It is valued in aromatherapy for its cleansing effects on the mind, body and spirit. Laurel Bay, a native of the Mediterranean, has been a symbol of wisdom and peace for thousands of years.

Folklore of Bay Essential Oils

Bay were said to be sacred to the God Apollo in honor of his first love, the nymph Daphne. She was transformed into a Bay Laurel Tree by her father so she could not be caught by Apollo.

The Bay tree has always been an ancient symbol of wisdom and peace and cultural excellence. The Bay symbolizes sporting excellence at the Olympic Games a tradition that has been passed down for thousands of years. Bay replaced the Olive branch in this role because of the influence of the Pythian Games at Delphi, which were dedicated to Apollo.

Lovers in ancient times exchanged bows of bay as a symbol of their undying affection. Sprigs of bay are still exchanged in bouquets at European weddings.

Lifting mind, body and spirit with Bay Essential Oil

Bay is warming to the emotions. It is mildly narcotic and euphoric, helping to lift the spirits. It’s strengthening and supporting action helps to inspire confidence and overcome shyness. Bay oil is purifying oil that treats cellulite, settles the stomach and clears dandruff. Bay oil can boost circulation with its warming action. When used for massage it’s beneficial for treating muscular aches, especially when combined with Rose and Juniper oil. Bay’s distinctive aroma blends well with flowery oils such as rose and lavender.

Active ingredients of Bay oil

Bay contains a rich mixture of active ingredients, including alcohols, esters and terpene.  Phenols give Bay oil it’s warming up properties. They stimulate the nervous system, activate healing and are highly antiseptic. Oils such as bay may irritate your skin if used in high concentrations. The principal phenol in Bay is eugenol. Also found in clove and cinnamon, eugenol gives them a spicy, clove like fragrance.

“Use Bay on your skin only in low concentrations as it can sometimes cause irritation.”

Uses of Bay Essential Oil

Hair and Beauty Tonic

Bay is a useful cosmetic aid for air, skin and nails.

For problem hair make an anti-septic tonic to clear a flaky, greasy scalp:

• 3 drops bay oil
• 4 drops Cedar wood
• 4 drops Rosemary
• 3 tablespoons unscented shampoo

Spicy, manly soap:

• 2 drops bay oil
• 2 drops Clary Sage
• 7 drops lime
• 1 drop nutmeg

Leave in a mold to set. Handful grated, unscented soap

Hand Care Cream to condition the scalp:

• 10 drops bay oil
• 10 drops lemon
• 5 drops cedar wood
• 2 tablespoons Shea butter
• 8 teaspoons jojoba oil

To strengthen nails:

• 3 drops bay oil
• 3 drops sandalwood
• 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil

Massage into your nails

Circulation Booster

Use bay’s warming and stimulating actions to jump start your circulation. For aches and pains, stimulate local circulation to help you dispel toxins.

• 2 tablespoons sweet almond
• 2 drops bay
• 2 drops Rosemary
• 2 drops ginger

All three oils are warming and stimulating.

Combat cellulite, Boost circulation and lymphatic drainage with a brisk massage:

• 2 tablespoons grape seed oil
• 1 drop bay
• 2 drops geranium
• 4 drops lemon

Focus the mind

Bay inspires confidence and even emotional exhaustion. An uplifting massage blend use 4 drops of Bay, bergamot and basil oils in 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil. Use on the upper chest, back and shoulders.

To help concentration make a spray mist:

• 6 drops bay
• 6 drops pine
• 6 drops sandalwood
• 6 drops coriander
• 1 cup pure water

Spray liberally when lethargy sets in. Bay and pine sharpen the mind. Coriander and sandalwood combat lethargy and fatigue. You can use this spray all around your home, on your clothes and your body.

Uses for Essential Oils are not only extracted from flowers but are botanical extracts from various plant materials including herbs, trees and other parts of plants. The essential oils are extracted using a variety of methods depending on the material that is being used. The resulting liquids are highly aromatic. Essential Oils appear to be expensive but they are highly concentrated so it only takes a few drops.

Essential oils have a long history and have been used by many prominent holistic practitioners. These oils are different than other non-essential oils. The essential oils will evaporate if left open and have therapeutic properties to promote health. Essential oils are not the same as perfume or fragrance oils. Where essential oils are derived from the true plants, perfume oils are artificially created fragrances or contain artificial substances and do not offer the therapeutic benefits that essential oils offer.

Different Methods of Using Essential Oils

The oils can be used during massage where the oil is absorbed through the skin and vaporization where the molecules enter the bloodstream via the lungs. Essential oils can be taken medicinally but you must know what you are doing before taking them internally. It is best to consult a professional practitioner.

The many uses of Essential Oils

• Air Freshener
• Bathing
• Compresses
• Foot and Hand Bathes
• Showers
• Hair Care
• Massage
• Skin Care
• Vaporization

Essential oils are often used by diluting them with carrier oil (sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, grape seed oil) and then applying this blend to the skin for absorption. Essential Oils are usually sold for individual use in very small bottles. Essential oils can vary greatly in quality and price. Factors that can affect the quality and price of the oil include the rarity of the botanical, the country of origin and growing/climate conditions, quality standards of the distiller, and how much oil is produced by the botanical.

Essential oils can often be purchased as blends of several essential oils. The advantage if it is a blend of pure essential oils is that you can save from having to buy every essential oil individually. The disadvantage is that you have no control over the blend by not mixing it yourself nor can you reliably mix the blend with other oils.

Carrier oils (also known as fixed oils and base oils)

Essential Oils must be diluted before they are used on the skin and this is done by using carrier oil. The essential oil is mixed with the carrier oil which dilutes the concentrated molecules and this also helps to spread the oil on the skin.

Common Carrier Oils

Almond oil – Aloe Vera oil – Apricot kernel oil

Avocado oil – Calendula oil – Evening primrose oil

Grape seed oil – Hazelnut oil – Jojoba oil

Macadamia oil – Rosehip oil – Sesame oil

Walnut oil – Wheat germ oil

Carrier oils should be extracted using the cold pressed method in which no external heat is used to force more oil out.

Diffusers are a great way to use Essential Oils:

Get Your Complete Line of Essential Oils:

The oil of basil is produced by steam distilling, resulting in a suite, spicy smell evocative of sunny Mediterranean vacations. Basil’s uplifting and strengthening effects make it valuable oil for treating anxiety and depression. Its restorative properties can also help treat stress and tension.

Powerful Decongestants

The anti-septic and anti-spasmodic in effect of basil make it a good abdominal massage oil for clearing intestinal infections. It is also helpful for treating painful digestive disorders. Basil’s decongestant action in a steam inhalation is a very effective remedy for cough and congestion. It also has a beneficial action on the respiratory tract and can restore sense of smell and taste.

Active ingredients of basil oil

Basil’s stimulating effect on the nervous system is due to high concentrations of alcohols. Monoterpene alcohols: these alcohols make up to 60% of basil oil. The principal compound active in the oil is linalol, which gives it a distinctive floral, spicy and slightly citrus aroma. Monoterpene alcohols are considered to be uplifting, warming and balancing. They also contain antibacterial, antiviral actions and stimulate the body’s defensive system to fight infections. Phenols and phenolic esters: basil contains menthol chavicol and eugenol. These help to stimulate the nervous system and strengthen the immune system.

Other ingredients: basil also contains traces of ketones, such as camphol and cineole, and terpenes such as pinene and ocimene.

Basil oil uses

Basil oil is a natural treatment for respiratory and digestive infections and can be used to create a refreshing body rub and a pick me up for work.

Basil for folklore

Basil is a sacred herb in many belief systems and has associations with different deities. According to Christian legend, basil grew on Christ’s tomb after his resurrection. Thoughts, some Greek Orthodox churches use basil to prepare holy water. This native herb is held in great reverence throughout India, where it is sacred to Krishna and Vishnu. It is cherished in Hindu homes, where it is believed to protect the family.

Energizing basil

Wake up the mind and body with stimulating, uplifting basil oil. For an invigorating aromatic start to the day, at 1 to 2 drops each of basil and bergamot oil to your shower gel in the morning. Wake up in the morning with an energizing basil body rub.

Bracing body rub

For an energizing and invigorating body rub, try adding five drops each of bergamot and geranium oil and two drops of basil oil to 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil.

Alertness boost

If you hit an afternoon energy slump in the office, give yourself a boost with two drops of basil oil and six drops of grapefruit oil in a room vaporizer.

Digestive and Respiratory Infections

Use basil’s potent purifying cleansing properties to combat infections. For upset stomachs, place a warm compress over the abdomen using a cloth soaked in hot water containing 2 to 3 drops each of clove and basil oil. Both contain eugenol, which is effective in treating diarrhea.

Relieve congestion and ease breathing within aromatic steam inhalation

Add 5 drops of lemon oil, 3 drops of lavender, and 2 drops of basil to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and inhaled deeply until the condition clears.

Calm a lingering cough or chest infection with a dry inhalation by adding 2 drops of basil, 4 drops of Rosemary, and 3 drops of lemon oil to a handkerchief. To relieve a tight chest, add lemon, lavender, and basil to hot water.

Uplifting Basil Oil

Treat the misery and lethargy of depression with balancing basil.

Relaxing Basil Bath

After a hectic day, have a relaxing basil bath. Add 5 drops of lavender, 2 drops of basil, and 3 drops of geranium.

Uplifting massage

Blend 2 drops of basil oil and 10 drops each of black pepper and bergamot oil in 2 tablespoons of grape seed oil for a massage to treat apathy and depression.

Revive the spirits

For a fragrance that will relieve nervous tension and lift the spirit, add 10 drops each of ginger and black pepper oil and 2 drops of basil oil to a room vaporizer or diffuser.

Spring cleaning

If you’re doing a spring cleaning of your home, cleanse the air with a room spray of basil oil. Simply add a few drops to a water spray and squirt into the center of the room a couple of times.

Diffusers are a great way to use Essential Oils:

Get Your Complete Line of Essential Oils:

You can harness the healing and uplifting qualities of plant fragrances to help you relax, unwind and even treat minor ailments.

You can find out simply and pleasurably just how beneficial aromatherapy can be by adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to the next bath that you take. You will notice the difference immediately. As you smell the relaxing fragrance of the oil surrounding you, its peacefulness and tranquility will lift your spirits, promote relaxation and soothe stress.

Aromatherapy is the art of healing with essential oils – distilled essences that have been extracted from plants. These can be used in massage and inhalation techniques, added to bathroom products such as soap, skin creams, bath gel and shampoos, and also used to create room fragrances.

Aromatherapy also involves the use of incense (in loose, powdered form or as Joss sticks), potpourri, steam inhalations, scented candles and fresh flowers.

How Aromatherapy Works

When you breathe through the nose we smell the fragrance, we take its healing molecules into our bodies. Heating essential oils and burning Joss sticks vaporizes the oil so that we can breathe in its molecules more easily. Essential oils applied to the skin are absorbed into bloodstream to take immediate effect. Relaxing in a soothing, fragrant bath will improve your mood as well as your skin.

Getting started with aromatherapy

You’ll no doubt want to start buying yourself the oils and other equipment you need to put your new knowledge into practice such as incense, joss stick, and an essential Oil Diffuser.

Essential and blended oils

The mostly commonly used aromatherapy equipment is essential oil. You can buy small bottles of oil from many stores and shopping malls. Undiluted oils can seem expensive, but you need to use only a few drops in most applications. Undiluted oils can be used in vaporizers, steam inhalation and bath, and can be diluted in a carrier base, such as avocado oil or unscented shampoo, for use in massage, shampoo, toning and moisturizing.

Diluted up to 10 drops of oil in 30 ml of carrier base before using it on your skin. Rub your massage oil into tired muscles to feel an instant benefit. Some stores sell ready blended massage oils. These don’t need to be diluted, but aren’t suitable for use in vaporizers.

Scented candles, candle scented with essential oils are a great way to get relaxing, stimulating and sensual aromas into your atmosphere. Scented candles work better on your mood and emotions than on your body. Their effects are subtle and work well over a long period of time, such as a quiet evening at home, rather than providing quick results. Fragrances such as Centinela and lavender are excellent insect repellent. Use candles scented with these aromas while you’re sitting outside on a warm summer evening. A more intense way to fragrance your environment is to use essential oil in a candle vaporizer, to do this, half filled the vaporizer bowl with water and add up to five drops of oil. Light the candle beneath the bowl. Scented candles fill your surroundings with gentle relaxing aroma.

Joss sticks and incense, another excellent way to feel your room with uplifting sense is to burn incense or Joss sticks. The fragrances used to make Joss sticks and incense are usually very expensive to buy as oils. This is simply a more economical way of enjoying their benefits. Light Joss stick and incense beside a scented candle, vaporizer, or other Joss sticks to blend different aromas. A Joss sticks burn, they will leave behind hot ash, always be sure to place your Joss stick on a surface that will not be damaged, or by a special holder that will catch the ash as it falls. You can also stand your Joss picks up in a potted plant or dish of sand. Incense is especially useful for create aiding a very spiritual atmosphere for meditation, prayer or yoga.

Decorative glass beads, a potted plant or window box, or a small glass of sand all make ideal Joss stick holders.
Diffusers are a great way to use Essential Oils:

Get Your Complete Line of Essential Oils:

History of Aromatherapy

Herbal oils have been used for centuries in many cultures to treat illness and promote well being and beauty. Herbal oils were first made by infusing herbs in castor oil or olive oil. The modern day method is by distillation.

Key Principles of Aromatherapy

Essential oils are extracted from the roots, flowers, leaves, and stalks of plants as well as from certain trees. Ideally the essential oils should be derived from organic plants that are free from chemicals. Plant oils can be broken down into chemicals such as alcohols, ketones and phenols which have therapeutic properties. You must understand the use of these plants because they can be toxic when used incorrectly. The scents released from the oils act on the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that influences the hormonal system. This can influence mood, metabolism, stress levels and libido.

Common Essential Oils

German Chamomile

Properties and Effects

Antispasmodic– Sedative- Anti-Inflammatory- Anti-Allergenic

Main Uses

Digestive disorders (Indigestion, gas, colic) – Nervous tension(Insomnia, headaches, pms)  -Skin Conditions(Acne, eczema)  – Allergies(Hay Fever, Asthma)

Precautions

Do not use during pregnancy – Can cause dermatitis in some cases

Clary Sage

Properties and Effects

Antispasmodic – Analgesic – Sedative

Main Uses

Digestive Disorders (Indigestion, gas) – Gynelogical Problems, Menstrual pain, pms) – Nervous Tension (Depression, anxiety, mental fatigue)

Precautions

Do not use during pregnancy – Avoid alcohol before and after use

Lavender

Properties and Effects

Sedative – Antidepressant – Antispasmodic – Antiseptic

Main Uses

Nervous Tension (Breathlessness, High Blood Pressure, palpitations, headaches) – Digestive Disorders (Diarrhea, colic, indigestion, gas) – Skin Conditions (Acne, burns, insect stings)

Peppermint

Properties and Effects

Antispasmodic – Stomach Settling – Decongestant

Main Uses

Digestive Disorders (Indigestion, Gas, Headaches, Migraines) – Respiratory Infections (Infections, Phlegm)

Precautions

Use Low dilution – Do not give to children under 12 – Do not use with other homeopathic remedies

Rosemary

Properties and Effects

Stimulant – Decongestant – Analgesic

Main Uses

Circulatory problems (Muscular aches and Pains) – Respiratory problems (Sinus Conditions, Phlegm) – Digestive Disorders – Nervous Tension (Headaches, Mental Fatigue, pms)

Precautions

Do not use during pregnancy – Do not use with high blood pressure – do not use with epilepsy

Sandalwood

Properties and Effects

Sedative – Antiseptic – Decongestant

Main Uses

Nervous Tension (Depression, Insomnia) – Genitourinary conditions (Cystitis) – Skin Conditions (Acne, Eczema) – Respiratory Conditions (Sore throats, Laryngitis, bronchitis)

Tea Tree

Properties and Effects

Antiseptic – Antifungal – Antibacterial

Main Uses

Respiratory Problems (Coughs, Cold, Phlegm) – Gynelogical Problems (Cystitis, Candidacies) – Skin Conditions (Acne, Cold Sores, Athletes foot, insect stings)

Self Help Aromatherapy

Use only pure essential oils free from additives and pay close attention to directions. Essential Oils can be used in massage but also can be used by inhaling, vaporized or added to baths. Inhaling can be very beneficial and fast acting due to the olfactory receptors have direct links to the brain. Vaporizers can be relaxing or invigorating depending on the oil used.