Essential Guide to Lesser-Known Essential Oils
Many people are familiar, at least somewhat, with the healing
properties of lavender, peppermint and tea tree essential oils – for good
reason, as these oils offer a great deal of benefit. However, there are a
multitude of essential oils out there that do not receive as much attention,
and many people are unaware that some of them even exist.
We wanted to create a sampling of five essential oils that
you may not know much about. The following five oils, while lesson common, can
put a new spin on your aromatherapy sessions, and may do wonders for your
health via massage and pressure point applications.
Some of these oils can be used internally, provided you
choose a food-grade, high quality variety, however, it is safest to consult a
natural health professional before going this route.
Bergamot
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) essential oil is extracted from
the bergamot citrus fruit, which is widely grown in the Mediterranean region
and thought to be a hybrid of either lemon or citron and sour orange. It has a
sweet citrus scent, and when used in aromatherapy, it can help alleviate
depression, reduce stress and boost overall mood.
This oil has antiseptic properties, and is great for skin
conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and oily skin. It can also be used
to disinfect minor wounds and cold sores. When applied topically, or used as a
dietary supplement, it can stimulate digestion, and also boost liver and spleen
function, encouraging the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Additionally, bergamot essential oil has been proven to
possess antibacterial properties. A 2006
study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology tested the effects of several essential oils and essential
oil vapors against various forms of bacteria, including Staphyloccocus aureus,
E. coli and Campylobacter jeujuni.
The authors wrote, “bergamot was the most effective of the
oils tested… Results suggest the possibility that citrus EOs [essential oils],
particularly bergamot, could be used as a way of combating the growth of common
causes of food poisoning.”
Note: Consult a health professional before using bergamot if you
are pregnant. Do not expose skin that has received an application of bergamot
to direct sunlight for 48 hours.
Cistus
Cistus (Cistus ladanifer) essential oil comes from the leaves
and branches of the flowering plant also known as rock rose, labdanum and Rose
of Sharon. It has a sweet aroma reminiscent of honeyed fruit, and is wonderful
in aromatherapy for its calming, centering properties that can help you let go
of built-up, unresolved tension.
Cistus has antiseptic, astringent and antimicrobial
properties, and is effective at stopping minor bleeding and disinfecting
wounds. It may also help to ease hemorrhoids and aid in healing bruises. It is
also sometimes used as an anti-aging serum, as it can help to improve the look
of skin, smooth wrinkles and reduce the appearance of scar tissue.
This fragrant oil is known as an immune system stimulator,
and can help to fight off colds, coughs and flus, as well as urinary tract and
bladder infections. It has also been traditionally used to normalize menstrual
bleeding, improve circulation and ease various types of inflammation and
tension.
A 1997
study published in the journal Plant Disease found that extracts of Cistus ladanifer displayed antifungal
activity against Botrytis cinerea spores. Botrytis cinerea is a type of plant
fungus which causes gray mold on various types of crops, most commonly grapes.
Note: Cistus is a very gentle oil, however, internal use is not
recommended for children under six years of age.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) essential oil is steam distilled
from the wood of the Cedar tree. This oil has a warming, uplifting, woody
scent, and is a great oil to use for meditation. Native Americans traditionally
used this oil in various spiritual practices; it can be very grounding and
calming to the nervous system.
This essential oil is a great skincare companion, as it can
help control excess skin oil. It can also help to clear up acne and dermatitis.
Cedarwood has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and using it in massage can
help to ease the pain of arthritis and rheumatism, as well as soothe sore
joints and muscles after a workout.
It also has anti-spasmodic properties, which contribute to
the alleviation of asthma, as well as restless leg syndrome. The sedative
properties of cedarwood can help to curb insomnia and provide a deeper, more
restful sleep. This oil may also help to lower blood pressure.
Cedarwood has also been used for detoxification of the blood,
regulating menstruation, and relieving coughs and congestion. When using it as
part of a massage or before meditation, try rubbing it on the bottoms of your
feet for a feeling of all-around calm and connection to the earth.
Note: Cedarwood oil is not to be taken internally. Pregnant women
should not use this oil.
Juniper
Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum, or Juniperus osteosperma)
essential oil is obtained by steam-distilling the fruits, needles and wood of
the juniper tree. It has a crisp, earthy aroma, and has significant properties
in detoxification. One of its methods of detox is attained by inducing sweat,
which allows certain toxins to be released through the skin’s pores. In this
way, it can aid in a healthy complexion.
This essential oil has diuretic properties, and is linked to
urinary tract health, as well as detoxifying heavy metals and uric acid from
the body. It is anti-inflammatory in nature, and has been used to improve
circulation. Juniper oil can also help to relieve various types of cramping,
including menstrual cramps, and its aroma stimulates the nervous system,
helping to relieve depression and fatigue.
A 2003
study published in Phytotherapy Research found that juniper essential oil possesses antibacterial and
antifungal properties.
Note: This oil may be harsh to sensitive skin, and should thus be
diluted. It should not be used by small children, pregnant women or individuals
with kidney problems.
Marjoram
Marjoram (Origanum majorana) essential oil comes from the
leaves of the marjoram plant, which is native to the Mediterranean region and
is often used as a spice in recipes. It has a slightly spicy, potent aroma, and
is warming and soothing in both aromatherapy and massage. It is associated with
supporting cognitive health, and may also help to relieve headaches, especially
those caused by tension.
When used in a massage, marjoram can ease the pain of sore
muscles. It may also help to relieve other types of pain, caused by
inflammation, seasonal illnesses or other causes. This oil has antispasmodic
properties, and can alleviate cramps and muscle spasms, making it a great
workout companion.
Marjoram helps to improve circulation, and may expand the
blood vessels, lowering blood pressure as well as the risk of heart attack and
stroke. It can also improve digestion, and helps relieve digestive ailments
such as nausea and stomach discomfort.
This oil has been found to have antibacterial, antiviral and
antifungal properties. A 2005 study published
in Food
Research International found
that extracts of marjoram were effective in combating food-borne bacteria and
fungus. It is sometimes diluted and used as a flavoring in cooking.
Note: Marjoram essential oil should be diluted, and should not be
used on small children or pregnant women.
The above-mentioned oils are just a small taste of the vast
array of essential oils just waiting to be discovered. Next time you are
picking up a bottle of your go-to oil, ask about an essential oil you’ve never
heard of. It could become your new favorite.
-The Alternative Daily
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