Essential Oils Descriptions M - O

GREEN MANDARINE

I hadn't planned on offering two Mandarine oils. But then I sampled this wonderfully tart green oil and fell in love. Clear green in color, and deliciously tart in fragrance, this Green Mandarine is like no citrus oil I've experience. Perhaps a blend of lime, lemon, orange, and key lime? It is tart, energizing, and uplifting. A delightful morning oil. (And I am planning on flavoring a meringue pie with it!)

WARNING: Phototoxic, do not apply before going out in the sun.

RED MANDARINE

Similar in uses to Tangerine, but much more complex and adult in aroma, Mandarine is gentle enough to use with young children and during pregnancy. This is a truly unusual specimen, multi-layered and complex. much closer to a Bergamot type oil than a Tangerine, a must have for every citrus lover!

It is a great antiseptic to use as a room spray and a toner for oily or acnied skin. But where Mandarine really shines is in its emotional uses. It is considered both a calming influence and gently uplifting. Wonderful for use with children, a true "Citrus smile bringer."

Mandarine is a wonderful treatment for sleep disturbances and insomnia.  A recent study in nursing homes found Mandarine essential oil even more effective than lavender in dealing with insomnia.

Some authorities say it is helpful in doing inner child work.

WARNING: Mildly Photo toxic, do not apply before going out in the sun.

MANUKA

Similar in action to Tea Tree, but much less medicinal in aroma, this healing oil is honey scented. Use as you would Tea Tree, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral.

It is proven effective against both Strep and Staph infections .

Experimental use has shown it helpful in dealing with the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue. I find it milder and less irritating than Tea Tree in skin care products . This has become, in our house, one of the "must have" oils.

Testing at the University of Heidelberg show that Manuka is more effective than Tea Tree essential oil when dealing with gram positive bacteria. Both Tea Tree Oil and Manuka Oil also demonstrated a very good antimicrobial efficacy against various antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus species.

SWEET MARJORAM

Origanum marjorana South Africa, Certified Organic, flowers and leaves Marjoram's aroma is slightly spicy, warm and soothing. It blends well with orange, eucalyptus (softening it, somewhat) and lavender. I sometimes blend it with Clary Sage, especially for menstrual difficulties. Marjoram has been used to lower high blood pressure. It warms the skin, where applied. Marjoram's powerful antispasmodic action can ease pains of arthritis, cramped muscles, muscle spasms, and menstrual ramps. (Try blending with Clary Sage for relieving menstrual cramps; the result is almost magical!) It has a calming, slightly sedative action and can be effective against some types of migraines.

Sweet Marjoram mixes well with lavender or rosewood or English Chamomile for a very relaxing bath. It blends well with orange, eucalyptus (softening it, somewhat) and lavender. I sometimes blend it with Clary Sage, especially for menstrual difficulties.

WARNING: It can stimulate menstrual flow, and thus should never be used during pregnancy.

MELISSA

Probably the most rare herbal essential oil is that distilled from the common Lemon Balm. Almost all so-called Melissa Oil on the commercial market is a mixture of Lemongrass and Citronella. THIS is the real thing! We have the GC/MS reports online to verify it. The high price of true Melissa is because, although the plant is easy to grow, it takes approximately THREE tons of plant material to yield 1/2 kilo of the essential oil.

A product of my favorite British distiller, this light, clear lemony oil is a delight to the senses and the emotions. Its aroma is clear and icy-cool. Clean, not medicinal or citronella murky.

Uses? Medicinally Melissa essential oil has been confirmed to have powerful anti-viral properties. Studies in Germany indicate it is useful against various strains of flu virus, herpes, smallpox and mumps. Tisserand cites research indicating that Melissa blended with Rose Otto is effective against both shingles and cold sores. He recommends that adults apply the Melissa EO neat to cold sores, however it is an irritant, so you might want to try a dilution.

Melissa is also recommended for treatment of both nausea and indigestion, especially when they are caused by nervous tension. Some authorities say that it slows the heart beat, relieving palpitations and helps lower blood pressure. Blended with geranium, it may help ease painful periods.

Many sources recommend using Melissa to treat both acne, and allergic skin problems, but due to the irritating nature of the essential oil, I recommend the hydrosol for skincare purposes.

Agitation - Dementia: A recent study quoted in the Journal of Complimentary Medicine showed that Melissa Essential oil is a safe and effective treatment for the management of agitation in severe dementia.  The study indicates that true pure melissa oil significantly reduced agitation and has important quality of life benefits.  Use of a Melissa herbal extract in a study of patients with mild to moderate Attention Deficit Disorder experienced significant benefits in cognition after 16 weeks of treatment.  Whether the same benefits would occur with use of the essential oil is unknown.

Emotionally, Melissa is a delight. It is a mild sedative in small doses, and believed to calm anxiety. Both calming and uplifting, Melissa Essential oil is said to be extremely useful in cases of emotional shock, grief, fear and anger. It is said to bring acceptance and understanding. Some say it helps in dealing with past lives (?).

WARNING: Melissa Essential Oil is a strong skin irritant, and needs to be used in VERY low dilutions. I would limit it to approximately five drops per ounce of carrier, or two to three drops in a bath.

See also our organic Melissa Hydrosol!

MYRRH

It clears extra mucous from the lungs and is useful for helping 'dry out' respiratory problems.

It can help ease the itching and irritation of weeping eczema, and helps fight the fungus that causes jock strap itch.

It's most popular and effective use is in treating gum diseases and sores in the mouth. It makes an excellent mouthwash to promote oral health.

Myrrh is also recommended in blends to treat chapped or cracked skin.

There are those who say it can stimulate menstrual flow, and thus should be avoided during pregnancy.

MYRTLE

Myrtys communis. Wild crafted from Albania Steam Distilled, Leaves

Green Myrtle essential oil is a wonderfully mild and gentle respiratory treatment.  Highly recommended (especially blended with our rare and unique Hyssop) for treating asthma attacks, and respiratory problems with children.

 Astringent, at first reminiscent of evergreen and a sweet eucalyptus, with an almost floral dry down, it reveals more of itself the more I work with it. Myrtle is said to blend well with citrus and evergreen oils, although I think that it is best used alone. I think any other oil would overwhelm it. (although I want to try a blend of this lovely Myrtle with just a touch of cypress!)

Suzanne Fischer-Rizzi says Myrtle Essential OIl is "beneficial for people with addictions or self-destructive behavior." Other sources recommend it, blended with Bergamot and/or Clary, as an aid for smoking cessation. I have seen other authorities refer to Myrtle's use in dealing with addictions and addictive behavior. In the past I could never see why, but with this new Myrtle, perhaps. I can see that this one might have emotionally cleansing effects. It is would be an interesting addition to a meditation blend.

Physically, Myrtle is a good astringent for oily skin and acne. It is also useful in treating devitalized, irritated and inflamed skin (perhaps blended with German Chamomile?). Although usually recommended for use on oily skin, my distiller recommends it for all skin types since, like geranium essential oil, it's action is balancing and revitalizing.

Also recommended in treating hemorrhoids. (I would blend it with cypress for both of these uses.)

Myrtle has a mildly sedative action, which can make it useful in treating insomnia and nervous conditions.

It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing, which makes it an appropriate oil to treat children and the elderly in cases of respiratory afflictions, chronic lung conditions, colds, infections, etc. A lovely oil which you must experience to appreciate.

NEROLI

Citrus aurantium var. amara flowers only. Tunisia Distilled from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree. Steam Distilled

Neroli's aroma is a wonderful blend of floral with undertones of citrus. It is lovely by itself, or blends well with rose, bergamot, or other citrus oils. Emotionally, Neroli can help calm anxiety, and relieve depression. It is a key ingredient in our anti-anxiety blend, Reunité. Neroli can help balance both oily and dry skin, since it has an sebum balancing effect.

I have been using essential oils for many years, and this is the finest Neroli I've ever been able to offer my clients. Most Neroli, although labeled "pure Neroli" or "true Neroli" seem, to my nose, to be codistillations of the leaves and blossoms. The green, Petitgrain note usually comes through. This is a magnificent specimen, distilled from blossoms only. It is truly a benchmark against which all other Neroli distillations can be compared. Extraordinary!

A lovely oil, you owe it to yourself to experience its calming, uplifting beauty. Available undiluted or in a 10% dilution in Jojoba.

BLENDS WITH: Frankincense, Sandalwood, Petitgrain, Rose, Lemon, Orange, Lavender, Patchouli, Vetiver

Any Neroli lover needs to experience our Neroli Hydrosol!

NIAOULI

Niaouli is a strong antiseptic, antibacterial oil. It also has strong decongestant properties, which make it appropriate for treating head and chest colds . In addition, it helps clear the head mentally, as well, since it has a stimulating and uplifting effect.

For a daytime respiratory blend, try mixing it with peppermint, eucalyptus, and either pine or fir. A really energizing blend when you are fighting a cold and want to stay in bed, but can't.

Some sources recommend it for fighting acne, boils, and other skin infections. I have also seen it recommended for treating cystitis.

Nutmeg CO2

The ultimate Nutmeg Essence! I put a drop on a perfume strip and said "EGGNOG!" Far sweeter and more complex than any steam distilled nutmeg essential oil this CO2 extraction must be used with care. Used in excess it over stimulates the brain and heart, can cause hallucinations and possibly convulsions. I have a tremendous respect for this lovely oil, to the extent that I do NOT allow my staff to "prebottle" more than about 10 bottles of it at a time. I don't want them exposed to the fumes in excess.

However, having said that, the slightest drop of Nutmeg, added to a blend, adds a sweet spicy aphrodisiac note. It's a mental stimulant, not a relaxer, though.

Physically, Nutmeg's stimulating action is believed by some to aid in asthenia (loss of physical strength, debility.) Some sources recommend its use as part of a blend for treating gout, rheumatism, arthritis, etc. I haven't experimented with this use yet.

Emotionally it is invigorating and stimulating, while, at the same time, warm and welcoming. Physically, it is said to be an excellent digestive stimulant for those who can not digest food, and a useful oil in treating nausea, vomiting, indigestion, etc. Nutmeg oil is also said to be an anti-inflammatory, and useful in treating arthritis. In a massage blend it is gently warming and that, coupled with its anti-inflammatory characteristics make it useful in treating sore joints and muscles. . Please avoid during pregnancy. Nutmeg blends beautifully with the sweeter citrus oils, with other spices, Bay, Geranium, Petitgrain, and Ylang Ylang. Please use it with discretion This CO2 extraction contains no solvents, so adding a drop to 1/2 cup of honey for flavoring food would be exquisite. I suspect it's going to be a key ingredient in my spiced tea this winter, and think a drop in a large pot of hot cider or mulled wine would be yummy.

OPOPONAX (Sweet Myrrh)

(Some sources say "Opopanax")

Commiphora guidotti, Steam Distilled Wildcrafted resin from Ethiopia.

A cousin of the healing Myrrh we have always offered, this sweet Myrrh is most likely the Myrrh spoken of in the Song of Solomon. Unlike our healing Myrrh, this has a sweeter, softer and longer lasting aroma, very different from the sharp freshness of Myrrh Oil..  It has been a component of incense and perfumes since Biblical times.

Some sources state that it has a drying action and thus would be effective against excessive mucous in the lungs. Hence it could be recommended in cases of bronchitis, colds, sore throats, and coughs.

Primarily, though, I would use this sweet base note in blending for perfume.  Debi says it reminds her aromatically, of the wee bit of Oud we have saved for use in our Sacred Blend.  At first I couldn't see the similarities, but in the drydown, the resemblance is strong.

BLENDS WITH: Orange, Lemon, and other Citrus oils, Frankincense, Neroli, Patchouli and Sandalwood

WARNING: Possible sensitizer.  Those sensitized to Peru Balsam should avoid use on the skin.  Also, a photosensitizer, avoid exposure to ultraviolet light when wearing Opopanax.

BLOOD ORANGE

Citrus sinensis Organically Grown, not certified, Italy Cold Pressed, Peel only.

More intensely aromatic than the sweet orange we are familiar with, Blood Orange adds an sparkling citrus note to blends.

Therapeutically, it is very similar to sweet orange in its uses, although one source does say it is the most antidepressant of the citrus oils.  

Elizabeth Zaffarano recently wrote:

The essential oil of the Sweet Orange is delightfully bright and cheery, strongly antidepressant. . Used in the aroma lamp, it brightens the atmosphere of a room. Blended with any of the spice or coniferous oils it makes a wonderful winter holiday blend. Orange is refreshing and relaxing. It can cause photosensitivity so be careful of applying to the skin prior to exposure to sunlight. It is generally considered mild enough for use with small children.

As said earlier, of all the oils where Organic as opposed to conventional farming methods make a difference, the citrus fruit oils lead the way. After all, when a crop is sprayed with insecticides, it is the rind of the orange that is coated with and absorbs the chemicals. Many of these chemicals carry through to the essential oils, and more are contained in cold pressed oils. The use of organic cold pressed oils will eliminate the chemical residue completely.

If you love orange, you owe it to yourself to try this. If you ever use orange essential oil internally, you must have this.

BLENDS WITH:  Geranium, Lavender, Neroli, Petitgrain, all woods and spices

ORANGE BLOSSOM ABSOLUTE

Extravagant, and wonderful for the perfumers in our midst is this deep, complex absolute from the blossoms of the Bitter Orange Tree. Produced by a master extractor, this absolute is reminiscent of our Neroli essential oil, but much deeper and more complex in aroma. The undiluted absolute has a touch of a green note to it, fresh from the bottle, on dry down, and when diluted it becomes a radiant floral, rich, warm, heady. Amazingly potent even in very low dilutions or as a minute part of a blend, this Orange Blossom absolute is the perfumers dream. I am wearing it blended half and half with our Neroli essential oil, it's perfect compliment. It will add depth and heart to any blend that needs a non top note floral. Absolutely EXQUISITE!

We are offering the absolute full strength, of course, and in a 10% dilution in both Fractionated coconut oil. The undiluted Orange Blossom is probably too thick to get through the orifice reducer in the bottle. It may be necessary to take the orifice reducer out and use a pipette, or warm the bottle some.

Gail Adrian, fragranceur extraordaire, writes this about Orange Blossom Abs..."

I happen to be absolutely addicted to Orange Flower Absolute!  It has a sensual/sexual quality that I crave when creating heady, bold, and rich perfumes.

There can be somewhat of a difference in them. . . .   Play a bit..  You can always blend it with a less audacious scent like Lav. Abs. or even Benzoin in the Base.  Something else
that might mitigate it, might be some excellent Frankincense.  Use some lighter middles, some Ho leaf or  Ho wood, some of the earthier spices such as Coriander, or Ginger.  a lovely Green Coriander would also pick up that middle then, in the top use something really ephemeral to balance out the
eroticism of the bottom perhaps a Violet leaf, if you have it, or a Frangipani, or if you don't want to break  the bank a lovely
petitgrain/bitter orange/ with perhaps a dash of lavender?

When I smell Orange Flower Absolute, I think of Louis the XIV and the Hall of
Mirrors yummmm  It doesn't get more decadent than that.
 

This is the antibacterial oil that seems to be this year's for those who believe in taking charge of their own wellness. It is NOT a pleasant smelling oil. It's high Carvacrol level seems to make it an effective germ killer, but also gives it an extremely pungent smell and makes it a strong irritant to the skin and the mucous membranes.

Please bear in mind that this is "neat" undiluted pure essential oil of the Turkish Wild Oregano. There is evidently a book on the market that recommends taking Oregano Oil internally to prevent/cure a multitude of ills. If you are purchasing this pure essential oil with that use in mind, please be VERY sure to dilute it in some virgin Olive Oil, before internal (or external!) use. My Turkish friends who do use it internally dilute it, and then add the olive oil/essential oil blend to a glass of water. They would never dream of using the neat essential oil. It is guaranteed to burn your mouth!

I personally don't use this oil internally; I'm not an enthusiast of oregano oil. However, if these are your plans, PLEASE be aware that this is NOT the diluted "oregano oil" in a base of vegetable oil found on sale in some health food stores. This is the real thing, and very potent stuff indeed.

WARNING Oregano Essential Oil is a very strong skin and mucous membrane irritant. If you plan to use it on the skin, please use a VERY mild dilution.

OSMANTHUS ABSOLUTE

Osmanthus fragrans  Blossoms grown in China, the absolute produced in Grasse, France.

Apricot, sweet-tart fruit, traces of leather and tabac, sunlight and shadows... We have been out of stock on this rare and precious absolute for several years. Finally found a tiny bit. Yes, it's costly. Rare and precious things are.

I have never seen ANYONE who could resist smiling when Osmanthus is in the air.

Available undiluted, of course, or in a 10% dilution in Fractionated Coconut Oil

 View the GC/MS analysis here.  

I sent a wee sample to a friend who is one of the best "noses" I know...and this was his emailed reaction:
 

End of unsolicited testimonial....There's no WAY I could have made that one up!

Rare and delightful. Do a search in a perfumery site and see the high end perfumes that include Osmanthus for its exotic, bright fruitlike note.

OWYHEE

Artemisia ludoviciana type latiloba CT Esters Organically grown, USA

Organically grown and distilled, this sweetly scented oil from a uniquely American artemesia species is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and a delight for both the skin and the spirits.  The essential oil is very high in esters, which make it extremely relaxing and soothing to the skin.

Jeanne Rose states that this uniquely American essential oil is soothing and sedating, and is a wonderful alternative to Roman Chamomile. She goes on to say that it is an excellent addition to any skin care product, and a great stress reliever.  It blends beautifully with Helichrysum for pain relief and skincare.

Nancy Zimmerman was one of our first clients to try this new essential oil and wrote:

"By  the way, I LOVE the Owyhee oil. I added it to my blend of  Helichrysum and Lavender in St. John's Wort oil and it helps my  creaky hip joints. I alternate it with Holy Basil (a.m. and p.m. applications) for an anti-inflammatory effect."