There are a variety of herbs that can be uplifting, refreshing and stimulating in aromatherapy use. The most famous of which is peppermint. Peppermint is commonly used in herbal infusions for a refreshing and invigorating tea drink. The Egyptians used Peppermint to flavour food and wine and highly valued its menthol content. Culpeper recorded Peppermint as highly useful against stomach complaints including wind and vomiting. Peppermint essential oil is distilled from the whole of the plant and is almost completely clear in appearance. Peppermint oil is a British classic that has spread almost worldwide and is very expensive to obtain. Peppermint oil is also highly concentrated and has a very powerful aroma. Peppermint is excellent for both the digestive system and as a decongestant. It can also be used for skin disorders, colds, flu, flatulence, headaches, toothache and sunburn. Many confections such as mints or chewing gum are peppermint flavoured; herbal migraine sticks contain the active ingredient of peppermint. Peppermint can also be used to make cafe syrups, cosmetics, body lotions, hair products, herbal cigarettes, sweets, herbal teas and more. Peppermint is strongly associated with refreshing and clean sensations as well as opening up the airways.
Peppermint essential oils can be used by inhalation, baths or massage. Peppermint oil is also used in gripe water to settle upset stomachs and inhalation through a handkerchief can help alleviate headaches and travel sickness. It also makes a refreshing and cooling skin tonic or bath oil during the summer. Peppermint is very potent so its advised not to use concentrations above 1% as it can otherwise cause irritation.
1.Comfrey (Also known as Symphtum Officinale)
Comfrey has long been used as a miracle herb for curing all internal problems, healing internal wounds, ulcers and promote the flow of blood. This is partly dues to the Allantoin it contains which is a cell regenerator, making it perfect for wounds and skin disorders. Comfrey is used to treat eczema, psoriasis, athletes foot and torn muscles. In addition to this Comfrey is also used by expecting mothers to reduce stretch marks. Comfrey essential oil is used by either massage or compresses.
2.Cypress (Also known as Cupressus Sempervirens)
This tree is traditionally planted in graveyards in France and used to adorn stone coffins in ancient Egypt. However, it is not a wholly morbid essential oil. Cypress essential oil has astringent and anti spasmodic qualities and is particularly used for circulatory conditions, colds flu, coughs, haemorrhoids and both menstrual and menopausal problems. Cypress can also be used to treat varicose veins and whooping cough and can help soothe the nervous system. Cypress essential oil is used in aromatherapy by inhalation, massage or aromatherapy baths as well as compresses for swelling or rheumatism. Cypress can also be found in many cleansers for oily skin thanks to its astringent properties.
