Properties and uses of Natural Essential Oils

41) JUNIPER (Juniperus communis) (Cupressaceae)

Juniper is found in Europe, south-western Asia and North America. Juniper is tonic, diuretic and strongly antiseptic within the urinary tract. It is a valuable remedy for cystitis, and helps relieve fluid retention, but should be avoided in cases of kidney disease. In the digestive system, juniper is warming and settling, easing colic and supporting the function of the stomach. Taken internally or applied externally, juniper is helpful in the treatment of chronic arthritis, gout and rheumatic conditions. Applied externally as a diluted essential oil, it has a slightly warming effect on the skin and is thought to promote the removal of waste products from underlying tissues.

MAIN PROPERTIES: Diuretic, anti-microbial, carminative, anti-rheumatic.

42) LAUREL, BAY LAUREL (Laurus nobilis) (Lauraceae)

Native to the Mediterrenean region, bay laurel is know cultivated all over the world. Bay laurel was sacred to the gods Apollo and Aesculapius, who together oversaw healing and medicine. The herb was thought to be greatly protective and healing. An infusion of the leaves was taken for its warming and tonic effect on the stomach and bladder, and a plaster made from the leaves was used to relieve wasp and bee stings. Bay laurel is used mainly to treat upper digestive tract disorders and to ease arthritic aches and pains. It is settling to the stomach and has a tonic effect, stimulating the appetite and the secretion of digestive juices.

MAIN PROPERTIES: Astringent, digestive.

43) LAVENDER (Lavandula officinalis syn. L. angustifolia) (Labiatae)

Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region and is cultivated in France, Spain and elsewhere. It has been used for aromatic purposes by the Romans in washing water and baths. This herb has uses in culinary, cosmetics and medicine. It is effective to cure headaches, especially when related to stress, to clear depression associated with weakness and depression. Externally, lavender oil has been used as a stimulating liniment to help ease aches and pains of rheumatism.

MAIN PROPERTIES: Carminative, relieves muscle spasms, antidepressant, antiseptic and antibacterial, stimulates blood flow.

44) LEMON (Citrus Limon) (Rutaceae)

A native from Asia, probably from India, it is now widely cultivated in Italy, California and Australia. Lemon was unknown to the ancient Greeks arriving in Europe probably brought by Roman soldiers returning from Asia Minor. It is one of the most important and versatile natural medicines for home use. A familiar food as well as a remedy, it has a high vitamin C content that helps improve resistance to infection, making it valuable for colds and flu. It is taken as a preventative for many conditions, including stomach infections, circulatory problems and arteriosclerosis. Lemon juice and oil are effective in killing germs. It decreases inflammation and improves digestion.

MAIN PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, antibacterial, antioxidant, reduces fever.

45) Lime - Good Cheer

Latin name: Citrus aurantifolia. Family: Rutaceae. Cold pressed from the USA lime peel. Lime has a fruity-lime aroma. Some traditional uses: to purify the air, for alertness, to relieve coughs or congestion, for uplifting and cheering the spirit, to heal colds, flu or inflammations. Lime may cause skin sensitivity to bright sunlight. Blends with: neroli, citronella, clary sage, rosemary, lavender and other citrus notes.