Lemon balm Calming, sedative, decrease anxiety, decrease depression; antiseptic,
antiviral, antifungal, eliminate cold sores
Lemon grass Sedative; skin antiseptic for acne
Marjoram Insomnia, decrease tension; muscle and joint pain; inhale to clear
sinuses and clear congestion; massage abdomen for menstrual cramps
Neroli Gentle sedative for insomnia, panic attacks; massage abdomen for irrita-
ble bowel syndrome
Orange General tonic; decrease anxiety; GI antispasmodic for colic and indiges-
tion; massage abdomen for constipation; can be used with children
Peppermint Increase alertness; GI antispasmodic for colic and indigestion; massage
on temples for headache; decongestant for colds, flu
Rose Antidepressant; increase alertness; compress for eyestrain, headaches; use
in massage for PMS
Rosemary Stimulating; increase circulation to skin; compress on swollen joints;
decrease respiratory congestion; antifungal, antibacterial; deodorize the
air
Sandalwood Calm and cool body; decrease inflammation; drops on handkerchief for
sore throat, congestion; in bath water for cystitis; improve chapped dry
skin; increase sense of peace in meditation or prayer
Tea Tree First aid kit in a bottle; antifungal, good for athlete’s foot; soothe insect
bites, stings, cuts, wounds; in bath for yeast infection; drops on handker-
chief for coughs, congestion
Vetiver Stimulate production of red blood cells; increase circulation; induce rest-
ful sleep; decrease tension
Aromatherapy at Home
You can experiment with the use of aromatherapy in a number of ways. Essential
oils can be combined with carrier oils and used for back rubs and foot rubs in help-
ing clients relax and decrease their levels of anxiety. Essential oils can be diffused
into the air to alter the structure of molecules creating unpleasant odors, thus
refreshing the environment with more than just a pleasant smell. Diffusion of essen-
tial oils can also help boost your immune system, decrease anxiety and stress, aid
restful sleep, and speed recovery.
CHAPTER 9 AROMATHERAPY 125
Oil Use
