Versatile Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

The Flowers of Lavender

Aromatherapy as we already know is one of the most effective treatment options in Complimentary Alternative Medicine (CAM). It may be administered to be inhaled, or as blend in baths or as massage oil.

There are 3 basic types of essential oils. The oils can be classified as:

1. Top Note Oils: These are those oils which evaporate quickly and are of the lightest nature, texture and weight. The effect of Top Note oils lasts for 24 hours. Basil, Clary sage, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree oils etc are good examples of Top Note Oils. These oils are generally uplifting and stimulating in nature and are effective for treating mental exhaustion and in those cases where a person develops loss of interest in life.
2. Middle Note Oils: Middle Note Oils are neither too light, not too heavy and evaporate in 2-3 days time. These oils have an effect lasting up to 4 days on the patient. Some important Middle Note Oils are Lavender, Geranium, Camomile, Cardamom, Marjoram, Rosemary oils etc. These oils are all very versatile and affect most of the functions and body systems including metabolisation and digestion.
3. Base Note Oils: These are essentially heavy oils that evaporate the slowest. Base Note oils effect patients for a week. Cedar wood, Frankincense, Jasmine, Neroli, Rose, Patchouli and Sandalwood oils are of note in this category. These oils are essential for the treatment of chronic conditions. They act on mucus membranes and affect the quality of tissue they are applied on.

Though a large variety of Top Note, Middle Note and Base Note oils are available to choose from as per your condition and requirement, Lavender is by far, the most versatile of them all (probably followed by Marjoram Oil). Each Essential Oil blends well with some Carrier Oils best.

Please note that all Essential and Carrier Oils can start an allergic reaction on sensitive skin and most of the oils should not be used during pregnancy. Some oils are harmful to conditions of epilepsy etc. Do not use any oil whose aroma you are uncomfortable with. Consult your Aroma Therapist or Holistic Health Therapist before using any oil.