Using Essential Oils
Kate Leigh

Long ago, I learned that many people are interested in essential oils, but do not know where to start. So a couple of Christmases ago, I made up a starter kit, for using these plant medicines in our everyday lives. I enclosed several basic essential oils, very fresh, all organic, and very concentrated, for our pleasure. I also enclosed a small container of herb-infused body oil, as well as an empty spray bottle. These, along with the information on the properties of the oils themselves, will enable anyone to make some simple products that will please our senses, as well as cleanse our environments, and help us to feel well.

The Oils:

There are, of course, dozens of choices of oils. Let us assume that this starter kit will be used by a person undergoing cancer treatment.

• Lavender: One of the most useful essential oils, good for innumerable conditions, including burns, nausea, and, of course, relaxation, and wonderful sleep, is lavender. Just a few drops (3 to 5) on a tissue, tucked under the pillow at night, will do wonders. You may sprinkle essential oils directly on sheets, if you like. Although referred to as oils, most are not at all oily in consistency.
• Silver Fir: This special oil, organic, from Bavaria, is a delight to smell, reminiscent of high mountain air. It lends us vigor, and inner strength, to help us make it through difficult times.
• Peppermint: This oil is familiar, and highly medicinal. One drop at a time will refresh your environment, help clarify your memory, and aide digestive imbalances.
• Ravintsara: The good herb, ravintsara, is one of the most promising oils to help people through the challenges of illnesses and their often troublesome treatments. It is revivifying to the respiratory system, and blends well with other oils.
• Lemon: Citrus oils must be organic, and these are guaranteed. The research shows citrus oils reducing and/or preventing tumor growth. Essential oils are not taken internally, therefore not digested, and so their use is different than with dietary recommendations. These oils can be sniffed for their cleansing scent, but they will also detox and purify the air, and can be used in oils to massage into the skin.
• Orange: Use as lemon.
• German Chamomile: This essential oils alleviates inflammation, and can help calm skin conditions. It is pricey but can literally be used one drop in a bath, or in warm water for a compress.

Essential oils work well in blends. For example, you might choose to combine lemon and orange, with ravintsara in a blend. Use 3 to 5 drops of each in the sprayer with water, shake, and mist your environment. The oils are fine to use on your skin, in such blends, but not in your eyes!

Another nice blend would be lavender, german chamomile and silver fir. You can be creative with them and experiment, but in an ounce of unscented massage oil, I would suggest adding 5 drops lavender, 1 drop german chamomile, and two drops of silver fir.

If you would like to communicate with me about your oils, you may e mail me at: peacekate@gmail.com

You may also find out more about essential oils online, and, by all means, sign up for my weekend aromas class, sponsored by the Downeast School of Massage!!

Kate Leigh