It is a good idea to have a selection of oils that are useful in ‘emergencies’. Not only will they be handy around the house (especially with the summer holidays and the children being at home more) but also for trips out and the main holidays away. We are looking here at the sudden happenings; accidents, reactions etc. that might happen, not any long term conditions.
Electrical & Deep burns should always be seen by a doctor. For general burns use Lavender Lavender High Altitude is the best lavender to use as it is higher in esters. In 2003 Hajhashemi, Ghannadi and Sharif found Lavender exerted significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Oils useful here are antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and cicatrisant. Helichrysum is well known for its anti-inflammatory & wound healing effects. It is the italidiones (found up to 8% in the EO) that remove dead matter and suggests that this component can prevent scarring is applied to a wound while healing.
Cajuput is analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic & anti-bacterial. Use Cajuput to alleviate the itching due to insect bites, it is also analgesic properties. The Alpha-terpineol content (>8%) is a proven anti-bacterial and analgesic compound. The sesquiterpenols give the oil anti-inflammatory benefits.
Use hyssop on a tissue or 1 drop directly in the elbow. The flavonoid diosmin, which is produced by hyssop, was in the top 5 most effective flavonoids, out of 22 tested, at inhibiting isolated mast cell degranulation which occurs during allergic responses. Hay fever symptoms were found to be significantly improved in symptoms of itchy nose and eyes and watery eyes due to rosmarinic acid content.
Helichrysum is the best oil to use for bruises due to Beta-caryophyllene & gamma-curcumin / alpha curcumin content. In case of severe bruising black pepper is useful due to its rubefacient (warming) properties. Black pepper is around 35% Beta-caryophyllene which is anti-inflammatory.
Cornmint has an instant cooling effect when applied to the skin. Menthol is an analgesic, reducing pain by acting on opioid receptors in the brain to decrease pain signals. Cornmint’s menthol content is around 56.7-80.2%.
Clove has very high eugenol content (between 80 & 90%), this gives it anaesthetic and antibacterial properties. Make a 200ml blend of hydrolats (myrrh, oregano, & thyme) with 4 drops clove bud. Swoosh about a bit and hold in the mouth for as long as you can.
Rubefacient oils promote healing of injured muscle tissue Shogoal and gingerol gives ginger its pungent aroma and contributes to the warming and anti-inflammatory effects of the oil. CO2 extracts have higher amounts than steam distilled. Curcumin (16%) and alpha zingiberene (14%) are also anti-inflammatory making Ginger good for sprains
We can get carried away with all of our EOs. Really we want a small First Aid Kit. Many oils can crossover conditions but are still effective. Helichrysum can be used for sprains, bruises and cuts and grazes. Lavender can be used for burns, headaches and sprains, cuts and insect bites. Chamomile can be used for allergies, sprains and calming insect bites.
Rosemary- Anti-inflammatory, analgesic
Lavender High Altitude - Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic,
Marjoram Sweet - Analgesic, calming
Eucalyptus Dives - Analgesic, antispasmodic, cicatrizant
Peppermint - Menthol, anti-inflammatory. analgesic
Chamomile - Anti-inflammatory, helps to de-stress and reduce anxiety
Melissa- Expectorant, relaxing and can help relieve any excess tension or stress
Basil- helps to soothe headaches, calming reducing anxiety tension and stress
Helichrysum -Helps to heal, anti-inflammatory
Black Pepper - Analgesic, helps with aches pains and circulation
