:: Mediterana - Essential Oils

	Cade (Juniperus oxycedrus) Cade, or Juniperus is closely related and has a similar chemical make up to Juniperus communis. Cade has been found to be excellent with chromic eczema, dermatitis and even dry skin. Cade is also said to be helpful in cases of scalp disease and even hair loss! CAUTIONS: This oil is an abortifacient, therefore it must not be used during pregnancy. not to be used on people with kidney disease or other inflammatory conditions. Large amounts of this oil can have a reverse effect, causing retention.
	Chamomile (Chamomilla matricaria) Chamomile's calming effect can aid insomnia and hysteria used in a steam inhalation. An ideal remedy for children during fretful or frantic moments, teething and upset tummies is to add a few drops to the child's bath. Chamomile can also assist children with sleeping difficulties due to its sedative properties. Chamomile is a very effective anti - allergic oil for skin disorders and is safe to use for a facial massage. It is especially good for dry skin. Use it in a hot compress or massage blend for burns, blisters, dermatitis, acne, herpes and hypersensitive skin. Chamomile also is an excellent skin cleanser. Try adding a few drops of chamomile to the bath to ease sunburned or dry skin. Chamomile is calming. For relief from headaches, stress and tension use chamomile in a massage blend and rub into the neck, shoulders, or full body. Chamomile is also calming on the mind and is often helpful for people suffering from insomnia. CAUTIONS: Avoid using in the early months of pregnancy.
	Cypress (Cupressus sempervirnes) Cypress acts as a strong sedative to soothe nervous tension and anger, crying spells and is a remedy for a nervous breakdown. Cypress is an expectorant which relieves congestion. It can be used in a steam inhalation or in a massage as a preventative measure against asthma attacks, spasmodic coughing and whooping cough. A few drops on a pillow or hanky will relieve nasal congestion. This oil is a fantastic deodorant as it reduces the amount of perspiration and odor. It is a good choice in a foot massage blend. The combination of Cypress, Juniper and Pine is excellent for tired swollen feet and for their deodorizing effects. It can aid in problems relating to poor circulation, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, broken capillaries and fluid retention. Added to a bath or compress, this oil can relieve heavy aching legs and swollen ankles as it is a muscular tonic. Alternatively, you can use the oil in a massage blend for legs. Cypress is a hormonal regulator and can be very useful in the case of hot flushes, menopause and premenstrual tension. It can also help in the event of excessive menstrual bleeding. In the event of the healing of wounds, this oils cicatrisant properties can aid in this problem. CAUTIONS: Is not to be used in cases of high blood pressure.
	Everlasting (Helichrysum italicum) Everlasting is known for its strong healing properties and is especially good for skin conditions including burns, allergies, psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, spots, wounds and allergic conditions. It is also useful for respiratory complaints such as asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, colds, flu and fever. Everlasting can be applied through massage or in a steam inhalation. Everlasting is excellent as an antidepressant and in stress related conditions including depression, nervous exhaustion, neuralgia and headaches brought on by stress tapping into the energy channels of your body. Everlasting can also aid in muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, sprains and strained muscles. Known for its effectiveness in combating oily skin, use everlasting in a facial massage. This oil is also known in the treatment of patients who have recently had an operation, due to it's use where the nervous system is concerned. CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitiser. Best used in diluted form.
	Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) Hyssop is an ideal remedy for coughs, asthma and bronchitis. Its expectorant properties make it an effective treatment of loosening heavy phlegm. For children with coughs or bronchitis, Hyssop is best used in an oil burner. The oil warms the stomach and stimulates digestion. Hyssop also acts as a mild laxative, and helps to relieve stomach cramps. Used in a sitz bath, Hyssop stimulates menstruation, and is particularly good for water retention during periods. Hyssop also helps to strengthen the heart and lower blood pressure. As a nerve tonic it is good for anxiety, hysteria, curing grief, increasing concentration, brings out inspiration and wisdom, and is also helpful for centering during meditation. CAUTIONS: Not to be used during pregnancy, with people who are either epileptics or have high blood pressure.
	Juniper (Juniperus communis) Juniper is best known for it’s diuretic property (increasing the flow of urine). This oil is used to aid cystitis, urinary stones and urine retention. It is cleansing, detoxifying and draining, helping the body eliminate itself of toxins and fluids. Also working in a similar way on the circulatory system. Juniper in a massage blend or foot bath will relieve the fluid filled tissues of swollen ankles and feet. An abdominal massage can help reduce that premenstrual bloating! Juniper is particularly helpful skin oil. It helps combat skin conditions including eczema, acne, psoriasis, block pores and generally oily skin. Juniper’s tonic properties cleanses and detoxifies the skin and comes highly recommended for adolescent skin, especially in a steam inhalation or through direct application. If is found that males do prefer this oil because of it’s woody aroma. Juniper is a great deterrent of fleas and ticks and can be used on the family pets. Juniper is also good for women during childbirth as it is said to give a safe and speedy delivery! Useful for sleeplessness and stress, a few drops of oil into a warm bath is helpful, in combination with Lavender. Juniper’s cleansing properties works on both physical and mental levels. CAUTIONS: This oil is an abortifacient, therefore it must not be used during pregnancy. not to be used on people with kidney disease or other inflammatory conditions. Large amounts of this oil can have a reverse effect, causing retention. Juniper (Juniperus phoenicia) Juniperus phoenicia has very similar properties to Juniper communis. However, phoenicia leans more towards the respiratory and circulatory systems. It can be used as an antiseptic air freshener in a spray bottle. Phoenicia is not as sweet smelling as Juniper communis, therefore men may find its aroma more enjoyable, especially for massages. CAUTIONS: This oil is an abortifacient, therefore must not be used during pregnancy. Not to be used on people with kidney disease or other inflammatory conditions. Large amounts of this oil can have a reverse effect, causing retention.
	Laurel Bay (Laurus nobilis) Laurel has traditionally been used as a soothing rub for arthritis and rheumatism. Laurel is good for dispersing blood in bruises and sprains, for soothing inflammation and minimizing scarring. It uplifts people who tend to be depressed or lack stamina and has a mildly narcotic and warming effect on the emotions. Laurel's healing properties range from hysteria, colic, indigestion and loss of appetite (in a massage blend applied to the abdominal area). It can promote menstruation and may be prescribed for regulating fever or relieving ear aches. Laurel can also be inhaled for pulmonary problems. The essential oil has a strong but sweet aroma and can be used in an oil burner or in a spray as an aromatic air freshener that has the built in advantage of having an antibacterial property. CAUTIONS: This oil is not to be used during pregnancy. Laurel may irritate the skin and mucous membranes
	Lavender (Lavender angustifolia) In the Home, using Lavender throughout your home is a natural alternative to achieve a sense of personal wellbeing, to calm and relax, to refresh and rejuvenate. :: Read More
	Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) Mastic is a warming and stimulating oil. It has been traditionally used for respiratory ailments such as colds and flu, due to it’s antispasmodic properties. Mastic’s fresh and woody aroma is an excellent freshener for the mouth, used in a gargle or mouth wash, also in a room spray as it’s antiseptic and deodorant qualities fresh the atmosphere and kills germs. This oil is especially good for infections on the skin. It can be used in a massage blend for rheumatic pain, and is used for diarrhoea. Mastic can be used safely on children, of course in low dose. Mastic is used in the manufacturing of sweets and cordials. It’s masculine aroma is also used in high class colognes and perfumes. CAUTIONS: Non toxic, non irritant, possible sensitization in same individuals.
	Melissa (Melissa officinalis) Also known as Lemon Balms or “elixir of life” Melissa is associated with nervous disorders, the heart and emotions. It can be used for anxiety, stress, mourning and worrying. Use in therapeutic bath or massage blend. Melissa helps appease the stomach, indigestion, colic, nausea and flatulence. Use in a massage blend and apply to the abdominal area in a clockwise direction. Melissa gives temporary relief to headaches caused by cold and flu and eases shortness of breathe. Use, again, in a massage blend to regulate ovulation and promote fertility. It has been noted that it is very possible that the oil of Melissa could be of real value in cancer therapy. CAUTIONS: Do not use directly on skin, as it can irritate some skins
	Myrtle (Myrtus communis) Myrtle is an expectorant and antiseptic. It helps to treat colds, bronchitis, sinus infections and may be used to treat chronic chest disorders and tuberculosis. Because of it’s mildness, Myrtle is highly suitable to use for children’s coughs and chest complaints. Best used in an oil burner, or air spray. Alternative, use in a massage blend to rub into the chest and back. Myrtle oil has antiseptic and deodorizing properties, serving as a great natural deodorant. Myrtle is a wonderful addition to skin lotions, as it cleanses and strengthens skin, specifically oily, infected skin, acne and open pored skin. CAUTIONS: Non - toxic, not - irritant and non - sensitizing
	Origanum (Origanum vulgare) Oreganum has been used as a traditional recipe for digestive upsets, respiratory problems (asthma, bronchitis, coughs, colds and flu) and can be used effectively for these ailments in a steam inhalation. Also known for it’s ability to aid headaches, vomiting and fever. Oreganum applied to stings and bites (direct application) relieves soreness. Acting as a good ant repellent, oreganum can be diluted and sprayed around ant infested areas. In Europe the name of the oil “Mravinac” means ant. Oreganum is also great for cleaning and removing stain around the household. It is a warming oil and is considered useful in conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism. CAUTIONS: Avoid use during pregnancy. Oregano is a skin irritant, dermal toxin, mucous membrane irritant, therefore not to be used directly on the skin.
	Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) Parsnips warming properties make it an excellent oil for arthritis and rheumatism, used in massage blend along with Oreganum and Sage. Parsnip helps to combat fever and is an excellent antiseptic when used in a compress or massage. CAUTIONS: Avoid contact with the skin undiluted. This oil is a skin and mucous membrane irritant.
	Peppermint (Menta piperita) Peppermint’s dual action of cooling when hot warming when cold, make it a good remedy for regulating the temperature of fevers. Highly recommended as an effective emergency treatment of travel sickness and hangover nausea. Simply inhale directly from the bottle, or put a few drops on a hankie. Peppermint’s antispasmodic properties will provide temporary relief for head colds, bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis and spasmodic coughing. In these cases a steam inhalation is recommended. Peppermint stimulates the appetite, so is especially good for people with eating disorders. One drop of peppermint oil in a glass of water will freshen the breathe. Known as an antidepressant, peppermint aids in mental fatigue, metal strain, and give self confidence. Peppermint helpful in skin care. It known to be useful in conditions of acne, dermatitis, ringworm and scabies. For sore, tired and aching feet, indulge in a peppermint foot bath or alternatively, adding two drops of oil into distilled water is a cooling lotion for sanative skin. Peppermint is an excellent remedy for any digestive problems. Rats and mice hate the smell of peppermint. Rags soaked in the oil will keep vermin at bay and keep you cupboards smelling fresh and sweet. CAUTIONS: Do not use during pregnancy. This oil can irritate some skin types and the mucous membranes, therefore use in moderation.
	Pine Sea (Pinus pinaster) Pine is strong antiseptic and expectorant that can be used for heavy phlegm and bronchitis in a steam inhalation. Pine is traditionally used for prevention of epidemics and highly contagious diseases. An excellent air freshener, ocean pine blended with Laurel bay and Lavender. This can be used in a spray bottle around the home. Pine blended with peppermint makes an excellent footbath. It is invigorating and stimulating, and it also helps to alleviate fatigue. Pine can be used for rheumatism, gout, neuralgia, hip pain and skin conditions such as eczema, boil and sore. In these cases a compress is helpful or add the oil to a cream. CAUTIONS: Use this oil in low doses as it is a possible kidney irritant.
	Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) Rosemary oil is commonly known for it,s stimulating property. It helps to clear the mind and stimulates concentration. With this in mind, rosemary can be used as an aid when studying. Rosemary provides temporary relief from headaches, dizziness and asthma and can be used in a massage for muscular and rheumatic pain. This aids the circulatory disorders. This oil also helps to lower high blood sugar levels and to normalize low blood pressure. Rosemary can be used in the prevention of colds and flu. Used in a massage blend it can stimulate the circulation and warms the body. It is also an excellent skin and hair oil. Rosemary can be used as a scalp stimulant for oily hair, dandruff and hair loss. It also provides for an excellent rinse for dark hair. Add a few drops into rinse water for shiny, lustrous hair. Rosemary’s rejuvenating properties are great for aged skin, wrinkles, cellulite, puffiness and swelling of the skin. Also excellent for burns. Rosemary has been known as a stimulant that works on the heart if applied undiluted to the chest area in cases of cardiac arrest. Traditionally rosemary has been used for the development of boned (especially in children). It is suggested to use in the bath. CAUTIONS: Should not be used in large doses on epileptics. Avoid use during pregnancy. Note to be taken with homoeopathic remedies.
	Sweet Fennel (Foniculum vulgare) Fennel is an excellent body cleanser, useful in the treatment of fluid retention, and eliminating poisonous toxins from the body caused by excess food and alcohol. With this in mind, Fennel is wonderful for hangovers as it is a tonic for the liver, kidney and spleen! Fennel's woody, licorice smell is said to be good for obesity, as it has an oestrogenic action, which also increases the flow of milk of nursing mothers. On the other hand, Fennel is also regarded as being excellent for anorexia, as well as for rheumatism. Excellent for bruises using a cold compress and for oily mature complexions. It has a gentle cleansing action on the skin. Fennel can be used for insect bites, though be careful not to use it on broken skin. Always apply to skin diluted, this oil is not to be used on the skin undiluted. For colds or the fluid, use Fennel in a steam inhalation, or use the oil in a burner as it adds a lovely aroma to any blend. Fennel is also known to aid in cases of constipation, colic and indigestion. CAUTIONS: Fennel is not to be used on epileptics. Avoid using during pregnancy and on children under the age of six. Fennel is best used in low doses.
	Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis) Summer Savory has been used therapeutically for various ailments including digestive complaints (cramp, nausea, indigestion, intestinal parasites). Also it is very effective for respiratory conditions (asthma, catarrh and sore throats). Although Savory is known to be a skin irritant, it brings instant relief, if applied directly to insect bites, bees and wasp stings. As an aphrodisiac, Savory is also good for lack of energy and motivation. Excellent for the healing of scar tissued. CAUTIONS: Possible skin irritant. Do not use during pregnancy.
	Sage (Salvia officinalis) Dalmatian Sage is a common traditionally used for many different purposes. In small doses, Sage is a relaxant and in high doses uplifting. Sage is commonly used for colds, flu, bronchitis and catarrh. Diluted into a massage blend, Sage’s Antispasmodic properties make it an excellent oil for inhalation. As it helps to dry mucous, it can also be directly inhaled from the bottled, add few drops onto a hanky for hay fever. Sage is a blood pressure regulator, and is particularly good for balancing the nervous system. Sage and Lavender blended in a massage base oil extremely beneficial in the healing of wounds, scars and scar tissue. Good for congested oily skin, Sage is excellent for acne and can be applied directly onto pimples. Also good for bruised or swollen skin. Dalmatian Sage is safer than any other common sage due to it’s low levels of thujone. Also an excellent conditioner for oil hair. Simply add it to your bottle of conditioner, then put a few drops onto your palms, and rub through your scalp and hair after washing. Sage aids in the relief of pain and is particularly good for rheumatic and arthritic pain. Excellent to use in the last few days of pregnancy, especially in a bath blend with Lavender as it is relaxing and excellent for pain relief. Sage’s antiseptic properties make it a useful oil for mouth infections, ulcers, sore gums and gingivitis. CAUTIONS: Not to be used in the pregnancy as it is an abortifacient.
	Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) Thyme can be used either as a relaxant for a stimulant, depending on the need. It’s stimulant and strengthening properties help to uplift low spirits and exhaustion, stimulate the brain and revitalize the memory, combats depression, and also helps to release mental blockages and trauma. Thymes strong antiseptic and immune stimulant properties make it an excellent oil to ward off infection in cases of chills, flu and infectious diseases. Thyme also combats gum infections and can be used in a mouthwash of gargle. Thyme is good for wounds and sores as well as dermatitis, boils, carbuncles and warts. A direct application would be recommended. Also good for the scalp, effective with dandruff and hair loss (massaged, in a blend, into the scalp). CAUTIONS: Not to be used in cases of high blood pressure or pregnancy. Not to be used for long periods of time (toxicity). Possible skin and mucous membrane irritant.