Historical Uses, Traditional Applications, and Modern benefits of Essential oils Part I

In this series on essential oil basics, we will be exploring various essential oils and their characteristics.

Essential oils have been becoming more popular in recent years. Almost every shampoo, lotion, and body treatment claims that the essential oils in their products will make you look younger, feel better, and cure you of everything from oily hair to sun damaged skin. For those who have wondered if these claims have any substance the answer is both yes and no. This series of blogs on essential oils is a basic guide for those who are interested in more information (rather than marketing.)

The three oils we will explore in this article are Mandarin, Lavender, and Peppermint.

Mandarin Citrus reticulata

Mandarin fruit’s name originates with the mandarins (Chinese bureaucrats) of Imperial China. It is said that mandarins were given as a traditional presents to them. It is native to southern China and the Far East, and was brought to Europe in 1805. It now grows in many countries including the USA. Aroma is intensely sweet, light and tangy. Encourages clarity, enthusiasm, and confidence.

Digestive system

Mandarin essential oil has tonic and stimulant properties on the stomach and liver by regulating metabolic processes. It assists in the secretion of bile and breaking down of fats. Also, it helps to calm the intestines. In general: massaging the belly with a few mandarin drops together with neroli, and orange essential oil drops in carrier oil, will help relieve digestion issues. Massage in a clockwise strokes. It is great for children’s burps, hiccups and upset stomach.

Methods of application/ administration-Inhalation and topical

Lavender Lavandula Angustifolia

The name “lavender” is derived from the Latin lavare, meaning, “to wash”. It is native in the Mediterranean region, tropical Africa, India and other parts of the globe. The herb has been used for strewing, and the flowers are used as an aromatic. It is known as a healer for many skin conditions.  Encourages warmth, healing and nurturing. Aroma is floral, herbaceous, sweet and crisp.

Integumentary system

When Rene-Maurice Gattefosse burned his hand in his laboratory, he dipped his hand in lavender essential oil, which healed it. Lavender essential oil has antiseptic, antibiotic, cytophylactic, and analgesic properties that help heal the skin. These properties help to relieve burned skin pain, helping rapid recovery, preventing scarring, and preventing infection.

Methods of application/administration-Inhalation and topical

Peppermint Mentha piperita

Its history is ancient, and according to Pliny, Greeks and Romans used Peppermint as crowns during feasts, and as table decorations. It can grow wild and spreads very quickly through its wide root coverage. Aroma is fresh cool and herbaceous warm. Encourages self-acceptance, vibrancy, and vitality.

Respiratory system

Peppermint is helpful for colds and influenza in the treatment of fever and headaches. It is valuable for sinus congestion, infection or inflammation. Use preferably at the onset of colds. Use in conjunction with lavender and marjoram essential oils. Use no more than 3 drops with a carrier. In steam inhalation it can be used to clear and decongest the sinuses and nasal passages.

Methods of application/ administration-Inhalation and topical.

Look for more on essential oils in our “essential oil basics” series.

The Mixaroma Blog Team

Follow us on Twitter

About us

If you have any comments/questions/suggestions please send them here-mailto:info@mixaroma.com

References

Battaglia S., The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, The International of Holistic Aromatherapy, 2003

Davis P., Aromatherapy An A-Z. Random House. 2005

Stuart C. Anness., The Illustrated Guide To Massage and Aromatherapy Publishing Ltd 2005