itching associated with skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Its astringent effect is also beneficial for oily skin, acne and dandruff |
| Mind: | Helps to calm and soothe nerves, mental stress, anxiety and nervous tension. It can also help to reduce fear and instil strength and confidence |
| Body: | Can help ease respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. It also helps to clear urinary infections and can assist with rheumatism and arthritis |
Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)
| Skin: | Astringent properties and is beneficial for oily skin and scalp conditions |
| Mind: | Euphoric, antidepressant effect and a calming, sedating influence on the nerves and emotions |
| Body: | Can be helpful with female related problems such as painful periods, scanty menstruation, the menopause. |
Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
| Skin: | A powerful astringent and can help with acne and oily skin. It also has deodorising properties and can be used in deodorants and to help with sweaty feet |
| Mind: | Can help with nervous weakness and anxiety. It helps relieve negativity and restores calm and focus |
| Body: | Recommended whenever there is excess fluid. It can be used to treat varicose veins, haemorrhoids, coughs and to help regulate heavy and painful periods. It is also beneficial for respiratory problems such as asthma, coughs and bronchitis |
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
| Skin: | Antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It feels cool to the skin but has a warming effect on the muscles |
| Mind: | A stimulant effect and is good for fatigue and lethargy, feelings of heaviness in the mind |
| Body: | Antiviral properties and an affinity with the respiratory system. It is a popular essential oil in winter time and can be beneficial for coughs, colds and flu |
Fennel Sweet (Foeniculum vulgare)
| Skin: | A good skin tonic and can be beneficial for dull, and tired skin. It can also help with puffy areas i.e. eyes and thighs as it helps to reduce water retention |
| Mind: | Believed to boost courage, resolve and strength during difficult times |
| Body: | It is beneficial for the digestive system and is believed to be a tonic for fatigue |
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
| Skin: | Rejuvenating, balancing and healing action on the skin. It is particularly helpful for mature skin, wrinkles, scars and combination skin |
| Mind: | Strong meditative powers and anti-depressant qualities. It can help relieve nervous agitation, palpitations and feelings of panic |
| Body: | An affinity with the respiratory system and some believe that it helps balance the rhythm of the female cycle |
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
| Skin: | A balancing and soothing effect on all skin type |
| Mind: | Helps to relax, restore and stabilise the emotions. It can be beneficial for nervous tension, mood swings, irritability, anger and frustrated rages |
| Body: | Popular for use prior to conception and for balancing hormonal changes during the middle years |
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
| Mind: | A stimulating essential oil that can help with work related fatigue, intellectual burn-out, feeling incapacitated and worthless |
| Body: | Has an affinity with the joints and muscles. Ginger can also be useful for travel sickness, and morning sickness. It is popular in many winter aromatherapy treatments and can be used to prevent chills, warm the extremities and to relieve the symptoms of colds and bronchitis |
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
| Skin: | Cleansing for the skin and has an astringent and toning effect that is particularly beneficial for oily and environmetally damaged skin |
| Mind: | Mentally rejuvenating and can help relieve stress, nervous exhaustion, head tension, negative feelings and black thoughts |
| Body: | Helps boost the immune system and can help treat colds and flu. It is said to be a good detoxifier helping to rid the body of toxins. It is often used in aromatherapy spa treatments to improve lymphatic drainage and to ease muscle stiffness, by dispersing lactic acid |
Jasmine (Jasminum Officinale)
| Skin: | Tones, dry, greasy, irritated and sensitive skin. It is believed to promote skin elasticity and can help to reduce stretch marks and scarring. |
| Mind: | Jasmine Absolute is a powerful anti-depressant and can help people who lack confidence or who are indecisive. |
| Body: | Like Rose, Jasmine is one of the best oils for treating the female reproductive system. It is good to use in childbirth to help with pain and to strengthen the contractions. Jasmine is a powerful aphrodisiac and is reputed to help with sexual problems such as impotence, premature ejaculation and frigidity. It also has a beneficial effect on the respiratory system. |
Juniper (Juniperus communis)
| Skin: | Can help reduce inflammation and be beneficial for acne, eczema, oily skin, weeping eczema, psoriasis and dandruff |
| Mind: | Can help calm the nerves, relieve anxiety, nervous tension and mental exhaustion. It is also thought to help rid the mind of negative emotions, particularly anger and confusion |
| Body: | Has an affinity with the urinary system. It can aid the digestive system and reduce fluid retention. It is believed to soothe stress or hormone related bloating and over indulgence in food and alcohol |
Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia)
| Skin: | Antiseptic properties and is soothing and nurturing for the skin. It helps to tone and revitalize the skin and can be helpful for a range of skin problems including acne, oily skin, dandruff, burns, wounds, insect bites and stings. It is also an effective insect repellent |
| Mind: | Has a soothing and calming effect on the nerves. It can be beneficial for treating stress, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and insomnia |
| Body: | Its pain-relieving properties can be beneficial for headaches, muscular aches and pains (particularly when associated with sport), rheumatism and arthritis |
Lemon (Citrus limonum)
| Skin: | Has antiseptic properties and is useful in treating oily skin and to revive a dull complexion. It is also a popular folk remedy for warts. |
| Mind: | An uplifting oil and is reputed to have antidepressant properties. It can also be used to enhance mental performance and memory function. |
| Body: | Has antibacterial and antiviral properties and can help protect the body against infection. It is also useful for treating colds and flu. |
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
| Skin: | Antiseptic and antifungal properties. It also has good astringent properties and is an effective deodorant. |
| Mind: | Has a tonic, restorative effect on the nervous system and can help with oil stress-related exhaustion, aggression, pessimistic thoughts and fear. |
| Body: | Reputed to have analgesic properties is often used for sports massage to help relieve muscular aches and pains. |
Marjoram (Origanum marjorana)
| Skin: | Can help to improve circulation and the appearance of grey, cold skin |
| Mind: | Has a calming effect on the emotions and can help with nervous anxiety, fear, low self- esteem, night wakings or restlessness. It is a popular essential oil to use before bed. |
| Body: | Most commonly used in aromatherapy blends for muscular and rheumatic pain, sprains, strains, bruises and stiff joints. It can also help clear the sinuses and ease respiratory complaints such as asthma and bronchitis. |
Melissa (Melissa officinalis)
| Skin: | Reputed to be useful in skin care for allergies, insect bites and as an insect repellent |
| Mind: | A calming essential oil for both mind and body. It is one of the best essential oils for treating shock, depression, grief and anxiety. It is reputed to lift the spirits, ease a troubled mind and chase away dark thoughts |
| Body: | Has a tonic effect on the heart and can help regulate over-rapid breathing and heart beat and high blood pressure. It also has a regulating effect on the digestive system, helping with cramps, indigestion, dysentery, nausea, and vomiting, especially when aggravated by stress |
Neroli (Citrus aurantium)
| Skin: | Rejuvenating and regenerative effect on the skin. It is beneficial for all skin types and problem skin conditions, particularly oily skin. |
| Mind: | A relaxing oil and is beneficial for nervous conditions such as stress, depression, fear, anxiety, insomnia and the inability to face challenges. |
| Body: | A soothing and calming essential oil and some believe it is helpful for stress-related stomach problems, heart palpitations and the female reproductive system. |
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
| Skin: | Excellent in skincare. It helps to regenerate healthy, new skin cells, heal wounds and reduce scarring. It is also good for rough, cracked and dehydrated skin. Patchouli helps to reduce inflammation and is beneficial for dermatitis, acne, eczema, sores, ulcers, fungal infections and scalp disorders such as dandruff. It can also be used to treat insect bites and as an insect repellent. |
| Mind: | Soothing, stabilising and slightly hypnotic. It is beneficial for treating stress, depression and anxiety. It helps balance the emotions and combats lethargy. It can help ground and centre people who are prone to day dreams and is also good for meditation for calming ‘mental chatter’. |
| Body: | Excellent diuretic properties and can be beneficial for reducing water retention and the appearance of cellulite. It is also reputed to be a powerful aphrodisiac. |
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
| Skin: | Soothing, cooling effect on the skin. It can help to reduce redness and inflammation and calm irritation and itchiness. It is good to use in a facial steam to deeply cleanse and decongest the skin, particularly where acne is present. |
| Mind: | Helps to stimulate the mind and improve concentration, mental agility and focus. It is beneficial for treating mental fatigue and depression, helping to stimulate the spirit and alleviate feelings of negativity and insecurity. |
| Body: | Soothes the stomach and aids digestion. It is beneficial for all types of digestive problems including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, flatulence, indigestion, cramps and irritable bowel. It can also help to relieve migraines and headaches. Peppermint’s high menthol content makes it an excellent expectorant which is useful for treating respiratory problems such as coughs and colds. It also has a soothing effect on muscular, aches, pains and strains when applied externally. |
Pine needle( Pinus sylvestris)
| Skin: | Antiseptic, antibacterial and analgesic properties which make it beneficial for use on minor cuts and sores. |
| Mind: | Invigorating action is helpful in relieving mental fatigue and nervous exhaustion. Its warming cleansing action can help to instil self-confidence and encourage acceptance, tolerance and forgiveness. |
| Body: | An excellent expectorant and is particularly beneficial for pulmonary complaints such as coughs, colds, bronchitis, sinusitis and asthma. Pine has a tonic effect on the kidneys and can help with cystitis and other urinary tract complaints. It also helps soothe sore muscles and rheumatic pain and can help improve poor circulation. Its stimulating and pain-relieving properties also make it a good choice after over-exertion or for sports injuries. |
Rose otto (Rosa damascena / Rosa centifolia)
| Skin: | Stimulates the skin, while moisturizing and hydrating. It boosts all skin types and is particularly beneficial for dry, mature, inflamed and sensitive skin. It helps to reduce skin redness, fight inflammation, and its astringent properties act as a general skin tonic |
| Mind: | Soothes and balances the mind. It has antidepressant properties and can help alleviate anxiety, stress, nervous tension and help people deal with emotional problems such as anger, grief, sadness, and loss. |
| Body: | One of the best oils for treating female reproductive problems, PMT, menopausal symptoms and irregular periods. It is also beneficial for the physical heart and the respiratory and digestive systems. It can also help with headaches and migraines and is reputed to have aphrodisiac properties. |
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
| Skin: | Can be used to stimulate hair growth, improve shine and condition of the hair and promote a healthier scalp. It can also help improve the appearance and colour of skin in peripheral areas i.e. hands, arms, legs and feet |
| Mind: | Helps stimulate the brain and can help with fatigue, lack of direction or concentration and poor memory |
| Body: | Has an affinity with the chest and sinus areas and is often used by people who snore. It can also help to soothe aches, pains and stiff muscles |
Sandalwood (Santalum austrocaledonicum)
| Skin: | Excellent for all skin types, helping to balance, soothe and hydrate. It can help relieve itchy or inflamed skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis and its astringent effect is also beneficial for oily skin. It is often used in anti-ageing products as it is believed to have a rejuvenating effect. |
| Mind: | A harmonising and calming effect. It helps to calm and soothe nerves, irritability, stress, anxiety and nervous tension. |
| Body: | Excellent for urinary tract infections and is the first choice for soothing the symptoms of bronchitis and other chest complaints. It is a powerful aphrodisiac, particularly if sexual problems are caused by stress or anxiety. Its calming effect can also help prevent tension headaches and relieve insomnia. |
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
| Skin: | Can help to restore and support skin health and can be helpful for skin conditions such as acne, and dandruff and also for helping to prevent and remove headlice |
| Mind: | Can help cleanse the mind of negative thoughts |
| Body: | Has antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties and can help support the immune system |
Thyme sweet (Thymus vulgaris)
| Skin: | Can help with bruises, cellulite and weeping eczema. |
| Mind: | Emotionally fortifying and energizing. It can help strengthen the nerves and combat feelings of exhaustion, depression and lethargy. It can also help boost the memory and aid concentration. |
| Body: | Can help strengthen the body’s defence mechanisms and help prevent infection. It is particularly good for respiratory problems such as coughs, colds, bronchitis and sore throats. It is also beneficial for urinary problems such as cystitis. Thyme’s warming effect can assist with muscular aches and pains and it also has a tonic effect on the digestive system, helping to increase and regulate the appetite. |
Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides)
| Skin: | Beneficial for mature skin that has lost its tone and elasticity. It helps to strengthen tired, loose and undernourished skin and can help combat wrinkles and stretch marks. It can also be used to accelerate the healing of wounds. |
| Mind: | A grounding essential oil that has a calming, soothing effect on the nervous system. It is beneficial for stress, depression, nervous exhaustion, chronic fatigue, anxiety and insomnia, and it can also help dispel anger, hysteria and irritability. |
| Body: | Can help to boost the immune system and is therefore useful during periods of stress and over-work. It is also used to balance the hormones and to soothe muscular aches and pains and physical fatigue. |
Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata var. genuina)
| Skin: | A balancing and stimulating effect. Beneficial for combination, irritated skin and acne. Used as a scalp tonic to stimulate hair growth and balance sebum production in scalps. |
| Mind: | Suitable for helping with depression, anxiety, nervous tension, stress related insomnia. An erotic fragrance that can help to release sexual inhibitions. |
| Body: | Assists with high blood pressure, rapid breathing and nervous conditions. |