Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica)
     A warm, camphorus, sweet, woody scent distilled from the wood of the Moroccan cedar tree.  This Cedar was used by the ancient Egyptians for embalming.  It is mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of abundance and fertility, and more recently used in aromatherapy with good results in the treatment of chronic bronchitis.
     Cedar produces a calm, meditative state of mind.  Add it to the bath or massage oil for nervous tension, anger, stress, and urinary infections.  Diffuse to create a calm, quiet atmosphere, and for coughs and bronchitis.  Add Cedar to skin and hair preparations for its astringent and antiseptic properties.  It is good for treating dandruff, dermatitis, and psoriasis.

• Properties - warming, harmonizing, stabilizing, antiseptic, expectorant, astringent.

• Blends well with - Cypress, Frankincense, Lavender, Jasmine, Vetiver, and is a base note.
   

     Balsam Fir (Abies balsamica)
     This rich, sweet, balsamic fragrance is distilled from the needles and twigs of the tree.  When diffused, this oil smells like a Christmas tree.  It is grounding, good for stress and anxiety, ideal for respiratory problems to deepen and quiet the breathing, and a room freshener.
     In a massage oil, it is warming, relieving muscular aches and pains, good for rheumatism and arthritis.

• Properties - antiseptic, pain relieving, warming, expectorant.

• Blends well with - Basil, Cedar, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, Pine, and Thyme.  It is a top note.

     Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)
     Sweet and spicy Bay Laurel is distilled from the dried leaves and berries of the tropical evergreen tree.  Bay Laurel was honored by the Egyptians and Romans as a symbol of wisdom and protection.  In modern aromatherapy, the oil has been effective in stimulating the lymph system and protecting against colds and viruses.
     Bay Laurel is stimulating in small doses, and sedative in large.  It is antiseptic, especially for the respiratory system, and a tonic for digestion, stimulating appetite.  It is good for creative work, increasing confidence, insight, and courage.

• Properties - antiseptic, lymph stimulant, warming, tonic.

• Blends well with - Cedar, Juniper, Sweet Marjoram, Ylang Ylang, and is a top note.

• Precautions - use moderately.

     Bergamot (Citrus aurantium bergamia)
     Bergamot has a light, delicate, citrusy, and floral scent.  It is cold expressed from the peel of a small, pear-shaped citrus fruit grown in southern Italy.  It has been a folk remedy in Italy since the 16th century, used for fever and as an antiseptic.  In recent aromatherapy, Bergamot has been successfully used in douches and hip baths for urinary and vaginal infections, and inhaled for respiratory infections like tonsillitis, bronchitis, and tuberculosis.
     Bergamot is a good oil to diffuse as a room freshener, because almost everyone likes it.  It is calming and euphoric both at once.  It can be used for anxiety, anger, frustration, and depression.  It stimulates digestion by increasing energy in the liver, stomach, and spleen.

• Properties - euphoric, antiseptic, cooling, tonic to the digestive system.

• Blends well with - Roman Chamomile, Jasmine, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, and is a top note.

• Precautions - Bergamot contains furo-coumarin, which makes the skin sensitive to sunlight.  Do not use before sunbathing, dilute properly for massage and skin care, using no more than 20 drops to 4 ounces of massage oil.  Wait at least three hours before exposing skin to direct sunlight.

     Clary Sage (Salvia sclaria)
     Fruity, floral, herbaceous, and earthy scent, distilled from the flowers and foliage of Muscatel sage.  Clary Sage is an euphoric essential oil, valuable for nervous depression and hysteria.  The ancient Greeks and Romans loved Clary Sage for its deeply sensual and aphrodisiac qualities.  Because it balances estrogen production, it is helpful to ease labor, stimulate milk production, and treat premenstrual and menopausal symptoms.
     Diffuse Clary Sage to create a grounding, regenerating atmosphere that relieves fear and depression, or to help relax the spasms of an asthma sufferer.  Added to massage oil, Clary Sage can ease painful cramps and encourage labor, and it is also helpful in the treatment of oily skin and hair conditions.

• Properties - euphoric, relaxing, uplifting, uterine tonic.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Cedar, Roman Chamomile, Frankincense, Neroli, Rose, Ylang Ylang, and is a middle note.

• Precautions - Clary Sage should not be used during pregnancy.  Used in excess or in combination with alcohol, it can be inebriating.

     Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
     The woody, spicy, clear, and refreshing scent of Cypress is distilled from the leaves and cones of an evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean.  In Greek and Roman mythology, Cypress was dedicated to the God of the underworlds.  Even today, it is planted in cemeteries.
     Clinical practice of aromatherapy is showing that when Cypress is diffused, it has the ability to help in difficult times of change, comforting grief, resolving psychic blocks, and bringing calm to an overburdened nervous system.
     Added to massage oil, Cypress is important in the treatment of hemorrhoids and varicose veins.  It is also good for spasmodic coughs, excessive blood loss, and diarrhea.  For hair and skin care, Cypress is an astringent and deodorant.

• Properties - astringent, antispasmodic, vasoconstrictor, deodorant.

• Blends well with - Clary Sage, Juniper, Lavender, all Citrus oils, Pine, and Rosemary.  It is a top note.

     Eucalyptus Citriadora (Eucalyptus citriadora)
     Sometimes referred to as lemon Eucalyptus, it has a lemony, camphoracious smell with a sweet undertone.  It is a mild warming oil without the mucus-dissolving properties of the other Eucalyptus species.  It is good to use in massage as a chest rub during the cold season.

• Properties - antiseptic, urinary, pulmonary, antispasmodic, insect repellent, fungicidal.

• Blends well with - Basil, Cedar, Lemon, and is a top note.

     Eucalyptus Radiata (Eucalyptus radiata)
     This refreshing camphorus oil has a scent that is lighter than Eucalyptus Globulus.  It has many of the same uses as Eucalyptus Globulus, but it is milder in its chemical composition, and gentler in action.  Despite its mild chemical composition, it is highly anti-bacterial and anti-viral.
     This is a good decongestant, a mother's best friend, safe to diffuse in the bedroom of a small child who can't sleep because of an upper respiratory infection or a stuffy nose due to allergies.
     This oil can be diluted in massage oil, or added to a compress to open up the chest area.  It can be added to a basin of hot water to steam open nasal passages.

• Properties - antiseptic, decongestant, anti-viral.

• Blends well with - Roman Chamomile, Lavender, Neroli, and is a top note.

     Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
     Frankincense's warm, woody, sweet and spicy scent has been used in religious ceremonies for many centuries, and is still valued today for its calming and consciousness-expanding qualities.  It is distilled from the resin of the shrub native to the Middle East.
     When Frankincense is diffused, it slows breathing, and creates a calm and meditative state of mind.  It also is used for respiratory congestion and asthma.
     In massage, Frankincense is a tonic for the uterus, helping with heavy bleeding.  It also has cell-rejuvenating properties that help to heal scar tissue, and make it useful to add to cosmetic preparations for dry, wrinkled, and mature skin.

• Properties - astringent, sedative, immune tonic, pain relieving, tissue regenerating.

• Blends well with - Basil, Bergamot, Geranium Rose, Jasmine, Lavender, Myrrh, Pine, Rose, and Sandalwood.  It is a middle note.

     Geranium Rose (Pelargonium roseum)
     This sweet, floral, citrusy and fresh scent is distilled from the leaves of the perennial shrub.  Diffuse its cool, moist scent to balance the nervous system, relieve anxiety, depress, and stress.
     In massage oil, Geranium Rose is used to balance hormones and relieve fluid retention.  It is useful whenever a system needs balance and relief from congestion.
     For cosmetic use, Geranium Rose can be added to preparations for oily and congested skin.  A few drops can be added to a compress for burns, wounds, and ulcers.

• Properties - antiseptic, uplifting, balancing, astringent.

• Blends well with - Bay Laurel, Basil, all Citrus oils, Clary Sage, Rose, Sandalwood, and Ylang Ylang.  It is a middle note.

     Grapefruit (Citrus paradisii)
     This fresh, sweet, citrus oil is cold-pressed from the peel of the grapefruit.  When diffused, it has a cool, dry scent that is uplifting, and reviving.  It stimulates digestion, and curbs the appetite.
     For cosmetic use, it is valued for its ability to regulate liquid in the cells.  Added to massage oil, it is detoxifying and diuretic, making it perfect to treat cellulite.  It is also helpful in treating acne and congested or oily skin.

• Properties - uplifting, detoxifying, diuretic, tonic.

• Blends well with - Basil, Bergamot, Cedar, Frankincense, Juniper, Lavender, all Citrus oils, Rosemary, and Ylang Ylang.  It is a top note.

• Precautions - This is one citrus oil that is not phototoxic.

     Holy Basil  (Ocimum basilicum)
     The sweet, herbaceous, light scent of Basil is distilled from the flowering tops and leaves of the herb native to tropical Asia.
     Basil has been used as a sacred herb in India and Europe for many centuries.  It was said to strengthen faith, compassion, and mental clarity.  More recent clinical experience shows that Basil increases blood flow to the brain, relieving mental fatigue, enhancing clear thinking, and improving memory.  Basil also connects the thought process with speech, enhancing self-expression.
     Basil clears the sinuses, promotes digestion, and stimulates circulation, especially in the respiratory system.

• Properties - warm, stimulating, antiseptic, digestive, insecticide.

• Blends well with - Eucalyptus, Juniper, Lemon, Neroli, Rosemary, and is a top note.

• Precautions - Because it can stimulate bleeding, it should not be used for massage or bath during pregnancy.  Basil can be a skin irritant.

     Jasmine (Jasminum officinalis)
     This scent is exquisite, heavenly.  It is a sweet, floral, heady aphrodisiac that is solvent-extracted from the little star-shaped flowers of an evergreen vine native to Persia and Northern India.  It is so delicate that it must be hand-picked, taking many thousand petals to make on milliliter of Jasmine oil.
     Jasmine has been used for a long time in China and India, called "The Kind of Flowers" and "Moonlight of the Grove."  It was introduced to Europe in the seventeenth century, and is an important ingredient in perfumes.  Diffuse Jasmine in your hope to create a joyful, sensual atmosphere.  It will help to resolve emotional blocks, enhance sexual and creative self-expression, and increase joy and playfulness.
     Jasmine's scent is hormone-balancing.  During the early stages of childbirth, it can be added to massage oil to rub on the lower back and abdomen, to relieve pain and strengthen contractions.  It can also be used for prostate pain.
     For cosmetic use, add Jasmine to preparations for dry, aggravated skin.

• Properties - antidepressant, sedative, joyous, antispasmodic, and aphrodisiac.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Clary Sage, Geranium Rose, Neroli, Sandalwood, Vetiver, and Ylang Ylang.  It is a base note.

     Juniper (Juniperus communis)
     This woody, fresh, balsamic scent is distilled from the ripe berries of the evergreen bush that is also used to flavor gin.  It was burnt by fifteenth-century herbalists to guard against the plague, in French hospitals to clear the air, and by native Americans for purification and healing.
     Diffuse Juniper to purify the air, clear worry and anxiety, fortify and strengthen the nerves, and protect in challenging situations.  Juniper is also decongesting for coughs and colds.
     In massage oil, Juniper is detoxifying and diuretic.  It is used for the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, fluid retention, and cellulite.
     Added to a sitz bath, Juniper is the best oil to treat cystitis.

• Properties - warming, stimulating, protective, strengthening.

• Blends well with - Basil, Cypress, Fennel, Rosemary, and is a middle note.

• Precautions - This oil can be irritating, and because of its stimulating effect, should not be used by those with kidney disease or by pregnant women.  Always dilute.

     Lavender (Lavendula officinalis)
     Fresh, herbal, sweet, and floral, Lavender is always the first choice for your medicine cabinet.  The name Lavender comes from the Latin lavare, which means "to wash."  Romans added Lavender to their bath water as much for its scent as for its antiseptic quality, and it has continued to be an ingredient in popular facial waters to this day.
     Lavender has many therapeutic uses.  Diffused, it helps asthma, headaches, insomnia, and kills the germs that cause sinus and lung infections, coughs, and colds.  It calms, reduces stress, alleviates fear, and soothes frustration and irritability, especially in times of stress.
     This warm, dry, pain relieving, and antiseptic oil can be used undiluted on cuts, burns, bruises, blisters, and insect bites.  It is cell-rejuvenating, preventing scarring and stretch marks.  It is safe for use on small children.
     In massage oil, Lavender, in addition to what has already been mentioned, can be used for menstrual cramps, muscular pain, rheumatism, high blood pressure, fatigue and depression, sunburns, and to repel insects.

• Properties - pain-relieving, calming, antiseptic, cell-rejuvenating.

• Blends well with - Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage, Geranium Rose, citrus, and many other oils, and is a middle note.

     Lemon (Citrus limonium)
     The sweet, fresh, and clean scent of lemon is cold-pressed from the lemon rind.  Cool and dry, it is perfect for diffusing in the home or office.  Its antiseptic quality purifies the air, and at the same time it is a powerful stimulant, improving concentration, memory, and clear thinking, while regulating the body's immune system and raising resistance to disease.
     In massage, Lemon oil stimulates the digestive system, and strengthens the circulatory system.  It improves conditions arising from too much acidity in the body; rheumatism, gout, and arthritis.  It is good for overweight conditions, cellulite, and cholesterol.  Added to a compress, it can help abscesses and boils.  It is an astringent for cleaning greasy skin.  Use lemon oil in a car diffuser to relieve travel fatigue.

• Properties - antiseptic, kills bacteria, alkaline, immune stimulating.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lavender, Neroli, Rosemary, and is a top note.

• Precautions - this oil is occasionally sensitizing, and is phototoxic, so dilute in massage oil, and avoid using on skin right before exposure to the sun.

     Lemongrass  (Cymbopogan citratus)
     This strongly scented tall grass is lemony and herbaceous.  It is native to Asia, but now is cultivated in the East, West Indies, and Central America.  In traditional Indian medicine, it was used for fever and infectious illnesses.
     Lemongrass is stimulating and reviving to mental activity, good for fatigue and clearing confusion.  It is a good oil to use for jet lag.
     For the body, Lemongrass can be used as a tonic, to stimulate recovery from illness, to lower a fever, or to stimulate improved digestion in the treatment of colitis, and indigestion.

• Properties - calming and sedative in small doses, and stimulating in larger doses.

• Blends well with - Lavender, Basil, Cedar, Geranium, and is a top note.

• Precautions - could cause some dermal irritation or sensitization in some people.  Use with caution on the skin.

     Myrrh  (Commiphora myrrha)
     For over three millennia, Myrrh has been valued both in religious ceremonies and medicinally.  This warm, rich, spicy and camphoraceous scent is distilled from the resin of a Middle Eastern shrub.  The Egyptians used Myrrh for embalming, made healing unguents, and burned it as incense.  The ancient Hebrews drank it with their wine to raise consciousness.  The Romans and Greeks put it in healing salves and ointments.
     Myrrh oil can be diffused to create a warm and deeply tranquil atmosphere.  Its grounding and uplifting quality soothes sorrow and loss, frees the mind from mundane worry and mental distraction, and brings spiritual peace.
     Myrrh is also antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal, clears toxins, and promotes tissue repair.  It is useful in treating infections, especially in the mouth and gums, for cracked skin, and for healing deep wounds without scarring.  It is good for eczema and athlete's foot.  It will help to clear old coughs, and is good for laryngitis.  Use Myrrh in massage oil for anyone who tends to be cold and lethargic.  It generates warmth, and stimulates the stomach and uterus.

• Properties - sedative, tonic, kills germs and fungi, cell rejuvenating.

• Blends well with - Frankincense, Lavender, Rose, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, and is a base note.

• Precautions - Because it is a uterine stimulant, it should not be used during pregnancy.

     Neroli  (Citrus aurantium amara)
     Distilled from fresh orange blossoms, Neroli is a warm, rich, bittersweet floral scent.  It was discovered in the seventeenth century, and is said to have been named after Anna Marie de la Tremoille, Princess of Nerola, who used it liberally on her gloves, stationary, and scarves.  Neroli is a harmonizing scent, both sensual and spiritual.  It has been an important ingredient in many perfumes and toilet waters.
     Neroli is valuable for emotional first aid--shock, hysteria, depression, fear, anxiety, and trauma.  It is cool, calming, and uplifting.  Whether diffused or used in massage, it will help anger, frustration, hypertension, emotional tension, chronic anxiety, and insomnia.  Because it relieves muscle tension, it can be used for chronic diarrhea, especially when it is stress related.  It is beneficial for sensitive and inflamed skin, for dermatitis, and acne.  It can be used in massage during pregnancy, and to soothe the mother during labor.

• Properties - sedative, euphoric, antidepressant.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Clary Sage, Roman Chamomile, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, and is a middle note.

     Red Mandarin  (Citrus reticulata)
     This sweet, fresh oil is cold-pressed from the peel of the mandarin orange.  Mandarin is a member of the orange family, smelling like tangerines.  It was a traditional gift to the mandarins of China.  This oil is gentle and mild, making it very useful for children and the elderly.  It is soothing, calming, refreshing, and uplifting.
     Diffuse  Red Mandarin to create a happy atmosphere in the home or classroom.  Use Red Mandarin in the car diffuser to relieve travel fatigue and calm down restless children.
     Mandarin is also good for colic, gas, indigestion, and hiccups.

• Properties - antiseptic, digestive, diuretic, tonic.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Neroli, Rose, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, and is a middle note.

     Sweet Orange  (Citrus auranthium)
     This sweet, warm, sunny scent is always a favorite with children and adults.  It is a happy scent, promoting ease in the family by soothing irritability, moodiness and frustration, increasing joy, harmony, and creativity.
     Orange oil is cold-pressed from orange rinds.  Since oranges are commercially grown using insecticides, it is a good idea to look for an organic sweet orange oil.
     This oil is balancing to the liver by cleansing congestion.  It is very good for indigestion, colic, stomach aches, and nauseous headaches.  It is soothing to dry, irritated skin, and can be used for acne.

• Properties - uplifting, detoxifying, digestive.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Geranium, Lavender, Neroli, Rosewood, Sandalwood, and Ylang Ylang.  It is a top note.

     Peppermint  (Mentha piperita)
     The cool, clean smell of peppermint is distilled from the leaves and top of the herb, which has been popular since ancient Egyptians used it as a soothing digestive aid.
     Peppermint is used in commercial medicine for treatment or irritable bowel syndrome.  It stimulates the intestines, causing gas to be expelled, then relaxes the muscles to a more normal state.  It is very useful for treatment of nausea and colic.
     Diffusing peppermint oil in the office will promote clear thinking, decision making, and concentration.  It is refreshing and cooling in hot weather.  In the car diffuser, peppermint oil will help travel sickness.  It relieves the pain and congestion that causes sinus infection and congestive headaches and migraines that are due to digestive problems.
     Peppermint can be used in compresses for relief of muscle pain, bruises, and joint pain.  It is also good on insect bites.

• Properties - anesthetic, decongestant, cooling, digestive aid.

• Blends well with - Basil, Cedar, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Marjoram, Pine, Rosemary, and Thyme.  It is a top note.

• Precautions - use in moderation.  Always dilute.

     Roman Chamomile  (Anthenis nobilis)
     Roman Chamomile has an herbaceous, apple-like scent.  It is distilled from the daisy-like flowers of the small perennial herb, and is a traditional remedy for grumpy children and premenstrual women, or anyone who feels irritable due to discomfort, indigestion, or stress.
     Diffuse Roman Chamomile to create a soothing, calming atmosphere, to reduce worry, or hyperactivity.  Roman Chamomile helps muscle spasms caused by stress.  It can be applied by massage for asthma, or diffused for hay fever and allergies.  Dilute in massage oil for rubbing gently over cheeks of teething children, or abdomen of colicky babies.  Add a few drops to a basin of wash water to treat acne and skin abrasions, or inflammations.

• Properties - Relieves pain, nerve sedative, bactericidal, anti-spasmatic.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Clary Sage, Geranium, Lavender, Marjoram, Neroli, and is a middle note.

• Precautions - Roman Chamomile has caused contact dermatitis in a very few individuals.  If using with very sensitive skin, try it properly diluted on a small spot first.

     Rosemary  (Rosemarinus officinalis)
     The clear, penetrating, herbal scent of Rosemary has been used for centuries in Europe and Asia, both medicinally and spiritually.  It has symbolized loyalty, death, good memory, and ritual purification.  Rosemary is steam-distilled from the flowering tops and leaves of the herb originally native to Asia.
     It is very aromatic, invigorating, and warming.  Rosemary is a tonic for the central nervous system, stimulating blood circulation, improving memory and mental clarity, and expanding awareness.  It is also valuable for respiratory problems, and for pain relief in rheumatism and arthritis.
     In massage, Rosemary is good for those who have chronic cold hands and feet.  It strengthens the heart, is a tonic to the liver and gall bladder, lowers high blood sugar, and helps with arteriosclerosis.
     Rosemary is used in hair preparations because it stimulates blood circulation in the scalp.

• Properties - warming, stimulating, pain-relieving, general tonic.

• Blends well with - Basil, Cedar, Frankincense, Lemon, Orange, Thyme, and is a middle note.

• Precautions - Because it is very stimulating, it should not be used by pregnant women, or those with epilepsy or high blood pressure.

     Rose Otto  (Rosa damascena)
     In Greece, the rose was sacred to Aphrodite, goddess of love, beauty, and fertility.  This deep, rich, sweet exquisite fragrance has been valued throughout recorded history for its heart-opening, relaxing, aphrodisiac qualities.  Rose Otto is distilled from the petals of the Bulgarian damask rose.  It takes about thirty roses to make one drop, making it one of the most expensive oils.  Rose is also sold as an absolute.
     Diffusing Rose Otto has deep psychological effects, opening the heart, connecting to higher love, soothing grief or hurt feelings, nurturing sexuality and self-esteem, restoring trust in love.  Because it is cool and moist, it is helpful in cooling hot conditions; irritability, fever, upset stomachs, and high blood pressure.
     Rose Otto is purifying and regulating to the female reproductive system, regulating hormones and strengthening the uterus.  It is ideal for skin care for mature, normal, or sensitive skin.

• Properties - calming, cooling, uplifting, tonic to the heart, liver, and uterus.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, Neroli, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang, and is a middle note.

     Rosewood  (Aniba rosaeidora)
     Sweet, woody, floral, and spicy, this oil is distilled from the wood of the tree native to Brazil.   It is balancing, uplifting, and enlivening.  Diffuse Rosewood essential oil for a weary, burdened state of mind, and for headaches.  It produces a calm, meditative state of mind.
     Rosewood is antibacterial and astringent; good for deodorant use.  It is a cell-stimulating and tissue-regenerating oil that is good for treating aged or sensitive skin.

• Properties - uplifting, stimulating, clears the head.

• Blends well with - Cedar, Geranium, Lavender, Neroli, Rose, Sandalwood, and Ylang Ylang, and is a middle note.

     Sandalwood  (Santalum album)
     Woody, sweet, exotic, and subtle, Sandalwood oil is distilled from the inner heartwood of the Asian tree.  It has been used in India from ancient times until present in religious ceremonies.  It is cooling, grounding, sensual, and tranquil.
     Sandalwood can be diffused in the home to still a restless mind, calm an over-attached state, reconnect with inner spirituality and creativity, bring peace and insight.
     Added to massage oil, it is a scent that men can wear, and is aphrodisiac for both men and women.  It is also astringent, and can be used to treat colds, dry coughs, relieve intestinal spasms and diarrhea, and relieve infections of the urinary and respiratory systems.
     In skin care, Sandalwood is good for hot, itchy conditions, and mature skin.

• Properties - cooling, grounding, uplifting, astringent.

• Blends well with - Bergamot, Cypress, Cedar, Geranium, Jasmine, Rose, and Vetiver, and is a base note.

     Siberian Fir  (Abies sibirica)
     A strong, coniferous, fresh and woody scent familiar because it is included in so many commercial room fresheners.  Pine is distilled from the needles of the evergreen tree.
     Diffusing this warm, dry scent helps breathing, clearing the lungs and respiratory tract of phlegm.  It is cleansing and invigorating, helping those who suffer from fatigue, whether mental or emotional, and warming those who suffer from chills or debility.  It is a good oil to clear the air in the hope or a meeting room, giving confidence and positivity to those who breathe it.
     Used in massage, pine will be stimulating to the circulation and adrenals, for gall-bladder problems, rheumatism, sciatica and arthritis, strengthening the kidneys, liver, and prostate, and a tonic to the nerves.

• Properties - stimulating, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant.

• Blends well with - Cedar, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Sweet Marjoram, Thyme, and is a middle note.

• Precautions - this oil can be a skin irritant if there is an allergic condition, or if not diluted before use on the skin, or in the bath.

     Sweet Eucalyptus  (Eucalyptus globulus)
     A camphorous, woody, and sweet oil that is steam-distilled from the leaves of the Australian tree.  The unrectified Eucalyptus Globulus has a nicer scent and is therapeutically superior to the industrially produced rectified oil.  Diffuse this refreshing, stimulating oil to reduce the swelling of mucus membranes, loosen phlegm, and ease breathing.  It also will kill airborne germs and viruses to help reduce the spread of flu and infections.
     Used in massage oil, Eucalyptus is valuable in all respiratory conditions to ease constricted breathing.  Add a few drops to a basin of water or a compress to treat skin infections and ulcers.

• Properties - antibacterial, antiseptic, decongestant, antiviral.

• Blends well with - Basil, Cedar, Frankincense, Sweet Marjoram, Pine, and is a top note.

• Precautions - although this Eucalyptus is a strong antiviral and antibacterial oil, it is not appropriate for use with babies and small children.  It can be toxic if taken internally.

     Tea Tree  (Melaleuca alternifolia)
     Fresh, pungent and antiseptic, Tea Tree is distilled from the leaves and twigs of the small Australian shrub.  Tea Tree can be used without dilution topically to treat bacteria, viruses and fungi, wash wounds, ulcers, or burns.
     It can be diffused to stimulate the immune system, to heal respiratory infections and colds, added to massage oil to give relief from muscular aches and pain.  It is also very useful in scalp treatments for dandruff and head lice.  It is sedative and stress relieving.

• Properties - antiseptic, kills fungus and bacteria, sedative.

• Blends well with - Cypress, Eucalyptus, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Pine, Rosemary, and Thyme, and is a top note.

     Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
     A warm, pungent, herbal scent distilled from leaves and flowering tops of the Mediterranean shrub.  Thyme is an invigorating, warming oil useful for congestion in the lungs, infection of the respiratory system, fatigue, and chills.  It was used as long ago as 2000 BC in ancient Sumeria, and throughout history in many parts of the world, always associated with courage, strong morale, and clear thinking.  During World War I, Thyme was used as a disinfectant in hospitals.
     Diffuse Thyme to dispel depression or states of poor self-confidence and apathy.  This oil is very fortifying, uplifting, and grounding, giving moral confidence and drive.  It is strongly antiseptic, an immune stimulant and respiratory tonic, benefiting bronchitis, colds, and coughs.
     In massage, Thyme is a topic to the circulatory system, and will relieve cramping pains from rheumatism and arthritis.  Thyme stimulates the appetite, and relieves gas.  Because of its antifungal action, it can be helpful in the treatment of candida.  Thyme raises low blood pressure, strengthens nerves, and helps concentration.

• Properties - general tonic, warming, stimulating, anti-infectious.

• Blends well with - Cedar, Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Rosemary, and Tea Tree, and is a middle note.

• Precautions - Because it is very stimulating and can be irritating to some people's skin, Thyme should not be used by those with high blood pressure, children under the age of 4, and it should always be diluted.    

     Vetiver  (Vitiveria zizanoides)
     Sweet, warm and smoky, Vetiver is distilled from the roots of a tall grass that has been revered for centuries in India for its cooling, nourishing, and centering quality.  Vetiver is an earthy scent that, when diffused, will ground scattered thinking, soothe irritability, anger, and hysteria.  It is good for both PMS and menopause because it regulates hormone production.
     In massage, Vetiver is useful for people who are oversensitive to outside influences, for emotional, mental, and physical burnout, for nervous tension, and neurotic behavior.

• Properties - tonic, sedative, strengthens and tones the nervous system.

• Blends well with - Frankincense, Geranium Grapefruit, Jasmine, Rose, Rosewood, Sandalwood, and Ylang Ylang, and is a base note.

     Ylang Ylang  (Cananga odorata)
     This exotic scent is very sweet, heady, and euphoric.  It is distilled from the flowers of a tall tropical tree native to Southeast Asia.  In Indonesia, it is traditional for newlywed couples to find these blossoms spread on their marriage bed.  Ylang Ylang is sensual, relaxing, and uplifting.  It has been an important ingredient in exotic perfume, and is best known therapeutically as an aphrodisiac, releasing emotional blocks that prevent sexual enjoyment.
     Ylang Ylang reduces rapid breathing and heart beat, lowers high blood pressure, helps PMS and epilepsy.  It is a very long-lasting scent to add to perfumes, or to scent drawers and linens.  It is moisturizing and balancing for both dry and oily skin.

• Properties - euphoric, aphrodisiac, calming, enhancing to feminine energy.

• Combines well with - Bergamot, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Neroli, Rose, Vetiver, Sandalwood.  It is a base note.

• Precautions - overuse could cause headaches in some people.