The third way to classify oils is by Therapeutic Properties
Essential Oils are typically known for their alluring and exotic scents, but they are also well-known for their therapeutic abilities.
For example, essential oils such as Lavender, Ylang Ylang, and Valerian are believed to have a distinct calming quality that can soothe anxiety and induce sleep or relaxation. Whereas, oils like Lemon, Sweet Orange, and Peppermint are thought to be more stimulating, bringing on a more energetic and lively effects.
If you are looking to produce a strictly therapeutic blend, it can be useful to know how essential oils may be grouped according to their beneficial properties. Below is an example of this grouping:
|
REPUTED BENEFITS |
ESSENTIAL OILS |
|
Aphrodisiac |
Clary Sage, Lavender, Litsea Cubeba, Mandarin, Nutmeg, Rose, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Vetiver |
|
Anti-inflammatory |
Clove Bud, Ginger, Helichrysum, Orange, Roman Chamomile,Turmeric |
|
Antiseptic/Antimicrobial |
Cinnamon, Citronella, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Rosemary, Tea Tree |
|
Balancing |
Blue Tansy, Cedarwood, Juniper Berry, Marjoram, Patchouli, Pine, Spruce, Ylang Ylang |
|
Calming |
Bergamot, Frankincense, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Neroli, Ylang Ylang, Valerian |
|
Carminative |
Basil, Cardamon, Cinnamon, Fennel, Ginger, Nutmeg |
|
Detoxifying |
Cypress, Lemon, Fennel, Juniper Berry, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Peppermint |
|
Stimulating |
Eucalyptus, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sweet Orange |
|
Uplifting |
Bergamot, Frankincense, Lavender, Lime, Roman Chamomile, Rosemary, Ylang Ylang |
This kind of grouping makes it easier to determine which essential oils you could combine to produce a specific benefit that you are seeking.
For example, to create a blend that promotes relaxation and eases stress, you could choose essential oils that are calming or uplifting (such as Bergamot) and avoid those that are known to be particularly stimulating or energizing (such as Ginger or Grapefruit).
If you would like to make a naturally sultry massage blend that helps enhance and arouse sensual desires, incorporating aphrodisiac oils such as Clary Sage or Sandalwood can be used.