AROMATHERAPY OILS

SOIL ORGANIC AROMATHERAPY HAVE BEEN GROWING THEIR OWN OILS SINCE 2004

Aromatherapy oils use the healing qualities of natural plant extracts to alleviate symptoms and promote health and well-being. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Below is an A to Z list of popular aromatherapy oils, their alleged therapeutic benefits, how to use them, and their botanical source.

Angelica Root Oil

Benefits: This is one of the aromatherapy oils that alleviates anxiety, detoxifies, and boosts immunity.

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Earthy, woody, and musky.

Source: Root

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute the aromatherapy oil with a carrier oil for massage.

 

Basil Oil

Benefits: Enhances mental clarity, relieves headaches, and reduces stress.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly spicy.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or add a few drops to a carrier oil for topical application.

Baobab Oil

Benefits: Moisturises skin, promotes healing, and reduces inflammation.

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Light, nutty, and slightly sweet.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or mix with other oils in skincare products.

Bergamot Oil

Benefits: Relieves stress, uplifts mood, and promotes healthy skin.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, citrusy, and slightly floral.

Source: Peel

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical use, avoiding sun exposure.

Benzoin Oil

Benefits: Soothes skin, reduces stress, and relieves respiratory issues.

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Sweet, warm, and vanilla-like.

Source: Resin

How to Use: Diffuse or mix with a carrier oil for massage.

Black Pepper Oil

Benefits: Improves circulation, relieves muscle pain, and boosts digestion.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Warm, spicy, and slightly woody.

Source: Peppercorns

How to Use: This is one of the aromatherapy oils you can dilute with a carrier oil and apply topically to affected areas.

C

Castor Oil

Benefits: Moisturises skin, promotes hair growth, and alleviates constipation.

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Neutral, slightly earthy.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or hair, or use in a castor oil pack for therapeutic purposes. Castor oil is one of the aromatherapy oils that has become really popular. It is also used to rub on the tummy as a digestive aid.

Cedarwood Oil

Benefits: Promotes relaxation, supports respiratory health, and improves skin conditions.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Woody, sweet, and slightly balsamic.

Source: Wood

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Cedarwood is one of the aromatherapy oils popularly used in men’s fragrances.

Chamomile Oil

Benefits: Promotes relaxation, soothes skin irritations, and reduces inflammation.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Sweet, apple-like, and herbaceous.

Source: Flowers

How to Use: Diffuse, add to a bath, or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

Cinnamon Leaf Oil

Benefits: Enhances mood, relieves pain, and supports immune health.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Warm, spicy, and slightly herbaceous.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Many aromatherapy oils are diluted with a carrier oil for topical application. Take care to avoid sensitive areas when using Cinnamon leaf oil.

Citronella Oil

Benefits: Repels insects, reduces stress, and alleviates pain.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, lemony, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil and apply to exposed skin.

Clary Sage Oil

Benefits: Balances hormones, reduces stress, and promotes restful sleep, aphrodisiac.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Earthy, herbaceous, and slightly floral.

Source: Leaves and flowers

How to Use: Diffuse, add to a bath, or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

Clove Bud Oil

Benefits: Relieves pain, supports oral health, and boosts immunity.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Warm, spicy, and slightly woody.

Source: Flower buds

How to Use: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply topically, or use in a mouth rinse.

Coriander Seed Oil

Benefits: Aids digestion, relieves muscle pain, and supports mental clarity.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Sweet, spicy, and slightly woody.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application. Coriander is one of the aromatherapy oils that aids digestion.

Cypress Oil

Benefits: Supports respiratory health, reduces muscle pain, and alleviates stress.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, woody, and slightly balsamic.

Source: Leaves and twigs

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute this aromatherapy oil with a carrier oil for massage.

D

Dill Oil

Benefits: Aids digestion, relieves stress, and detoxifies.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly spicy.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application. Dill oil is one of the aromatherapy oils used as a detoxifier.

E

Eucalyptus Oil

Benefits: Clears respiratory issues, relieves muscle pain, and boosts immune function.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, camphoraceous, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage. Eucalyptus is one of the aromatherapy oils used in a bowl of warm water and inhaled to help alleviate respiratory issues.

F

Fennel Oil

Benefits: Aids digestion, relieves menstrual discomfort, and supports respiratory health.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Sweet, earthy, and anise-like.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Frankincense Oil

Benefits: Frankincense aromatherapy oil reduces stress, boosts immune function, and promotes healthy skin.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Warm, spicy, and woody.

Source: Resin

How to Use: Diffuse, add to a bath, or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

G

Geranium Oil

Benefits: Balances hormones, improves mood, and promotes skin health.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Sweet, floral, and slightly herbaceous.

Source: Leaves and flowers

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Ginger Oil

Benefits: Relieves nausea, reduces muscle pain, and supports digestion.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Warm, spicy, and earthy.

Source: Root

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

Grapefruit Oil

Benefits: Boosts mood, supports weight loss, and detoxifies.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, citrusy, and slightly bitter.

Source: Peel

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical use.

H

Hemp Oil

Benefits: Moisturizes skin, reduces inflammation, and promotes relaxation.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Nutty, earthy.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or use in skincare products.

Helichrysum Oil

Benefits: Heals wounds, reduces inflammation, and rejuvenates skin.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Sweet, herbaceous, and slightly spicy.

Source: Flowers

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

I

Immortelle Oil

Benefits: Reduces scars, soothes inflammation, and promotes skin regeneration.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Earthy, floral, and slightly spicy.

Source: Flowers

How to Use: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to the skin.

J

Jasmine Aromatherapy Oil

Benefits: Jasmine aromatherapy oil improves mood, alleviates depression, and enhances skin elasticity, aphrodisiac.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Sweet, floral, and slightly fruity.

Source: Flowers

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application. Jasmine is one of the aromatherapy oils most popular for its incredible fragrance.

Jojoba Oil

Benefits: Moisturizes skin, balances oil production, and promotes hair health.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Light, nutty, and slightly earthy.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or hair, or use in skincare products.

Juniper Berry Oil

Benefits: Detoxifies, relieves muscle pain, and supports healthy skin.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, woody, and slightly fruity.

Source: Berries

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

K

Kalahari Melon Oil

Benefits: Moisturizes skin, promotes healing, and balances oil production.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Light, nutty, and slightly sweet.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or mix with other oils in skincare products.

Kunzea Oil

Benefits: Reduces pain, soothes skin irritations, and relieves stress.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly medicinal.

Source: Leaves and branches

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

L

Lavender Oil

Benefits: Promotes relaxation, improves sleep, and relieves pain.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Floral, sweet, and herbaceous.

Source: Flowers

How to Use: Diffuse, add to a bath, or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

Lemon Oil

Benefits: Boosts mood, supports immune function, and improves skin health.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, citrusy, and slightly sweet.

Source: Peel

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical use.

Lemongrass Oil

Benefits: Relieves stress, repels insects, and supports digestive health.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, lemony, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

M

Macadamia Nut Oil

Benefits: Moisturizes skin, supports heart health, and promotes hair health.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Light, nutty, and slightly sweet.

Source: Nuts

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or hair, or use in cooking.

Mandarin Oil

Benefits: Mandarin aromatherapy oil uplifts mood, supports digestive health, and promotes healthy skin.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Sweet, citrusy, and slightly floral.

Source: Peel

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Marjoram Oil

Benefits: Reduces muscle pain, alleviates stress, and promotes cardiovascular health.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

Melissa Oil

Benefits: Reduces anxiety, improves mood, and supports digestive health.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Fresh, lemony, and herbaceous.

Source: Leaves and flowers

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Myrrh Oil

Benefits: Promotes skin health, supports immune function, and reduces inflammation.

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Warm, spicy, and slightly balsamic.

Source: Resin

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

N

Neem Oil

Benefits: Promotes skin health, repels insects, and supports oral health.

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Pungent, earthy, and slightly nutty.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or dilute with a carrier oil for topical use.

Neroli Oil

Benefits: Alleviates anxiety, improves mood, and supports skin health.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Sweet, floral, and citrusy.

Source: Flowers

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Niaouli Oil

Benefits: Supports respiratory health, promotes skin healing, and boosts immune function.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, camphoraceous, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves and twigs

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

O

Orange Oil

Benefits: Boosts mood, alleviates stress, and supports immune health.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, citrusy, and slightly sweet.

Source: Peel

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical use.

P

Palmarosa Oil

Benefits: Palmarose aromatherapy oil moisturizes skin, supports respiratory health, and reduces stress.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Sweet, floral, and slightly citrusy.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Patchouli Oil

Benefits: Reduces stress, promotes skin health, and supports digestion, aphrodisiac

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Earthy, sweet, and slightly spicy.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

Peppermint Oil

Benefits: Relieves headaches, supports digestion, and boosts energy.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, minty, and slightly sweet.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Petitgrain Oil

Benefits: Reduces stress, supports cardiovascular health, and improves skin health.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, floral, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves and twigs

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Pine Oil

Benefits: Supports respiratory health, relieves muscle pain, and boosts immune function.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, woody, and slightly balsamic.

Source: Needles and twigs

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

R

Rose Geranium Oil

Benefits: Balances hormones, reduces stress, and promotes skin health, aphrodisiac

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Sweet, floral, and slightly herbaceous.

Source: Leaves and flowers

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Rosehip Oil

Benefits: Moisturizes skin, promotes healing, and reduces inflammation.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Light, nutty, and slightly sweet.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or mix with other oils in skincare products.

Rosemary Oil

Benefits: Enhances memory, supports hair health, and reduces muscle pain.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

S

Sandalwood Oil

Benefits: Promotes relaxation, improves skin health, and supports respiratory health. aphrodisiac

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Warm, woody, and slightly sweet.

Source: Wood

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Sesame Oil

Benefits: Moisturizes skin, supports heart health, and promotes hair health.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Light, nutty, and slightly sweet.

Source: Seeds

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin or hair, or use in cooking. The Aromatherapy oil Sesame is often used as a carrier oil.

Spearmint Oil

Benefits: Relieves headaches, supports digestion, and boosts energy.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, minty, and slightly sweet.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

T

Tea Tree Oil

Benefits: Supports skin health, boosts immune function, and reduces inflammation.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, medicinal, and slightly woody.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Apply directly to the skin, dilute with a carrier oil for sensitive areas, or add to a diffuser.

Thyme Oil

Benefits: Supports respiratory health, boosts immune function, and reduces stress.

Viscosity: Thin

Smell: Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly medicinal.

Source: Leaves

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

Turmeric Oil

Benefits: Reduces inflammation, supports digestion, and promotes skin health.

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Warm, spicy, and earthy.

Source: Root

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

V

Vetiver Oil

Benefits: Promotes relaxation, improves sleep, and supports skin health.

Viscosity: Thick

Smell: Earthy, woody, and slightly smoky.

Source: Root

How to Use: Diffuse or dilute with a carrier oil for massage.

Y

Ylang Ylang Oil

Benefits: Reduces stress, improves mood, and promotes healthy skin, aphrodisiac

Viscosity: Medium

Smell: Sweet, floral, and slightly fruity.

Source: Flowers

How to Use: Diffuse, add to a bath, or dilute with a carrier oil for topical application.

 

How to Use Aromatherapy Oils

Diffusion: Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser with water to disperse the aroma throughout a room, creating a calming or invigorating atmosphere.

Topical Application: Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil) and apply to the skin through massage or direct application to affected areas.

Bath: Add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath to enhance relaxation and skin benefits.

Inhalation: Place a few drops of essential oil on a tissue or handkerchief and inhale deeply to experience immediate effects.

Skincare: Mix essential oils with skincare products such as lotions, creams, or oils to enhance their benefits.

Always perform a patch test before applying essential oils directly to the skin and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have underlying health conditions.

 

A to Z List of Therapeutic Benefits with Recommended Aromatherapy Oils

A

Anxiety Relief: Lavender, Bergamot, Chamomile

Antiseptic: Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Lemon

Anti-inflammatory: Frankincense, Turmeric, Ginger

B

Boosts Immune System: Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemon

Balances Hormones: Clary Sage, Rose Geranium, Lavender

C

Calming: Lavender, Chamomile, Ylang Ylang

Cough Relief: Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Pine

D

Digestive Support: Peppermint, Ginger, Fennel

Detoxification: Juniper Berry, Lemon, Grapefruit

E

Energizing: Peppermint, Lemon, Grapefruit

Eases Muscle Pain: Black Pepper, Marjoram, Rosemary

F

Fights Infections: Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Oregano

Focus and Concentration: Rosemary, Peppermint, Lemon

G

Grounding: Vetiver, Sandalwood, Cedarwood

Gut Health: Peppermint, Fennel, Ginger

H

Headache Relief: Peppermint, Lavender, Eucalyptus

Healing Skin: Lavender, Tea Tree, Rosehip

I

Improves Mood: Bergamot, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang

Immune Support: Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemon

J

Joint Pain Relief: Ginger, Black Pepper, Marjoram

L

Lowers Blood Pressure: Ylang Ylang, Lavender, Marjoram

M

Mental Clarity: Rosemary, Peppermint, Lemon

Moisturizes Skin: Jojoba, Rosehip, Sesame

N

Nausea Relief: Ginger, Peppermint, Fennel

P

Promotes Relaxation: Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood

Pain Relief: Black Pepper, Marjoram, Peppermint

R

Reduces Stress: Lavender, Bergamot, Rose Geranium

Respiratory Support: Eucalyptus, Pine, Peppermint

S

Sleep Aid: Lavender, Chamomile, Vetiver

Supports Skin Health: Rosehip, Frankincense, Lavender

T

Tones Skin: Frankincense, Rose Geranium, Lavender

Tension Relief: Peppermint, Lavender, Marjoram

U

Uplifting: Bergamot, Lemon, Grapefruit

W

Wound Healing: Tea Tree, Lavender, Frankincense

Useage Tips for Aromatherapy OIls:

Diffusion: Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser with water.

Topical Application: Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil) and apply to the skin.

Bath: Add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath.

Inhalation: Place a few drops of essential oil on a tissue or handkerchief and inhale.

Skincare: Mix essential oils with skincare products such as lotions, creams, or oils.

Always perform a patch test before applying essential oils directly to the skin and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have underlying health conditions.

FIND A PRACTITIONER

Natalie Wittwen is a registered practitioner and offers aromatherapy massage. Find Natalie here

Marion Nixon is in Sybrand Park in Cape Town and offers aromatherapy massage. Find Marion here

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