When we peel an orange, or walk in a rose garden, or rub a lavender sprig between our fingers, we distinguish with our olfactory ability, a special sensation of these plants. But what exactly is it that we can smell? More generally, it is essential oils that give spices and herbs their own feel and taste, or flowers and fruits, that give their own aroma. The essential oil of an orange peel is not difficult to identify. It exists in such abundance, that when we peel an orange, the essential oil "shoots" from the pores of the skin. However, the amount is so small that it evaporates immediately, leaving its characteristic aroma to linger. However, not all plants have essential oils in such abundance. The aromatic content of a rose is so little that it takes a ton of petals to produce 300g of oil. The reason why some plants contain essential oils while others do not is not yet fully understood. It is clear that the aromatic quality of oils plays a role in attracting or repelling certain insects or animals. One conclusion is that they play the role of actualizing life, which evolves through the plant itself, and the role of protection against disease. Essential oils have been described as the "hormones" or "souls" of plants because of their concentrated ethereal nature. Aromatic oils can be found in various parts of a plant, such as seeds, bark, root, leaves, flowers, wood, balsam and resins. For example, from an orange tree, the oil is produced from the peel of the fruit, petitgrain oil from the leaves and twigs, and neroli oil from the neroli flowers. Clove produces different types of essential oils from the buds, stem and leaves, while Scots pine produces it from the needles, wood and resin. The wide range of aromatic materials is sourced from natural sources and the art of extracting and using it has evolved slowly over time, but the origins reach far back into the heart of the most ancient civilizations.
Commiphora Myrrha, C. Molmol, Balsamodendrom myrra (Family, Burseraceae) Base note The antiseptic, healing and anti-inflammatory actions of Myrrh were well known in antiquity. Is extremely useful for wounds and liquid eczema. Its antifungal action is used for mouth ulcers, gum disease, gingivitis ..
Myrtus communis (Family, Mytraceae) Middle note Its antiseptic and bactericidal action is applied in the therapy of acme, oily skin, open pores and also conditions of the respiratory. Preventatively, used by the elderly in chronic conditions of the lungs. Also because of its styptic action it is u..
Citrus Aurantium (Family, rutaceae) Middle note Rejuvenating oil with a pleasant scent for all skin types. Its sedative action assists in stressful states, nervous intensity, insomnia and shock. The two previous actions are responsible for its quality as an aphrodisiac. Is also one of the best ant..
Melaleuca Viridiflora, M. quinquenirvia (Family, Myrtaceae) Top Note Used in the care of oily skin, against acme and blotches. Is suitable for cleaning wounds, as well as the relief of burns. Affects the respiratory system in asthmatic conditions, bronchitis, cough, catarrh, sinusitis, and sore th..
Piper nigrum (Family, Piperceae) Middle note In small quantities it can be used in an oil mixture for relief of muscular pain, cramps, fatigue, neuralgia, diastrema. In combination with rosemary, lavender, and marjoram assists with toning muscle tissue. Its essential oil is useful for relief..
Myristica fragrans, M. fragrans, M. officinalis, Nux moschata. (Family, Myristicaceae) Base note Used mainly for peptic disorders and muscular problems because of its action as: analgesic, antirheumatic, digestive, stimulant, tonic, antispasmodic, anti-emetic...
Citrus Sinensis (Family, Rutaceae) Top Note The oil of orange having qualities as an antidepressant, antispasmodic, peptic, nerve sedative, stimulant of the lymphic and peptic system replaces Neroli where this cannot be used. Its peristaltic action on the intestines make it useful for constipation..
Origanum vulgare (Family,Lamiaceae) Top Note Very useful oil for its thermal properties improving circulation, digestion, mental clarity and alertness. Can be used with massage oil for relief of muscular pain and physical endurance and energy, always however in small quantities as it irritat..
Cymbopogon martinii, Andronpogon martinii (Family, Graminaceae (Poaceae) Middle Note It has a light, lovely floral aroma. It aids clarity of mind. Makes a wonderful skincare oil when mixed with Sweet Almond. It is said to stimulate cellular regeneration and it moisturises making it pa..
Pogostemon patchouli, P. cablin (Family, Lamiaceae [Labiatae]) Base note An equivocal aphrodisiac because its scent usually is not liked by both. To an ingredient that is similar to Chamazulene of Chamomile it owes its antiphlogistic action on irritated skin. Its antiseptic and antifungal action i..