CHAMOMILE, GERMAN
Botanical Name: Matricaria recutita
Origin: North American

Extraction Method: Flower heads are steam distilled
Odor intensity: Very high (use only a drop or two at a time)
Middle to Base Note

A strongly aromatic annual herb that grows up to 2 feet tall with hairless, erect, branching stems.  Its leaves are delicate and feathery and its white flowers are daisy-like.  Native to Europe, but cultivated extensively in Hungary, Egypt, Eastern Europe and France.

General Description: A deep blue liquid with a strong, sweet, warm, herbaceous odour that is somewhat green and slightly bitter.

Its key qualities are relaxing, soothing, balancing, calming, tonic (nerves).

Properties: Analgesic, anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, bactericidal, carminative, cholagogue, emmenagogue, hepatic, sedative, stomachic, sudarific, vasoconstrictor, vermifuge, vulnerary, calmative, cicatrizant, digestive, ferbifuge, stomachic, sudorific, nerve sedatitive, stimulant of leukocyte production.

It is known to contain chamazulene, ά-bisabolol, bisabolol oxisde A, bisabolol oxide B, and bisabolone oxide. 

Valuable for inflammation due to high bisabolol content.

Aromatherapy Uses:  The properties and uses of German Chamomile overlap somewhat with lavender.  German Chamomile may be used in massage or cold compresses for muscular pain and arthritic inflamed joints.  It is also useful in treating sprains, inflamed tendons and swollen painful joints in bursitis.  It is a good remedy for urinary stones and where there is inflammation of the pelvis or ureter due to the presence of stones.  It is suggested for the stimulation and restoration of the liver and gall bladder indicated by poor appetite, slow painful digestion and distention.  It has also been found useful as a stimulant for leucocytosis and engorgement of the spleen.

Menstrual pain and menopausal problems can be relieved by the use of compresses, massage and baths.  German Chamomile can also assist with headaches, insomnia, and migraines.  It aids to sooth the skin and thus has been found helpful for acne, allergies, boils, burns, cuts, dermatits, earaches, eczema, scalp irritation, inflammation, insect bites, rashes, sensitive skin, teething pain and toothaches, and wounds.

Blends well with:  bergamot, carrot seed, clary sage, everlasting, geranium, lavender, patchouli, jasmine, nerolie, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, yarrow, ylang-ylang, marjoram, lemon, and benzoin.

Safety:  Generally nontoxic, nonirritant, and non-sensitizing.  May cause dermatits in some individuals.

History:  German Chamomile has a long medical tradition, especially in Europe.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


CHAMOMILE, ROMAN
Botanical Name: Anthemis nobilis
Origin: North American

Extraction Method: Flower heads are steam distilled
Odor intensity: High
Middle to Base Note

A small, stocky, perennial herb that grows up to 10 inches high with many branches of hairy stems.  It has feathery pinnate leaves and daisy white flowers that are larger than those on the German Chamomile.  The plant has an apple-like scent.

General Description: A pale yellow color with a warm, fruity herbaceous scent that is sweet, fresh, and richly fragrant.

Its key qualities are restorative, calming, sedative, relaxing, soothing, warming, balancing, comforting, and mild.

Properties: Analgesic, antineuralgic, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, bactericidal, carminative, cholagogue, cicatrizant, digestive, emmenagogue, febrifuge, hepatic, nerve sedatitive, stomachic, sudorific, tonic, vermifuge, vulnerary, anti-anemic.

It is known to contain ά-pinene, β-pinene, sabinene, 1,8 cineole, caryophyllene, propyl angelate, butyl angelate.

Aromatherapy Uses:  Roman Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects, though to a lesser degree than the German variety.  The more pleasing aroma of Roman Chamomile is due to its high ester content, making it popular for its effects as an inhalation.

A very useful oil for woman with irregular periods and PMS, ideally when used in a bath or blended with carrier oil for a massage.  For abdominal pain, gall bladder and throat infections; and for children suffering from colic a moist warm or hot compresses assists healing.  Roman Chamomile can assist with asthma, hayfever and other allergies as well as arthritis, inflamed joints, muscular pain, neuralgia, rheumatism, and sprains.  It also relieves dyspepsia, indigestion and nausea.  Good for liver and spleen congestion.

As an inhalant, this oil helps combat emotional anxiety and tension and can assist with headaches, insomnia, nervous tension and stress-related complaints.  Roman Chamomile is generally used to treat psychological problems.  It is suggested for use when feeling moody, grumpy, irritable, self-involved, over sensitive, or rarely satisfied.

It is a traditional remedy for children and is recommended when they are feeling impatient, disagreeable or tense.  In this capacity it has a calming but non-depressing effect on an emotional level.  This can also assist those who tend to be hyperactive, workaholic, think or worry too much.

For children's teething pain, colic, or flatulence, it is recommended to use a 1% dilution in apricot kernel and massage over their cheeks or abdomen.

Blends well with:  bergamot, clary sage, jasmine, neroli rose, geranium, and lavender as well as lemon, sweet marjoram, orange, rosewood, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang.

Safety:  Nontoxic, nonirritant, non-sensitizing.  Avoid in first three months of pregnancy.  Slightly hypnotic in large doses.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


CINNAMON
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum zeylancium (leaf)
Origin: Sri Lanka

Extraction Method: leaves are steam distilled
Odor intensity: High
Base Note

A tropical evergreen tree up to 50 feet high with stiff sharp spines, smooth ovate leaves and small white flowers with bluish-white berries.

General Description:  Warm, spicy, peppery, hot, dry and slightly woody, herbaceous smell.  It's fragrance is powerful, oriental and diffusive.

Its key qualities are a warming, reviving, strengthening, restorative, and uplifting characteristic for the mind.

Properties: Analgesic, antiseptic, antispadmodic, aphrodisiac, cardiac, carminative, emmenagogue, insecticide, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, vermifuge.

Its active ingredients include: eugenol, eugenol acetate, cinnamic aldehyde, benzyl benzoate.

Aromatherapy Uses:  An effective antiseptic, digestive and anti-rheumatic oil.  Cinnamon is regarded as one of the strongest antiseptic oils.  In fact, in a dilution of 1 part cinnamon to 300 parts water, it will kill typhus bacillus.  Therefore, it is useful for preventing infectious and contagious diseases.

Cinnamon calms spasms of the digestive tract, dyspepsia, colitis, flatulence, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting while stimulating secretions of gastric juices.  Its tonic effect on the whole body makes it useful to ease muscular spasms and painful rheumatic joints.  It is also highly suggested as a preventative measure or remedy for colds and flu as well as its capacity to relieve aches, pains, and low vitality.  Like ginger, cinnamon is suggested for any condition of cold, deficiency and congestion.  It also helps to restore heat and circulation to the body and regularizes menstruation.

While not recommended for skin care, the leaf oil is less of an irritant than the bark oil.  However, it should be diluted.  In this way, it can be helpful with lice, scabies, warts, and wasp stings.

As an inhalation it is excellent for exhaustion, feelings of depression, fainting, debility and weakness.

Blends well with:  black pepper, clove, eucalyptus, frankincense, ylang ylang, ginger, orange, mandarin, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, rosemary, thyme, tea tree, and benzoin.

Warning:  Always dilute to avoid skin irritation.  Use in moderation.  It is a mucous membrane irritant.  Harmful in alcoholism, haemophilia, and prostate cancer.  Do not use if you have kidney and liver problems and if taking anticoagulants.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


CLARY SAGE
Botanical Name: Salvia sclarea organic
Origin: Bulgaria

Extraction Method: flowering tops and foliage are steam distilled
Odor intensity: Medium-high
Middle Note

Stout biennial or perennial herb with large, hairy leaves and small purple or blue flowers.

General Description:  A fruity-floral-herbaceous, musky fragrance that is rich yet mellow and somewhat sweet.

Its key qualities are relaxant, rejuvenating, balancing, inspiriting, sedative (to nervous system), revitalizing, aphrodisiac, intoxicating, euphoric, warming.

Properties:  Antidepressant, antispasmodic, deodorant, emmenagogue, hypotensive, nervine, sedative, tonic, uterine, aphrodisiac, astringent, digestive, carminative, cicztrizant, stomachic.

Aromatherapy Uses:  Clary Sage can be quite helpful with uterine problems, such as easing PMS and painful cramps in lower back, and regulating scanty periods.  Also encourages labor, enabling the mother to relax; eases post-natal depression.  Clinical studies found its use during labor was beneficial for its analgesic (relaxing) effects and its ability to accelerate labor.  It combines well with lavender, jasmine, neroli, and sandalwood during childbirth.  Also helpful during menopause for hot flashes, dizziness, headaches, night sweats, palpitations and irritability.  Can be useful for treating asthma as it relaxes spasm of the bronchial tubes as well as accompanying emotional tension and anxiety.

Helpful for high blood pressure, throat infections, whopping cough, colic and flatulence, and amenorrhea. Valuable for migraines, frigidity and impotence.

Clary sage is also well-known for its euphoric action and thus is extremely valuable for treating nervousness, weakness, fear, paranoia, and depression.  It helps reduce deep seated tension, yet remains stimulating, regenerative, and revitalizing.  This euphoric effect also acts on the consciousness, dispelling depressing when arising from nervous burn-out.  Relieves anxiety connected with fear and delusions.  It is often suggested when one needs to be more centered instead of scattered, absent-minded, or unrealistic.  Some suggest clary sage to bring one closer in touch with dreamland or to encourage vivid dreams, dream recall.  It may be used in a n evening bath, oil diffuser or a drop on a pillow case.  It may also be helpful for those involved in create work, as it opens the path to the unknown, unusual, creative, and intuitive.

Blends well with:  juniper, lavender, coriander, cardamom, geranium, sandalwood, cedarwood, pine, jasmine, frankincense, bergamot, chamomile, sweet marjoram, neroli, rosewood, ylang-ylang, orange and all citrus oils.

Warning:  Nontoxic, nonirritant, non-sensitizing in normal use, but avoid during pregnancy.  Do not use while drinking alcohol as it can exaggerate drunkenness since it can induce a narcotic effect.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


CLOVE BUD
Botanical Name: Eugenia caryophyllata
Origin: Indonesia

Extraction Method: buds are water distilled
Odor intensity: Hight
Middle Note

A slender evergreen tree with a smooth, gray trunk with large, bright green leaves.  At the start of the rainy season, long buds appear with a rosy-pink corolla at the tip.

General Description:  Hot, fruity, floral, fresh and fragrant with a peppery, sweet-spicy, powerful, clean, oriental scent.  A pale yellow liquid.

Its key qualities are tonic, stimulating, revitalizing, aphrodisiac, warming, comforting, purifying, and active.

Properties: Analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, stomachic, antibiotic, anthelmintic, anti-emetic, anti-rheumatic, anti-neuralgic, oxidant, antiviral, expectorant, larvicidal, spasmolytic, stimulant, uterine.

Aromatherapy Uses: Clove bud has a positive and stimulating effect on the mind.  It lifts depression and is recommended as an inhalation when feeling weak and lethargic.  It encourages positive thoughts.

It is also an excellent antiseptic and may be used for the prevention of viral diseases.  It can help stimulate digestion, restore appetite and relieve flatulence as well.  The oil has traditionally been used to relieve toothaches and sprains.  Clove bud is also beneficial for treating inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.  It may be used to cleanse athlete's foot, cuts, ulcers, and other wounds.  Its affects on the respiratory system helps support those with asthma and clear up bronchitis.  It is also effective against mosquitoes!

Blends well with:  basil, black papper, cajeput, cinnamon, ginger, lemon, Spanish marjoram, nutmeg, orange, peppermint, rosemary, thyme, rose, lavender, clary sage, bergamot, bay, and ylang ylang

Warning: Use in moderation only and in low dilution (less than 1%).  May cause skin and mucous membrane irritation or dermatitis in some individuals.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


CORIANDER SEED
Botanical Name: Coriandrum sativum, seed
Origin: Bulgaria

Extraction Method: ripe seeds are steam distilled
Odor intensity: Medium
Middle to Top Note

A strongly aromatic annual with bright green, delicate leaves and white flowers.

General Description: A colorless to pale yellow liquid with a sweet, woody-spicy, slightly musky fragrance.

Its key qualities include: aphrodisiac, stimulating, refreshing, warming, comforting, revitalizing, strengthening, purifying, soothing, active.

Properties:  Analgesic, aperitif, antioxidant, anti-rheumatic, antispadmodic, bactericidal, depurative, digestive, carminative, cytotixic, fungicidal, larvicidal, lipolytic activity, stimulant, stomachic.

Aromatherapy Uses:  This useful oil helps to release the accumulation of fluids or toxins from the body.  It eases arthritis, gout, muscular aches and pains as well as rheumatism and stiffness.  It also helps to stimulate circulation.  Coriander seed is a relaxant and therefore can assist with migraines.  Its carminative and digestive qualities aid with diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea, piles, colic, and the digestive system.

As an antioxidant, it combats colds, flu's, measles, and general infections.  It aids memory and supports those with nervous fatigue, neuralgia and debility.

Blends well with:  clary sage, bergamot, jasmine, frankincense, neroli, petitgrain, citronella, sandalwood, cypress, pine, ginger, cinnamon, and other spice oils.

Warning:  Generally nontoxic, nonirritant, non-sensitizing, but stupefying in large doses.  Use in moderation.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


CYPRESS
Botanical Name: Cupressus sempervirens
Origin: France

Extraction Method: leaves are steam distilled
Odor intensity: Medium-low
Base Note

A tall evergreen tree with slender branches that bears small flowers and round cones.

General Description: A pale yellow to greenish-olive liquid with a woody, slightly spicy yet clear and refreshing scent.  Sweet, balsamic fragrance.

Key qualities: refreshing, purifying, relaxing, warming, reviving, restorative, comforting, protective and soothing.

Properties:  Antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, deodorant, diuretic, haemostatic, hepatic, styptic, tonic, vasoconstrictor.

Aromatherapy Uses:  Cypress strengthens an overburdened nervous system and restores calm.  It also seems to have a soothing effect on anger, apparently cleansing the spirit and removing psychic blocks.  It is suggested for those experiencing uncontrollable crying spells, for times of transition such as career changes, moving homes, and major spiritual decisions.  In addition, it can assist with painful periods of one's life such as bereavement or ending a close relationship.

This oil may be used where there's excessive discharge of fluid.  It has astringent and vaso-constrictor properties which are beneficial for circulatory problems such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids.  For varicose veins, blend with lemon, wheatgerm and infused calendula oils and massage lightly into legs everyday.

In hospitals, it is used for coughs and bronchitis by placing a few drops under the patient's pillow.  It's antispasmodic properties are useful for asthma, whooping cough, and all spasmodic coughing.  Cypress also regulates the menstrual cycle and helps relieve painful periods and reduces heavy blood loss, particularly when it happens in the early stages of menopause.  In this way, it is also helpful for nose bleeds.  It can also relieve cellulite.

Blends well with:  grapefruit, junpiter, lime, rosemary, tangerine, cedarwood, pine, lavender, mandarin, clary sage, lemon, cardamom, juniper, benzoin, bergamot, orange, marjoram, and sandalwood.

Warning:  Avoid in pregnancy.  Nontoxic, nonirritant, non-sensitizing.

History:  Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians dedicated the cypress tree to their gods of the underworld.  The Greeks dedicated it to Pluto, hence the use of the trees in cemeteries.  Hippocrates recommended cypress for sever cases of hemorrhoids with bleeding.  Dioscorides and Galen recommended the leaves in for bladder infections and internal bleeding.

Culpepper recommended the cones to stop fluxes of all kinds and as a preventative measure for bleeding of the gums.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


EUCALYPTUS, BLUE GUM
Botanical Name: Eucalyptus globulus, unrectified organic
Origin: France

Extraction Method: leaves are steam distilled
Odor intensity: High
Top Note

Eucalyptus globulus is commonly used for commercial production of eucalyptus oil.  The type sold here is "unrectified", which is an important distinction.  The scent as not as harsh or vulgar because of the lower content of 1,8-cineole (expectorant and stimulant to the immune system).

General Description: A colorless, pale yellow, or olive liquid with a sweet, green top note and woody-dry balsamic undertone.

Its key qualities are stimulating, refreshing, clearing, purifying, balsamic, and regulating.

Properties:  Analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-neuralgic, anti-inflammatory, cictrizant, decongestant, deodorant, depurative, diurectic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypoglycemic, parasiticide, prophylactic, rubefacient, stimulant, vermifuge, vulnerary, insecticide.

The active ingredients in this variety include: ά-pinene (10.66%), β-pinene (0.18%), ά-phellandrene (0.09%), 1,8-cineole (69.10%), limonene (3.29%), terpinen-4-ol (0.22%), aromadendrene (1.63%), epiglobulol (0.80%), piperitone (0.1%), globulol (5.33%).

Aromatherapy Uses: Psychologically, eucalyptus assists in concentration and calm the emotions, but its most powerful effects are on the body.  Because of its principle content 1,8-cineole.  This variety is not as strong in this content so it is not as as effective for its use as an expectorant (see Eucalyptus radiata).  However, it is still very valuable as a stimulant to the immune system and its ability to kill off 70% of local, airborne bacteria, helping to ward off colds, flu, and chicken pox.

It's simulating effect also increases the oxygen supply to the body's cells.  In this way, it can assist with debility, headaches, neuralgia as well as muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatoid arthritis, and sprains.  It may be applied to burns, blisters, cuts, herpes, insect bites, skin infections or wounds as an effective cleanser.

A wonderful way to use this oil is in the home or office during the cold and flu season to protect your family and co-workers.

Blends well with: aniseed, basil, cajeput, cedarwood, citronella, franincense, ginger, hyssop, juniper, lavender, lemon, sweet and Spanish marjoram, myrtle, niaouli, pine, peppermint, rosemary, spearmint, tea tree, thyme.

Warning: Always dilute before using on the skin.  Not for high blood pressure or epilepsy.  May antidote homeopathic medication and should not be used on the skin of young children.  Toxic when taken internally.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


EUCALYPTUS, RADIATA
Botanical Name: Eucalyptus radiata organic
Origin: Australia

Extraction Method: leaves are steam distilled
Odor intensity: High
Top Note

Eucalyptus radiata is commonly used for commercial production of eucalyptus oil, but has a 75% 1,8-cineole (expectorant and stimulant to the immune system) content.  This variety is also known as 'narrow-leaved peppermint gum' (Eucalyptus australiania) and is considered an ideal choice for its therapeutic effect without being too overpowering.

General Description: A colorless, pale yellow, or olive liquid with a sweet, green top note and woody-dry balsamic undertone that is lighter and fresher than Eucalyptus, Blue Gum (eucalyptus globulus discussed above).

Its key qualities are stimulating, refreshing, clearing, purifying, balsamic, and regulating.

Properties:  Analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-neuralgic, anti-inflammatory, cictrizant, decongestant, deodorant, depurative, diurectic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypoglycemic, parasiticide, prophylactic, rubefacient, stimulant, vermifuge, vulnerary, insecticide.

The active ingredients in this variety include: ά-pinene (15-21%), 1,8-cineole (57-75%), limonene (5.0%)m o-cymene (0.3 - 1%).

Aromatherapy Uses:  This is the ideal eucalyptus oil for treating the cold and flu.  Its smell results in easier and deeper breathing.  Traditionally eucalyptus oil has been used for treating the respiratory system and as it influences the breathing system, kills bacteria and viruses, and increases the supply of oxygen on a cellular level.  The essential oil is a traditional remedy for asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu, coughs as well as sinus problems and throat infections.  Used in a steam or chest massage, it is very effective.

Another reason this variety of eucalyptus oil is especially good after a cold or flu has taken a hold on the body, is it is high in 1,8-cineole, but practically free of ά- and β-phellandrene.  This combination has properties which reduce the swelling of mucous membranes and loosen phlegm, making breathing easier.

It also proves as a stimulant to the immune system, helping to protect your body from further ills while fighting off the current one.  Eucalyptus oils have an enhancing effect on gamma and beta globulins.  They reduce the primary phase of the inflammatory reaction and therefore their effect is said to be innumomodulant.  Anecdotal evidence also indicates eucalyptus oil supports the pancreas and lowers blood sugar.

It's simulating effect also increases the oxygen supply to the body's cells.  In this way, it can assist with debility, headaches, neuralgia as well as muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatoid arthritis, and sprains.  It may be applied to burns, blisters, cuts, herpes, insect bites, skin infections or wounds as an effective cleanser.

Psychologically, eucalyptus assists in concentration and calm the emotions.

Blends well with: aniseed, basil, cajeput, cedarwood, citronella, franincense, ginger, hyssop, juniper, lavender, lemon, sweet and Spanish marjoram, myrtle, niaouli, pine, peppermint, rosemary, spearmint, tea tree, thyme.

Warning:  Dilute before using on the skin.  Not for high blood pressure or epilepsy.  Nontoxic, nonirritant, non-sensitizing.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


FENNEL
Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare, sweet, seed, organic
Origin: Bulgaria

Extraction Method: Seeds are steam distilled
Odor intensity: High
Middle Note

A biennial or perennial herb with feathery leaves and golden yellow flowers.

General Description:  Sweet, anise-like, earthy, peppery scent.

Its key qualities are stimulating, balancing, restorative, revitalizing, purifying, cleansing.

Properties:  Antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, galactagogue, laxative, stimulant, splenic, stomachic, vermifuge.

Aromatherapy Uses:  This oil is good to use for strength and courage in adversity and cleansing negative emotions.  It can clear anxiety, and stress-related conditions as well as nervous tension.

Fennel is one of the best choices as a digestive remedy, being used to relieve nausea, flatulence, indigestion, colic, and hiccups.  It invigorates the stomach, spleen, and intestines.  As a diuretic, it is recommended to assist in detoxifying the body.  In fact, it may be used for the treatment of cellulite when accumulations of toxic wastes and fluids in the subcutaneous fat produce the characteristic wrinkled appearance.

Traditionally, fennel is used for treating gout and general bladder irritation due to high uric acid or stones.  This oil is also known to have potent estrogenic activity, meaning it is very useful in regulating the menstrual cycle.  It also assists during menopause in reducing the unpleasant symptoms caused by fluctuation hormonal levels.  It stimulates the production of estrogen by the adrenal glands after the ovaries have stopped functioning.  As known, estrogen is needed to maintain muscle tone, elasticity of the skin and connective tissue, a healthy circulation and strong bones.  So, maintaining the supply can postpone the degenerative effects of ageing.

Like aniseed, fennel is also used for the lungs as an antispasmodic and expectorant and may be used in cold conditions and bronchitis as well as for whooping cough.  It may also help rid the system of the effects of a hangover as well as as a tonic for the liver, kidneys, and spleen.

Blends well with:  basil, clary sage, cypress, geranium, grapefruit, juniper, lavender, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, rose, and sandalwood.

History:  A very popular plant with the ancient Chinese who used it as a cure for snake bites.  As an herb of ancient reput,it was believed to encourage longevity, courage and strength.  Theophrastus and Pliny preferred it to aniseed.  Pliny valued it as an eye herb.  The Romans valued it for its digestive properties.  The Greeks believed fennel to be a slimming herb due to its diuretic properties.  Fennel has been regarded as an appetite suppressant in traditional therapies.  William Cole, a 17th century herbalist, believed when used in drinks and broths for overweight people, it abated their weight.  Roman soldiers chewed on the seeds when they could not stop for meals, and Christians used them on fasting days.

Warning:  Not for pregnancy or epilepsy.  Should be used in moderation.  Do not use on children.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.


FRANKINCENSE
Botanical Name: Boswellia carterii
Origin: Somalia

Extraction Method: Resin is steam distilled
Odor intensity: High
Base Note

A small tree or shrub with pinnate leaves and white or pale pink flowers.  It yields a natural oleo-gum resin.

General Description:  A white to greenish somewhat thick liquid that has a warm, woody, sweet balsamic, spicy fragrance with a hint of lemon as the top note.

There are different grades of frankincense based on the age, appearance, moisture level and olfactory.  The highest grade is Grade 1 and is most carefully selected, producing a white or yellow colored oil.  This is a Grade 1 oil.

Key characteristics include: clearing, purifying, restorative, warming, sedative, uplifting, tonic, cephalic, revitalizing.

Properties:  Antiseptic, astringent, carminative, cictrisant, cytophylactic, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, sedative (to nervous system), tonic, uterine stimulant, vulnerary, digestive.

Aromatherapy Uses:  This oil slows down breathing and produces feelings of calm.  It tends to bring about an elevated and soothing effect on the mind.  It is often used for meditation and prayer as it has been discovered to expand consciousness.  In general, its comforting and refreshing action is helpful for mental anxiousness and states of obsession when linked with the past.  Frankincense also opens the crown chakra, elevating the mind to the higher self.

On a physical level, it is effective for respiratory catarrhal discharge and congestion due to its extraction from resin.  When used in inhalations, it can be helpful for asthma sufferers as it eases shortness of breath and increases the amplitude of breathing.  Its astringent properties may also relieve uterine hemorrhages as well as heavy periods.

Blends well with: basil, bergamot, black pepper, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lemon, myrrh, neroli, orange, patchouli, pine, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, vetiver, ylang-ylang.

Warning:  Nontoxic, nonirritant, non-sensitizing.

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Information provided by AscendingLight on aromatherapy oils and blends is does not guarantee complete or accurate information.  The information is to be considered educational only.  AscendingLight does not give medical advice.  Consult your doctor or trained aromatherapy practitioner before using.