An Introduction to Essential Oils

Essential oils are derived from the roots, stems, leaves, and flowers of plants. Some essential oils are derived from fruits, such as orange, lemon, and grapefruit peels, and from spices, such as cinnamon and cloves, while others are derived from resins, such as myrrh and frankincense. 


 
For centuries, essential oils have been used to help prevent and alleviate stress, stress-related symptoms and conditions, illnesses, and diseases, including herpes outbreaks. But before you run out and buy a bottle or two, here's what you need to know about using them.  

 

 

Oils of the Quran

 

Oils mentioned in the Quran and other sacred Islamic scripts include camphor, calamus, cedarwood, frankincense, jasmine, marjoram, myrrh, neroli, rose, sweet basil, and thyme.

 

 

Oils of the Talmud

 

The Talmud mentions oils such as cedarwood, cypress, flaxseed, frankincense, olive, and sesame, which were to be used sparingly as they were costly. Some oils were considered "perfumed," but even they weren't to be used arrogantly. 

 

 

Oils of the Bible

 

The Bible mentions oils being used to anoint kings, high priests, and tabernacle pots and jars. They were also used as lamp fuel. Oils are mentioned in several Bible stories, including the account of Jesus having his feet anointed with oil by Mary of Bethany, the sister of Lazarus and Martha. Oils were also used in cooking, as makeup, in remedies, and for sacrifices.

 

The 12 oils mentioned are calamus (which might be lemongrass), cassia, cedarwood, cinnamon, cypress, frankincense, galbanum, hyssop, myrrh, rose of Sharon (which might be tulip or hibiscus, a source of saffron), sandalwood, and spikenard. 

 

 

The 4 Categories of Essential Oils

 

Generally speaking, there are four categories of essential oils. Here are just a few examples. 

 

  • Herbal: Chamomile, lavender, patchouli, peppermint, rosemary, and tea tree
  • Floral: Calendula (marigold), jasmine, lavender,  neroli, and rose
  • Fruit: Lemon and orange
  • Wood: Cedarwood, frankincense, and sandalwood 

 

Essential oils cross the blood-brain barrier quickly and can immediately calm the amygdalae (you have two), which regulate emotions, helping calm the mind and body.  

 

Some essential oils, depending on the plant or resin from which they are derived, contain more adaptogenic and antimicrobial properties. Specific essential oils can help prevent and heal infections caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. 

 

Other essential oils are known as GRAS oils. GRAS stands for Generally Recognized As Safe by the Food & Drug Administration for consumption. GRAS oils are sometimes used in tea blends and as seasonings in foods. Anise, bergamot, chamomile, clove, cinnamon, ginger, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, lime, nutmeg, orange, oregano, peppermint, rosemary, spearmint, and tangerine are GRAS oils. You should always consult a specialist in GRAS oils before using them for medicinal purposes. 

 

 

Higher Vibration Essential Oils

 

High-vibration oils are oils whose frequencies can raise the frequencies of people and spaces to a higher, healthier level. ​

 

  • Frankincense 
  • Lotus 
  • Myrrh 
  • Rose 
  • Sandalwood

 

 

Essential Oil Safety Precautions

 

NEVER apply neat (undiluted) essential oils to the skin, place them in or too close to the eyes or bodily orifices, or swallow them (without sound advice from an expert). Also, keep your skin out of the sun when using citrus oils topically (you'll sunburn). 

 

Keep essential oils out of the reach of toddlers and babies. When diffusing essential oils, place the diffuser a few feet out of reach of little hands and noses. 

 

DO NOT diffuse essential oils around cats. A cat's system lacks the enzymes needed to break down essential oils, which can cause them to become ill and even die if they inhale or lick them. Incense and resins can also pose problems for cats and other pets in the household. Always ensure pets can escape from rooms where incense and resins are burning.

 

Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, should not be diffused close to the body or in excess for the young or very old, as they could cause breathing problems.

Antiviral Essential Oils