Essential Oil Discussion and Questions
Do you have questions regarding the use of essential oils, resins or incense?
Are you wondering about the rose oil you bought, or how to best utilize the frankincense resin that you recently purchased? How does the Helichrysum italicum compare to the other species? What are the best oils to use for colds and flu, headaches or asthma?
Perhaps you have answers to other people’s questions.
Post all your comments and questions below and you’ll hear back from the Floracopeia staff or other site visitors. If you have valuable comments to make on other people’s questions, please leave them all below!
Greetings to All,
Looking for an alternative to antibiotic oral rinse (Chlorhexidine Gluconate) for post-gum surgery recovery. The prescription stuff turns the mouth blue, and I think it’s overkill. Can’t brush the affected area for at least 2 weeks (ew!). Something with antibacterial as well as tissue-healing properties would be ideal. I’m thinking tea tree might be good. Any other suggestions?
I’m thoroughly looking forward to the tele-class on Saturday.
Thank you!
Lisa
Hi Lisa…
Yes, two drops of tea tree in a quarter cup of water as a rinse could be a good substitute. Frankincense can be used the same way, which would have more specific tissue regenerating effects.
Hello. I just recently purchased Flower of the Sun blend to help repair scars on my body from a psoriasis outbreak I had in January. About once a yr. I will have an outbreak that covers my body….it takes months to heal. This yr’s was the worst, I’ve never had scars that last this long or dark blotches where there was once a dry spot. I’ve seen that the sun helps my skin tremendously and I have visited tanning beds to speed the process….
I have two questions:
1. Do you think that the dark spots are a reaction to the UV rays? Do you have an oil or blend that I can use to help my skin restore its natural color?
2. I have read that I shouldn’t use Flower of the Sun directly on my skin… the scars cover my legs and upper arms…I would like to use this product daily after I shower and massage it into my skin…at night or in the morning. What % should I follow when and if I dilute it? Should I use Jojoba Oil?
Thank you so much.
Hi Leah…
sorry to hear about the health challenges. Psoriasis is a complex metabolic disorder with no simple solution. Skin discoloration is one of its symptoms. Flower of the Sun can be used directly on the skin, as it is in a base of rosehip seed oil, which is a carrier oil. No need to dilute it, just apply it regularly and hopefully it will help with the healing. You should also look into other holistic therapies, as herbs and acupuncture and diet can play an important supportive role in minimizing and shortening outbreaks.
Hello,
where could i find more information on the therapeutic properties on desert yarrow oil, and if you may how is this yarrow different than the others? in terms of the therapeutic properties
thank you
Recently, Helichrysum oil was recommended to me as a massage oil to help nerve regeneration from some surgery I had. Any idea which species would be the best, and any recommendations on its use? Thanks.
Aloha David and All,
I just watched the tulsi video and was wondering…..many plants who live in challenging environments, like at high altitudes or very hot and dry, have higher concentrations of essential oils and other (immuno-enhancing & protective) constituents, yes?
If this is so then, perhaps it would be beneficial to our distilling arts to mimic their often harsh growing conditions instead of fluffing up the soil with luscious biodynamic wormy goodness?
Might tulsi fit into this category?
Mahalo, Liza
Hi Liza…
Yes, wild plants do tend to have higher levels of many important healing compounds in general. However, that does not mean that they are always the best, because of many other factors that influence their qualities…sometimes they are just old and diseased or challenged with invasive species, etc. On the other hand, very high quality plans can be organically cultivated, such as the tulsi crop in the video.
At this point, the plants are growing very well and are very luscious, but as the time approaches we will be reducing the amount of water they will be receiving, which will mimic some of the natural stressful conditions of summer outside the greenhouse, and cause them to start producing higher levels of essential oils.
David
In response to Lisa’s question about a substitute for antibiotic mouthwash, I have had good experiences with 2 different essential oils – in addition to David’s great recommendations. I’ve used a drop of myrrh essential oil in a small amount of water. Myrrh has a particular affinity for the gum tissue. I’ve also used a drop or two of helichrysum in water, which has good wound healing properties.
I wanted to share a recent experience of using lavender essential oil for very quick recovery from a small trauma. I was out of town visiting a friend when I fell on the stairs in front of her house. I caught myself with my right hand and landed very hard on the heel of my hand on a rough surface, which scraped an area of skin about 1/2 an inch across so I had a big flap of skin open next to a small cut — on a rapidly swelling wristbone! I had forgotten to pack the arnica cream I usually travel with, so instead I cleaned the area well, put a few drops of lavender oil on a folded tissue, and kept it over the wound as a compress with an ice pack over it for about 15-20 minutes. Over the next few days, I rubbed lavender oil around the cut several times a day. Once the cut scabbed over, I put lavender directly on the cut as well. The swelling reduced very quickly, I never developed any bruising, and the whole area was very nicely healed in a little more than a week.
Hi,
I was wondering if it would be possible for me to grow Lavender. I live in Pennsylvania and I don’t know if the climate will be good for it. I love Lavender oil and I was thinking about making it myself.
Can you help me,
Darby
Hello,
I forgot to mention something else. Do you know any helpful books with essential oil recipes in it?
Thanks again,
Darby
I have a question about the attars. In reading about the Bakul Attar you say “Bakul Attar can be applied directly to the skin as a natural perfume. Unlike cosmetic perfumes, Bakul Attar can be applied to the body several times per day and will not become over powering. In fact Bakul Attar will absorb into your body and produce profound therapeutic benefits while also acting as a beautiful perfume.”
Then further below you list safety considerations which state: “Do not take Bakul Attar internally. Do not apply directly to the skin, eyes or mucous membranes.”
Since the attars are used as perfumes as well as therapeutically, it must be ok to apply to the skin. Why does the warning say not to apply directly to the skin? I’m confused…
Hi Shelley,
Yes Bakul attar and all the attars can be applied directly to the skin. The safety info you saw is default for the essential oils and we need to go in and refine it for certain products such as the attars and massage oils. Sorry for the confusion. Thanks for your question.
Hi,
I found a few different Frankincense oils here. Do they have different theraputical properties?
How to chose a nd use them?
Can you recomend essential oil which will hlp with high blood presure? Parkinson ?
Thanks
There’s a short article on using Cinnamon and Thieves Oil for bacteria at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/08/health/08real.html?ref=science
Hello
I’m wondering what essential oils, other than rosemary, are considered energetically protective? For example, when working with clients or when participating in ceremonies?
Thanks
Hello,
I am a bodyworker and working with people in Hospice. I am currently using a blend of Chamomile Roman, Geranium Rose, Sandalwood and Neroli.
Is it appropriate to bring a diffuser? Do you recommend an essential oil or blend? Is it helpful to create a spray mist?
I would appreciate any sharing of your wisdom.
Blessings, Joan
Jaya Sri Rama,,,,,,,,Tomorrow is Rama Vijaya, the day of good conquering over evil. In temples the Murti of Sri Rama is worshiped with Tulasi Leaves. Tulasi leaves are considered sacred, holy, healing, and transform a negative consiousness to positive consiousness by instilling feelings of unconditional love. Usually Tulasi leaves are never consumed without first offering them to the Supreme Lord, as an act of devotion and appreciation, and humble surrender. Only then will the full healing potency of the Tulasi Herb become activated. In ancient vedic puranas it is stated that Bhagavan Sri Krsna, and his incarnations, alone are worthy of Tulasi leaves. After first being offered with love and devotion to Bhagavan, only then can human beings partake of the mercy and healing power of Srimate Tulasi Devi. So I hope in Floracopeia, there is also a Divine understanding of respecting Tulasi leaves and offering them up the Supreme Lord before being used for the benefit of mankind. The following is a mantra from the ancient Vedic Tradition regarding Tulasi leaves.
” Om Tulasi Amrita Janamasi
Sada Tvam Keshava Priya
Keshabharta chinometvam
Bharada Bhava Sobhane” This mantra is chanted while picking Tulasi Leaves, and then offered
to a picture of Lord Krsna.
The general meaning of the mantra in english would be something like, “Oh Srimate Tulasi Deva, you were born from immortal nectar, and you are very dear to Lord Keshava. I am picking your leaves to be used in His Service, please bestow your blessings upon me.”
So before herbs wish to extend their healing powers to mankind, they must be honored and respected with regards to their creator. A similar pastime in the Ramayana is cited, when Lord Hanuman brought the Sanjivani herb to cure Laxmana. The herb was first offered respect, with humble entreaty. This is a fantastic way to connect to the subtle healing power of all herbs. Herbs are gifts of God, and in ancient civilizations, the connection between herbs and God was a strong reality. I hope Floracopia, can also benefit from such an understanding.
sincerely, Pracetana dasi
Hi
Are any of your oils CO2 extracted? If so which ones? Do CO2 extracted oils have the same therapeutic effects as distilled oils? Do your growers use high temperature/pressure in their distillers?
Thanks,
In response to Waldroc’s question about eo’s that are energetically protective, I have always used Juniper berry for this purpose, especially in between clients. Sage is also valuable.
hello david,
i recently purchased ratuma (4oz), and i’ve been using flower of the sun for some psoriasis…and such scars on my legs. the flower of the sun blend is amazing and i can really tell an overall difference in pigment, healing speed of scars and random bruises, and the psoriasis. my question is if its ok to be using both oils/blend at once?
thank you!
leah
My question concerns blending Attars . Will the Vetiver-Rajasthan Rose Attar blend well with
the Motia Attar , and create a beautiful fragrance , and would this in turn blend well with amber ??
I want to use this to build other themes and in the end have a beautiful natural perfume .
Is it safe to inhale the Hand Sanitizer after spritzing it on the hands? And can it be used as a room spray for immune protection? Thanks so much…….
The hand sanitizer is perfectly safe to inhale. It is not the best for using as a room spray. It wouldn’t hurt but a hydrosol such as Tulsi or Oregano would be much better for that purpose. Better still is a diffuser.
Hello,
I was just wondering when you will have more rose-vevitar perfume available?
Kind Regards*
ps- vetiver/rose perfume…..thank you*
I’m researching things I can do to heal myself. I was just diagnosed through an MRI with Tarlov Disease, which is perineural cysts. There are numerous cysts on my spine and two are rather large 1.7 cm. It causes a great deal of pain and discomfort in my legs and greatly disturbs my sleep. Interesting I had a dream the other night that essential oils were being sprayed up and down my spine. Unfortunately the dream didn’t tell me which oils were being used! I’m an optimistic person about health issues because I believe it’s all about energy and I know I will be able to bring about healing with my mind, acupuncture possibly, homeopathy possibly, energy work, and maybe some essential oils if I’m to take my dream literally. I’m not so young anymore, 73, and having my sleep interrupted every night is not great for me and it’s hard dealing with the discomfort every day. If anyone has any information to offer me, essential oils or anything else, I would greatly appreciate it.
Hi Carolyne,
Have you heard of a massage technique called the Raindrop Technique or Therapy? It sounds similar to what you describe–several oils, not sprayed, but dropped and then feathered into the skin along the spine. I am not that familar with the oils, having had it done only once, but you can google the name and learn more.
Gina
Can yellowing of teeth be improved with essential oils on the tooth brush? Does anyone have any recomendations on which oils to use for teeth whitening?
Hello and happy holidays!
I would like to make a fragrant blend for a holiday gift. I’ve researched how to blend and have decided which oils to use, but now I’m looking for a vessel to carry this fragrance. Any fun suggestions?
Many thanks!
Flo
Hello
I want to know info about agar wood. How much oil an agar wood contain? How much oil can be extracted from a tree?
Hi,
I had dupuytrens contracture surgery on my right hand (palm and two knuckles) in July 09, which become infected, requiring additional surgery in Sep 09. I have a lot of scarring from the surgeries, and the knuckles are swollen. I do physical therapy daily, but the process has been slow and painful. Will Helichrysum help with scarring, and if so, which one? Also, which oils might help with the swelling of the knuckles? Lastly, I have a touch of dupuytrens in my left hand. Would any of the oils reduce or help eliminate it from that hand?
Many thanks
Hi David,
I am interested to know about anti-depressant herbs and if you know something about sceletium though it is a tea and a supplement, not aromatherapy, as far as I know. I just heard about it. I am looking for a natural alternative to anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medication which I have been suggested to start.
And, do you know any herbal remedies for tinea versicolor?
A
When will you have more aromatherapy diffusers in stock?
I’ve personally dealt with panic attacks my whole life. It started when I was just a teenager and I’ve had to cope with them since then. I’ve finally figured out that has helped me get them done once and for all. I will tell you that it wasn’t quick or easy, but after a while I was able to finally get rid of them. I’ve finally got rid of them and its like I’ve started a new life not having panic attacks. I also saw a Dr. Oz special a few days ago, sometimes it isn’t a panic attack that is the root of the problem, I’d also recommend talking to your doctor. I wish you the best!
Hi Carolyne and Gina!
I have found that the Raindrop treatment, as a practicing massage therapist for 25 yrs., is overpowering to the senses and confusing to the subtle body systems. Hundreds of drops of essential oils are used in one treatment from as many as 10-15 varieties. Allergic reactions from this intense procedure are highly likely, as I have gotton these treatments at one period of my life and found them irritating, yet they can be invigorating in a harsh way. I would suggest using Bergamot oil in a sesamee base, @ 10 drops per 2oz. and apply in circular strokes to the spine daily. Blessings. Susan
Hello!
Are there herbs/oils effective for use with psoriatic rheumatoid arthritis? (joint pain and flareups?)
Cheers!
Suzan
Dear friends of the plant realm,
I began my journey with oils in the late 1970’s and continue to be grateful for all I learn and how much the plants give. My approach has not been so much intellectual as intuitive and experiential. My first intention is always to thank the source/plants for giving. There are many ways to embrace their beauty, healing properties and opportunities for growth. For example, one way I share the oils is by anointing the crystals in my home for their benefit while also holding the intention that the oils properties be amplified into the environment. I also bring the oils to the water I use to clear the minerals I work with. I have added essential oils to potentized water and flower essences which I then put into tibetan bowls. Then by playing the bowls their properties are projected thru the medium of sound. This has been a beneficial way to adjust the environment and is especially helpful when working with people as it has been a safe and effective way to introduce oils into their field. My approach has been subtle and often focused on working with the growth and expansion of consciousness. I often use the sense of smell rather than direct application to internalize and learn about the oils. I try to bring my attention to my body sensations and the images I receive. I am appreciative this site is available for continued learning and sharing of the precious plants.
With graditude,
Eyahnna
Here is a link to an interesting article on frankincense use for cancer
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/8505251.stm
Hi. I’ve been haunted by the temptation of your ancient sandalwood oil, made from the roots of previously harvested sandalwood. It’s my favorite essence aside from white pine. But I’ve read that sandalwood is a parasitic tree that sends its roots into other trees. This makes me circumspect about using oil extracted from the ancient roots – did other trees have to be killed to harvest the roots?
Hello,
My dear older friend has ‘an elephant dancing on his chest’, or a deep chest cough. It is not a productive cough, though he described it as feeling ‘wet’. He is extreemly slim and active. His lungs are his achillies heel. I was hoping you could give me direction in using essential oils to aid him. Specificly, if i were making him an anti-microbial throught spray, could i incorperate sweet Birch?
I would like to know the best oils to use with clinical depression. Particularly those that stimulate the production of neurotransmitters – serotonin and dopamine. Thanks much.
I would like to know the best oils to use for clinical depression. Particularly those that stimulate the production of neurotransmitters – serotonin and dopamine.
I redid the question because I forgot to check the auto notify.
Thanks much
Is it necessary to use a preservative when making aromatherapy sprays for either room use, or on the skin?
I’ve purchased many sprays that contain only essential oils and distilled water. I’ve taken classes and none of the products we made contained preservatives and there was no discussion regarding
The consensus in an online aromatherapy group I belong to seems to be that preservatives (either alcohol or chemical) are a necessity to avoid microbial growth.
Is this true? If so, what is the best procedure to make a safe, natural product?
Hi Allen,
All and any essential oils will help as they will raise the frequency of the body. Frankincense and Palo Santo have been noted for their ability to uplift moods. From my experience they seem to have a level out chemical imbalances. But this approach is one of treating symptoms rather than getting to root causes. Detoxing the bodyand proper diet high in fruits and vegetables is key to staving off depression. The man-made chemicals all around us affect our bodies, minds, spirit and souls in a myriad of counter productive ways. So be sure to use only holistic and organic personal care and household cleaning products. Geranium can help to detox the liver and release negative emotions. Melissa (Lemon Balm) is very good in the way it helps release trauma as well as other physiological effects. Citrus oils, such as Mandarin, Orange have scents make us want to smile and laugh, but they should not be put on skin that will be exposed to sunlight, diffusing them would be good. Floracopeia’s Pitta blend would be a good one to use as well. Sandalwood has a positive effect on the pineal gland and is one of my favorites as well as Spruce. And of course, Lavender on the toes will help with getting a good night’s sleep which is vital to keeping depression at bay. So along with positive life style activities such as yoga, some cardio exercise, diet, and a therapy that can help change thought patterns, the oils will work wonders. Frankincense, Palo Santo, Melissa, Geranium, Sandalwood, Lavender and citrus oils. The last important note is that any oil that you just love the scent of will help no matter what the issue. Even if it is not especially noted for helping with the specific issue, disease or injury, a person’s favorite smelling oil will always help.
Namaste,
Regina
Hi Allen,
I forgot to mention Ylang Ylang. It helps to balance hormones. I would definitely include it in the top five oils to have to counter depression. Frankincense, Palo Santo, Melissa, Ylang Ylang, Geranium, Sandalwood, Lavender and citrus oils.
Namaste,
Regina
Can I use paypal to pay for this?
I am curious to know if any one can suggest oils for skin cancer, the how to’s of applications is necessary directly or a carrier? I was told Helichrysum blend.
I have been applyingHB., on some moles directly. I have one mole that has softened. Is it ok to apply directly without a carrier?
OM
Charlotte
Hi – I live in Rhode Island and my home was recently flooded. As a result we are having poor air quality. In addition to open windows, dehumidifiers, fans, burning a fire, I am using my ultrasonic nebulizer with a mix of tea tree oil, a drop or 2 of clove and orange to try keep mold and bacteria out of the air. Any other recommendations for the nebulizer to help keep mold at bay as we are cleaning up?