What's So Special About Essential Oils ... Part 2

Remember EOs have been used for centuries for medicinal purposes by various cultures. This article, the first of several, will discuss a few of the more common ones and why they are great incorporated into handmade soaps. The EO concentrations used in soaps are very small. CAUTION: This article is for educational purposes ONLY. Do not attempt to use any EO oil to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any disease or condition. This article is not intended to prescribe in any way that EO be used as described. This is for educational purposes ONLY.

Cinnamon EO can be obtained through CO2 extraction or steam distillation of bark of the Cinnamon Tree (two different species) from China or Sri Lanka. It has antiseptic, astringent, antibiotic, antimicrobial, and some insect repellant properties. It can be an irritant to the skin to some, but in small quantities provides a pleasant scent to creams, lotions and soaps. It has a warm, spicy scent with a slightly peppery note. It also provides a warm brown to soaps.

Citronella is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves and is credited with having therapeutic properties, such as antiseptic, deodorant, insecticide, and as a stimulant. Citronella is often combined with cedarwood to produce a pleasant smelling bug repellant. Citronella has a lemon, citrus scent with subtle wood tones.

Clary Sage is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves and flowers. It has traditionally been used as an antidepressant, deodorant, sedative, and anti-spasmodic. It has an earthy, fruity, and floral aroma. Sage combines well cedarwood and other EO for wonderful soaps.

Eucalyptus is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves and wood of the Eucalyptus tree. It has been used for burns, blisters, wounds, insect bites, lice and skin infections. It also works well for colds and/or flu. There is also some indication that it works well for sore muscles and joints. It is a very herbaceous scent with soft woody undertones and is toxic if taken internally. I have not used this in any soap to date.

Fir Needle is obtained by steam distillation of the tree needles. It is reported to help with arthritis, bronchitis, colds, coughs, flue, muscle aches, rheumatism and sinusitis. It provides a more masculine, outdoor scent for soap and shaving cream/soap. It has a fresh, woody, earthy, sweet scent and works great in soap.

Ginger Root can be obtained by CO2 extraction or steam distillation of the ginger root. It is reported to be good for colds, flu, nausea, rheumatism, cough, anxiety, and circulation issues. It also is used to help relieve muscular cramps, spasms, aches, and ease stiffness in joints. It has a warm, spicy, woody scent with a hint of lemon and pepper. It is wonderful when combined with Sweet Orange.

Hang in there! We have more EOs to discuss. Remember this is for educational purposes only!

Till next time. Shelia