Table 9.4 An Aromatherapeutic Toolkit
Oil Use
Basil Decrease sinus congestion; soothe GI tract, aid digestion; decrease
headache; decrease anxiety; decrease menstrual cramps
Bergamot Decrease anxiety, decrease depression; urinary antiseptic; acne, disinfec-
tant for wounds, abscesses, boils
Cedarwood Decrease respiratory congestion and coughs, expectorant; for pain
swelling of arthritis; antifungal for skin rashes
Chamomile Soothe muscle aches, sprains, swollen joints; GI antispasmodic; rub on
abdomen for colic, indigestion, gas; decrease anxiety, stress-related
headaches; decrease insomnia; can be used with children
Clary sage Induce sleep; increase sense of well-being; massage or warm compress for
menstrual cramps; do not use in pregnancy until onset of labor
Coriander Improve digestion, decrease colic, decrease diarrhea; decrease muscle
aches and stiffness in joints; decrease mental fatigue and increase mem-
ory and mental function
Cypress Massage or cold compress for rheumatic aches; bruising or varicose veins;
respiratory antispasmodic (put couple of drops on hanky and inhale
deeply), decrease coughs, asthma, bronchitis
Elemi Boost immune system; cystitis; speed bone healing (massage in prior to
casting); increase healing of cuts, sores, wounds; cool inflamed skin;
sedative
Eucalyptus Feels cool to skin and warm to muscles; decrease fever; relieve pain; anti-
inflammatory; antiseptic, antiviral, and expectorant to respiratory sys-
tem in steam inhalation; boost immune system
Frankincense Bronchodilatory, acts on mucus enabling sputum to be expelled; infected
sores; deepen breathing to induce calmness; incense creates a state con-
ducive to prayer
Geranium Antibacterial; insecticidal; antidepressant; improve yeast infections; first
aid on minor cuts and burns
Ginger Help ward off colds; calm upset stomach, decrease nausea; soothe
sprains, muscle spasms
Green apple Reduce headache severity; decrease anxiety; aid in weight reduction pro-
gram; reduce symptoms of claustrophobia
Jasmine Uplifting and stimulating, antidepressant; massage abdomen and lower
back for menstrual cramps
Juniper Calming, decrease stress; diuretic; muscle aches and pains
Lavender Calming, sedative, for insomnia; massage around temples for headache;
inhale to speed recovery from colds, flu; massage chest to decrease con-
gestion; heal burns124 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TOALTERNATIVE MEDICINE