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So Many Special
Ingredients!
Essential Oils
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Some of our soaps have no scent added—you’ll love the earthy smell
of natural soap. These soaps have distinct natural aromas due
to honey, grains, flowers, spices, herbs, or herbal infused oils.
These scents tend to be very mild.
Some people like more aromatic scents. Our scented
soaps have all natural plant essential oils added.
Essential oils are the all-natural aromatic
extracts from a variety of aromatic plant material including
grasses, leaves, flowers, needles, twigs, peels of fruit, seeds,
bark and roots.
For
example, in roses essential oils are found in the flowers, in basil
it is in the leaves, in sandalwood in the wood, and so on.
Essential oils are used in aromatherapy, are extremely concentrated, and very
fragrant.
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The
methods used to extract pure essential oils are time consuming,
expensive, and require a high degree of expertise. It
takes more than 220 pounds of rose petals to produce only 4
or 5 teaspoonfuls of rose essential oil. It takes
about 11 pounds of fresh lavender flowers to produce 1 ounce
of lavender essential oil. |
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Although synthetic fragrances or "nature identical"
oils are available in a wider selection and at a much lower
cost,
we use
only the purest natural plant essential oils,
not those cut or adulterated with inferior oils or
chemicals. We have chosen specific oils not only for their
skin care benefits, but also for the aromatherapy they offer. Essential oils have an immediate impact on
our sense of smell. Only natural botanical essential oils
can cause various neurochemicals to be released in the brain which
can affect the body, mind and spirit.
At Chagrin Valley Soap &
Craft we have done painstaking research whenever essential oils
are added to our products to insure proper dilution and blending
proportions. |
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We do not used a high concentration of essential oils in our
soaps.
Our soaps and shampoo bars are gently scented--this is not the
overpowering scent
of synthetic fragrance oils.
Our gentle natural essential oil blends have been meticulously
developed for their aromatherapeutic and skin conditioning
properties,
as well as for their lovely fragrance.
We use high-quality
pure essential oils. Although they are all-natural,
they may still cause
skin irritation or reactions in certain individuals
so if you notice
any adverse affects,
please discontinue use.
The
essential oils we use are described below
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Anise,
Pimpinella anisum,
is known for its use in fisherman's soap...it is said to
remove all human scent so that fish will be more apt to bite.
It has great deodorizing properties and a warm, sweet licorice
aroma, sweeter than fennel.
Aromatherapy
Properties: Anise essential oil is emotionally
balancing, dispels lethargy and helps the mind to focus.
Good as a relaxant, with some beneficial effects on female
hormone balance. It is also believed to be an aphrodisiac.
Anise
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
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Balsam Peru,
Myroxylon balsamum pereirae,
essentail oil comes from a
very large tree indigenous to the Peruvian Andes. This
magnificent oil is believed to possess numerous healing
properties. Recognized as an antiseptic and disinfectant in
pre-Columbian times, the natives of the central Americas
put balsam-soaked cloths on their wounds. Balsam Peru
oil is believed to relieve eczema, dry, chapped skin, and
rashes.
Aromatherapy
Properties:
It has a rich,
sweet, balsamic, soothing vanilla-like scent that is
used in
aromatherapy to relieve symptoms of nervous tension and stress
through its warming and comforting qualities.
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Basil, Sweet,
Ocimum basilicum,
has an warm,
spicy, and herbal aroma with an anise-like scent. Basil
enlivens dull-looking skin, improves skin tone, and gives
the complexion a rosy glow. Basil is extremely effective
in treating skin disorders. In hair care basil
adds luster to dull hair and is believed to improve hair
growth
and tame tangles.
Its antiseptic properties have been valued in Far Eastern
medicine for thousands of years.
Aromatherapy Properties:
The
uplifting and aromatic scent invigorates
the body and spirit, refreshing the mind, allowing
concentration and sharpening the senses especially when tired. It's aroma is believed to be a good nerve tonic after a
stressful day. It's sweet licorice-like fragrance is warming
and toning. Restoring peace of mind and counteracting
depression. Clarifying, uplifting, energizing.
Basil
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
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Bay,
West Indian ,
Pimenta racemosa,
has a
sweet, fresh,
spicy aroma. Not to be confused with Bay Laurel,
this
essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves
of the West Indian
Bay tree (also known as the Bayberry or Bay Rum Tree) indigenous
to the West Indies. Although
it is a common ingredient in the men's cologne and aftershave,
woman who enjoy spicy, sophisticated fragrances love West Indian
Bay. Years before
bay rum was used as a toiletry, it was used as a rub for sore
muscles, aches and pains.
Aromatherapy Properties:
A stimulating, uplifting essential oil that has a
calming and warming effect on
emotions.
Bay
essential oil is also helpful with hair and scalp
conditions. |
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Bergamot, Citrus bergamia,
has an
uplifting sweet lemon-lime, citrus, floral scent. The
bergamot fruit is not edible because the pulp is far too sour. Bergamot oil is cold pressed from the fruit peel.
Bergamot provides the unusual flavor for Earl Grey tea.
Bergamot can
heal dry, chapped and irritated skin, making it an excellent
choice for relieving symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. It's
astringent quality helps regulate excessive oiliness of the skin
and scalp. Its deodorizing action refreshes your body.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Documented in old herbal texts, the
aromatherapy benefits of
Bergamot oil are said to be balancing to the nervous system by
relieving anxiety and stress, and lifting melancholy.
Bergamot is second only to lavender in its ability to relax
brain waves when sniffed. |
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Beauty Secret Natural
Deodorant
Due to it's antibacterial properties,
may works as
a natural deodorant for some people. It not only has a
pleasant scent, but it may kill bacteria that are responsible
for odor.
For a Body Powder: Add 30 drops of Bergamot to 1/2 cup
of cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
For deodorant: Add 10
ten drops per ounce to witch hazel solution
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Bitter Almond,
Prunus dulcis var amara,
adds such a
delicious almond aroma
that it is often used in perfume industries. Bitter Almond
is also the source of natural cherry and amaretto flavors.
There is no aromatherapuetic value to bitter almond--it just
smells delicious.
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Black Pepper,
Piper nigrum,
has been
used for thousands of years as a powerful healing oil used in
treating poor muscle tone, rheumatic pain, colds,
flu, infections, and viruses. Black pepper is
a
herbaceous oil with a fresh, crisp, dry-woody, warm and spicy
scent that is warming and stimulating to both mind and body.
It is obtained from the
unripe, sun-dried peppercorn berry.
Black
Pepper Oil is a circulatory stimulant and
is an excellent oil for muscular pain, fatigue, and
stiffness.
In
hair care,
woman in
India mixed coconut milk with black pepper to retard hair
loss. Aromatherapy Properties:
Black Pepper is fresh invigorating oil, good for calming and
grounding.
It
stimulates the mind and strengthens focus when there's
frustration. It is believed to
clear
confusion, calm the nervous system, lower anxiety, and
lessen
stress
To encourage new hair growth, Ayurvedic
medicine suggests making a paste using 1/2 teaspoon of black
pepper and 3/4 cup coconut milk. Rub the paste on the
scalp, leave it for 30 minutes and then wash with an all
natural shampoo.
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Carrot Seed,
Daucus carota,
oil is
extracted from the wild carrot, also known as Queen Anne's lace.
Carrot
seed oil is found in many cosmetic formulas dealing with
rejuvenating mature
skin, wrinkles, scars, eczema,
and aging. Carrot seed
oil, high in carotene, vitamin A, is well known for
nourishing and normalizing the skin. It
revitalizes, tones, and improves skin elasticity, giving it a
fresher firmer appearance. Since it
penetrates
the skin deeply, it is believed to protect it, heal scarring,
and may even slow the progression of wrinkles by toning and
rejuvenating mature skin. It has been found helpful with
skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis.
In
hair care
carrot
seed oil strengthens weak, damaged hair. It goes right into the
hair shaft to repair, strengthen and moisturize damaged hair.
Carrot seed oil is believed to promote the development of new
hair. Aromatherapy Properties:
The
aroma is
a dry-woody,
earthy and sweet scent,
used
to ease
anxiety and stress.
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Cassia,
Cinnamomum cassia,
is used in
small amounts to add a mild, spicy cinnamon aroma.
Aromatherapy Properties:
It is
characterized in a aromatherapy as an
aphrodisiac, energizing, invigorating, refreshing,
stimulating, vitalizing, and warming. |
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Interesting Fact:
There are two kinds of cinnamon; true cinnamon and cassia! The true
Cinnamon spice, comes from the bark of a tree whose Latin name
is Cinnamomum zeylanicum, which is native to Sri Lanka and Southern India. Cassia comes from the Cinnamomum
cassia tree, native to China and Indonesia. In the United States, what
we call cinnamon usually comes from the bark of the
cassia tree. Cassia cinnamon bark is thicker, coarser,
oilier, and has a heavier, less delicate flavor. True
cinnamon is
considered the finer spice. It is lighter, softer,
and less oily.
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How do you tell whether you are buying
cinnamon
or cassia? |
In
stick form the golden-tan bark of cinnamon is rolled into a
single stick or quill, while the darker cassia curls inward
from both edges to resemble a scroll. Also, cinnamon
sticks have many thin layers which are softer and crumble more
easily. True cinnamon can easily be made into powder
using a coffee or spice grinder. Cassia sticks are made
up of one thick layer. Since they are much harder and do
not crumble at all, you will most likely damage your coffee
grinder if you try to powder them. In powdered form,
cinnamon is lighter in color and has a finer texture. |
Cedarwood,
Cedrus altantica,
an
essential oil obtained from the wood of the tree, is highly
valued in dermatology for its help clearing skin problems like
eczema, rashes and blemishes. It
normalizes both dry and oily skin and hair. Some
say it also helps stretch marks.
In hair care products,
cedarwood oil
normalizes both dry and oily hair. It is believed to darken graying hair, help
dandruff, and minimize hair loss by stimulating hair
follicles. Some men claim it even
promotes hair growth.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Cedarwood is very soothing and calming. It is used
to alleviate nervous tension, anxiety, insomnia, and stress; and
enhance concentration and zest for life.
Cedarwood
oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
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Cinnamon,
Cinnamomum zeylanicum,
essential oil
with its warm,
spicy, sweet, scent, has been used for centuries. It was the
most sought after spice of the 15th and 16th centuries--at one time
it was more valuable then gold .
Cinnamon has always been associated with money,
trade and prosperity. It believed to be great for
circulation and sore muscles.
Cinnamon
essential oil is a powerful antiseptic, which is great for oily
complexions. Cinnamon, and lemon essential oila, along
with coffee, are among the additives commonly used as natural
deodorizers. Aromatherapy
Properties:
This
essential oil is a physical and emotional stimulant. It also
affects the libido and is known as an aphrodisiac, as well as an
anti-depressant. Researchers found that just having the aroma
in the room reduces drowsiness, irritability, and the pain and
frequency of headaches. In one study, it helped the
participants concentrate and perform better on mental work.
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Citrus Oils
like
Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Tangerine, and Sweet
Orange
are
believed
to be uplifting, balancing and regenerative.
They have
anti-bacterial and astringent properties.
Citrus oils, great skin tonics,
stimulate the microcirculation of your skin, supports tissue
regeneration and are stimulating and rejuvenating. They
are wonderful for dull skin. In hair care citrus
oil helps balance the production of sebum.
They
refresh, invigorate, and cleanse the scalp. Aromatherapy Properties:
Citrus
essential oil brightens and warms your mood, calms,
encourages, clears
the head, increases mental alertness, improves memory, and reduces stress
and headaches.
Their scents are
fresh scent and stimulating.
Citrus oils in general are believed to stimulate positive
energy and thus cause feelings of joy and happiness.
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Clary Sage,
Salvia sclarea,
cultivated
especially in the Mediterranean region, was highly esteemed in the
middle ages.
Clary sage
has a beautiful earthy and herbaceous scent with a hint of
floral.
The soothing
qualities make Clary Sage useful for all skin inflammations.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Clary Sage
calms and balances the spirit and brings on a feeling of
tranquility.
It is
believed to be extremely beneficial for the nervous system
relating to stress, anxiety, and depression.
Clary
Sage is believed to be especially good for female ailments, it
helps one cope better with menstrual cramps or PMS and has
established itself as a premier remedy for menopausal hot
flashes.
Clary Sage
oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
Do not use with alcohol or if you suffer from estrogen-related
disorders.
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Clove
Bud,
Syzgium
aromaticum,
with its warming qualities,
may ease arthritis, rheumatism and muscle ache. Extracted
from clove buds, this oil offers antiseptic and pain-relieving
benefits to the skin.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Researchers found that sniffing the spicy aroma reduces
drowsiness, anxiety, irritability, and headaches, assists memory
recall , adds clarity to the mind, and increases circulation.
Clove bud
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant. |
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Coriander,
Coriandrum sativum,
essential oil has a warm, spicy, sweet and uniquely fragrant
aroma. Coriander infused oils have been used in massages
to relieve muscular aches and pains, and rheumatism. It also helps absorb excess oil and balance skin
oils.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Coriander is regarded by some cultures as the "spice of
happiness." It's is believed to clear the mind
and
freshen the intellect, while it
spicy aroma combats
fatigue, nervous stress and lethargy.
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Cypress,
Cupressus
sempervirens,
has a smoky woody
fragrance that refreshes, restores and tones. Cypress is an
astringent oil useful for oily and blemished skin. It is
also popular as a massage oil for cellulite treatment.
In hair care,
cypress
oil is used to reduce oiliness in the scalp and is good for dandruff.
Often
included in regimens for treating hair loss since it helps increase
circulation to the follicles for optimal hair growth.
Aromatherapy Properties: Cypress
is soothing for PMS,
menstrual cramps, and is said to be helpful for menopausal
symptoms--like hot flashes. |
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Eucalyptus
oil,
Eucalyptus globulus,
a key
ingredient in vapor rub, is a wonderful essential oil that has been
used in healing and cleaning for centuries. Eucalyptus oil
comes from the leaves of Eucalyptus trees—a tall, fast growing
evergreen tree. Once
the oils are extracted from the leaves, the oil is distilled and
used for many ailments, such as bronchitis, coughs, croup,
fevers, head aches, rheumatism, sinus congestion, sore throats,
and other body aches and pains.
In hair care products, eucalyptus
refreshes and stimulates the scalp, promotes increased blood circulation,
stimulates growth, helps with dandruff, and promotes a healthy
scalp.
Aromatherapy Properties:
The rich, deep aroma of eucalyptus awakens the senses, and helps
to renew a tired and sagging spirit. It has a soothing and
calming effect on the whole body.
Eucalyptus
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used in early
pregnancy. |
Fennel,
Foeniculum
vulgare,
is an ancient herb, believed to convey
longevity, strength and courage. Fennel oil can be
helpful for general skin care. It restores moisture to dry
and dehydrated skin and tones dull, oily and mature skin.
Fennel is believed to ward of wrinkles and minimize puffiness
around the eyes. Fennel has antiseptic properties and is
stimulating to the circulation.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Fennel has a calming effect on the emotions. It is
believed to reduces stress and nervousness and stimulate
feelings of courage during vulnerable or emotionally low
times. It may also increase sexual desire.
Fennel
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
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Fir
Needle
Abies sibirica,
has a fresh, balsamic aroma reminiscent of a
pine forest
right after a nice rain.
It is used extensively in perfumery to
obtain woodsy scents.
Evergreen
essential oils have a long history of use in the sauna, steam
bath, and as an additive to baths and massage products
targeting sore muscles and relaxation. In hair care,
Ancient
Egyptians made a hair growth formula from fir needle oil and
massaged it into their scalps.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Fir Needle
oil is invigorating to the mind and is reported to help
stimulate mental alertness.
It is elevating, refreshing,
and energizing.
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Geranium,
Pelargonium
graveolens,
with its mild, soothing
and healing effects is believed to stimulate cell regeneration
and has been
used for centuries for skin care and in the treatment of skin
inflammation. Geranium, which nourishes skin, creates balance between oily and
dry skin and can be used on almost any type of skin.
It's fresh,
sweet, rosy floral scent has
uplifting properties.
We
love to use this oil in special blends for many of our
products. It
is widely used as
a skin and hair care ingredient
because of its ability to
restore balance to oily or dry hair and skin.
Aromatherapy
Properties:
It is used in aromatherapy as a balancing oil for the mind and
body to balance emotions, balance hormones, and help relieve
stress, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings.
Geranium
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used in early
pregnancy.
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Ginger, Zingebar officinale,
extracted
from the root of the plant, has a sweet heavy aroma. For
thousands of years Ginger has been used by the Chinese and
Indian cultures. It has been highly recommend for cleaning, since Ginger is believed to help the healing process of
infections and to ward off infections and colds.
Ginger is a
warming, stimulating, oil well known for its ability to increase circulation.
It is good for all skin types. In hair care a Chinese folk remedy recommends rubbing on
the scalp to stop hair loss. Aromatherapy Properties:
The warm spicy aroma of
Ginger relieves nausea and motion sickness. It warms the
heart and opens up feelings, helping to improve
communication. It is believed to act as a sexual stimulant.
It sharpens the senses, improves memory and aids in recall.
Ginger reduces drowsiness and irritability and jump starts the
brain to keep concentration and mental energy high.
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Grapefruit,
Citris paradisi,
oil is cold pressed from the peel of the grapefruit. It has a
fresh, sweet, citrus scent. It is used as an astringent for
oily skin, to refresh and energize the body, and as an airborne
disinfectant. Aromatherapy
Properties:
The fresh aroma of grapefruit clears the mind and is used in aromatherapy to relieve melancholy, muscle
fatigue, lack of energy, jet lag, headaches, moodiness
and mental and physical tiredness.
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Juniper Berry,
Juniperas communis,
extracted
from the crushed dried berries, juniper berry oil has a warm,
smoky, peppery, fresh, woodsy aroma that was once thought to
"cleanse the soul." Juniper Berry essential oil is
believed to be one of the first aromatics used dating back to
ancient civilizations. Juniper was burnt in French
hospitals and used by Native Americans to clear the air.
Juniper Berry oil tones the skin and is used for acne, eczema,
oily skin, and psoriasis
Juniper berry essential oil is used in massage oils,
liniments, and baths to treat arthritic and rheumatic pain,
varicose veins, hemorrhoids, fluid retention (especially
before menstruation), and bladder infection.
Steam
inhalation may relieve bronchial congestion.
It is also
an insect repellant. Many lotion and cream products on
the market today contain juniper berry as a treatment for
cellulite. In hair care, Juniper Berry balances
the sebaceous (oil) glands of your scalp and may help with
oily hair and dandruff.
It is also believed to stimulate the scalp and promote hair
growth. Aromatherapy
Properties:
The aroma of juniper oil
lifts the spirit and is believed to help calm the
nerves, and relieve anxiety, nervous tension, insomnia, and
mental fatigue.
Juniper
Berry essential oil aromatherapy should not be used when
pregnant.
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Lavender,
Lavendula officinalis,
essential
oil
is extracted from flowering tops of the lavender plant. It is believed to be
anti-inflammatory, rejuvenating,
anti-bacterial, anti fungal, and anti-septic.
Lavender
is believed to stimulate the immune system which contributes to the
healing process.
Lavender tones
the skin and is useful for all types of skin problems: acne, oily
skin, burns, sunburn, wounds, eczema, psoriasis, insect bites,
stings and as an insect repellent. Lavender promotes skin healing
and eases inflammation. In
hair care products,
lavender, a cleansing, balancing herb, will
balance oily or dry hair and scalp. It soothes an irritated scalp and stimulates
the hair follicles. It
is used to promote hair growth. It is effective for all hair types
due to its ability to regulate sebum production. Lavender is often
paired with rosemary in hair care formulas. Their synergistic
properties are great for hair care.
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Aromatherapy
Properties:
Lavender oil
relieves tension with its soothing, calming and harmonizing effect
on the nerves. It is effective for headaches, migraines
and insomnia.
Its floral and woody fragrance is great for stress relief and general
relaxation.
Lavender is one of the few essential oils that can be applied
"neat," meaning directly to the skin without diluting. Many
aromatherapists suggest a spritz of Lavender water on bed linens or
a dab of Lavender essential oil on the wrist for a relaxing and
soothing sleep. Scott
Cunningham, in his book Magical Aromatherapy, suggests a
lavender-scented bath at least once a week as a "health-maintaining
ritual."
A cooling sunburn spray can
be made using Aloe Vera juice mixed with lavender essential oil.
When refrigerated, the mixture can be used as a refreshing skin mist
throughout the summer.
Click here for more Lavender recipes
Lavender
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used in early
pregnancy.
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Lemongrass,
Cymbopogon flexuosus,
has a
wonderful, uplifting lemony scent! The scent of lemon has
always been associated with cleanliness and freshness. While
Lemongrass Oil sounds as if it is a citrus, it’s
actually steam distilled from a grass harvested in Guatemala.
Lemongrass
has long been used in Eastern medicine to treat muscular pain
and stiffness. It has astringent properties that make it
useful in the treatment of acne, blemishes, and other skin inflammations.
Lemongrass has been found helpful in treating oily skin as
well as dry skin. Its skin soothing properties help
cleanse your skin without the drying that overexcites the oil
glands. In hair care,
lemongrass
essential oil helps maintain the scalp and hair's natural
health and add luster to dull hair.
It
also increases fullness and body to the hair.
Aromatherapy Properties:
There has
been recent research in India which shows that lemongrass acts as
sedative on the central nervous system.
The scent of Lemongrass is soothing, stimulating and refreshing.
Aromatherapists
value
lemongrass for its ability to both calm and revitalize, to
relieve tension, invigorate, and inspire.
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Litsea,
Litsea cubeba,
essential oil comes from a small tropical tree with fragrant
lemongrass scented leaves and flowers. The small fruits are shaped
like peppers from which the name "cubeba" derives.
The lemony scent of Litsea
is very similar to Lemongrass but softer, sweeter and a much
lighter aroma. Called May chang in China, it is very
popular in Chinese medicine.
Aromatherapy Properties:
This is
a refreshing, uplifting and stimulating essential oil with
antiseptic, healing and toning properties. |
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Myrtle,
Myrtus communis,
has a slightly sweet and penetrating scent similar to
eucalyptus, but with a floral hint. Since antiquity the leaves
have been used for perfumes and food. Myrtle was a symbol of
love because it was used in bridal bouquets or headdresses. It
has antiseptic and bactericidal properties. The ancient
Egyptians used Myrtle, a plant native to the Mediterranean, to
remedy sore throats and coughs. Myrtle is a good
astringent for oily skin and acne. It is also useful in
treating irritated and inflamed skin. Although often
recommended for use on oily skin, it's action is balancing,
toning, and revitalizing and, like geranium oil, is good for
all skin types.
Aromatherapy Properties:
clarifying
and cleansing. |
Palmarosa,
Cymbopogon martini,
an
essential oil obtained
from a wild grass native to India, has
floral, rose and geranium like scent with a sweet honey undertone. Palmarosa
moisturizes,
hydrates, balances sebum productio, and
is believed
to encourage
skin renewal by
stimulating cellular regeneration.
The oil has
antiseptic qualities and may be beneficial for skin infections,
including acne
and dermatitis. It may help dull, mature skin. In hair care palmarosa
helps regulate sebum production.
Aromatherapy Properties:
It is refreshing, soothing, stimulating, and uplifting to the emotions.
Palmarosa helps to balance hormones and bring relief from mood
swings and stress.
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Patchouli,
Pogostemon cablin,
is the exotic, woodsy, earthy scent
reminiscent of the 60's. The aroma of Patchouli
will take the children of the 1960's on a trip down memory lane.
This bushy herb has large fragrant furry leaves and white
flowers with a bit of purple. It is said
to rejuvenate skin and relieve some skin conditions like
inflammation, acne, skin allergies and eczema. It is a gentle oil
and may be helpful with mature or aged skin.
In hair care
patchouli is a great treatment for oily scalp and dandruff and it is
also excellent for dry hair and scalp. Aromatherapy
Properties:
Patchouli has
long been a favorite aromatherapy oil. Often referred to as
the scent of love, patchouli is believed to be a very
effective aphrodisiac that promotes increased feelings of desire.
The warmth and depth of its aroma make it comforting and relaxing,
creating an
amorous atmosphere.
Patchouli is known for
its sensual, uplifting and stimulating properties.
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Peppermint,
Mentha piperata,
is
minty, strong and fresh
essential oil which has a cooling effect on the body which makes it
ideal for use by sports people.
Peppermint's
cooling power comes from the high percentage of menthol in it's
leaves and preflowering tops.
Menthol has
antibacterial properties and is used externally in liniments to
stimulate nerve endings and increase local blood flow. Herbalists in
ancient Greece and Rome used peppermint for nearly every ailment. Peppermint
leaves have been found in Egyptian pyramids dating as far back as
1000 BC.
It is believed to be a good treatment
for many skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, inflammation,
muscle aches and dandruff.
In hair care products, peppermint
refreshes and stimulates the scalp promoting blood circulation which
stimulates growth.
Aromatherapy Properties: It is believed that peppermint's
uplifting, invigorating and stimulating scent helps aid concentration and memory, and relieve
mental fatigue, apathy, headaches, and depression. Keep
peppermint essential oil or a sliver of peppermint soap in your car
when traveling, the scent of peppermint is excellent for stuffy
heads, motion
sickness, headaches, and nausea.
Mint-scented soaps may create a "cooling"
sensation which while refreshing on skin, may be felt by some to
be a bit TOO cooling on female private parts...you may want to
avoid prolonged exposure of this area with mint soaps.
Peppermint
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used in early pregnancy.
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Petitgrain,
Citrus aurantium,
has a fresh, floral, citrusy, and
slightly woodsy scent. Petitgrain is one of the three
oils obtained from the orange tree. The others are Neroli from
the flowers and Orange from the fruit. Although today
Petitgrain oil is extracted from the fresh leaves and small
twigs, it was once extracted from the green unripe oranges
when they were still the size of cherries, hence the name
Petitgrain or "little grains." It helps clear and tone
the skin and clear up a greasy skin and acne.
Aromatherapy Properties:
It is used in aromatherapy to relieve insomnia, aid relaxation
and lift depression.
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Pine Needle,
Pinus sylvestris,
differs from Pine oil, which utilizes all or any part of the
tree when distilled.
The needles impart a sweet,
evergreen
aroma to the essential oil.
Pine Needle oil is believed to promote a healthy immune system
and was used by the ancient Romans and Greeks to treat
respiratory problems and muscular aches. When massaged into
the skin, Pine Needle supports healthy circulation and soothes
the discomfort of sore joints and muscles. It is believed to
be a true disinfectant, a strong germ killer, excellent for
viral infections and for muscular aches, rheumatism and
arthritis.
Aromatherapy Properties:
With a strong, fresh, resinous aroma, pine stimulates,
refreshes and cleanses.
I t has
warm, stimulating and revitalizing
properties that
promotes feelings of energy and well being--Refreshing to a
tired mind.
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Rosemary,
Rosmarinus officinalis,
essential
oil has a strong, minty, herbaceous scent. The
name is derived
from the Latin word Rosmarinus, which means “dew of the sea."
The plant was considered sacred by the Romans, being used as a
decoration for statues and paintings of the gods. In ancient
Greece statues were decorated with rosemary wreaths and students
wore rosemary in their hair while studying--they believed it
strengthened their memory. This herb was dedicated to Apollo,
the god of medicine. The Egyptians used the plant for incense
in ritual cleansing and healing. Used in soaps, rosemary
essential oil balances oily or problem skin, and helps in the
treatment of comedones (pimples, whiteheads, blackheads) and acne.
It is good for eczema, relieves muscle aches, and is a great
essential oil for hair
care.
It is believed to have antiseptic, antibacterial, and
antiviral
properties.
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In hair care products,
rosemary is
a good
hair tonic for thinning hair and dandruff.
It is
believed that rosemary
encourages
hair growth by improving blood flow to the scalp.
Rosemary
encourages strong, healthy hair, stimulates growth, increases
manageability, and brings out the highlights of dark hair.
Aromatherapy Properties:
The invigorating fragrance of
Rosemary oil wakes up the brain, stimulates mental
activity, restores vitality, increases creativity and improves
memory. From ancient times rosemary has been regarded as
a token of remembrance.
Rosemary
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
In Hamlet (iv:5)
Ophelia says, "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance."
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Rosewood,
Aniba rosaeodora, is distilled from the wood of the
Rosewood tree. It has a sweet, woodsy-floral, spicy scent. Rosewood is a gentle oil used in skin
care products for acne, dry sensitive or inflamed skin, and
dermatitis. It is
soothing
and nourishing to the skin.
Rosewood
is believed to be a cellular stimulant and tissue regenerator
which makes it helpful with scars and wrinkles.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Rosewood Its traditional aromatherapy uses have been to
relieve stress, balance the central nervous system, ease jet
lag and fatigue, create a calm for meditation, stimulate the
immune system, and as an aphrodisiac.
A
great oil to steady the mind and ideal for exams. |
Sage,
Salvia
officinalis,
essential oil has a sharp,
uplifting,
herbal scent.
The Chinese believed Sage cured sterility and the Romans believed it
cured just about everything. The Latin word 'salvare' means
'heal' or 'save'. It is believed to heal
“sluggish skin” and firm tissues. Sage
oil has antiseptic and astringent properties which make it useful in
treating minor skin problems. Aromatherapy Properties:
Some believe that
Sage oil can improve memory.
During the Middle Ages, Sage was a popular ingredient of many nerve
tonics.
Sage
essential oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
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Tangerine,
Citrus reticulata,
essential oil
has a sparkling, fresh, and lively fragrance. Tangerine oil is
believed to decrease stretch marks and help control acne.
Aromatherapy Properties:
The
sweet, comforting aroma of Tangerine helps ease tension, fear,
sadness, irritability, and insomnia. This essential oil helps
to cheer, inspire, and strengthen.
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Tea
Tree,
Melaleuca
alternifolia,
essential oil
is a natural antiseptic, germicide, antibacterial, fungicide
and
deodorant. It refreshes, stimulates and deep cleans the
skin and scalp. Centuries ago Australian Aborigines
discovered that the oil from the leaves of the tea tree
provided a natural cure for a wide variety of ailments and it
is often referred to by Australians as a "first aid kit in a
bottle." It is believed that Captain Cook first
introduced the Tea Tree to Europe. During their voyages,
his sailors made tea from the leaves, thus the name "tea
tree." The oil is extracted from the tree’s leaves by a
special distillation process. People around the world have
come to recognize the value of this natural medicinal oil.
Tea tree is believed to heal infections and skin disorders, it
also fights acne without causing dryness or other common side
affects of modern day acne treatments. Unique to
Australia, oil from Tea Tree is one of the most researched and
scientifically proven therapeutic oils known today. The
scent is strong and penetrating, but many describe it as
clean and refreshing. Next to thyme, it is the
most antiseptic of all oils. It is safer to use, and unlike
thyme, can be used "neat" or undiluted.
A study by Lederle Laboratories and Royal Prince
Alfred Hospital in Great Britain discovered that a 5 percent
tea tree oil gel was as effective as benzoil peroxide in
treating acne, with less drying, stinging and redness.
In
hair care tea tree oil is used as
a treatment for dry scalp, oily hair, dandruff, and itchiness.
Tea tree oil removes build-up
on the scalp and helps rejuvenate dull lifeless hair, leaving
hair soft, clean and manageable. Tea tree has a clean, but
strong, medicinal scent.
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Tulsi (Holy Basil),
Ocimum sanctum, is an aromatic herb that is used
extensively both in Ayurvedic clinical and folk medicine.
Unlike its cousin sweet basil, India's Holy Basil has a rich,
spicy aroma. Considered a sacred herb in India, Holy Basil
has been called the Queen of Herbs and The Elixir of Life. It
is often planted around doorways and has a special place in
the courtyard of Hindu homes. In various parts of the Orient
it is planted around temples and used in prayer beads. Tulsi,
rich in vitamin C and calcium, has a wide range of therapeutic
applications, both in whole plant form and as an essential
oil. Ayurveda considers tulsi a purifier of the mind,
body and spirit. The oil is reported to possess anti-bacterial
and anti-fungal properties and may help with skin and scalp
problems. Like its close cousin, Tulsi enhances the luster of
dull looking skin as well as hair.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Tulsi may aid with
anxiety, hysteria and nervous depression. It is a stress
reducer without being a sedative. Some sources
indicate that, like other basils, it will enhance clarity of
thought and aid memory retention. Tulsi essential oil
aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant |
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Thyme,
Thymus vulgaris linalool,
has
anti-microbial properties and
was used during
WWI to help prevent infection in wounded soldiers.
Thyme
has been recognized since antiquity for its cleansing, mildly
astringent, healing, and
soothing effects on the skin.
A poultice can be made from leaves to combat
all forms of inflammation and infection. White thyme has a
mild,
fresh, and clean herbal scent.
In hair care products, thyme essential oils and
herbs are great for hair! Thyme is often used in deep
cleansing shampoos and is believed to help with hair loss. It
helps maintain a healthy dandruff-free scalp.
Thyme essential
oil aromatherapy should not be used when pregnant.
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Vetiver,
Andropogon zizanioides,
has
a rich, woody, earthy and sweet aroma that improves with age.
Vetiver oil, used extensively in perfumery, helps to normalize oily skin and
clear acne, has a rejuvenating effect on mature skin, helps heal
cuts and wounds, soothes irritated and inflamed skin, and has
natural deodorizing properties.
Aromatherapy Properties:
Once known in
India as the oil of tranquility because, its warm, earthy
aroma calms, balances and soothes the mind, thus helping
with nervous tension, anxiety, and stress. It settles the nerves,
is
emotionally
calming, and
establishes a feeling of balance and grounding,
which is helpful in overcoming
depression, insomnia and nervousness.
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Ylang Ylang,
Cananga odorata,
essential
oil with its exotic,
sweet fragrance, is used in high-class perfumes.
In
Indonesia the fresh Ylang Ylang flowers are placed on the bed of
newlyweds and in the Malayan language Ylang Ylang means "flower of
flowers." It is a balancing oil, meaning it is good for
general skin care; dry, normal,
oily, sensitive and combination skin types. It's antiseptic
properties make it a good product for acne-prone skin. In
hair care, ylang ylang is a hair rejuvenator, stimulates the scalp and is
believed to stimulate hair growth. It helps balance the
production of sebum making it good for all hair types.
Aromatherapy Properties:
The scent is soothing and relaxing. It creates feelings of
peace and warmth by restoring mental harmony and balance. Its sweet aroma is usually
irresistible and regarded by many as an aphrodisiac.
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Please Note:
Pure
essential oils have been used for centuries and their folklore and uses
have been passed
down through generations. At
Chagrin
Valley Soap & Craft we have done painstaking research whenever
essential oils are added to our products to insure proper dilution
and blending proportions.
We
do not
recommend the use of these oils as substitute for medical care.
Always consult with your
doctor before changing any medications or healing practices.
Our soaps are meant for your bathing pleasure and the information
provided has been collected from other sources to inform you about
the possible benefits of essential oils.
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For more information
if you are
pregnant, read
our webpage page. . .
All Natural
Soap:
Pregnancy & Young Children.
We also suggest you do a web search on the subject of essential oils and
pregnancy.
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Click link to read
disclaimer concerning health information.
Beauty Secret
recipes have been gathered
from friends, family, customers, and other sources. We have not
tried all of these recipes and provide them as fun and interesting
alternatives to commercial products. We do not guarantee that they
will work for you as they have worked for others.
When using new herbal
recipes on your skin,
you should always perform a patch test for
reactions before use.
Research and learn about the herbs you are going to use BEFORE you use
them.
Always check for precautions
and warnings
before using any herbal remedies |
Click
here to learn more about how we make Ida's Handcrafted Soap.
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