Essential oils are concentrated, volatile liquids derived from the leaves, barks, roots, flowers, resins, or seeds of some seven hundred plants. They are produced principally by steam distillation and are sold in small quantities, typically an ounce or less. Because essential oils are so potent, only a few drops are needed to treat most conditions. Clove is a colorless, aromatic, concentrated liquid prepared from the flowering buds of a tropical evergreen tree (Eugenia caryophyllata or Syzgium aromaticum). It is an important first-aid remedy for dental emergencies because of its antiseptic and anesthetic properties; clove oil rubbed on gums relieves toothache. The oil, or the oil-derived compound eugenol, is an ingredient in some OTC toothache pain remedies and mouthwashes. Clove is also used externally to disinfect minor wounds and scrapes, reduce warts, and alleviate skin problems such as scabies and insect bites. Taken internally (by diluting a few drops in a cup of water), it may help eliminate intestinal gases and control vomiting and nausea. The dried herb is a spice used in cooking, and the oil is used for flavoring everything from cigarettes to LifeSavers. Undiluted clove oil is potentially toxic in large doses. It can sting the gums, so it is often diluted before it is used on teeth or skin. Avoid taking during pregnancy. Eucalyptus is a distinctive-smelling essential oil prepared from the gummy leaves of an Australian tree (Eucalyptus globulus). The oil is noted for its antibacterial and antiviral effects. Applied topically, it helps relieve pain and inflammation, promote wound healing, and reduce muscle spasms. Eucalyptus also combats sunburn, blisters, and sprains, and repels insects. It is inhaled to loosen mucus and treat asthma and bronchitis. Drops can be used in the bath or diluted with a carrier oil and applied by massage. High concentrations of eucalyptus can irritate the kidneys when taken internally or irritate the skin when used externally. Lavender is prepared from the leaves and blue flowers of a Mediterranean shrub (Lavandula officinalis). The fragrant essential oil has analgesic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. Lavender may be inhaled to help induce sleep, alleviate stress, and reduce depression and nervous tension. The essential oil is also applied topically to heal wounds, sprains, insect bites and stings, athlete's foot, muscular aches and pains, and earaches. As an herb, lavender has traditionally been used to treat coughs and the common cold. The oil is mild enough to be applied full strength and is often recommended for use on children. (Lavender oil should not, however, be taken internally.) As an herb, lavender is usually sold dried or in concentrated drops. Peppermint refers to both an herb and an essential oil derived from the leaves of a garden perennial (Mentha piperita) that has long been used to make digestive remedies. In tea form, peppermint is still widely used to relieve upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence. The essential oil contains menthol, a medicinally active alcohol that exhibits significant antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and astringent powers. The oil is sometimes diluted and taken internally for the same conditions treated by the dried herb, as well as for shock, asthma, travel sickness, fainting, and dizziness. The essential oil is also applied externally for itchy skin, hemorrhoids, toothaches, muscle aches, and insect bites. Peppermint oil may irritate some people's skin if applied undiluted or in high doses. The oil is also a good insect repellent and a popular flavoring agent in foods, candies, chewing gum, and toothpastes. Peppermint comes dried or as tea bags, extracts, and essential oil. Tea tree, a pale yellow essential oil made from the aromatic leaves of an Australian tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), is one of the premier natural remedies for bacterial, viral, and fungal skin conditions including athlete's foot, nail infections, and mouth sores. It is also effective for treating injuries (including burns, cuts, and scrapes), bites and stings, and for repelling insects. Tea tree is a popular ingredient in skin creams, shampoos, throat lozenges, toothpastes, deodorants, and other body care products. It is nontoxic and can be safely applied directly to the skin without being diluted. Don't get it in the eyes, though. Powered by ProfessionalPlanets.com™
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Herbalists and aromatherapists apply essential oils topically, usually after dilution, through massage, compresses, or by adding them to a bath. Essential oils are also inhaled by dispersing a few drops in liquid that is then sprayed in a mist or evaporated to create steam. Essential oils are rarely taken orally and then only under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner. They affect the psyche by influencing mood, emotions, and sexual arousal or relaxation, and they affect the body by promoting the healing of wounds, clearing lung congestion, and relieving pain.
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