Essential oils provide a fantastic natural alternative to common ailments we see at home. The actions of essentialoils are broad, ranging from topical antiseptics and anti-inflammatories to analgesics, digestive system tonics,and anti-depressants. While essential oils should not be a substitute for professional medical care, they canbe successfully employed for many minor complaints, and as adjuncts to other therapies.

Here we will have a brief look at ten essential oils which may comprise the ‘basic home care kit’.While by no means exhaustive, this list will go a long way to providing effective (and often pleasant!) treatmentsfor you and your family for things like cuts and scrapes, sunburn, digestive troubles, stress related conditionsand more. In the second article, we will cover specific applications and uses of each oil.

Oil #1: Tea Tree Essential Oil

When first examined for it’s antiseptic properties, Tea Tree essential oil was found to be 100 timesmore powerful than carbolic acid - the medical standard at the time. Tea tree has an extremely broadrange of antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties that have been confirmed by modern scientific research.Often used topically on small wounds, Tea Tree is also commonly found in oral hygiene preparations, and canalso be effectively employed for Candida, athlete’s foot and acne, among other things.

Oil #2: Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender has often been called the ‘medicine chest in a bottle’ for its broad range of applications.Every home should keep Lavender on hand, even if no other oil is used, as it is so very effective on burns.It’s anti-inflammatory action is responsible for the beginnings of modern aromatherapy, as Dr. Jean Valnetdiscovered Lavender’s healing properties after being burned in a laboratory accident. Lavender is consideredto speed wound healing and reduce scarring. The oil is also pleasantly calming, and can be used to reduce stressin a variety of situations - a commonly used technique is to apply Lavender oil ‘neat’ (undiluted)to the soles of the feet of patients recovering from almost any ailment.

Oil #3: Chamomile Essential Oil

Ah, the great tension reliever, Chamomile oil. This extremely gentle essential oil is useful for a wide varietyof nervous conditions, and is often indicated for cases of stress in children (including teething and general ‘crankiness’).Rubbing into the solar plexus is a commonly used application if that is where one tends to ‘hold tension’.Chamomile essential oil is available in to varieties, German or Blue Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The Romanvariety is most often used for stress relief, whereas the German variety has the added bonus of being an extremelyeffective anti-inflammatory.

Oil #4: Peppermint Essential Oil

An excellent digestive tonic, Peppermint essential oil can sooth many stomach complaints. For the traveler,it’s effectiveness on calming motion sickness can be of great help. Further, at least eight controlledstudies have shown Peppermint oil to be effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a painfulcondition of the intestines. Beyond it’s support of the digestive system, Peppermint is delightfullystimulating to the mind, brightening and sharpening mental focus. Finally, Peppermint is considered by someto be a more effective insect repellent than citronella when used on the body (rather than in the surroundingair).

Oil #5: Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Another essential oil with a broad range of properties, Eucalyptus is most often used for respiratory conditions,being useful in clearing congestion with coughs and colds. However, it’s effects are certainly not limitedto the airways - because of it’s broad range of effects, it has been called the aromatherapists ‘designeroil’. Eucalyptus oil can cool the body in Summer (or due to fever - use in a compress), and supportthe immune system in Winter. Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most staphylococcus bacteria, again being supportiveof bronchial infections. It is considered equally effective in cases of cystitis, candida, and sunburn, toname a few, as well as being an insect repellent.

Oil #6: Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium (sometimes known as ‘Geranium Rose’) works wonderfully on both physiological and psychologicallevels. It’s floral aroma is brightening and uplifting, while also working as a sedative. Malte Hozzelhas made this statement regarding this oil : “Geranium’s vital, sensual presence is not subtle,but direct & unavoidable, making it one of the oils of choice for aphrodisiac qualities. (Geranium EssentialOil) inspires natural beauty & enjoyment, uplifts instantly & “tonifies” the mind & intellectin a powerful, nearly demanding attitude. Mobilizing hidden creative & emotional reserves, helping us torise to our own earthly & spiritual identify. A fiery beauty for the spells of all worlds.” Particularlynoted for it’s effect on female physiologic conditions, Geranium oil can be effective for menopausalproblems, uterine and breast complaints.

Oil #7: Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil is an effective physical and mental stimulant, whether used in a diffuser or in a morningbath. It’s slightly spicy, rather than floral aroma, has a warming effect particularly useful for arthriticjoints and other muscular complaints. It also has a long history of treatment for colds and flu - Rosemarywas a component of ‘Four Thieves Vinegar’, which robbers rubbed upon their bodies to prevent infectionwhen up to no good during the plague years of the middle ages. Also, Rosemary is the essential oil most oftenassociated with improving hair growth in cases of Alopecia.

Oil #8: Thyme Essential Oil

Thyme oil is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic and diuretic, though it should be employed withgreat care. There are many types of Thyme oil available, but only the ‘linalol’ chemotype is appropriatefor use with children; all varieties should be diluted prior to topical application. Given the precautions,Thyme can be a first line of defense in cases of flu, being used in a room diffuser. It also supports eliminationof toxic wastes from the body (particularly noted for excessive uric acid), and it’s warming qualitycan eliminate mucous and phlegm. It’s application for the digestive system is that of a powerful anti-parasitic,and for the muscular system, it can be helpful for rheumatic aches and pains. Thyme oil may also be supportivein cases of hair loss.

Oil #9: Lemon Essential Oil

A recent study on test-taking college students showed the diffusion of Lemon oil into a room improved testscores more than any other oil. In addition to it’s mind-brightening qualities, it can also disinfectroom air and act as a natural deodorant. Lemon has been noted to support liver function, and is also commonlyused to assist in weight loss and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon adds a pleasant top note, and can createa synergistic effect with other oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used as both a fragrance and flavoringagent.

Oil #10: Clove Essential Oil

The power of Clove essential oil is noted upon the first sensing of the aroma - it is quite strong,sharp and earthy. Clove oil has been found to be the strongest anti-oxidant of any essential oil, and is acomponent of ‘longevity’ formulas. It is also an extremely potent antibacterial, effective againsta broader range of microbes than any other oil except perhaps Oregano - Clove oil has even been employedto sterilize surgical instruments. Clove also has analgesic properties, and can be used to temporarily reducethe pain of toothache. Clove oil (or ground cloves) is also a component of Dr. Huda Clark’s anti-parasiteprotocol, helping eliminate parasites from one’s digestive system. This is a very powerful oil whichshould be diluted to 1% or less for topical application.

So, there we have a possible ‘top ten’ essential oils for the home medicine chest, a selectionwith an extremely broad range of uses for common ailments seen in a family setting. It is important to notethat all essential oils are powerful, and they should be treated with caution and respect. Always refer toa trusted source before making specific applications of any oil, as many can be irritating or possibly toxicif used incorrectly.

Misty Rae Cech, ND is a naturopath practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She employs a broad array of natural therapies with her clients, including flower essences, essential oils, herbs and more. She is also the owner of http://www.ananda-aromatherapy.com.

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Aromatherapy is the use of oils extracted from various, primarily fragrant, plants to aid in the relief of a range of physical or mental discomforts or illnesses. These oils, commonly referred to as “essential oils” are also used to enhance or encourage positive responses in the user. These oils may be used by direct application or by inhaling the aromas, hence the name “aromatherapy”. The inhaled aromas can be dispersed by candles prepared with the essential oils, by applying the oil to some object, such as a handkerchief or pillowcase, by spraying a mix of the essential oil and water into the air, or by means of a “diffuser”. A diffuser is a device gnenerally available from essential oil providers which uses heat to disperse molecules of the chosen essential oil into the air.

Although long used in other parts of the world, such as the East and Middle East, aromatherapy is essentially new to Europe and the United States. In the last few years, in addition to an increase in the numbers of aromatherapy practitioners, a broad interest and corresponding retail market in aromatherapy, essential oils, and related items such as candles, perfumes, and diffusers has sprung up. It is now very easy for someone knowing little or nothing about aromatherapy to buy the necessary supplies and reap the benefits of aromatherapy.

EFFECTS OF ESSENTIAL OILS AND AROMATHERAPY

Overall, the effects may be divided into two basic groups. Some essential oils have actual physical effects. For example, eucalyptus oil can be inhaled to help clear sinuses and the respiratory tract. This would obviously relieve some symptoms of an upper respiratory infection (URI). Some oils may be used topically (directly on the skin, where they would usually be absorbed by the body, or on a wound) to possibly relieve swelling or fight certain infections.

Secondly, aromatherapy, usually thru the inhaling of the molecules of the essential oil, can affect moods and emotions. Since feelings and emotions are more and more appearing to be hard-wired to the health of the body, it is beginning to become apparent that improvements in such areas as moods can affect the actual health condition of the body in addition to simply making the individual feel happier, or more energetic, or more alert. Studies have shown, for example, that the status of someone’s emotional state can affect the ability of their immune system to fight off infection.

ESSENTIAL OILS IN OTHER PRODUCTS

Essential oils can be used in other products such as perfumes, lotions, cleansers and other cosmetics and personal care items. Essential oils are even used in such common items as household cleaners and toothpaste. Many people even use essential oils with other elements to create their own products. One company even offers a Health, Home and Beauty Kit so that those interested in aromatherapy can use essential oils to “…create hundreds of blends for everything from women’s concerns to cleaning your bathroom tiles.”

SCIENTIFIC STUDY TENDS TO SUPPORT AROMATHERAPY

Being an alternative form of healthcare, aromatherapy was, until recently, looked down on by the traditional medical community. However, with the increasing tide of evidence of the importance of the mind-body connection in health, and with an increasing volume of empirical and anecdotal evidence, the scientific community has begun to accept aromatherapy and the affect of essential oils on health…at least to some extent.

In the last few years, researchers at the Kurume University School of Medicine in Japan, the University of Miami School of Medicine, the University of Alaska, and the University of Pittsburgh, to name a few, have shown positive results in subjects through the use of aromatherapy. Subjects have experienced improved mental and physical functions after the use of essential oils. Subjective measurements have indicated positive experiences in participants, while objective measurements, such as electroencephalograms (EEG) have borne out these results as well.

Participants have used essential oils to improve their immune systems, improve athletic ability, increase alertness, ease depression, be more effective students, and to quit smoking.

PRECAUTIONS BEFORE USING ESSENTIAL OILS

While essential oils are natural products and may be inhaled directly with no harm, you should always be careful to merely inhale the aroma rising from the container, much as you would inhale the scent of a cologne or perfume. Do not place essential oils directly into nasal passages. Using a diffuser, candle, or item with the oil on it to release the molecules are the most common ways of experiencing the actual aroma.

Essential oils are stronger than what would be experienced when sniffing a rose, for example, so it is best to ease into their use. Essential oils usually come in small vials or bottles and are used a drop or two at a time. Products from various suppliers may have different concentrations, so the product from A may only need a drop while that from B needs two drops.

Take time off. Prolonged contact with the oils can result in allergic reactions in some cases or even mild toxic reactions. Always follow your distributor’s recommendations and make sure you have a distributor who can and will give warnings and recommendations.

If using a product claiming to be an aromatherapy product by virtue of its ingredients, always check to make sure that it is actually using essential oils. While the smell which reminds us of the fragrant flower or plant it copies might produce positive feelings in most of us, the genuine essential oil itself will be more effective.

Unless you are under the guidance of a skilled, experienced aromatherapist, you should never ingest essential oils. Children and pregnant women should never ingest essential oils.

Lastly, while essential oils used in topical applications or inhaled during aromatherapy can certainly produce beneficial results, they should never be used in place of professional medical treatment.

The author is retired from the Army after 21 years of service. He has worked as an accountant, purchasing agent, optical lab manager, restaurant manager, instructor and long-haul, over-the-road truck driver. He has been a member of Mensa for several years, and has written and published poetry, essays, and articles on various subjects for the last 40 years. He has been interested in and has been studying health, fitness and natural health products since the early 70’s. You may visit his herbal website at http://eherbsstore.com, or http://mynsp.com/herb_health Don’t forget to take the Free Health Analysis while there.

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Essential oils are pure aromatic plant essences - they are distilled from flowers, fruit, leaves, resins, roots, seeds, and wood. The are used for their healing properties the world over - in , for example, they are only available through licensed, qualified parishioners. In the United States, we have free access to essential oils - but with this comes with some important cautions: Only some of the essential oils available are suitable for children; others are not suitable for children and some are even dangerous to children (children with epilepsy should not come in contact with stimulating essential oils).

When used correctly however, essential oils can be of great benefit, and will not conflict with your child’s medically prescribed drugs. Always research the oil of choice thoroughly before using with your infant or child - ask advice from a qualified practitioner, or see the references at the end of this article.

That said, essential oils can be a wonderful way of supporting your child’s health, happiness and well-being. Essential oils can be very therapeutic and nurturing to both your child and you, the caregiver. Essential oils are used externally (on the outside of the body) in your child’s bath, body lotions, oils, creams, gels, compresses, foot baths, or in a oil warmer. The effects of aromatherapy will generally fall into one of three main categories: 1) Assisting in healing from minor illnesses and accidents, 2) Supporting your child’s overall sense of well-being, and 3) Assisting your child in getting quality rest.

When using essential oils with your child, it is imperative that you find a reputable supplier of therapeutic-grade essential oils, using organic or wildcrafted varieties when possible. Synthetic copies of oils commonly used in perfumery are not appropriate, and may even be harmful to your child’s health. To maintain efficacy, essential oils should be kept in dark amber or cobalt glass containers, in a dark and cool location, away from the child’s access. Wooden storage boxes from craft or ‘Pier One’ type stores can make a nice container for the bottles.

Methods of Using Essential Oils

There are two methods of using essential oils with your child - INHALATION: through a diffuser, nebulizer, or adding to a humidifier reservoir, and TOPICAL APPLICATION: diluting the essential oil in a carrier oil and applying topically. Adding essential oils to a bath combines the two methods, though we will cover it under topical application.

For topical application, essential oils are diluted in varying strengths depending on the use and age of your child. The concentration can vary from one drop of essential oil per tablespoon of carrier oil, to a couple of drops per teaspoon of carrier added to a drawn bath, to an equal ratio of carrier and essential oil applied directly to your child’s feet (as in the case of gentle Lavender). In other words, there is a huge variation in dilution levels depending on the circumstances. Mamas, do your research and then trust your instinct. Only you and your child baby know exactly what is right for your situation.

General dilution rate guidelines of essential oils in one ounce of carrier oil:

Age of Child and amount of Essential Oil per One Ounce Carrier Oil for Topical/Massage Application:

Newborn (Consult primary care physician before use)

1-3 drops essential oil / ounce

2-6 months

1-3 drops essential oil / ounce

6-12 months

1-4 drops essential oil / ounce

1-4 years (unless very small)

5-8 drops essential oil / ounce

6-7 years

5-10 drops essential oil / ounce

9-12 years

5-12 drops essential oil / ounce

12 years to young adult

10-15 drops essential oil / ounce

DO NOT USE AN ESSENTIAL OIL NEAT (undiluted ) on children’s skin, unless indicated to do so for a specific condition. If your child has very sensitive skin, it is important to test a small area before using a new single oil or blend. Keep essential oils away form the eyes. When using citrus oils - orange, bergamot, lemon, tangerine, mandarin, and lime - do not use where the skin will be exposed to sunlight for the next 12 hours. These oils are considered ‘phototoxic’, and can react from the sun’s rays. They may be used in a bath, however, where they will be washed off the skin when the bath is done.

Essential oils are not to be taken orally (by mouth). When your child is taking medications, reduce the amount of essential oil by half the amount recommended for their age group.

Carrier Oils for Children

Sweet Almond oil is generally regarded as the safest and best overall carrier oil for use with babies and children. Apricot kernel oil is also considered extremely safe with children over 6. Jojoba oil can be added at about 10% concentration for any blend - it has a soothing effect on the skin and is good for hair.

Topical Application - Nurturing Touch Massage Recipes

There is nothing better for any child than the loving, nurturing touch of a parent. A gentle hug, a smile, a kiss on the cheek all reassure the child and help the parent and child to bond. These everyday forms of connection are instinctual and children thrive from it.

Research shows that massage can help children’s growth both physically and emotionally. In hospitals, studies done with premature baby’s show that touch is an essential aspect of the children’s ability to thrive.

Using aromatherapeutic nurturing touch massage can be therapeutic to both the child and the parent. Using a light, conscientious tough you can massage your child’s feet, arms, hands, back, abdomen, and even legs. The massage should always be done with loving intention and the work is done in the direction that the blood flows-from ankles to leg; from wrist to shoulder, etc.

Here are a few suggested blends for this wonderful method - each is in one (1) ounce of Sweet Almond oil:

Restful Sleep - 4 drops lavender, 2 drops Roman Chamomile

Happy Child - 3 drops Rose, 1 drop Neroli

Calm and Relaxed - 3 drops Petitgrain, 3 drops Neroli

Emotional Nurturing - 1 drop Rose, 1 drop Vanilla, 2 drops Lavender

For a Baby oil blend, to be used as a moisturizer OR massage oil (note: the frequent washing of a baby’s skin actually makes it difficult for them to retain vitamin C; application of a quality skin oil will help them keep adequate supplies of this important nutrient).

1 ounce of organic sweet almond oil or hazelnut oil

1 drop of pure Lavender essential oil

1 drop of Vanilla essential oil

OR

1 ounce of organic sweet almond oil

2 drops of pure Lavender essential oil

1 drop of pure Chamomile (German) essential oil

The above blends can also be added to the bath. One teaspoon with the following amount of essential oils added can be added AFTER the bath is filled, per the age of the child: 3-5 years, 2 drops; 6-8 years, 3 drops; 8-11 years, 5 drops. Perhaps the easiest way to do this would be to make a full strength blend (without carrier oil) of your choice, then dilute as needed for the application.

Inhalation of Essential Oils

For inhalation, one can apply one or two drops to a handkerchief and inhale, or add oils to a water misting bottle or humidifier. Calming essential oils that may be used are Lavender (recommended for sleep - one to four drops can be placed under the pillow), Mandarin, Roman Chamomile, Ho Wood (an ecologically friendly replacement for Rosewood), Tangerine, Petitgrain, Vanilla, and Neroli. Use these oils singly, create your own blend, or use one of the body oil blends above without the carrier oil. A few drops per quart of water in a mister sprayed throughout a room or added humidifier resevoir will do.

For an anti-anxiety blend: Try 5 drops bergamot, 1 drop lavender and 3 drops geranium - dilute to 10 drops per

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