Essential oils primer

What makes essential oils different from the synthetic perfumes sold in most mass-market retail outlets? Synthetic perfume, or fragrance oils, use isolates of a single plant molecule. True essential oils, on the other hand, are a complex mix of the plant's hormones, nutrients and biochemicals.

And the process by which essential oils are made is purer: Extracting the oil using expression, steam distillation or a special carbon dioxide process help retain medicinal properties.

Even though essential oils are completely natural, some can cause adverse side effects. For instance, using the oil of angelica root, or bergamot, on your skin can make you sensitive to sunlight. Other oils, like cinnamon and verbena, are skin irritants.

Here's what to look for when shopping for essential oils:

* Quality Counts

Pure essential oils can be expensive, but a little goes a long way. Less expensive oils are usually extracted using chemical solvents, which can alter their therapeutic properties.

* Complex Colors

Pure essential oils vary in color. For example, patchouli and thyme have a dark color; lavender has a light, golden hue; and rosemary is clear. Products that are uniform in color, regardless of scent, are usually synthetic.

* warning Labels

A label that warns you not to use the oil undiluted on the skin is an indication that you're buying a pure essential oil, which should never be applied as is. Always dilute them in a carrier oil, such as almond or grapeseed oil, to avoid burning the skin.

Essential Oils for Common Conditions

ANXIETY: Cedarwood, Cypress, Hyssop, Lavender, Marjoram, Myrrh, Rose

DEPRESSION: Clary Sage, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Neroli, Pettigrain, Rose Geranium, Sandalwood, Ylang-ylang

FATIGUE: Cyrpress, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Lemon, Patchouli, Peppermint, Pine, Sage

HEADACHES: Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Neroli, Peppermint

MEMORY PROBLEMS: Bay Laurel, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Rosemary

INSOMNIA: Chamomile, Frankincense, Lavender, Melissa, Myrrh, Neroli, Pettigrain, Rose, Sandalwood, Ylang-ylang

MUSCLE ACHES: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Tea-Tree, Thyme

PMS: Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemongrass, Neroli, Rose Geranium

STRESS: Chamomile, Clary Sage, Geranium, Lavender, Neroli, Palmarosa, Sandalwood

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