Allspice Berry (Pimenta Officinalis) - It's spicy scent often used in potpourris. and used to flavor beverages, sweets and other foods. warming, cheering, sense enhancing. Warning: Avoid use in Sun.

Angelica Root (Angelica Archangelica) - A warm, musky, earthy aroma with excellent staying power. Only small quantities are needed to create an effect in a perfume. Aromatherapy: anchoring, restorative, strengthening. Warning: Avoid use in Sun.

Aniseed (Illicium Verum) - The seeds of aniseed have long been used as an aid to digestion. The Essential oil has a sweet, fresh aroma and can be used for any cramping, indigestion, or digestive problems (though not internally), and for spasmodic coughs. Warning: Do not use Aniseed during pregnancy.

Anise (Pimpinella Anisum) - Cheering, sense enhancing, mildly euphoric. Added to perfumes for a rich, sweet fragrance.

Balsam Peru (Myroxylon Pererae) - Used on chafed skin to soothe. Exotic aroma, anchoring, strengthening and imparts a rich, earthy scent to perfumes.

Basil (Osimum Basilicum) - Invigorates body and spirit: helps refresh the mind allowing concentration, especially when tired. A good nerve tonic after a stressful day. It has a sweet liquorice-like fragrance, Blends well with Lavender, Bergamot, Clary Sage and Geranium. Warning: Do not use Basil during pregnancy.

Bay Leaf (Pimenta Racemosa) - Uplifting. A good scalp and hair tonic, and for respiratory disorders and depression. Warning: Bay can be a skin irritant, so must be used with care.

Benzoin Tincture - Soothes, stimulates, comforts and warms. Add to carrier oil / cream for protecting skin against chapping or cracking.

Bergamot (Citrus Bergamia) - Relaxes and refreshes and is good for confidence building. Uplifts the spirit and emotions with its delicious fresh and invigorating citrus fragrance. Useful for caring for oily and blemished skin. Lovely light citrus aroma. Use in vaporizer to disperse unpleasant odors. It is familiar to many as the flavoring in Earl Grey Tea. Warning: Do not apply to the skin before going out into the sun - it can increase the susceptibility of the skin to severe burning.

Black Pepper (Piper Nigrum) - With a pungent aroma it stimulates and tones. Warming oil during the cold winter season. Ideal for massaging on abdomen and muscles. Use in pre-sports or dance rub to help maintain suppleness. One of the earliest used spices, interesting effects happen when it is used in perfume blends. It blends well with Rose, Rosemary, Marjoram and Lavender, but should only be used in small amounts. Warning: Black Pepper can be a skin irritant, so must be used with care.

Cajaput (Melaleuca Cajaputi) - Improves mood, increases resistance to infections. A good 'unwinding' oil. Can be used in a Steam inhalation to help clear the nasal passages, also helpful when treating oily skin and spots. Warning: Cajaput is a stimulant and an irritant and must be used with care.

Camphor White (Cinnamon Camphor) - Can be used to care for oily or spotty skin and also as an insect repellent. Also used in detergents, soaps, disinfectants, deodorants, room sprays etc. Warning: Camphor should be used sparingly and completely avoided by those suffering from epilepsy.

Cardamom Seed (Elettaria Cardomum) - The sweet, spicy, warming fragrance of cardamom has been enjoyed since the days of the ancient Egyptians, who used it as a perfume and incense. It can be used as an aid to digestion and makes an excellent bath oil as a tonic which refreshes and invigorates. Also use a lot, sparingly, in cooking and also perfumes.

Carrot seed (Daucus Carota) - This essential oil has the same sweet, earthy fragrance of the vegetable. Considered to be particularly beneficial for dry, mature skin-types and will can help to restore elasticity to the skin and could therefore reduce wrinkles.

Cassia (Cinnamomum Cassia) - Distinctly spicy like cinnamon bark. Used to flavor all kinds of food and toothpaste, mouthwash and chewing gum. Warning: Cassia is very irritating to the skin and can cause an allergic reactions.

Cedarwood (Juniperus Mexicana Scheide) - With a woody balsamic aroma. It is used in perfumes to add body and a warm note to any blend. And as Cedarwood Virginia therapeutically.

Juniperus Virginiana - Soothes and harmonizes. Recognized as a therapeutic oil from ancient times. An astringent oil useful for protection and caring for oily and blemished skin, and as an inhalant relieves mucous coughs and colds. Helps to combat cellulite, use in wardrobe to repel moths. It makes a pleasant warm and woody room fragrance, the Tibetans use it as temple incense. Warning: Use Cedarwood during pregnancy only in moderation.

Chamomile, German (Matricaria Chamomilla) - An Absolute. German chamomile a.k.a. blue chamomile or chamomile matricaria. The blue color is from azulene which is formed during the distillation of the oil. The odor is sweet and adds a warm, long-lasting undertone in perfumes. All the Chamomiles are used in massage oils and herbal mixtures.

Chamomile Roman Anthemis Noblis) - Well known for its strong soothing effect on mind and body. The Roman is more expensive but superior to the Moroc. They are excellent for protecting dry skin. They have many uses e.g. can be used to treat nerve, headache, insomnia, menstrual disorders and the Roman is a comforting oil during high pollen count. A gentle oil suitable for the young and fragile. One of the few essential oils that can be used on inflamed skin conditions. Blends well with Lavender, bergamot, jasmine, neroli, and clary sage.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum) - Warms and stimulates. A strong antiseptic, it has a cleansing effect. Used as a comforting oil during the cold season. A lovely room fragrance, especially during Xmas. Warning: Cinnamon is a powerful irritant and must not be used on the skin.

Citronella (Cymbopogon Nardus) - Light, fresh and uplifting oil, is a natural deodorizer, also useful as an insect and cat repellent.

Clary Sage (Salvia Sclerea) - Soothes, relaxes and warms, uplifts the spirit. Contains a hormone-like compound similar to estrogen that regulates hormonal balance. Massage on muscles and on abdomen before and during menstruation. Induces feeling of well-being. Can provoke dramatic and colorful dreams.... helpful with oily hair and skin, dandruff and treating wrinkles. Sensual properties. Warning: Do not use during pregnancy. Do not drink alcohol or drive.

Clove (Eugenia Caryophyllata) - An antiseptic and stimulating oil useful in mouthwash and gargle. Comforting rubbed onto gums, traditionally used to relieve toothache. Could be an effective mosquito repellent. Warning: Clove is a powerful skin irritant and should be used carefully. Do not use during pregnancy.

Coriander (Coriandum Sativum) - A sweet-smelling, spicy essence. It makes a good massage blend to relieve stiffness and muscle ache. In the bath it is refreshing and stimulating.

Cypress (Cupressus Semperviren) - With its smoky woody fragrance it refreshes, restores and tones. An astringent oil useful for refreshing and caring for oily and blemished skin. As an anti-perspirant it is good for sweaty feet. Massage on abdomen during menstruation and where there is cellulite. Good menopausal oil. Natural deodorant. Blends well with Lavender and Sandalwood.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus) - Powerful antiseptic, widely used in baths and massage during the cold season. Blend oil in chest rubs and use in a vaporizer to keep air germ free in sick room. Blends well with Lavender and Pine.

Evening Primrose (Centhera Biennis) - Rich in GLA, vitamins and minerals. Excellent for face and body massage blends, especially to combat dry, devitalised skin and eczema. Used by PMT sufferers, internally in small amounts, to ease the symptoms.

Fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare) - Has a sweet aniseed-like aroma which makes it pleasant for skin care. For massage where there is cellulite and for the digestive system, especially the dreaded wind. Good for breast firming massage and to promote milk production, use sparingly. Warning: Fennel can be a skin irritant. Do not use it on young children. Do not use if pregnant. Do not use if suffering from epilepsy.

Fir Needle (Abies Alba) - A Fresh spicy scent. A few drops will remind you of the fir forests. A festive aroma for a freshly cut Christmas tree. Warning: Dilute well. It can be a skin irritant.

Frankincense (Boswellia Thurifera) - Also known as "Olibanum". Soothes, warms and aids meditation. It has been used for centuries, and burnt on alters and in temples. "Creates a 'spiritual' atmosphere". Comforting oil, by slowing down breathing and controlling tension it helps to focus the mind. Excellent for toning and caring for mature / aging skin. (claimed to have rejuvenating qualities [the Egyptians used it in rejuvenation face-masks]).

Geranium (Pelargonium Graveolen) - A balancing oil for the mind and body. A fresh, floral and sweet smelling oil it relaxes, restores and maintains stability of the emotions. An astringent oil excellent for all skin types. Used in skin care products for both its fragrance and cleansing properties. Useful insect repellent. For massage where there is cellulite and treating eczema and psoriasis. Blends well with other floral oils, and, mixed with Lavender and Bergamot produces a delightful room freshener.

Ginger (Zingiber Officinalis) - Fiery & fortifying. Comforting oil and for massaging on the muscles. Good for nausea and sickness. Blend with orange for warming winter baths. Blends especially well with orange and other citrus oils.

Grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi) - Refreshes and uplifts the spirit. Lovely fresh aroma which can help with nervous exhaustion. It relieves congested and oily skin, having a toning effect on both skin and tissues. For this reason it is a good oil to use when treating cellulite. Warning: do not use Grapefruit on the skin in direct sunlight.

Hyssop (Hyssopus Officinalis) - Sacred to the Greeks and the Hebrews where Hyssop brooms were used to clean out sacred places. Warm and vibrant, can promote alertness and clarity of thought. When used in a fragrance can protect rooms from infection. Used to treat colds and flu, helps heal bruised skin. Warning: Powerful oil not to be used when pregnant, suffering from epilepsy, or high blood pressure.

Jasmine Absolute (Jasminum Officinale or J Grandiflorum) - Emotionally warming. Relaxes, soothes, uplifts and helps self confidence. Good for stress and general anxiety. Perfect skincare oil, excellent for hot, dry skin. Sensual properties and reputedly an Aphrodisiac! Only needs to be used in very small quantities. Exquisite perfume. A vast quantity of blossoms, which must be gathered at night when their scent is at their highest, are required to produce only a few drops of oil, so it is a very expensive oil (but see our prices!)

Juniper (Juniperus Communis) - Tones and stimulates. An antiseptic and astringent oil for bath and massage where there is cellulite. Restores psychic purity. Fresh woody aroma. Has a cleansing effect on the body, used in many masculine perfumes, after shaves and colognes, and has a calming effect on the emotions. Reputed to strengthen the immune system. {And don't forget the Gin!} Warning: Juniper should not be used when pregnant.

Lavender (Lavendula Angustifolium) - Undoubtedly the most versatile and useful oil. NO home should be without it. Relaxes, soothes, restores and balances your body and mind. Calms or stimulates according to your bodies needs. Excellent for refreshing tired muscles, feet and head. Add a drop to the pillow / sheet before peaceful sleep. Treats burns and reduces scaring. Can be used neat in small amounts on burns, but care still needs to be taken. Blends happily with many other oils. Lavender has so many uses that it is recommended that further reference be made to the many books on Aromatherapy. Lavender is a Must!

Lavandin (Lavandula hybrida) - Lavandin is a hybrid plant, a cross between true lavender and spike lavender. The oil has a camphoraceous, herbaceous, floral aroma. Used in many types of perfumes, soaps and detergents. Blends well with many other oils including cypress, geranium, citronella, clove, cinnamon, leaf, pine, thyme and patchouli. Refreshing, purifying, gently clarifying.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Citratus) - A refreshing, cleansing and stimulating tonic on the body, and added to shampoos aids in adding a shine to the hair. An antiseptic and astringent oil. Sweet powerful 'lemony' aroma which make a good refreshing and deodorizing room fragrance. Warning: Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a Bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.

Lemon (Citrus Limonum) - Widely used in beauty care. It cleanses, refreshes, cools and stimulates. Astringent and antiseptic oil. Useful for oily skin. Can be used to lighten dull, stained hands or to tone and condition nails and cuticles. Blends well with other oils. Warning: Do not use lemon on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.

Lime (Citrus Aurantifolia) - Acts like lemon and the other citrus oils. Nice aroma. Warning: Do not use lime on the skin in direct sunlight, however if the essential oil of lime is distilled rather that expressed, then it does not have a phototoxic effect. Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.

Mandarin (Citrus Noblis) - The fruits were once traditional gifts offered to the Chinese Mandarins - hence the name. A gentle and calming oil, good for oily skin. Known in France as "the children's remedy" for it's mildness - use it in massage for the digestive system and, like Lavender, can be used in massage oil to help prevent stretch marks. Warning: Do not use Mandarin on the skin in direct sunlight.

Marigold Tagetes (Calendula) - Very good antifungal and good for smelly feet! A rather pungent aroma so it helps to blend it with the citrus oils and Lavender.

Marjoram (Origanum Marjorama) - Used by the ancient Greeks. It soothes, comforts and warms. Useful on tired muscles and for massaging on abdomen during menstruation. Used to regulate the nervous system and treat insomnia. Add to After-Sports Rub. It is pleasant in a hot bath, especially blended with Lavender. Warning: Do not use during pregnancy. Care must be taken due to its sedative action, so use sparingly!

Marjoram, Wild (Thymus Masticina) - Used in a massage oil for sensitive skin. Marjoram hortensis, called sweet marjoram, is the commonly used cooking herb. Warning: Avoid use if pregnant.

Melissa (Milissa Officinalis) - A popular garden herb know also as 'Lemon Balm'. Soothing but uplifting effect on mind and body. Comforting oil during the cold season and when there is a high pollen count. Large amounts, 300 pounds of fresh lemon balm plants to yield 10ml of oil. Most oils you find are blends. Warning: Do not use Melissa on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 1% and use only 3 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.

Myrrh (Commiphora Myrrha, or C. Molmol) - The sap or resin from a tree rather than a true essential oil. A smoky, mysterious oil, centering, visualizing and meditative. One of the oldest-known perfume materials. Myrrh has a long history of use as incense, especially with frankincense. Add to cream for protecting against cracking and chapping in the cold. Add to gargle and mouthwash. Warning: During pregnancy use Myrrh only in moderation.

Neroli Absolute (Citrus Aurantium) - One of the Beautiful floral oils. It soothes, relaxes, uplifts the spirit and helps maintain confidence. Exquisite aroma. Excellent skincare oil, perfect for aging, dry sensitive skin and on scars and stretch marks. Sensual properties. Is an aid to improve sluggish circulation, relieves tension, stress and anxiety, useful for apprehension like stage fright. For a really luxurious blend mix with Rose Absolute and Jasmine Absolute oils.

Neroli light (A Blend, with Petitgrain) - Beautiful aroma used as for Neroli Absolute, but not as powerful.

Niaouli (Milaleuca Vidiflora) - This oil has a sweet, fresh fragrance. Strongly antiseptic, it is useful for treating acne, boils and skin irritations. It is used as a chest rub and is good when vaporized.

Orange (Citrus Sinensis) - A pleasant winter oil. It soothes, restores and uplifts the spirit. A warming 'jolly' oil. Blend with spicy oils for cheering baths. Add to massage oil for digestive system. Believed to brighten dull complexions. Encourages sleep. Warning: Do not use on the skin in direct sunlight. Dilute to 2% and use only 4/5 drops in a bath as it may cause irritation of the skin.

Ormenis (Ormenis Mixta) - Used diluted in a carrier oil to condition and highlight blond hair. Provides a long-lasting sweet undertone in perfumes. A calming, soothing, nurturing oil.

Palmarosa (Cymbopogon Martina) - It has a light, lovely floral aroma which is uplifting. It aids clarity of mind and also makes a wonderful skincare oil when mixed with Sweet Almond. It is said to stimulate cellular regeneration and it moisturizes making it particularly good for mature skin care and acne.

Parsley Seed (Petroselinum Sativum) - This essential oil has a warm, spicy and herby aroma. It's main use is as a diuretic and in the treatment of urinary tract problems. Warning: Parsley oil should be used by all with great care as there can be confusion between Parsley Leaf and Parsley Seed oils which can have different affects.

Patchouli (Pogostemon Patchouli) - Are you an ex-Hippy? Or even still one? Then you'll know this oil....Peace brothers and sisters.... A musky exotic oil which soothes and uplifts the spirit. Useful in protecting dry, mature or blemished skin. Sensual properties and musky aroma lingers. Use on scalp for dandruff. Used in the East to scent linen and clothes.

Peppermint (Mentha Piperta) - One of the most important essential oils. It stimulates, refreshes, cools, restores and uplifts mind and body. Add to a massage blend for the digestive system. Excellent for refreshing tired head and feet. Sniff from bottle or one drop on handkerchief to revive during travel. Add few drops to car dashboard to help stay alert, clear thinking and fresh. Blended with Rosemary and Juniper it makes an excellent morning bath. Warning: Some Aromatherapists say do not use Peppermint when pregnant. Dilute to 1% Peppermint and use no more than 3 drops in the bath as it may cause irritation to sensitive skins.

Petitgrain (Citrus Aurantium) - Another oil from the same trees as Neroli/Orange Blossom though Pettigrain is distilled from the leaves rather than the petals. Relaxes, restores, cleanses, and uplifts the spirit. Similar properties to Neroli, it has deodorant properties and helps to relieve anxiety and stress. Lovely aroma. Good in final rinse for healthy hair (two drops). B Blends well with Rosemary, Geranium, Lavender and Bergamot as well as with Orange and Neroli.

Pine (Pinus Sylvestris) - From the needles, young twigs and cones of the Pine tree. It stimulates, refreshes and cleanses. With a strong, fresh, resinous aroma it has a powerful antiseptic quality and is widely used. It has a deodorant affect and is often used in commercial preparations. Warning: Dilute and use with care as Pine oil may otherwise cause skin irritation.

Rose Absolute (Rosa Damascena) - Known as the Queen of oils. With 'Feminine' properties, emotionally soothing, it tones, cleanses, uplifts the spirit and helps maintain self confidence. Excellent skincare oil, perfect for dry/mature, aging or thread veined skin. It has been renowned throughout the centuries as having sensual and even aphrodisiac properties. Exquisite aroma. Another expensive oil that needs only a small amount to be affective. It can be a very sticky oil at room temperature and goes solid at relatively high temperatures, but warming in the hands or other more interesting warm places soon makes it more liquid. Seldom used in commercial products, where a cheaper synthetic is used, to the detriment of the appreciation of the properties of the real oil. Warning: Avoid using during the first four months of pregnancy.

Rose Otto (Rosa Damascena) - A warm, intense, immensely rich fragrance. Rose oil is one of the oldest and best known of all essential oils. It is used in all types of perfumes to lend beauty and depth to the aroma. A drop or two in a massage, facial, or bath oil creates a luxurious, soothing experience. The oil is also used in skin creams, powders, and lotions. It is a romantic, creative, gently cheering oil. Warning: Avoid using during the first four months of pregnancy.

Rosemary (Rosemarinus Officianlis) - A popular oil in Aromatherapy where it revives, warms, stimulates and restores. Excellent for refreshing tired muscles, feet and mind, allowing concentration. Perfect in Pre and Post sports rubs to maintain suppleness. Helps combat water retention and cellulite. Good hair tonic. An ideal pick-me-up. Combats fatigue and clears stuffy atmosphere. Warning: Do not use Rosemary when pregnant, having high blood pressure, or suffering from epilepsy. It may cause irritation of the skin.

Rosewood (Aniba Rosaeodora) - Also known as Bois De Rose. A pleasant and flowery aroma. Relaxing and deodorizing. Add to massage oil to help combat tired muscles -especially after vigorous exercise. Has a steadying and balancing affect on nerves, useful during exams. A good anti-depressant and may help migraine and ward off general malaise. Due to the destruction of the hardwood rainforests where the trees come from ensure that your oil comes from Waste Plantation grown wood. Ho wood or Ho leaf can be used instead.

Sage (Salvia Officinalis) - A useful regulator of the central nervous system. May help with menstrual and digestive disorders. Warning: Do not use Sage when pregnant or suffering from epilepsy.

Sandalwood Mysore (Santalum Album) - Musky, rich, exotic oils not initially strong aroma, but persistent, traditionally burnt as an aid to meditation and much used in religious ceremonies. Creates an exotic, sensual atmosphere with a reputation as an aphrodisiac. Excellent skincare oil. useful for dry and damaged hair and as a body fragrance.

Spearmint (Mentha Spicata) - Energizing to the mind and body. Use in bath water for it's refreshing effect. Make a facial steam of spearmint oil in a pot of boiling water to help cleanse and refine pores. It is refreshing, cooling, gently vitalizing.

Tangerine (Citrus Reticulata) - A sweet tangy aroma. Used as an astringent for oily skin. Tangerine is also used in drinks and desserts. Warning: Avoid use in sun.

Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia) - Powerful antiseptic, antifungal and anti-viral. Good for acne, cold sores, warts, and burns. Ideal for vaporizing to kill germs. Useful cleansing agent for skin. Helps combat foot odor and athletes foot. Ti Tree, as it is also known, has a wide range of uses, including some aids related illnesses, and further reading is recommended. Warning: May cause irritation to sensitive skins.

Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) - Long known since ancient times as a medicinal and culinary herb. Vaporize as a household disinfectant. It has a strong pungent aroma and is said that it can ward off rodents and get rid of fleas. Warning: Do not use Thyme when pregnant or having high blood pressure. Dilute to no more than 2% Thyme before use. It may cause irritation to sensitive skins.

Vetivert (Vetivera Zizanoides) - Sometimes known as Vetiver. A deeply relaxing, soothing oil for the mind and body. Earthy, smoky aroma, which is more pleasant when diluted. Assists in reducing blood pressure. Sensual properties. Blends subtly with Lavender, Sandalwood and Jasmine.

Wintergreen (Gualtheria Promcumbens) - A fresh, cleansing minty aroma. Warning: Harmful or fatal if taken internally. As little as one teaspoon can be fatal if ingested by a child. Dilute well, skin irritant. Avoid if pregnant.

Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) - Has sedative properties. Used for a wide variety of complaints, including chest infections, digestive problems and nervous exhaustion. The Chinese use it for menstrual problems and in Scandinavia it is used for Rheumatism. It is also used for skin complaint including acne, reducing scaring for burns and cuts.

Ylang Ylang (Cananga Odorata) - “Flower of flowers” and often called “The poor person's Jasmine”. A sweet exotic oil, long used for its sensual properties. Soothing and relaxing during times of tension and stress. Ideal for both oily and dry skins and as a hair rinse [2 drops in rinse water]. Blends well with Lemon and Bergamot.