This basic essential oil information is provided as a courtesy to our customers and was obtained from aromatherapy sources that are deemed reliable. Statements made at this site have not been evaluated by the FDA, and do not intend to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness. They are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a licensed professional. The FDA does not recognize the practice of aromatherapy. This notice is required by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Please read our disclaimer, do your own research, and consult your health practitioner for medical advice prior to using essential oils as an alternative treatment.

Clinical practice has uncovered possible contraindications for some essential oils. This means that essential oils that would normally be unproblematic may exert a negative or detrimental effect in the case of an already existing illness or condition and should not be used. Physiological dosage (from Franchomme & Penoel) refers to an amount of up to a maximum of three drops of pure oil or oil mixture.

Usage warnings are as follows: ! = photosensitizing, do not expose area to sunlight for 24 hours after application; # = potentially sensitizing; * = do not use when pregnant; ^ = potential skin irritant.

Basil, Sweet ct. linalool, (Ocimum basilicum) ^ - Sometimes referred to as French basil or sweet true basil, this variety is more suitable for skin applications such as massage oils or lotions. Basil may help with allergies, migraines, sinus congestion, and stimulation of hair growth. Blend 5 drops each of sweet basil, lavender, and rosemary into 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil and massage into scalp and brush through hair daily to stimulate hair growth. Basil can also be used for mental fatigue and is believed to sharpen the senses. Contraindications: not for use with small children.

Bergamot, (Citrus bergamia) ! - The light citrus scent of this essential oil can help with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and nervous tension. Bergamot has been studied for its ability to reduce patient fears when diffused in medical and dental offices, and this essential oil is also believed to help open communication by breaking down interpersonal barriers. Great in baths, a diffuser, or for massage. Contraindications: photosensitizing, do not expose area to sunlight for 24 hours after application; should not be applied directly to skin.

Carrot Seed, (Daucus carota) - A wonderful essential oil that is used more for its regenerative properties than its aroma, carrot seed oil helps restore elasticity and tone to sagging, sun damaged, and wrinkled skin (can be used on any skin type). This oil is also used to stimulate regeneration of liver cells, and is believed to be a powerful blood purifier due to its effects on the liver. Contraindications: none known.

Cedarwood, Atlas, (Cedrus atlantica) * - This calming essential oil helps to clear the mind and relieve anxiety and tension. Cedarwood is also known to help to relieve itching, skin eruptions, and to stimulate circulation and metabolism. This essential oil counteracts the storage of excess moisture and fat in tissue, and stimulates their elimination making it a strong weapon against cellulite. Its sedative effects are similar to that of sandalwood, but unlike sandalwood it is not an endangered plant species. Contraindications: should not be used by children less than 10 years old or by pregnant women.

Chamomile, German, (Matricaria chamomillia) - The deep blue color comes from the high chamazulene content in this essential oil. A strong anti-inflammatory, German chamomile is helpful for all types of skin inflammations (eczema, psoriasis), arthritis pain, muscle pain, inflamed tendons, and bursitis. Burns and allergic rashes react immediately to treatment with German chamomile, which is absolutely nontoxic and can be used neat (undiluted) in an emergency. Contraindications: none known.

Chamomile, Roman, (Anthemis nobilis) - This essential oil has a soothing, calming effect, and can help relieve cramps, spasms, and shock. In the case of shock, massage a few undiluted drops onto the solar plexus. Use Roman chamomile in a diffuser either alone of with other oils to alleviate irritability, ease depression, and overcome insomnia. Contraindications: none with physiological dosage.

Cinnamon Bark, (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) #^ - A highly caustic essential oil that is not to be used on the skin. Cinnamon bark essential oil is a general tonic and antiseptic that provides ideal, fast acting relief for infections, enzymatic deficiency in the digestive tract, and bacterial bladder infections. Its terrific scent adds spice to diffuser blends, however it should be used moderately. Contraindications: caustic to the skin; potentially sensitizing; not to be used with children less than 5 years old.

Clary Sage, (Salvia sclarea) * - Newcomers to aromatherapy often react to this essential oil with a light euphoria and giddiness. When applied to the wrists or temples it is relaxing in a gentle, effective manner. Clary sage helps with depression, and is believed to be an aphrodisiac. By calming underlying tensions, this essential oil may help to relieve headaches and stress-related sexual dysfunction. Placing a hot compress with a few drops of clary sage on the stomach will help to ease digestive problems. The high sclareol content in this essential oil has an estrogen-like quality that makes it very effective for alleviating PMS symptoms and menstrual discomfort, such as cramps and lower back pain. Contraindications: cancer; mastosis (inflammation of one or more mammary glands within the breast).

Clove Bud, (Eugenia caryophyllata) #*^ - Highly effective, broad spectrum antiseptic and antiviral essential oil that is a great toothache remedy and insect repellent. In aromatherapy, clove bud essential oil is used for viral hepatitis, amebiasis (infection caused by amoebas), asthenia (lack or loss of strength), and tuberculosis. Clove bud is also quite effective for sore muscles and joints when well-diluted in a carrier oil. This essential oil is also believed to stimulate the mind and memory, and may have a profound aphrodisiac effect on some individuals. Contraindications: potential skin irritant; potentially sensitizing; use only after a negative allergy test; use only in a highly diluted solution (maximum of 1 drop per 20 ml/.6 oz. carrier oil).

Cypress, (Cupressus sempevirens) - Extremely effective in counteracting infections of the throat, nose, or bronchi in their early phases. When used at the first signs of a sore throat, cypress essential oil is typically sufficient to arrest the process and prevent the development of subsequent bronchitis or a cold. This oil is also reported to help regulate menstrual cycles by increasing estrogen secretions, and acts as a vasoconstrictor that can be useful in the treatment of varicose veins. Contraindications: mastosis.