essential oils: descriptions

Personal Lives of Essential Oils

This is a work in progress! I'm formatting and getting together, but I wanted you to be able to see the information. It ain't pretty, but it's informative!

Note: Each of these descriptions contains a basic chemical composition of the essential oil. This is by no means a complete chemical portrait. There are many wonderful books available that go into this fascinating field in much greater depth.




Note Again: The following descriptions contain historical and magical uses of the plant/herb/oil. In some cases, the ancient use pertains to a different species with the same name. Species are identified wherever possible.


Anise seed: Pimpinella anisum: an annual bush up to 1 ft. tall with fern-like leaves. The oil is steam distilled from the seeds and contains up to 90% menthole, with methyl and chavicol. Anise has estrogen-like properties, is an emmenagogue and anti-spasmodic. Anise is a specific for menstrual problems and menopause. It's also helpful for stomach problems, childbirth, colitis, palpitations, asthma, nervous respiratory problems and heartache. Some Specialists caution to avoid use on pregnant and lactating women, as it affects hormone balance. During Roman times, anise seeds were baked into wedding cakes to ward off evil and bring luck. In 7th century Greece, perfumers made a beautiful unguent with Anise and sold it in a thriving marketplace. To this day, the Japanese plant Star Anise trees around temples and over graves for protection and blessing.


Basil: Ocimum basilicum: A beautiful, lush, emerald or dark green herb native to the Mediterranean, Basil leaves are steam distilled to produce a fragrant oil containing Fenchol, linalol, eugenol, methyl chavicol, beta caryophellene. Properties include: anti-depressant, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, digestive, expectorant, nervine, stimulant to the adrenal cortex, anti-septic, digestive, emmenagogue, emmenagogue, febrifuge, sudorific, tonic. Basil is a great hair tonic, and can be used for respiratory and stomach problems, earaches, epilepsy, fevers, fainting, migraine, arteriosclerosis, tachycardia, cough and varicose veins. May be inhaled for depression, hysteria, insomnia, mental fatigue, nervous tension, intellectual overwork and stress. Its key use is for insufficient digestive enzymes. May be caustic to skin if applied undiluted. Add a drop to sauces for a great basil flavour. Be careful not to add too much! Nicholas Culpepper, the famous 17th century herbalist recommends Basil to aid childbirth and to expel the placenta. Basil has the magical properties of attracting cash, providing protection, strengthening the conscious mind, exorcism, fidelity, happiness, love, protection, serenity and increasing sexual energy. Its planet is Mars, its day is Tuesday, its astrological sign is Leo and its aspect is fire. The use of Basil is ancient and widespread. The Hindus believe it to be sacred to Vishnu and Krishna. A Basil leaf placed on a dead Hindu insured their entrance into paradise. West Indies shop owners soaked the leaves in water and sprinkled the scented water around their shops to attract luck and money. Cretans referred to Basil as “love washed with tears,” and the Italians thought of the herb as a token of love. The Haitians use Basil in voodoo love magic, and associate the herb with Erzulie, the voodoo goddess of love. The 3rd century A.D. Zoroastrian religious figure, Arda Wiraz, on awakening from a 7 day, ecstatic, soma-induced trance, described heaven as being “much perfumed with sweet basil.” The Greeks however, gave Basil a bad rap by associating it with hate and bad luck!


Bay: Laurus nobilis: Apollo, the sun god, the god of archery, poetry, prophesy, music and healing, challenged Cupid for his boastfulness. Cupid struck Apollo, the sun god, with an arrow of love for Daphne, wood nymph and daughter of the river god Peneus. Daphne, however, was a virginal devotee of the moon goddess, and had no interest whatsoever in Apollo. In order to escape his affections (today we would call it “stalking”) her father transformed her into a laurel tree. In mourning, the ever-young Apollo adorned himself with the fragrant, evergreen laurel leaves. Ever since those ancient times the laurel has been associated with the moon goddess, Diana and her strength, ferocity and independence. The laurel was also thereafter sacred to Apollo. Emperors, Poet Laureates, and Athletes have been crowned with these branches. Wreaths of laurel were also used to adorn harps and archers’ quivers. Artistry, charisma and strength were rewarded with the sacred leaves of the beautiful laurel tree of the moon goddess. To the Greeks and Romans, the laurel tree represented wisdom, life giving, nurturing, and steadfastness. The leaves and sap were blood, the gifts of life, and the feminine life cycle. The Roman Emporer Tiberius wore a wreath of bay around his neck during thunderstorms, as it was believed that lightning would never strike bay. Although used for many ailments, the leaves were used medicinally mainly for menstrual problems and pains in the womb. The berries were used during childbirth and for expelling afterbirth. Isn’t it wonderful how the medicinal use of this beautiful, fragrant tree is so compellingly relevant to its mythical history? The virginal Daphne, in her incarnation as a tree, cures uniquely feminine ailments with a wave of her branches. Most often used in aromatherapy is the Laurus nobilis, as it has the most gentle, beneficial qualities, with no unpleasant effects. (There are two other species used for the production of essential oil: Umbellularia californica (California Laurel), and Pimenta racemosa (the West Indies Bay used to make Bay Rum). The California Laurel is considered toxic and should never be used.)


Laurus nobilis is from the family Lauraceae. This evergreen tree is native to the Mediterranean, and grows in Evergreen woods, thickets and rocky places. The oil is steam distilled from the leaves. It contains to 50% Cineole, small amounts of Eugenol and Pinene. The oil is used for colds, viral infections, sore throats, swollen tonsils, and sinus headaches and to repel insects. It can be used in massage oil for muscular aches and arthritis. Bay can be inhaled in a blend for the respiratory system. A hydrosol (the water product of the distillation process) of Bay is particularly effective on sore, irritated, infected or inflamed throats. A few of its many properties include antiseptic, antiviral, digestive, bactericidal, and anti-spasmodic. It is a stimulant to the immune system, making it an excellent choice for colds and flu including sore throat, fever and aching muscle symptoms. Never use Bay oil neat, as it could irritate the skin. Magical uses include warding off hexes and illness and acquiring or keeping love. Bay is associated with the moon, of course, water and Monday. According to some Aromatherapists, Bay Essential Oil may be considered to be narcotic, may cause dermatitis and should not be used in pregnancy. This sentiment is not echoed by all practitioners. (I use Bay frequently for sore throats and have never had a problem. Quite the contrary, in fact, Bay is one of my all-time favourite oils.) The belief that Bay is a narcotic may stem from the fact that the prophetesses (Pythia) of the Oracles at Delphi sat over holes cut in the floor from which the intoxicating smoke of Bay rose to surround them. It is said that this smoke induced a prophetic trance. However, since much experimentation has failed to provide any evidence of intoxicating properties, some scholars have pointed to Henbane as the source for the trance-inducing smoke. The Greeks considered the herb to be sacred to Apollo, which would have made it an appropriate choice for the temple of Apollo at Delphi, and it has been proven that Henbane contains psychoactive substances (tropane alkaloids), that produce psychedelic effects when the fumes are inhaled. This seems a more likely source for the prophetess’ trance-state, than Bay smoke, don’t you think? In addition to Bay, and possibly Henbane being burned at the Oracle, there is evidence that Barley was burned as well. It is known that for over 2,000 years, at nearby Eleusis, the culmination of a yearly ten-day ritual event, “Mystery Night” took place at their Temple of the Mysteries, where the mysteries were revealed by the priests and priestesses (mystagogos) to the initiates (the mystai). The Mystagogos drank intoxicating beverages (kykeon), which some scholars believe was made from barley. Barley, as well as Rye is known to host a fungal parasite known as ergot, the alkaloids of which contain a common nucleus, lysergic acid. Lysergic acid is a psychoactive substance with a long history of cultural use. (Albert Hoffman, in 1938, produced synthesized compounds of lysergic acid, the 25th of which was lysergic acid diethylamide, or LSD-25. Ergot can infest an entire crop when warm, moist weather and soil conditions are present, causing poisonings among any person or animal who eats the bread or ingests the rye in any way. Symptoms include hallucinations, convulsions, spontaneous abortions, and death. In the past, since these symptoms appeared to have no earthly cause, many people blamed witchcraft or demonic possession. Many scholars now believe that large scale Ergot poisoning set the stage for the historic witch-hunts, including the Salem witch-hunt. Recent studies have revealed that the afflicted, or “bewitched” persons in all of these cases exhibited the same symptoms as one afflicted with ergot poisoning, and weather conditions conducive to ergot infestation were found to be present in the growing seasons corresponding with every case of large scale witch hunts. Vedddy inteddestink!)


The Laurus nobilis is a distinguished leaf and a beautiful oil. It creates a wonderful atmosphere when used in the diffusor, and makes a nice addition to any perfume blend. As a singer, my research has proven that it is the most effective oil in curing sore, irritated throats. Pimenta racemosa has its valuable curative properties as well, although not quite as valuable as the Noble Laurel. Just don’t get either of these oils mixed up with California Bay, or you’ll have some serious problems!


There has been some confusion between the gentle Laurus nobilis and Umbellularia californica (California Laurel), which is maybe not so gentle!


The Umbellularia californica is an evergreen tree native to Southwest Oregon and California, growing in evergreen forests and scrub in canyons and valleys. It grows to 100 feet tall in a broadly spreading shape. It may grow into a large tree in moist, sheltered situations, but can be reduced to the size of a small shrub in dry, exposed conditions. The leaves are elliptic to oblong, up to 4 inches long and 1 inch across, untoothed, bright green or deep yellow-green. The bark is dark gray, and cracks into rectangular plates with age. Flowers are 3/8 of an inch across, without petals, with six yellow-green sepals, in clusters of up to ten, in the leaf axils in late winter to spring. The fruit is a rounded to egg-shaped berry about 1 inch long, green in colour, ripening to deep purple. This tree is commonly known as California bay, California olive, or Oregon myrtle.



When crushed, the leaves emit an acrid smell. This poisonous vapour may induce nausea and headaches. When distilled, the essential oil has the same noxious effect.


Finally, the Pimenta racemosa (West Indian Bay), which is used to make the famous “Bay Rum” elixir, tonic, magical water. This tree is from the family, Myrtaceae, and is native to the West Indies. The oil is a deep golden yellow, with a thin/medium consistency. It is considered to be a middle note with a medium to strong aroma which can be described as medicinal, fruity, spicy, and herbaceous.


It can be used for dandruff, hair care, neuralgia, oily skin, poor circulation, sprains, strains, but should be avoided in alcoholism, haemophilia, prostatic cancer, kidney and liver problems and if taking anti-coagulants. It is moderately toxic and a mucous membrane irritant.


There are three main species used for the production of essential oil. The Laurus nobilis, (Bay Laurel), Umbellularia californica (California Laurel), and Pimenta racemosa (the West Indies Bay). Most often used in aromatherapy is the Laurus nobilis, as it has the most gentle, beneficial qualities, with no unpleasant effects


Laurus nobilis is from the family Lauraceae. The oil is clear, thin, and the scent is very gently, warmly spicy and beautiful.herbaceous, fruity, fresh, camphoraceous, spicy. This evergreen tree is native to the Mediterranean, and grows in Evergreeen woods, thickets and rocky places. It’s broadly conical in shape, and can grow to a height of 50 feet. The leaves are elliptic to ovate, to 4 inches long and 1.5 in across and pointed at the tip, with a wavy margin, glossy dark green above, paler beneath, smooth, leathery, and of course, aromatic when crushed. The bark is dark gray and smooth. The flowers of the Bay Laurel are about 3/8 in across, yellow-green, males with numerous yellow stamens, in clusters in the leaf axils, on separate plants in spring. The females are smaller. The fruit is a rounded berry, about 3/8 inch long, green at first, then ripening to black (This tree is also known as sweet bay. This species and the related Canary Island Laurel (Laurus azorica) are the only members of the family native to Europe.)


Bergamot: Citrus bergamia Oil is expressed from the peel of the 12-15 foot citrus tree, and contains geraniol, linalol, nerol, alpha-terpinene, citral, linalyl acetate, camphene, limonene, pinene, and coumarins. Properties include anti-infectious, anti-spasmodic, anti-bacterial, cicatrisant, parasiticide, relaxant, sedative, digestive stimulant, and anti-inflammatory. Bergamot can be used for hemorrhoids, digestive problems, candida, insomnia, agitation, skin care, wounds, herpes, psoriasis, stress, nerves, sedative, calming, refreshing, uplifting. Its key uses are for skin care and stress. Bergamot is photosensitizing to the skin and can cause irritations. It's considered an allergen to some.



Birch (sweet) Betula lenta: Sweet Birch is native to the northern, eastern United States and Canada. It grows to 80 feet tall. The essential is steam distilled from the bark. The word Birch has several possible origins: The Sanskrit “bharg” meaning “shining,” or “bhurga” meaning “tree whose bark is good to write upon;” the Anglo Saxon “beorgan” meaning “to protect or shelter;” or the Latin word “batuere” meaning “to strike.” An ancient Roman symbol of an axe surrounded by Birch rods communicated the empire’s power to punish by flogging with the birch or death by the axe. Birch trees are a physical manifestation of the great Mother and symbolize the female. She is the “lady of the woods,” and is associated with Venus. She is a protector of travelers. Nordic mystics use birch to carve Runes for divination. Traditionally, cradles are carved from birch wood to protect the infant. Witches’ brooms are also carved from Birch. Birch branches are very effective as magic wands, especially in love spells and handfastings. Birch is used in magic spells for healing, love, protection, purification and journeying. She is associated with water. Birch wood is extremely important in Siberian shamanism, seen as the “World tree” or “cosmic axis” onto which the three flat wheels of the universe are fixed (the underworld, the middle world of our own existence, and the heavens). Thus the tree could be seen as the shaman’s ladder upon which he could travel between the worlds. Birch groves are sacred spots, used for weddings, induction ceremonies, burials and sacrifices and in fantastic induction ceremonies for the novice shaman. The wood is used to construct ceremonial brooms, ceremonial horse staves and drums. The Birch tree shares a symbiotic relationship with the fly agaric, or amanita muscaria mushroom. Many Siberian shamans (indeed, shamans all over the world) consider the ecstatic visions given them by ingestion of the fly agaric to be central to their religion. The sacredness of the Birch is evidenced to the shaman by its deep life connection with the mushroom. (In this context, consider the Birch’s reputation as a protectress of travelers. The predominant experience of fly agaric intoxication is a sense of journeying out of one’s body and time.) Birch essential oil is up to 98% Methyl Salicylate. Properties include anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, diuretic and tonic. It is used for obesity and water retention, and as a massage for rheumatism. The oil is inhaled for hypertension. Caution: Birch oil is a skin irritant and a marine pollutant.


Black Pepper: Piper nigrum: The oil is steam distilled from the crushed berries and contains phellandrene, pinene, alpha-terpinene, beta-bisabolene, beta-caryophellene, sabinene, linalol, pinocarveol, alpha-terpiniol, carvicrol, camphene, limonene. Properties include: expectorant, warming, stimulating, gland stimulant and aphrodisiac. Black Pepper is used for respiratory problems, toothache, laryngitis, rheumatism, and as a flavouring for food. The Perfumed Garden suggests Black Pepper to enhance male sexual prowess: “If you would make the enjoyment still more voluptuous, masticate a little cubeb-pepper or cardamom grains of the large species; put a certain quantity of it upon the head of your member, and then go to work This will procure for you, as well as for the woman, a matchless enjoyment.” The Kama Sutra also suggests Black Pepper for similar effects: “If a man, after anointing his lingam with a mixture of the powders of the white thorn apple, the long pepper and, the black pepper, and honey, engages in sexual union with a woman, he makes her subject to his will.” The ointment from the balm of Judea or of Mecca produces a similar effect.” By 300 B.C., Black Pepper was part of the thriving spice trade between India and the Middle East, and was worth its weight in gold! Greek herbals as old as 500 BC mention the use of Black Pepper. The abdominal cavity and nostrils of Ramses II’s mummy was found to contain Black Pepper.


Cajeput: Melaleuca cajeputi: Cajeput is an evergreen to 90 feet, native to Indonesia. The oil is steam distilled from the leaves and twigs and contains cineole, pinene, sesquiterpenes (cadinene and others). Properties include: anti-infectious, antiseptic and hormone-like. It may be used for herpes, respiratory problems, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, acne and itchy skin. Mix with cornstarch and use as a powder for athlete's foot. This oil is not for use on pregnant women.

Cedarwood: Cedrus atlantica: Native to Morocco, and Algeria, the Cedarwood is a tall evergreen tree growing to 40 meters. The oil is steam distilled from the wood. Cedarwood oil contains cadinene, atlantone and cedrol, sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpinols. (There are many oils being sold under the name “Cedarwood” by various essential oil companies. Be sure you are getting Cedrus atlantica for aromatherapy purposes.) Cedar trees are found in many parts of the world. There are many different species, each having its own unique attributes. The one thing they all have in common, though, is that they are held in very high esteem wherever they grow. Being evergreen, the Cedar is a universal symbol of the everlasting cycle of life. The wood is very beautiful and strong and is resistant to insects and rot. Because of these qualities, Cedarwood was/is sacred to Native Americans, Christians, Jews, Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Mexicans, Celts, modern Pagans, and countless others. Aleister Crowley included Cedar as part of his spell to converse with an Angel in his Thelema Texts. Specifically, Cedarwood was used by the Egyptians for mummification and impregnation of papyrus to protect from insects. Cedar and Myrrh were sacred to Isis, the mother of stars, parent of seasons, mistress of the world. The Native Americans burned cedar in sweat lodges and considered the smoke sacred. The Pawnee used it to banish nightmares and soothe nerves. The mysterious Taskigi tribe of Alabama hung a human figure carved from Cedar (possibly Juniperus virginiana, or “Eastern Red Cedar”) on the top of a pole for protection medicine. The Zuni used its smoke for purification. Lebanese Cedar (Cedrus libani) was so highly prized for its use as incense that it is almost completely depleted from the land there. The name Lebanon is said to come from the Akkadian word Lubbunu meaning incense. According to Robert Graves in his The White Goddess, King Solomon used Lebanese Cedar and “choice fir” and olive wood to build three temples erected in honor of Jehovah, the Mountain Goddess (also known as the Love and Battle Goddess of Midsummer) and the Birth Goddess of the Winter Solstice. Cedar was carved into the beams and pillars of the temples, and was sacred to the Love and Battle Goddess of Mount Lebanon (the Goddess Astarte or Anatha). Cedar is the tree of the summer solstice. 3,000 years ago, the famous King Ur of Mesopotamia burned incense of Cedarwood and Myrrh to appease the gods and Goddesses. Homer’s The Odyssey tells us that the goddess Calypso burned incense of Cedar in her home. The Babylonians used Cedarwood during that era as well, as did the Chinese. The Egyptian Book of the Dead decrees that figurines of Gods and Goddesses must be anointed with oil of Cedar before being placed in a miniature boat replica to be placed in the tomb. Cedar is also mentioned in a papyrus translated by M. Maspero entitled Le Rituel de l’Embaumemont: “Thou receivest the oil of the cedar in Amentet, and the cedar which came forth from Osiris cometh unto thee; it delivereth thee in the nomes.” Cedar is considered by the Egyptians to be sacred to Isis, penultimate goddess who was the wife and sister of Osiris. It's one of the first oils ever to be extracted from a plant. Properties include: antiseptic, astringent, sedative, arterial regenerative, and lymphotonic, diuretic, expectorant. The oil is used for skin care, acne, respiratory problems, cancer, catarrh, cystitis, dandruff, cellulite, gonorrhea, urinary tract disorders, arteriosclerosis, fat loss, balancing, calming, promotes spirituality. Key uses are for skin conditions and respiratory ailments. Cedarwood is used in magic spells for spirituality, self-control and love. Its day is Sunday, and it is associated with the Sun and Uranus and the element of fire. Its corresponding stone is Lepidolite (sleep, spirituality and protection). Cedarwood is considered to be neurotoxic and abortive. Do not use on children or pregnant women.

The Chamomiles:


German Chamomile: Matricaria recutita: This oil is steam distilled from the flowers of this 20-30 cm annual. Chemical components include sesquiterpenes (azulene and farnasene), alpha-bisabool and farnesol. Properties include: anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. The oil is used for asthma, eczema, intestinal parasites, menstrual problems, skin disease and other skin problems, stomach problems.


Moroccan Chamomile Ormenis mixta: Moroccan Chamomile oil is steam distilled from the flowers and contains geranyl acetate, neryl acetate, linalol, limonene, phellandrene, alpha pinene, beta-bisabolene, beta-caryophellene, pinocarveol, geranial, bornyl acetate, germarnene, 1, 8 cineole, santolina alcohol (to 30%). Properties include: anti-infectious, bactericide, and parasiticide. Uses include: acne, eczema, skin problems, liver and stomach problems, prostatitis, sexual problems, and nervous depression. Its key use as is a euphoric! Truly beautiful.


Roman Chamomile: Chamomelum nobile: The oil is steam distilled from the flowers, and contains trace chemazulene with a high ester content. Properties include anti-spasmodic, nervine, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitical. The oil is used for neuritis, neuralgia, parasites, acne, skin irritation, nervous tics, nervous asthma, insomnia and headache. Nicholas Culpepper recommended Chamomile to bring on the courses. In magic, Roman Chamomile is used in spells for love, sleep, meditation, money, purification, serenity and to ward off hexes. Its planets are Venus and the moon, which gives it a water element. Its associated zodiacal signs are Moon Child and Libra.


Citronella: Cymbopogon nardus: Native to Sri Lanka, this is a tall perennial, aromatic grass. The oil is steam distilled from the aboveground parts, and contains citronellal and geraniol. Properties include: anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, insect repellant. It's great for muscle aches and for repelling bugs!


Clary Sage: Salvia sclarea: Native to Syria, Italy, France and Switzerland, Clary Sage oil is steam distilled from the leaves, and contains linolol, sclareol, lynalyl acetate and linalool. This oil was introduced to England in 1562 and used in Europe throughout the middle ages. In his 1652 herbal, Nicholas Culpepper suggests Clary Sage for bringing on the courses and to expel the placenta after childbirth. Properties include: anticonvulsive, antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive, nervine, sedative, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, deodorant, digestive, emmenagogue, tonic, stomachic, uterine. Uses include: epilepsy, adrenal stimulant, boils, childbirth, menstrual regulator, convulsions, impotence, hypertension, kidney disorders, labour, menopause, skin regenerator, acne, throat infections, ulcers, depression, frigidity, hysteria, panic, PMS, relaxant, euphoric. Key uses include skin decongestant, menstrual regulator, hot flashes, hemorrhoids, and nervous fatigue. Use Clary Sage in a toner, facial mask, steam and in moisturizing oils for skin that is congested with whiteheads and blackheads. It works almost immediately to clear the complexion on the face, chest and back.



Clove Bud: Eugenia caryophyllata: Clove oil is steam distilled from the immature flower buds of this Zanzibar-native, and contains 60-90% eugenol. Properties include: analgesic, anti-infectious, antifungal, antiseptic, anticancerous, carminative, stimulant, warming, parasiticide. It's uses include regulating thyroid, some cancers, toothaches, respiratory ailments, liver stimulant, muscle aches, colds, flu, wounds, arthritis, exhaustion, memory loss, as a rinse for dark hair and especially as a dentrifice for sore gums and toothaches. Clove oil can be allergenic and can cause skin and mucous membrane irritations. Clove was a much-favoured ingredient in European perfumes in the middle ages. Nostradamus describes a perfume made from Cloves, amber, Oriental musk, Cinnamon, violet root, spikenard and ½ pound of olive wood oil. Nostradamus writes that this oil was used by heathen kings in olden days who were renowned for their beautiful perfumes. The blend also has marvelous therapeutic capabilities. If a woman puts one drop on her belly, she will become pregnant no matter how weak the man and while “it is true that it is expensive, but its perfume is so lovely…and the child which it will bear will delight you so much it will more than repay you.” The Golden Bough tells of a special reverence for Clove trees: “In the Moluccas, when the clove-trees are in blossom, they are treated like pregnant women. No noise may be made near them; no light or fire may be carried past them at night; no one may approach them with his hat on, all must uncover in their presence. These precautions are observed lest the tree should be alarmed and bear no fruit, or should drop its fruit too soon, like the untimely delivery of a woman who has been frightened in her pregnancy. “






Cypress: Cupressus sempervirens: Cupressus sempervirens is a tall evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean. (Sempervirens in Latin means “always alive.”) The oil is steam distilled from the needles, twigs and cones and contains cedrol, sabinol, camphene, limonene, myrcene, pinene and sabinene. Properties include: anti-fungal, anti-infectious, antiseptic, antispasmodic, sudorific, astringent, decongestant, sedative, deodorant, vasoconstrictive. Cypress oil's uses include: respiratory problems, cancer, cellulite, diarrhoea, dysentery, infections, bleeding, wounds, insomnia, liver tonic, menopause, menstrual cramps, skin and hair care, sore throat, varicose veins, insomnia and nervous tension. Key uses include: colitis, gut infections, decongest prostate, stimulate pancreas. Nicholas Culpepper recommends Cypress to help regulate immoderate flux of the menses. Cypress was imported by the Babylonians 3,000 years ago for medicinal purposes and to be burned as incense in religious ceremonies. To this day, Cypress is a resurrection symbol in Mediterranean churchyards. In ancient Greece, Cypress was sacred to Hercules, who had himself planted in the sacred cypress grove at Daphne. Cypress symbolized rebirth. The tree was named after the place, Cyprus, which was named after Cypriot Aphrodite, Hercules’ mother. The Greeks also considered Cypress sacred to Hecate, the moon-goddess of the underworld and magic, and to Hera (equivalent to the Roman Juno, wife of Jupiter), the wife of Zeus. Cypress is also considered sacred to the Cretan and Greek goddess, Rhea, the mother of Zeus. The cult of the Cypress is originally Minoan in origin. Cypress is associated with the Teutonic goddess, Freya, the moon goddess of marriages and commander of the Valkyries. Egyptians thought the Cypress sacred to Isis, the ultimate goddess.






Douglas Fir: Pseudotsuga menziensii: The needles are steam distilled to produce the essential oil containing beta-pinene, citronellyl acetate, and beta-phellandrene. The oil is antiseptic and disinfectant and is used for respiratory problems, stomach cramps, nerves, and has an elevating and a grounding effect when inhaled. Douglas Fir essential oil is great as a massage for sore muscles! Fir was used as floor planking in King Solomon’s temples and was sacred to the Birth Goddess of the Winter Solstice.






Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus globulus: Eucalyptus globulus was first discovered in Tasmania in 1792. Eucalyptus oil is steam distilled from the leaves, and contains up to globulol, pinocarvone, 1,8 cineole, camphene, limonene, pinene. Properties include: anti-catarrh, expectorant, anti-bacterial, and antifungal, antispasmodic, stimulant. It's used as an inhalant for colds, flu, asthma, malaria, cholera, infected sinuses, laryngitis, and bronchitis. It can be applied for cystitis, bacterial skin problems, gonnorhoea, wounds, haemorrhaging. Eucalyptus globulus may be too reactive to small lungs. Leave a 2-3 hour gap between use of Eucalyptus essential oil and any homeopathic remedy you may be taking. Eucalyptus is traditionally used in magic spells for healing, health and purification. It is associated with the planets Mercury and Saturn, the zodiac sign of Libra, the element of air and the Aquamarine stone (health, healing, purification).






Fennel: Foeniculum vulgare: Native to the Mediterranean, the seeds of this herb are steam distilled to produce a beautiful oil containing camphene, limonene, phellandrene, pinene, alpha terpenene, fenchol, camphor, fenchone, 1,8 cineole, anethole, estragol, methyl chavicol. It has long been used for its estrogen-like properties, and has the unique ability to be able to balance hormones to create a smoother cycle. In addition it is a digestive, a tonic, and increases life span! It's great for all menstrual problems, childbirth, lactation and digestive problems. Fennel can help soothe nervous respiratory disorders. Fennel is considered an aphrodisiac in Mediterranean countries. The Kama Sutra recommends it for male prowess: “If ghee, honey, sugar and liquorice in equal quantities, the juice of the fennel plant, and milk are mixed together, this nectar-like composition is said to be holy, and provocative of sexual vigour, a preservative of life, and sweet to the taste.” Both Nicholas Culpepper, 1652 and Richard Banckes, 1525, recommend Fennel for increasing milk flow in mothers. Culpepper also suggests Fennel to bring on the courses.

Fennel is the magical cure-all for pink eye, and has been proven to help with liver ailments.

Antibacterials can work by killing the microbe outright or by disrupting their growth. Fennel was found to be effective against a number of bacteria:

Hot water and acetone seed extracts showed considerably good antibacterial activity against all the bacteria except Klebsiella pneumoniae and one strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Minimum inhibitory concentration for aqueous and acetone seed extracts ranged from 20–80 mg/ml and 5–15 mg/ml respectively. Viable cell count studies revealed the bactericidal nature of the seed extracts. Statistical analysis proved the better/equal efficacy of some of these seed extracts as compared to standard antibiotics. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of 2.80 – 4.23% alkaloids, 8.58 – 15.06% flavonoids, 19.71 – 27.77% tannins, 0.55–0.70% saponins and cardiac glycosides. 

Also: 

The present study was conducted to examine the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of essential oil, methanol and ethanol extracts of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) seeds native to Pakistan. The seed essential oil and extract yields from fennel seeds were found to be 2.81 and 6.21–15.63% w/w, respectively. GC and GC–MS analysis of the fennel essential oil revealed the presence of 23 compounds, with trans-anethol (69.87%), fenchone (10.23%), estragole (5.45%) and limonene (5.10%) as the major components. The fennel seed extracts contained appreciable levels of total phenolic contents (627.21–967.50 GAE, mg/100 g) and total flavonoid contents (374.88–681.96 CE, mg/100 g). Fennel essential oil and extracts also exhibited good DPPH radical scavenging activity, showing IC₅₀ 32.32 and 23.61–26.75 µg/ml, and inhibition of peroxidation 45.05 and 48.80–70.35%, respectively. Of the fennel essential oil and solvent extracts tested, 80% ethanol extract exhibited the maximum antioxidant activity, whereas the essential oil showed appreciable antimicrobial activity against selected strains of bacteria and pathogenic fungi. The results of the present investigation demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) variations in the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of fennel essential oil and extracts.

 
Proof!

• The Herb Society: Fennel
• "Fitoterapia": Hepatoprotective effect of Foeniculum vulgare essential oil
• "Lebensmittel-Wissenschaft und-Technologie": Determination of in vitro antioxidant activity of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seed extracts
• "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry": Antibacterial Activity of Coriandrum sativum L. and Foeniculum vulgare Miller Var. vulgare (Miller) Essential Oils
• The Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices: Fennel 
• Antibacterial and phytochemical screening of Anethum graveolens, Foeniculum vulgare and Trachyspermum ammi 
• Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of essential oil and extracts of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) seeds from Pakistan

Frankincense: Boswellia carterii: Frankincense is native to Somaliland and Southeast Arabia and is mentioned in many ancient texts. It is mentioned many times in the Old Testament:






And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Take sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum, sweet spices with pure frankincense (of each shall there be an equal part), and make an incense blended as by the perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy; and you shall beat some of it very small and put part of it before the testimony in the tent of meeting where I shall meet with you; it shall be for you most holy. And the incense which you shall make according to its composition, you shall not make for yourselves; it shall be for you holy to the Lord. Whoever makes any like to use as perfume shall be cut off from his people.


Exodus 30, 34-38






The beautiful Song of Solomon contains many references to the exquisite resin. Here follows a particularly unusual and fantastic verse:






Your two breasts are like two fawns, twins of a gazelle, that feed amoung the lilies. Until the day breathes and the shadows flee, I will hie me to the mountain of myrrh and the hill of frankincense.


Song of Solomon 4, 5-6










Frankincense and Myrrh were precious gifts brought by the Magi to the infant Jesus. Mary Magdalene bathed Jesus’ body in Frankincense and Myrrh after his death. The use of this herb is very ancient, indeed. The Egyptians used it in the embalming/mummification process. 3,000 years after unguents of Frankincense were placed in King Tutankhaman’s tomb, it was still faintly discernible. One of the oldest perfume blends ever recorded is the Egyptian blend of Calamus, Henna, Spikenard, Frankincense, Myrrh, Cinnamon, Cypress, Terebrinth, and a few other ingredients. Frankincense was thought to be sacred to the sun god, Ra and was used in exorcisms. Frankincense was also used in Egyptian magic spells. In one spell for procuring visions and dreams, the diviner created an ink made from Frankincense, Myrrh, the blood of a cow and several other ingredients, and used the ink to draw a picture of the God, Besa on his left hand. The diviner was thus assured of prophetic dreams that evening. Frankincense (and Rose) was sacred to Ma-at, the goddess of law, truth, justice and divine order. The Romans were importing 2,800 tons of Frankincense by the 1st century AD (!!!). The Roman historian Pliny says that an entire year’s supply of Frankincense was burned on Nero’s wife Papaea’s funeral pyre. It is thought that Nero was trying to assuage his guilt and propitiate the gods with this grand sacrifice because he had kicked the poor woman to death. Frankincense oil is steam distilled from the resinous gum and contains borneol, farnesol, limonene, phellandrene, and pinene. Properties include: anti-allergenic, anti-infectious, antiseptic, antibacterial, emotionally balancing, sedative, hypotensive, astringent, digestive, diuretic, expectorant, cicatrisant, carminative, tonic, uterine, vulnerary. Its uses include respiratory, arthritis, digestive, skin care (specifically mature skin), gonorrhoea, laryngitis, stretch marks, thread veins, ulcers, urinary infections, wounds, agitation, depression. Key uses include: calming, soothing, awakens higher consciousness. Herbalist Richard Banckes in 1525 suggests Frankincense for cleansing the womb, and Joseph Miller in 1722 recommends Frankincense to control bloody flux, gonorrhoea and the whites. Magical uses include exorcism, meditation, purification, protection and spirituality. Frankincense is associated with Sunday, the sun, Aries, Leo and the elements of fire and air. Amber is often associated with Frankincense and is used in conjunction with it for strength, healing and protection.






Ginger: Zinziber officinale: Native to Asia, Ginger is an erect, perennial herb up to 4 ft. tall, with a tuberous, thick, pungent root. The oil is steam distilled from the dried root and contains sesquiterpenes, linalool, and phellandrene. Ginger oil is a digestive tonic and an aphrodisiac, and is used for lack of appetite, spasms of the gut, jet lag and motion sickness. It's warming and stimulating! The Chinese Materia Medica Pen Ts’ao from the 16th century suggests Ginger for coughs and malaria. Nostradamus recommends the root for frigidity in women (no doubt because of its heating properties), for chilled stomachs in the elderly, for impotence or those “weak in the work of love” and to flavour “an excellent spiced wine!” According to The Perfumed Garden, a 16th century sex manual, Ginger is excellent for impotence.






A man, therefore, with a small member, who wants to make it grand or fortify it for the coitus, must rub it before copulation with tepid water, until it gets red and extended by the blood flowing into it, in consequence of the heat; he must then anoint it with a mixture of honey and ginger, rubbing it in sedulously. Then let him join the woman; he will procure for her such pleasure that she objects to him getting off her again.


Another remedy consists in a compound made of a moderate quantity of pepper, lavender, galanga, and musk, reduced to powder, sifted, and mixed up with honey and preserved ginger. The member after having been first washed in warm water, is then vigorously rubbed with the mixture; it will then grow large and brawny, and afford to the woman a marvelous feeling of voluptuousness.






Ginger was part of the spice trade between the Middle and Far East as early as 300 B.C. Ginger is associated with Tuesday, Mars and the element of fire. Its crystal is the Rhodochrosite (physical energy and love). Ginger is used in magic spells for magical energy, physical energy, sex, love, money and courage.






Grapefruit Peel: Citrus paradisi: Native to Asia, but cultivated worldwide, this tree grows to 30 ft and produces beautiful juicy grapefruits! The oil is cold pressed from the fragrant peels and is one of the most beautiful of all the oils. The oil contains geranial, citral, citronellal, neral and limonene. Properties include anti-depressant, astringent, diuretic, digestive, aperitif. It's great on cellulite, great for facial toning, fluid retention, gall bladder, herpes, lymphatic stimulant, obesity, PMS, digestive and circulatory stimulant, anxiety, depression (induces euphoria), PMS. Use Grapefruit oil to disinfect rooms! I most love it as a toner....






Jasmine Absolute: Jasminum officinale or J. grandiflorum: Jasmine is referred to by the Buddhist text, Ganakamoggallana Sutta, as the chief of the flowers. Jasmine absolute is the product of an enfleurage of the flowers, and contains jasmone, linalool, geraniol, nerol, benzyl acetate, linalyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, and indole. Properties include: anti-depressant, aphrodisiac, antiseptic. Its uses include: childbirth, skin care, uterine disorders, respiratory problems, sexual problems, spirituality, relaxing. Nicholas Culpepper wrote that Jasmine warms the womb and removes disease of the uterus. The Chinese Materia Medica Pen Ts’ao from the 16th century describes Jasmine as a general tonic. Jasmine is sacred to Artemis, the Greek nature and moon goddess (equivalent to the Roman Goddess, Diana). Jasmine is recommended many times in the Kama Sutra for its properties as an aphrodisiac. It was considered irreplaceable. The Kama Sutra also recommends using Jasmine (blended with oleander, fennel, amalatasa and brahmi) for the daily cleaning of a newly pierced penis as well as for alleviating pain and swelling which occurs after rubbing the penis with the hairs of a tree dwelling insect (the shuka) said to enlarge the organ. (Okay, here’s the story: rub the penis with the back of a shuka which has been plucked from its tree and killed. The hairs will rub off on the penis. Rub oil all over the penis to distribute the hairs evenly. After the swelling has become sufficient, sleep face downward with the penis hanging down through a hole cut in the bed. Rub the penis with the above-mentioned blend to alleviate the pain and heat. The swelling caused by the shuka lasts for life! Ow.) Magical uses include money, love, serenity, spirituality, sex, sleep, psychic dreams. It is associated with Monday, the element of Water, and the planets Moon and Jupiter. Its zodiac signs include Moon Child and Pisces. Its crystal is the Moonstone (love, sleep, psychic awareness).






Juniper: Juniperus communis: The Juniper is a small evergreen tree or shrub with short spiny leaves, growing up to 6 ft in height. The oil is steam distilled from the berries, and contains borneol, terpinen 4-ol, camphene, myrcene, pinene, sabinene, and juniperene. Juniper berries, by the by, are the main ingredient in that wonderful elixir known as gin. (Have you ever noticed how much a gin and tonic smells and tastes like a Christmas tree?) Properties include: sedative, aphrodisiac, expectorant, antiseptic, digestive, astringent, cicatrisant. It's good for bronchitis, rheumatism, respiratory ailments, skin care, acne, blood purifier, wounds, depression, and nervous disorders. Its key use is in skin care as a de-congestant. It's wonderful. In the middle ages, Juniper was burnt by European farmers and carried smoking through the fields to protect the livestock. The Golden Bough tells of Juniper smoke being used to fumigate houses in central Europe on Walpurgis Night, the Eve of May Day, to protect against witchcraft. Priestesses and priests in ancient Sumeria and Babylonia burned Juniper berries and branches as offerings to Inanna and Ishtar, her later counterpart. Siberian shamans use Juniper smoke to fumigate their tambourines, religious garments, and gifts to the god Yulgen during sacrificial ceremonies. Nicholas Culpepper recommends Juniper for “fits of the mother” in his 1652 herbal. Magical uses include healing, protection, and purification. Juniper is an herb of the Sun and Jupiter. Its zodiac sign is Leo and its element is fire. Juniper is associated with the Red Jasper stone (protection).






Lavender: Lavendula angustifolia: Be sure you are using the right oil! Lavendula angustifolia is unique and beautiful. The oil is steam distilled from flowers native to France (but cultivated elsewhere, as well), and contains linalyl acetate, linolool, and geranial. Its properties include: antidepressant, sedative, analgesic, anticonvulsive, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, deodorant, emmenagogue, vermifuge, diuretic, balancing. Lavender oil is used for skin care, acne, abscesses, wounds, burns, bronchitis, convulsions, colic, insomnia, conjunctivitis, dispepsia, earache, epilepsy, headache, nausea, throat infections, whooping cough, depression, anxiety, hypertension. It appears in almost every blend I make. It's versatile, wonderful and charismatic. Its main property, as far as I've seen, is its ability to create a balance. It calms the agitated and it raises the depressed. It balances skin tone, both on oily and dry skins. It's very very safe for all folk including children and pregnant women. Lavender is perhaps the mildest of all the oils, and definitely one of the most beautiful smelling. According to Nicholas Culpepper, Lavender provokes the courses and expels a dead child and the placenta. Nostradamus gives many recipes using Lavender, especially with cloves and other spices, and Rose and Orange waters, mostly as skin preparations. Lavender was a favourite of Saint Hildegard von Bingen. She was an herbalist who lived from 1098-1179 and is credited by some as having invented Lavender water! The Perfumed Garden of Shaykh Nefwazi, a 16th century sex manual, claims that the female genitalia may be freshened “by pounding lavender, and kneading it afterwards with musk-rose water. Saturate a piece of woollen stuff with it, and rub the vulva with the same until it is hot. The bad smell will be removed by this.” This text also recommends Lavender in various recipes for prolonging and increasing male erection (see recipe under “Ginger,” above). According to Celtic expert and contemporary herbalist and author Ellen Evert Hopman, Lavender buds were thrown into bonfires at midsummer as an offering to the Gods and Goddesses. Lavender gained a great deal of respect as a therapeutic substance when Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, the Frenchman who coined the term “aromatherapy,” after a now-famous laboratory fire at his family’s perfumery, immediately dunked his burned hand into a vat of lavender oil. He was amazed at how quickly the burn healed. Use Lavender in magic spells for baby blessings, celibacy, conscious mind, health, joy, love, protection from spousal abuse and serenity. Lavender is associated with Wednesday, the planet Mercury, the zodiac signs of Gemini and Aquarius, and the element of air. Use Lavender in tandem with a Flourite crystal (healing, health and conscious mind).






Lemon Peel: Citrus limon: This citrus tree is native to Greece, Rome, the Mediterranean and the United States. The oil is cold expressed from the peel and contains citral, geranial, citronellyl acetate, and limonene. Properties include: stomachic, vermifuge, digestive, antihaemorrhagic, antibacterial, antiseptic, stimulant. Its uses include: killing germs, chilblains, colds, corns, felons, chapped lips, detoxification, infectious diseases, hiccups, liver stimulant and cleanser, oily skin, acne, purification, sunburns, sore throats, skin care, insomnia, sluggishness. Caution: It may irritate skin. Magical uses include health, healing, physical energy and purification. Lemon is associated with Monday, the Moon, the zodiac sign Moon Child and the element of water.






Lemongrass: Cymbopogon citrata: Lemongrass is a beautiful green grass native to Asia that can grow up to four feet tall and smells very lemony when crushed or steam distilled into essential oil. Lemongrass is a favourite ingredient in Asian foods, particularly Thai foods. The oil contains Geranyl and Linalyl Acetates, Citral and Myrcene. Lemongrass is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antifungal, sedative and tonic and stimulant to the digestive system. It is used for indigestion, oily skin, oily hair, cellulite, athlete’s foot, and headache and makes a great insect repellant. Lemongrass is very soothing and cooling to sweaty skin. In a spray bottle blend 4 or 5 drops in an ounce of spring water and keep refrigerated. Mix with a few drops of Spearmint for an even cooler effect. Use Lemongrass in magic spells for psychic awareness and purification. Lemongrass is associated with Wednesday, the planet Mercury, the zodiac sign Gemini and the element of air. Lemongrass can be irritating to the skin, so use with care, and always dilute!






Marjoram: Origanum majorana: Marjoram is one of the most beautiful smelling and calming oils available to us today. The only drawback to Marjoram essential oil is that is an an-aphrodisiac. Consequently I don't use it as often as I'd like which is a shame because it really is one of my favourite oils. Native to the Mediterranean, Marjoram is a small perennial herb to 3 ft. tall. The oil is steam distilled from the flowers and contains linalol, sabinol, alpha-terpineol, terpinen 4-ol, thujanol, linalyl acetate, terpinyl acetate, camphor, carvacrol, estragol, myrcene, phellandrene, pinene, alpha terpinene, beta-caryophellene, and sabinene. Properties include: anti-aphrodisiac (!!!), anti-spasmodic, digestive, tonic, analgesic, anti-depressant. Its main use is to counter insomnia, and it really works. It's also great for anxiety, stress, pre-occupation, irritability, rheumatism, aches and pains, digestive problems. Experiment! It's a very soothing, gentle oil. Nicholas Culpepper recommended Marjoram to provoke the courses. A steam of Marjoram was suggested by 13th century Arab physician Al-Samarqandi for sinus or ear congestion. In Roman times, Marjoram was thought to promote longevity. The Romans attributed Marjoram’s heavenly scent to Venus, the Goddess of Love. This is ironic since Marjoram is considered to be an an-aphrodisiac, which is decidedly contra-indicative to Venus’ program. (Perhaps Ms. Venus got sick and tired of the impersonal Roman orgies and wanted some one-on-one amour! Was she trying to discourage all that rampant lust in favour of the real thing?) In the 7th century AD, Greek perfumers used Marjoram in their unguents, which they sold in beautiful little ceramic pots. Nostradamus gives an interesting recipe including Marjoram, Violets, Roses, Lavender, Bay, Cloves, Musk, Amber, Coriander and Sweet Flag to scent a soap used by the nobility to wash their beards. It sounds wonderful! Spicy, sweet and earthy. Magical uses for Marjoram include celibacy, serenity and sleep. Marjoram is associated with Wednesday, the planet Mercury and the element of air.






Melissa: Melissa officinalis: Melissa is a common garden herb native to the Mediterranean, sometimes known as Lemon Balm. The leaves and tops are steam distilled to produce the essential oil, which contains Citral, Geraniol, Linalool, Citronellol and Citronellal. The primary properties include anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, hypotensive, relaxant, sedative, digestive stimulant. Melissa has been found to be very effective on Herpes, and a program of Melissa applications combined with oral ingestion of L-lysene has been known to prevent outbreaks for months. (This program is specifically described later on in this book.) Melissa is great for stomach problems, cold sores, fevers, throat infections, coughs and asthma, nervousness, hysteria and insomnia. Place a tiny drop of Melissa on cold sores or cold sore blisters, being careful to avoid the healthy skin around the irritated area.






Myrrh: Commiphora molmol or C. Myrrha: Myrrh has been used for ancient times and is mentioned quite often in the bible. The oil is steam distilled from oleoresin exuded from the incised bark of the small, stunted tree, which grows wild in Africa and Arabia. The oil contains sesquiterpenes including heerabolene. Properties include: antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and hormonal. Uses include: rheumatism, candida, athlete's foot, diarrhoea, sluggish liver, skin care, bronchitis, flu, laryngitis, agitation, anxiety. Li Shih-Chen, a well-known 16th century Chinese herbologist recommended Myrrh to control uterine discharges. The Perfumed Garden of Shaykh Nefwazi, a 16th century sex manual, claims “if a woman wants this bad odour to disappear she must pound red myrrh, then sift it, and knead this powder with myrtle-water, and rub her sexual parts with this wash. All disagreeable emanation will disappear from her vulva.” Myrrh is also suggested in the same text for male virility as follows: “He who for several days makes his meals upon eggs boiled with myrrh, coarse cinnamon, and pepper, will find his vigour with respect to coition and erections greatly increased. He will have a feeling as though his member would never return to a state of repose.” Some caution against its use on pregnant women, but I've never come across a specific reason for this caution. In the ancient world, Myrrh was considered a treasure. Myrrh is associated with the Teutonic goddess, Freya, the moon goddess of marriages and commander of the Valkyries. In 3,000 B.C. the Egyptians were importing huge quantities of Myrrh, as were the Babylonians and the Greeks. Myrrh was sacred to Rhea, the Greek goddess and mother of Zeus. Cybele, the Greek goddess of caverns, bees, and the earth in its primitive state. The Greeks also considered Myrrh sacred to Hecate, the moon-goddess of the underworld and magic, and to Hera (equivalent to the Roman Juno, wife of Jupiter), the wife of Zeus. Indeed, it is known that before 1700 B.C., there was a well-established spice trade route throughout the Middle East. The ancient Egyptians used it for embalming and incense. The Egyptians considered Myrrh to be sacred to Isis, the Moon goddess and mistress of the earth. By the 1st century AD, Romans were importing 550 tons of Myrrh per year!!! Myrrh is mentioned throughout the bible. It is one of the gifts brought by the magi to the newborn baby Jesus. It is the oil which the “myrrh-bearers,” the three Marys (Magdalene, the mother of Jesus and the mother of Salome) carried to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. One of the most memorable passages is contained in the Song of Songs when the lover rushes to her door to greet the returning King Solomon. “I arose to open to my beloved, and my hands dripped with Myrrh, my fingers with liquid Myrrh, upon the handles of the bolt.” A mixture of Myrrh, Cinnamon and Calamus was the recipe given to Moses as the holy anointing oil for the initiation of priests:






Moreover, the Lord said to Moses, ‘Take the finest spices: of liquid Myrrh five hundred shekels, and of sweet-smelling cinnamon half as much, that is, two hundred and fifty, and of aromatic cane two hundred and fifty, and of cassia five hundred, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, and of olive oil a hin, and you shall make of these a sacred anointing oil blended as by the perfumer; a holy anointing oil it shall be. And you shall anoint with it the tent of meeting and the ark of the testimony, and the table and all its utensils, and the lampstand and its utensils, and the altar of incense, and the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils and the laver and its base; you shall consecrate them, that they may be most holy. And you shall anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests. And you shall say to the people of Israel, “This shall be my holy anointing oil throughout your generations. It shall not be poured upon the bodies of ordinary men, and you shall make no other like it in composition; it is holy, and it shall be holy to you. Whoever compounds any like it or whoever puts any of it on an outsider shall be cut off from his people.”’


Exodus 30, 22-33






Myrrh was an ingredient in the famous perfume, megaleion, invented by the ancient Greek perfumer, Megallus. Myrrh is used in magic spells to expand awareness and calm fear about the future, for past life regressing, blessing, consecration, contemplation, healing, meditation and peace. Myrrh is associated with the Moon, Monday, zodiac sign of Moon Child and the element of water.






Neroli: Citrus aurantium, C. vulgaris, C. bigaradia: Truly a blessing upon us. Neroli is steam distilled from the blossoms and contains limonene, pinene, nerolidal, geraniol, lynalol, nerol, alpha-terpineol, benzyl-acetate, jasmone, geranyl acetate, linalyl acetate, neryl acetate. Neroli is an antidepressant, neurotonic, and aphrodisiac. It's used for internal parasites, hemorrhoids, tuberculosis, fatigue, skin care, acne, nervous depression, insomnia, frigidity, and anxiety. Neroli is a fantastic smelling oil, which has wondrous effects on any type of skin, and has the unique capability of calming even the most agitated person. When my friends and family become shocked or anxious I use this to massage them. The results have been immediate and positive every time. Neroli, the orange blossom, is the traditional flower of marriage, and the oil is very helpful in love spells. It is also used in spells for joy, sex and purification. Neroli is a fiery oil associated with the zodiac signs Aries and Leo, the Sun and Sunday. Use with the Chrysoprase stone to promote happiness and joy.






Nutmeg: Myristica fragrans: The essential oil is steam distilled from ground nutmegs from the beautiful nutmeg tree, and contains Terpinen 4-ol, Pinene, Sabinene, Myristicin, Safrole, etc. Nutmeg is analgesic, stimulant and stomachic, primarily. It is used as a rub for muscle aches, arthritis and rheumatism due to its analgesic properties, and is most helpful with digestive problems. Inhaled, Nutmeg stimulates mental powers, physical and magical energy, and psychic awareness. Sniff a little Nutmeg oil to start your day! Use Nutmeg with care, and only in small, diluted doses. High doses can be stupefying. (Wouldn’t want that now, would we?) Nostradamus recommended Nutmeg oil for “nausea, retching and all kinds of pains in that area.” The Chinese use Nutmeg brewed into a tea as a sexual restorative and consider it a “love spice!” The Perfumed Garden, a 16th century sex manual, suggests a brew containing Nutmeg to cure premature ejaculation (aiguillettes):






To cure the tying of aiguillettes you must take galanga, cinnamon from Mecca, cloves, Indian cachou, nutmeg, Indian cubebs, sparrowwort, cinnamon, Persian pepper, Indian thistle, cardamoms, pyrether, laurel seed, and gilly flowers. All these ingredients must be pounded together carefully, and one drinks of it as much as one can, morning and night, in broth, particularly in pigeon broth; fowl broth may, however, be substituted just as well. Water is to be drunk before and after taking It. The compound may likewise be taken with honey, which is the best method, and gives the best results.


The man whose ejaculation is too precipitate must take nutmeg and incense (oliban) mixed together with honey.






Nutmeg is considered a psychoactive plant. Native peoples in the Bassa region of Camaroon in Africa use Nutmeg to induce contact with the water spirits. It is not known how far back in antiquity this practice goes. Myristicine changes in the body to become MDA, an amphetamine derivative, and Safrole becomes MDMA (known today as “ecstacy!”). A teaspoon of ground Nutmeg may be taken occasionally before bed to induce lucid, psychedelic dreams. Use Nutmeg in magic spells for magical energy, money, physical energy and psychic awareness. Its planet is Jupiter, zodiac sign is Sagittarius and element is fire.






Orange Peel: Citrus sinensis: A small evergreen native to China, now cultivated worldwide in warm climates. The oil is steam distilled from the product of cold-expressed peels, and contains mostly monoterpenes. Orange oil works on the third chakra, encourages energy and courage and counters worry. Properties include: balancing, stimulating, digestive, carminative, relaxant. Uses include: nausea, indigestion, thread veins, skin care, colds, relaxing, anxiety, insomnia. Be careful! Neat orange oil can burn the skin! Orange is a Saturnalian oil, and therefore is associated with Vesta, the Roman goddess of fire, both domestic and ritual. Use Orange in magic spells for joy, magical energy, physical energy and purification. The sun is the planet of Orange! The zodiac sign is Leo, and the element is fire.






Patchouly: Pogostemon patchoulii: Patchouly is a perennial bushy herb growing to 3 ft. tall with 2 - 4 inch long hairy leaves, and is native to India. Fabrics and shawls imported from India to England were permeated with the stuff, which caused a fervor in Europe. The oil is steam distilled from the leaves and contains patchoulol (to 40%), beta-caryophellene, sesquiterpenes (patchoulene, azulene). Properties include: antidepressant, antiseptic, antibacterial, aphrodisiac, sedative, anti-inflammatory, astringent, deodorant, tonic. Its uses include: cellulite, skin care, wounds, scar tissue, rejuvenating, fixative, insect repellant, anxiety, depression, apathy, nerve-stimulant, focusing the mind, stimulant. Patchouly is a very potent oil with many mental connotations. Try mixing it with a Co2 essence of Vanille. No one will ever forget you. Patchouly, because it is a Saturnalian oil is associated with Vesta, the Roman goddess of fire, both domestic and ritual. Magical uses include money, physical energy and sex. Patchouly is associated with the planets Saturn and the Sun. Its zodiac affiliations are Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn and Aquarius, and the element of earth. Use in conjuction with Green Tourmaline to conjure money.






Peppermint: Mentha x piperita: Peppermint is a beautiful herb with complex underground runners and root systems. It is a hybrid of Mentha viridia and Mentha aquatica. The oil is steam distilled from the emerald green leaves and contains menthol, menthyl acetate, menthone, 1,8 cineole, limonene, phellandrene, pinene, and farnasene. Its properties include: antiseptic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, expectorant, nervine, stomachic, vasoconstrictor, vermifuge, digestive, stimulant, carminative. Its uses include asthma, cholera, colds, skin care, stomach problems, halitosis, headache, flu, migraine, paralysis, ringworm, scabies, sinusitis, toothache, tuberculosis, vomiting, vertigo, hysteria, mental fatigue, shock. It is primarily used for its digestive and skin care capabilities. Richard Banckes, a 16th century herbalist, recommends Peppermint to increase milk flow in mothers. Residue of Peppermint has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs dating to 1,000 b.c. It is also known that Peppermint was used in ancient China and Japan. Mint has some reputation as an agent of sexual prowess. In Shakespeare’s A Winter’s Tale, Perdita recommends “hot lavender, mints, savory, marjoram…are given to men of middle age…” as a sexual restorative. Use Peppermint in magic spells for the conscious mind, money, protection, purification and travel. Peppermint is associated with Wednesday, the planet Mercury, zodiac signs Gemini and Libra and the element of air.






Rose: Rosa centifolia: Rose oil is steam distilled/solvent extracted from the flower petals, and contains citronellal, farnesol, geraniol, linalol, neral, citral, rose oxide, eugenol, limonene, myrcene, pinene. Its properties include: general and neural tonic, aphrodisiac, astringent. Rose oil is used for: aphrodisiac, sexual problems, skin care, depression. Primarily, rose oil is great for female problems. I put a few drops of rose oil in cornstarch and use it as a beautiful soothing powder for the nether-regions. Roman historian Pliny, author of the 1st Century AD Natural History mentions 32 remedies prepared from Rose, and in one of Nostradamus’ lesser known works, he suggests Rosewater during the first and last months of pregnancy. He also recommends rosewater mixed with rhubarb and cinnamon as a purgative, to rid the body of fevers, and to rid the soul of rancor. Nicholas Culpepper, 1652, recommends Rose for overflowing of the menses. Richard Banckes, 1525, recommends it for flux of the womb. The Chinese Materia Medica Pen Ts’ao from the 16th century suggest Rose as a digestive and a liver and blood tonic. Rose is a gentle oil with no contra-indications. The use of Rose goes back to ancient times. Ancient Romans associated the Rose with Venus, the goddess of love, and Flora, the goddess of everything that flourishes. Rose is associated with the Teutonic goddess, Freya, the moon goddess of marriages and commander of the Valkyries. The ancient Greeks associated Rose with Aphrodite (equivalent to the Roman Venus). A papyrus from 250 B.C.in the University of Michigan’s Papyrus collection lists Rose scented oil as one of the valuable items in a list of gifts sent from a Phoenician office holder to a colleague. The Egyptians associated the Rose with Hathor, the sky goddess of pleasure, joy, love, music and dancing, and protectress of all women. (Hathor is often depicted as a woman with a cow’s head. The cow is considered by Laine Redmond and other scholars to be a symbol of the female reproductive system, and therefore a fertility symbol.) The Rose is a symbol of the Hindu goddess, Jagad-Yoni, the womb of the world. There is an obvious connection between these associations and the therapeutic properties attributed to Rose, namely its use as a sexual tonic, tonic for the female reproductive system, and aphrodisiac. Rose is also traditionally used in love spells. After the transition to Christianity, the Rose was deemed unsuitable for Mary due to its association with Aphrodite, so Mary was given the more pious Lily. Roses were used by the Greeks to make their unguents, which they sold in the 7th century marketplace. Back in Rome, of course, from the fretted ivory ceiling in Nero’s palace, thousands of rose petals dropped onto his feast table, intoxicating the celebrants with luxurious aroma. Unfortunately, one of the celebrants was asphyxiated by the enormous weight of the petals. It is estimated that Nero spent today’s equivalent of a million dollars on rose petals alone for just one of his feasts. In the middle ages, Rosewater was used to purify Muslim mosques and indeed the scent of Rose permeates the Muslim culture, appearing in deserts, teas and prayer beads, amoung other things. Practitioners use Rosewater to cleanse themselves before Islamic rituals. Use Rose in magic spells for beauty, love, serenity and sex. Rose’s day is Friday, her planet Venus, her zodiac signs Moon Child and Taurus and her element water. Use Rose with the Rose Quartz for love, peace and happiness.






Rose Geranium: Pelargonium graveolens: This perennial shrub is native to South Africa. Its leaves are steam distilled to produce an oil containing geraniol, citronellol, citronellyl acetate, geranyl acetate, linalyl acetate, and beta-caryophellene. Properties include: antidepressant, sedative, stimulant to adrenal cortex and thyroid, tonic, diuretic, haemostatic, tonic, liver and pancreas stimulant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, cicatrisant, vulnerary. It's great on skin problems, acne, urinary cancer, diabetes, engorgement of breasts, haemorrhage, jaundice, urinary tract infections, gall and kidney stones, ringworm, sore throat, sterility, ulcers, wounds, agitation, memory loss, nervous tension, uplifting. Its key uses are as an astringent and an adrenal cortex stimulant. Nicholas Culpepper recommends Geranium to soothe ulcers of the privy parts. Egyptians considered the Geranium to be sacred to their Isis, the ultimate goddess. Romans associated Geranium with Minerva, the goddess of commerce, industry and education. She was later a war goddess associated with Ares. In magic, Rose Geranium is used for happiness and protection. Her planet is Venus, her zodiac sign Libra and her element water. She is associated with the Red Tourmaline stone (protection).






Rosemary: Rosmarinus officinalis: Rosemary, a shrubby evergreen with sharp needles is native to the Mediterranean. The essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves, tops and flowers, and contains borneol, linalol, alpha-terpineol, tepinen 4-ol, bornyl acetate, camphor, thujone, 1,8 cineole, camphene, limonene, pinene, beta-caryophellene. Properties include: stimulant, nervine, analgesic, anti-spasmodic, emmenagogue, stomachic. Its uses include: skin are, respiratory, epilepsy, gall stones, headache, wounds, itching, insect bites, loss of memory, mental fatigue, nerves, tension, depression. Key uses include massage, muscle aches, wake-up blends and skin care. Caution: possible abortive, large amounts may induce epilepsy in humans and animals, and may induce fear and timidity in animals. I find Rosemary to be a cure-all for most skin problems. It's a de-congestant and a balancer for all types of skins. Very gentle used in small amounts. Excellent in baths. Rosemary is one of the earliest plants used. In Europe in the Middle Ages it was burned as protection against the plague, to drive away evil spirits and as a symbol of fidelity. Friar Tuck, in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet bade Romeo place a sprig of Rosemary on Juliet’s fair corpse before bearing her to the church. Ophelia of The Bard’s “Hamlet” makes mention of Rosemary, “There’s Rosemary, that’s for Remembrance.” Indeed, the ancient Greeks and Arabs used Rosemary to stimulate memory. It was also burnt in shrines in ancient Greece as an offering to the Gods. In many parts of Europe, Rosemary sprigs are placed on the bed of newly married couples. Use Rosemary in magic spells for the conscious mind, longevity, love and memory. Rosemary is associated with Sunday, the Sun, the zodiac signs of Leo and Sagittarius, and fire. Rosemary’s stone is the Quartz Crystal, used to facilitate all magical changes.






Rosemary Verbenon: Rosemary verbenon: Rosemary verbenon is a great thing. I have a solvent extracted Rosemary verbenon that is almost like a salve. I use it neat on muscle aches and itches for humans, dogs and cats. Rosemary verbenon is native to Madagascar. The oil is steam distilled from the tops, leaves smaller twigs, and sometimes solvent distilled from the same. Rosemary verbenon oil contains terpenes, alcohols and cineole. Its properties include: mucolypolic, and endocrine equilibriant. Its uses include: regulating hypothalamic, pituitary and sexual glands, respiratory ailments, viral infections, vaginal infections (including Bartholen glands), skin care, liver and gall bladder support, hepatitis, digestive, sexual problems, nervous fatigue, and depression.






Sage: Salvia officinalis: Sage is native to the Mediterranean and is an evergreen perennial herb up to 3 ft. The essential oil is steam distilled form the leaves. Properties include: anti-cellulite, anti-bacterial, antifungal, antiviral, emmenagogue, anti-depressant. Its uses include: staph, strep, candida, gall and liver output, viral infections, herpes, circulation problems, abortive, mental strain, mental exhaustion, depression. Key uses include stimulant and adrenal problems. Caution: don't use on pregnant women and young children: may form malformation of babies in utero. Sage was a favorite of 7th Century Greek perfumers who used the herb in their famous unguents. Magically, sage is used for the conscious mind, immortality, memory, money, wisdom and wish manifestation. Sage is associated with Jupiter and the element air. Dried sage was/is burned by Native Americans and new-agers everywhere to cleanse spaces and people of negative energy. The scent of Sage is extraordinarily uplifting. It strengthens the sense of connection with the universe.



Sandalwood: Santalum album: Sandalwood is grown in India, Vietnam, New Caledonia and
Indonesia. The finest oils are obtained from trees grown in Tamil Nadu in India. This tree is
seriously endangered and the true essential oil is very difficult to obtain. Because the oil can
only be obtained from 60-80 year old trees, and much of the Sandalwood forests have been over
harvested, most Sandalwood oil available today is adulterated or synthetic. The Indian
government regulates all Sandalwood production and export, but there are poachers who
steal immature trees, making regeneration of the forests even more difficult. (Interestingly,
Sandalwood trees do not respond well to human manipulation and it is impossible at this point
to farm them.) For this reason, many aromatherapists choose not to use this oil. The oil is steam
distilled from the ground heartwood and roots of the uprooted, mature, 60-80 year old evergreen
tree. The oil is then matured for six months so that it can achieve the right maturity and perfume.
As is ages, it changes from a very pale yellow to a thick, golden brown. Sandalwood oil is one
of those that gets better and better with age. The essential oil contains Sesquiterpenes,
sesquiterpenols, sesquiterpenals, santalic and teresantalic acid, aldehyde, pterocarpin and
hydrocarbons, isovaleric aldehyde, santene, santenone. Sandalwood’s key properties include:
Antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, calming, disinfectant, diuretic, expectorant,
sedative, stimulant and tonic. It is tonic to the lymphatic, nervous and cardiovascular systems.
Primary uses are for insomnia, depression, diarrhoea, coughs, impotence, meditation, sore
throats, laryngitis, tension, nerves, hemorrhoids, venereal disease, tonic to the urinary system,
skin regeneration, acne, pelvic congestion and as a heart tonic. Some have found it to increase
oxygen around the pituitary and pineal glands. The use of Sandalwood dates back to 2,000 B.C.
It is mentioned in the Kama Sutra, the bible, Chinese and Sanskrit manuscripts and many other
ancient texts. Sandalwood is said to be sacred to the Love Goddess, Aphrodite. The Egyptians
associated Sandalwood with Hathor, the sky goddess of pleasure, joy, love, music and dancing,
and protectress of all women. Sandalwood was also associated with the Teutonic goddess,
Freya, the moon goddess of marriages and commander of the Valkyries. The Kama Sutra
teaches that the scent of Sandalwood blends perfectly with the scent of a woman to produce
sexual excitation. Ancient Indians used Sandalwood for genito-urinary infections. Sandalwood
was prized as material for altars and religious carvings. The Chinese carved the ribs of fans
from the fragrant wood. Sandalwood was used in medicine, embalming and as an incense in
Ancient Egypt. It is one of the three integral incenses in Buddhist practice, heightening
spirituality, connection with the earth and serenity. Khenpo Konchog Gyaltsen Rinpoche, a
Tibetan Buddhist said in a talk given May 1, 1993, that to offer fragrance from saffron or
sandalwood signifies perserverance or joyous effort and that “through that one quality, one
develops all the qualities of enlightenment.” Sandalwood assuages grief among mourners and
assists in the crossing over of the departed from this plane to the next. Indeed, Sandalwood is
used in almost every religion for its wide array of spiritual properties. Use Sandalwood in
magical spells for healing, meditation, sex and spirituality. A fourth century AD Egyptian papyrus
gives the following instructions for a magic spell to produce insomnia:

"Phorba phorba breimô azziebua."



Take bran of first quality and sandalwood and vinegar of the sharpest sort and mold cakes. And write his name upon them, and so hide them, saying into the light the name of Hekate, and "Take away his sleep from so-and-so," and he will be sleepless and worried.




Sandalwood’s day is Monday, its planets Moon and Uranus, its zodiac signs Moon Child and
Pisces and its element water. Use Sandalwood with Clear Calcite stone for spirituality and
meditation.







Spearmint: Mentha viridas. Like peppermint, this oil has wonderful uplifting capabilities. The oil is steam distilled fro the leaves and contains terpenes, limonenes, phellandrene, linalool and cineol. Properties include: anti-inflammatory, calming, mucolytic, tonic and euphoric. Uses include: respiratory problems, bronchitis, stress tension and nerves. Its key use is as a euphoric. Spearmint in used in magical spells for protection during sleep and healing. It is associated with Mercury, Libra and the element of air.



Spikenard: Nardostachys jatamansi: Spikenard is steam distilled from the ground, dried rhizome of the herb. Spikenard grows in India and throughout Southeast Asian countries, especially at elevations of 11,000 to 17,000 feet, in rocky ground. The plant is something of a natural curiosity in that it has two types of sprouts from one root. One sprout is flowering, the other vegetative. There is no other plant like it. It is said to incorporate all three levels of plant: root, leaf and flower. Therefore it is said to be integrating, working on all three levels of skin, and balancing the metabolism. Spikenard is 99% Terpinoids, 93% being Sesquiterpenes, with 1-8 Cineole and Sesquiterpene hydrocarbon, and others. The oil has androgen para-sympathetic and estrogen-sympathetic qualities. It harmonizes and balances the organs, regenerates skin, is cooling, laxative, antifungal and antibacterial and is great for skin diseases, throat problems, ulcers, leprosy and diseases of the blood. Spikenard is one of the oldest scents known to humans. It is referred to in a variety of ancients texts from 2,000 year old herbals to the bible. The 1st century Roman historian Pliny suggested a Spikenard ointment for coughs and laryngitis. The empress, Nur Jehan, stepmother of the builder of the Taj Majal, used a combination of Spikenard, Rose, Sandalwood and Vetiver in order to make herself more attractive to her emperor. Alexander the Great remarked on the beautiful aroma the grasses exuded when crushed under the feet of the elephants upon which he and his entourage rode. In their wall paintings, Ancient Egyptians depicted dancers and musicians with “bitcones” of Spikenard on their heads. Bitcones are cone-shaped, solid ointments of fragrant herbs soaked in fat. The bitcones melted in the hot sun, allowing the fragrance to flow down the hair and over the clothes and body of the wearer. Indeed, Spikenard was a main ingredient in an ungent discovered in a magnificent alabaster box in King Tutanhkamen’s tomb, which still emitted a glorious aroma when opened centuries later in 1926. Pilgrim’s Progress mentions spikenard along with cinnamon, frankincense, myrrh and aloes as the spices with which the pilgrims’ bodies were anointed to prepare them to go across the river when their appointed time had come.



Mary Magdalene is known to have carried an alabaster jar of Spikenard in a leather pouch between her breasts. When she heard that Jesus was going to die she spent all of her remaining money on three precious oils, one of which we know is Spikenard (the other two are presumed to be Frankincense and Myrrh). She went to where Jesus was speaking with his disciples and knelt down in front of him. She removed his sandals and poured some of the oil over his feet. She then loosened her hair and massaged the oil into his feet with her hair. Judas Iscariot criticized her saying the oil could have been sold for money to feed the poor. Jesus, however, defended her saying that she was preparing him physically and spiritually for death: Mark 14:9 “Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.” She stood behind him and poured the remaining oil over his hair and garments, filling the hall with the beautiful scent. Extreme Unction, the anointing with oils is one of the original seven sacraments administered by the Catholic Church. The rite is for the strengthening of the body and soul, and is given in dire physical or mental circumstances. Perhaps Mary Magdalene intended for the Spikenard to protect Jesus from physical harm. Perhaps she intended to soothe him and calm his fears. This was her magic, her healing touch. Truly, Mary Magdalene represents the strong connection between the physical and the spiritual. And truly, Jesus recognized the value and truth of this. To this day, Jesus is known as the “anointed one.” “Christ” may have originated from the Greek “Chrism” an ancient ritual of anointing with oil.














Magdalene


What is hidden from you I will impart to you.


The Gospel of Mary Magdalene










She is earth coloured


and aromatic


with the resins of faraway trees.


Her fingers drip with myrrh.


Her lark’s tongue travels


between our world


and the astral world.


She is hollow eyed.


She holds secret scrolls


in an alabaster jar


between her breasts that are two fauns that are


the twin cedars of Lebanon.










Hold my flesh in your mouth,


my heart cupped in your palms.


Touch my throat with your magic oils of sandalwood and lotus.


Speak the words of your golden pasture.


You have joined together the earth with the stars.


You are the ladder the pillar the tree of the worlds.


I lay in your arms and sleep and dream.


I trace the outline of your mouth with my tongue


sweet Mary of the honeycomb


your words enscripted in wine and myrrh


upon my hand


and I ascend.


Your words have wings.


Your hair has scented wings.


Your breath has wings


and I ascend.










Tea Tree: Melaleuca alternifolia: A small tree or shrub, native to Australia, the oil is steam distilled from the leaves, containing terpinen 4-ol, alpha terpineol, 1, 8-cineole, pinene, alpha terpenene, beta-caryophellene. Properties include antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, analgesic, cicatrisant, insecticide, diaphoretic, and expectorant. Uses include: skin problems, acne, burns, cancer, chicken pox, athlete's foot, dental abscesses, herpes, infections, itching, insect bites, candida, halitosis, respiratory, wounds, energy stimulant. Absolutely the best oil for wounds.






Vanilla Absolute: Vanilla planifolia: Native to Central America, and the only species of orchid useful in aromatherapy, the vanilla oil is steam distilled from the bean, containing mostly vanillin. Vanilla is used mostly for scent and for an aphrodisiac. In magic, Vanilla is used for love, magical energy, physical energy and sex. It is associated with Venus, the zodac signs Libra and Pisces, and the element of water. Make some magic today by mixing Vanilla with a little Patchouly and wearing it as a perfume. No one will be able to resist you! In fragrance studies it has been shown that men respond most strongly to scents of food (such as pumpkin pie scent). You won’t believe the reaction you get from men when you are wearing Vanilla! They love it!






Ylang Ylang: Cananga odorata: Native to Sumatra, Java, Reunion, Madagascar, this oil is steam distilled from the flowers, and contains farnesol, geraniol, linalol, benzyl-acetate, geranyl acetate, pinene, beta-caryophellene, estragol, eugenol, methyl alcohol, farnesene. Properties include: antiseptic, aphrodisiac, hypotensive, and adrenal stimulant. Uses include hypertension, anxiety, palpitations, skin care, nervous tension. ESPECIALLY ANXIETY!!!! Ylang ylang is used in magic spells for love, serenity and sex. It is associated with Venus, the zodiac signs of Taurus and Pisces, and the element water. Use with Kunzite stone for love and peace.





Miri