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The essential oil bergamot is cold-pressed from the rind of a citrus fruit, Citrus bergamia. Whilst the majority of oil is produces by mechanical means, the finest quality oil is actually hand-pressed. The fruit looks like a small, round, yellowish orange but it is much too bitter to eat as it it, even at its ripest … Read moreAromatherapy: The Magic of Bergamot
The type of chamomile most often used in aromatherapy is called Roman chamomile (Anthemis noblis), which is also known as Chamaemelum nobile, or ‘noble chamomile’. The oil’s colour varies from clear to very pale blue. German chamomile (Matricaria recutica) is the other type used in aromatherapy, which has a rich, dark blue to green colour and … Read moreAromatherapy: The Magic of Chamomile
There are two types of marjoram essential oil. The one most commonly used in aromatherapy, Origanum marjorana, better known as ‘sweet’ marjoram, is the oil referred to throughout this website. The other essential oil, Origanum vulgare, is more closely related to thyme and oregano, and although sometimes used for aromatherapy, this has different properties and is only … Read moreAromatherapy: The Magic of Marjoram
Lavender can take much of the credit for the revival and interest in aromatherapy today. At different stages in history lavender has been valued for its impressive healing powers and it is these healing properties that make it one of the most important essential oils. Not only is it a natural antibiotic, antiseptic, anti-depressant, sedative … Read moreAromatherapy: The Magic of Lavender
Aromatherapy has recently started to become increasingly popular with all age groups. Children and grandparents alike adore the fresh, fruity fragrance of mandarin, and the whole family will certainly appreciate the decongestant power of eucalyptus. To gradually build up your own aromatherapy medicine chest, choose a wide range of oils to treat health and first … Read moreAromatherapy: Oils for All the Family
Most essential oils contain healing ingredients of one kind or another, but some are more helpful in aiding your recovery from minor injuries, such as cuts and sprains, than others. If you are unfortunate enough to suffer a minor mishap that breaks or grazes the skin, the first thing to do it to disinfect the … Read moreAromatherapy: Using your Oils for First Aid
Many people use scents to make their living or working space more inviting, both to themselves and to visitors. Long-term additions, such as flowers or pot pourri, are always worth considering, while oil burners and room sprays can provide handy short-term fixes if you are entertaining or need to banish a bad smell. Incense and … Read moreAromatherapy: Making Room Fresheners
Inhaling therapeutic oils from a vapour rub is one of the most effective ways of relieving the symptoms of colds and flu and tackling minor respiratory infections. A blend of warming, expectorant essential oils in petroleum jelly, ointment or in a vegetable carrier oil will help to ease congestion. The addition of antiseptic oils such … Read moreAromatherapy: Making Vapour Rubs
Ointments contain fats, usually in the form of wax dissolved in oil, but no water. They sit on the skin without penetrating it, making a watertight protection from infection, as healing and soothing oils are slowly absorbed into the skin. Heal and soothe Make your own aromatherapy balms and ointments at home from simple, natural … Read moreAromatherapy: Making Ointments and Balms
Many essential oils contain active ingredients that can benefit your hair and scalp, helping to improve dry or greasy hair, combat dandruff and prevent head lice. Why not turn your hand to making your own aromatherapy hair products? Pre-wash Treatments Essential oil shampoos do not foam like regular shampoos, so you may prefer to use … Read moreAromatherapy: Making Shampoos