VAPORISING OIL - Calming Moods 5 ml

Natural by Nature (10) -
Natural by Nature Oils was established in 1974 and were one of the first companies to promote aromatherapy in the UK. Since then their reputation and expertise in producing high quality essential oils has grown and they are now recognised as one of the leading authorities in this field. Founder, Franzesca Watson is also an author and broadcaster and founded the International School of Aromatherapy in 1991.

Cedarwood (3) - Clearing, spiritual, restorative
Name: Cedarwood, Cedrus atlantica

A provocatively rich, spicy, warming oil. Harmonizing, restorative and spiritual - with a little sensuality mixed in.

Essential information: This enchanting oil is believed to be life-giving. Let the evocative essence of cedarwood calm, sooth and comfort you. It may help to stabilize energies thrown out of balance, bringing harmony and clarity. While enhancing meditation, it supports and heals many body systems, restoring homeostasis and a sense of well-being.

Description of aroma: Pleasantly deep, woody and balsamic, reminiscent of sandalwood, but slightly dryer.

Ruling planet: Uranus

Properties beneficial to the mind, emotions and spirit: The calming, soothing, harmonizing and comforting action of cedarwood makes it a valuable aid to deepen meditation and strengthen focus. It is of great benefit to nervous tension, anxiety and stress-related problems. Believed to dispel gloomy thoughts, clear obsession, diffuse fear, dispel anger and aggression, and give the heart courage. Its subtle properties may balance your energies and help you find clarity of mind. As an aphrodisiac massage oil it is reputed to increase sexual response, and its tonic and stimulating effect on the body, combined with the stress-reducing properties may give some foundation to this belief.

Of interest: Cedar is a Semitic word meaning the power of spiritual strength, and it represents a symbol of constant faith. It is one of the oldest aromatics used as temple incense, which probably adds to its mystical image. Cedarwood may possibly be the first essential oil to have been extracted from a plant. The Egyptians used this oil extensively, particularly in the process of embalming, or mummification, in cosmetics and impregnating papyrus leaves to protect them from insects. The wood was honoured as a symbol of strength, dignity and nobility, and made into jewellery, furniture, sarcophagi and tall ship masts. In fact the wood was valued so highly that Lebanon - producer of the cedrus libani cedar of antiquity - was incorporated into the Egyptian empire to ensure a regular supply. The oil was one of the ingredients in a famous centuries-old antidote called Mithridat, and native American Indians used it for respiratory infections and to help them enter a higher spiritual realm. It is still employed as an aid for meditation and a traditional medicine by Tibetan Buddhists.

Unfortunately this particular species is very scarce and threatened with extinction, as it was once overused. Vast quantities were employed in the production of Solomon's temple in Jerusalem, and other large temples and palaces in the Middle East. Only about 400 trees, some of which are over 2,500 years old, are left in the holy forest of Lebanon. Since the cedar of Lebanon has all but disappeared, the essential oil today is produced from a variety of other cedar trees, the most preferred being the Atlas cedar.

Cedarwood is now made into smaller items such as pencils, boxes and chests, as the wood has a tendency to warp, and yet is very aromatic due to the high percentage of essential oil it contains. Wood chips or carved balls placed among clothes are an excellent insect repellent. Nowadays it is a popular fixative in perfumes, and its masculine aroma makes it a favoured scent for men's toiletries.

Properties beneficial to the physical body: Cedarwood is most effective for chronic or longstanding complaints. It is used widely against numerous respiratory disorders, and has a tonic action on the nervous, urinary and endocrine gland system, so helping to regulate homeostasis, thus restoring the balance within the body. It may relieve painful arthritis and chronic rheumatism. Its strengthening, detoxifying, antibacterial and antifungal properties help with numerous conditions of the skin and hair. An interesting point is that cedarwood has been shown to inhibit the mitosis of tumour cells, and may therefore be of value in cancer therapy.

Scentsual blending suggestions: Cedarwood blends wonderfully with many other 'tree' oils. Try it with benzoin, bergamot, cinnamon, cypress, frankincense, jasmine, juniper, lavender, lemon, linden blossom, neroli, rose and rosemary.

Alternative suggestions for use: Effective in room sprays and diffusers as an air purifier and insect and vermin repellent. Particularly effective against mosquitoes, moths, woodworm, termites, ants, leeches and even rats. It will help keep moths away from your woolies.

Essential safety precautions: Cedarwood should be avoided during pregnancy as it can induce menstruation. It may cause skin irritation and sensitization on sensitive skin or if used in high concentrations.

Do not use essential oils undiluted or take internally without the guidance of a qualified practitioner. The information contained here is for general interest and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.

Geranium (6) - Tranquil, refreshing, balancing
Name: Geranium, Pelargonium graveolens/roseum/odorantissimum/capitatum

Deliciously sweet-scented yet capable of naturally purifying the body, profound emotional healing and sensual arousal

Essential information: Hard to believe that something so fragrant could possess such potency. As one of the few oils with the ability to both uplift and sedate, trust geranium to come to the rescue for all your emotional concerns. On a physical level this oil balances, regulates, decongests and detoxifies, while boosting your immune system. It is also a marvelous skin treatment.

Description of aroma: Delightfully fresh, yet strong and heavy, this distinctive scent is flowery, almost rose-like with subtle minty overtones. Often described as a 'green' scent, it can almost be too overpowering when pure, but is just heavenly when diluted.

Ruling planet: Venus

Properties beneficial to the mind, emotions and spirit: Renowned for being special 'women's oil' geranium works profoundly on the emotions. Acting as a nerve tonic for the whole nervous system it balances and uplifts, helping you to cope with fear and depression, while its sedative effects calm anxiety and nervous tension - including pre-menstrual symptoms - putting your mind back into balance. (Few oils are both sedative and uplifting, another example is bergamot.)

This evocative oil calms stress through its action on the adrenal cortex - useful for pain which is of a nervous rather than physical origin. Its aromatic influence might help you release negative memories and stimulate sensual feelings.
Interestingly, experimental clinics in Azbajian found geranium successful in treatment for emotional stability and balancing blood pressure.

Of interest: Old herbal texts talk about Geranium, or 'Herb Robert' (geranium robertianum), however the plants used for oil production are actually pelargonium, also known as 'lemon plant', and not the brightly coloured geraniums so often growing profusely in country gardens and displayed frequently in Greek restaurants.
Historically, geranium oil has been used in skin care remedies, to treat wounds, cholera, bone fractures and tumours - the ancients believed its power would eliminate cancers. In native Africa the herb teas was drunk to cure stomach upsets and stop internal bleeding. Throughout the centuries people have cultivated the plants around their homes to keep evil spirits at bay.

Commercial production of geranium oil began in France, in the early 19th century. The first species was probably pelargonium capitatum, which still grows wild today. Widely used in the production of perfumes and cosmetics, it can be made to imitate many fragrances and is often used to 'stretch' the much more expensive oil of rose.

An interesting note is that Dr. Simone Vetrano, of the Sciacca Institute of Marine Biology, has detected anticoagulant properties in pelagonium leaves.

Properties beneficial to the physical body: Geranium has numerous diverse uses, including balancing and regulating the hormonal system - invaluable during menstruation and menopause or for endometriosis and fertility problems. It has a decongesting effect by helping the process of elimination and clearing out toxins. This may help with disorders of the liver, urinary and circulatory systems - it has a stabilizing effect on blood pressure.

Other uses include helping relieve throat and mouth infections, diabetes, plus uterine and breast cancer - if nothing else it certainly helps patients relax and cope with the pain. This oil also stimulates the lymphatic system, keeping infections at bay and promoting speedy healing. Its ability to revitalize tissue helps heal wounds, frostbite, chilblains and inflamed skin disorders such as eczema, acne and shingles, and gives a radiant glow to any complexion and skin type. Its cleansing and balancing effect on the production of sebum is beneficial to numerous skin disorders. It is also believed to slow the aging process!

Scentsual blending suggestions: While absolutely delightful on its own, geranium is one of the few oils that mixes well in almost any combination - you really can't go wrong! It is particularly lovely with blends incorporating citrus and citrus-scented oils, such as bergamot, lime, citronella, grapefruit, orange, neroli and petitgrain. If you want a real treat, geranium and rose is simply gorgeous.

Alternative suggestions for use: Geranium makes a very relaxing, refreshing and heavenly scented bath oil. It is also an effective and aromatic insect repellent, particularly for mosquitos.

Essential safety precautions: This oil may irritate sensitive skins. If you are using it as a sedative, initially use with caution as it may cause restlessness in some people, preventing sleep. Do not use during pregnancy as it regulates the hormone system, and avoid if you have hypoglycemia.

Do not use essential oils undiluted or take internally without the guidance of a qualified practitioner. The information contained here is for general interest and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.

Mandarin (5) - Soothing, calming, restful, uplifting
Name: Mandarin, Citrus madurensis/nobilis

An exotic, cooling & refreshing tonic. Gentle yet strengthening, calming yet uplifting, revitalizing and inspiring

Essential information: This delectably scented oil is a joy to use if you are anxious, depressed, fearful or just need strengthening emotionally. Ideal if you are having trouble sleeping, recovering from illness or feeling generally run down and in need of a delightfully effective pick-me-up.

Description of aroma: Delicately orange-scented and tangy with sweet floral undertones - typical of the freshly grated fruit rind.

Ruling planet: Sun

Properties beneficial to the mind, emotions and spirit: Reputed to strengthen the astral body, mandarin can help inspire, cheer and strengthen you emotionally. It may ease tension, fear, sadness and irritability. The uplifting influence of this oil can help lift depression and reduce anxiety, and yet it has a gentle calming action that may dispel insomnia and sleep disturbances. In fact a recent study in a nursing home showed mandarin to be more effective than lavender for insomnia. Some authorities state this oil is helpful with inner child work.

Of interest: Mandarins probably originated in China, they have certainly been known in this country since antiquity. The fruit was given to the oriental majesties - known as Mandarins - as a token of respect, hence the name.

Its popularity in Europe has grown in the last 200 years and it is now cultivated extensively, especially in the Mediterranean region. During the Second Word War the production of oil in America was stopped temporarily, because of the difficulty in importing the Italian fruit, and Brazil took over exporting mandarins to the U.S. It is reputed that the essential oil produced in Italy is lighter and of a superior quality.

The tree likes hot, humid climates and produces fruits prolifically. It is the semi-ripe fruits which yield the highest quantity of oil. Mandarin oil has a much finer and stronger scent than tangerine (which is a hybrid) and the fruit is the softest, most delicate of all the citrus fruits, having a very refined, sweet taste and a soft peel.

Children, pregnant women and the young at heart frequently enjoy this deliciously scented oil. In France mandarin oil is often regarded as the 'Children's remedy' because of its gentle action. The oil is used widely for flavouring food and drinks, and also in perfumery.

Properties beneficial to the physical body: This oil has a soothing action on the nerve centres, while having a revitalizing and strengthening effect on the body. It is therefore useful if you are feeling fragile or run down, and is particularly beneficial for the elderly. Its major application is for the digestive system, as it regulates the metabolism, has a tonic effect, calms the intestines and stimulates the appetite. This makes it a valuable aid, especially after illness or loss of appetite due to stress or depression. Useful for morning sickness and P.M.T. mandarin can also ease hiccups and children's tummy upsets.

Mandarin is an excellent tonic for oily skin and acne, and mixed with lavender and neroli is said to lessen stretch marks and scarring.

Scentsual blending suggestions: The effects of mandarin are often enhanced by blending with other citrus-derived oils, such as grapefruit, bergamot, lemon, lime, neroli, orange, and petitgrain. It is also worth considering basil, black pepper, coriander, rose, chamomile, lavender, and palmarosa.

Alternative suggestions for use: Put mandarin in a spray bottle with pure water for a delightful antiseptic air freshener. Also try it for the prevention of stretch marks during pregnancy - although it must be applied regularly.

Essential safety precautions: Considered a relatively safe oil, even for pregnant women and children (in dilution). It may be phototoxic if you have sensitive skin, so avoid exposure to sunlight and U.V rays after application.

Do not use essential oils undiluted or take internally without the guidance of a qualified practitioner. The information contained here is for general interest and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.