The Herbal Cafe at www.Flagler Cafe.com

Basil, Sweet: Warm, fiery scent. Blends specially well with Lavender. Good for tired, overworked muscles, as a mouthwash for mouth sores and infected gums, for chest infections and digestive problems. Blends well with bergamot, lavender, and neroli .

Benzoin:  Benzoin is the gum resin that is tapped from the tree, yellowish at first, it later hardens and becomes brown with red tones. This resin smells strongly (similar to vanilla) and is cleaned before being produced as oil. Scent: Sweet, vanilla like.

Bergamot: Uplifting, spicy, sweet scent; like orange and lemons with floral overtones. Inhaled, it relaxes the nervous system and acts as a digestive. Also known as an expectorant, antidepressant and antiseptic. Blends well with chamomile, lavender, neroli and geranium. Bergamot is a photosensitizer (increases the skin reaction to sunlight and makes it more likely to burn) and the photosensitizing effect can last for several days.

Birch (sweet)  A powerful oil which could irritate sensitive skin. Best used with caution or not at all. Has an invigorating, even rousing effect on the spirits. Stimulates the sweat glands aiding the body in releasing harmful toxins. A lymphatic cleaner and helps keep infection at bay. Increases the flow of urine. Its diuretic properties could also help with obesity and cellulitis. Could be good of rheumatism and muscle pain generally since it eliminates accumulation of uric acid in the joints. Blends well with chamomile, frankincense, and lemon .

Galbanum: Analgesic, antiflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive, emmenagogue, expectorative, restorative, tonic. Uses - It was used by the ancient civilizations as an incense, and in Egypt for cosmetics and in the embalming process. It is generally used in the East in a similar way to asafetida: for treating wounds inflammations, and skin disorders. Stimulant, expectorant in chronic bronchitis. Antispasmodic and considered an intermediate between ammoniac and asafoetida for relieving the air passages, in pill form it is specially good, in some forms of hysteria, and used externally as a plaster for inflammatory swellings.
 
Geranium Bourbon: Also called Réunion ‘Geranium’oil. Most of the world’s supply comes from this area, formerly called Bourbon which is an island east of Madagascar. Very strong roselike odor with a high Citronellol content.

Ginger: Spicy, woody, warm, with a hint of lemon. It is antiseptic, analgesic, expectorant, laxative, and aphrodisiac. Aids memory, cheers one up. Eases sore throats. Settles the digestive system, effective against nausea, hangovers, jet lag, sea and travel sickness. Relieves cramps, rheumatic pains and muscle spasms. A valuable remedy in cases of impotence. Blends well with  cinnamon, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, and orange.

Grapefruit, Pink: Has a sweet, sharp, citrusy aroma. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, diuretic and disinfectant. Invaluable in times of stress, uplifts and revives the spirit. May have an effect on obesity and fluid retention. Could help with cellulite. It is a tonic to the liver. Relieves migraine and premenstrual tension and jet lag. Blends well with bergamot, cedarwood, frankincense, and lavender.

Jasmine: Sweet, flowery, exotic aroma. Called the "king of flower oils" has always had a reputation as an aphrodisiac. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, emollient and sedative. Tremendous remedy for severe depression. Calms the nerves. Effective in postpartum depression. Promotes flow of breast milk. Relieves spasm of the bronchi, calms irritating coughs. Blends well with bergamot, frankincense, orange and sandalwood.

Juniper Berry : Refreshing and slightly woody aroma. It is antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, and insecticide. Not to be used if you have any type of kidney or inflammatory problems. Effective diuretic and antiseptic of the genito-urinary tract, very valuable in treating cystitis and kidney stones. Helps with cellulitis. Clears intestinal mucous. Helpful in cases of gout and rheumatism as it helps to eliminate uric acid. Regulates period and eases painful cramps. Blends well with bergamot, cypress, frankincense, and sandalwood.


LAVENDER : It would take many pages to outline all the benefits and properties of lavender. It is analgesic, antidepressant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericide, cicatrizant, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, fungicide, sedative. Soothes the spirit, relieves anger, valuable in manic-depressive cases. Has a sedative action on the heart, assists in bringing down high blood pressure, relieves insomnia, relieves muscular spasms and rheumatic pains. Useful with menstrual problems. Clears the spleen and the liver. May be useful in nausea, vomiting and colic. Keeps insects at bay. Purifies the air. Promotes growth of new skin cells, great healing effect on burns and sunburn, acne, psoriasis, boils, fungal growths, and scarring. Blends well with bergamont; chamomile, lemon, and pine.

Lemon Oil: Fresh, sharp citrus aroma. It is antiacid, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, astringent, bactericide, diuretic, emollient, insecticide, and laxative. Helps to clear thoughts. Tonic to the circulatory system, liquefies the blood and aids flow, thereby easing pressure on varicose veins. Used to bring down high blood pressure. Helpful in nosebleeds. Eases painful cold sores and herpes. May be helpful with constipation and cellulite. Relieves headaches and migraines. Soothes insect bites and stings. Blends well with chamomile, eucalyptus, and lavender.

Lemongrass : Sweet and lemony aroma. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, bactericide, diuretic, fungicide and insecticide. Stimulates the mind, lifts the spirit. Stimulates appetite, helpful with colic and indigestion. Prevents spread of contagious diseases. Great for aching muscles. Relieves tired legs. Relieves fatigue, assists with jet lag. Aids in the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Blends well with cedarwood, basil, lavender, neroli, and tea tree.

Lime -  Sharp, bittersweet aroma. It is antiseptic, antiviral, astringent, disinfectant, insecticide, restorative. Very stimulating in cases of apathy, depression and anxiety. Eases coughs and chest congestion. Encourages appetite, may assist in anorexia. Assists in treating alcoholism because of its disinfecting and restorative properties. Blends well with bergamot, geranium, lavender, and ylang ylang.

Mandarin -  The mandarin tree is botanically related to the orange tree, growing slightly smaller, still sporting the similar glossy leaves. The fruit of the Mandarin tree is similar to an orange, however it is flattened at both ends and has a loose skin and segmented fruit that easily comes apart. Oil: The oil of the mandarin has a golden hue, with undertones of a blue-violet color, and is taken from the oil rich rind of the fruit.
Scent: Sweet and tangy.

Marjoram, Spanish: Warm, penetrating and slightly spicy aroma. It is analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive, expectorant, sedative and laxative. Calms the nervous system. May give a feeling of comfort in cases of grief and loneliness. Very effective in dealing with painful muscles, mostly in the lower back area. Assists with swollen joints, good as an after-sports rub. Seems to lower high blood pressure. Soothes digestion, may help with stomach cramps, constipation and flatulence. May be effective against sea sickness. Alleviates stuffed-up feeling during colds. May be useful in relieving painful periods. Blends well with  bergamot, cedarwood, orange, and rosewood.

Myrrh: Smoky and slightly musky aroma. It is antiseptic, astringent, deodorant, disinfectant and diuretic. Best avoided during pregnancy as it is an emmenagogue. Seems to lift feelings of weakness, apathy and lack of incentive. Also has a cooling effect on heated emotions. Due to its drying action is effective against excessive mucous in the lungs. Recommended to use in cases of bronchitis, colds, sore throats, and coughs. Excellent for mouth and gum disorders; it is the best treatment for mouth ulcers, gingivitis and bleeding or spongy gums. Eases flatulence and hemorrhoids. Stimulates and invigorates the immune system. Of great benefit in cases of scanty periods, leucorrhea and clearing obstructions in the womb. Blends well with clove, frankincense, lavender and sandalwood.

Neroli: Beautiful floral fragrance. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, deodorant, digestive and sedative. Very relaxing, rather hypnotic, relieves chronic anxiety, depression and stress. Good in cases of insomnia. Assists with nerve pain, headaches and vertigo, even bouts of yawning. Due to its calming effect may be beneficial to sexual problems and said to be an effective aphrodisiac. May relieve menopausal symptoms of irritability and tearfulness. Due to its antispasmodic action calms the intestines which can be helpful with colitis and diarrhea. Blends well with bergamot, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lime, and ylang ylang.

Sweet Orange - Zesty, refreshing citrus fragrance. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive and sedative. Prolonged use and high dosage may irritate sensitive skin and there’s a chance of photo toxicity on skin exposed to the sun. Relieves gloomy thoughts and depression. Dispels stress. Revives one when bored. Calms the stomach in nervous states, assists with diarrhea and constipation. May encourage appetite; don’t use if dieting. Seems to have good effect on colds and bronchitis. Very good for painful and sore muscles. May relax insomnia brought on by anxiety. Has a possibility of bringing down high level of cholesterols in the blood. Blends well with cinnamon, coriander, clove, frankincense, jasmine, lavender.

Oregano: Herby, woody, yet slightly spicy. Analgesic, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, disinfectant, emmenagogue, expectorant, laxative, and stomachic. A very potent oil, could irritate the mucous membranes. Best avoided in pregnancy. Its main effect seems to be on the digestive system, soothing the stomach, liver and spleen. Calms intestinal spasm. May combat acidity, stomach gas and encourage appetite. May alleviate symptoms of asthma and whooping cough. Its warming and pain relieving action may be beneficial to period cramps, rheumatism and muscular pain. Apparently, has some effect on pediculosis (infestation by skin parasites). Blends well with basil, fennel, geranium and pine.

Palmarosa: Floral, slightly dry fragrance with a hint of rose. It is antiseptic, antiviral, bactericide, and febrifuge. Refreshes and clarifies the mind. May be effective in cases of fever by reducing temperature. Acts as a tonic to the digestive system. Stimulates the appetite, may be helpful in cases of anorexia nervosa. May ease stiff joints. Blends well with bergamot, jasmine, and lavender.

Patchouli - A strong, earthy fragrance, sweet and spicy also. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, deodorant, fungicide and insecticide. May cause loss of appetite. Its odor may be little too persistent for some people. Due to its strong astringent and cicatrizant properties, may be helpful for loose skin, especially after dieting. Seems to curb appetite also. Excellent in cases of diarrhea. Its diuretic properties are useful in cases of water retention and cellulite. Well known to increase libido. Relieves effects from insect bites. It is known as a tissue regenerator which helps regrowth of skin cells and the forming of scar tissue. Heals rough, cracked skin. Blends well with black pepper, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, lavender and myrrh.

Black Pepper -  Sharp, spicy aroma. Its analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, cardiac, detoxicant, digestive, diuretic, laxative and stomachic. There’s the possibility of skin irritation; too much too often may over stimulate the kidneys. It is very stimulating to the mind, gives stamina where there’s frustration. Useful for muscular aches and pains and muscular stiffness as it assists with dilation of local blood vessels. Good to use before excessive exertion. Assists with rheumatoid arthritis and temporary limb paralysis. Stimulates appetite. Expels wind, quells vomiting. Restores tone to colon muscles. Banishes excess fat, possibly by aiding digestion of protein; generally expels toxins. May be helpful with anemia as it aids the formation of new blood cells. Can bring down high temperatures in very small amounts. Helpful with bruises. Blends well with basil, bergamot, cypress, grapefruit, lemon, and sandalwood.

Peppermint -  Sharp, menthol fragrance. Analgesic, anesthetic, antispasmodic, astringent, decongestant, emmenagogue, expectorant, insecticide and stimulant. Should be kept away from eyes, likely to irritate skin and mucous membranes. Best avoided by pregnant women and nursing mothers as it may discourage flow of milk. May antidote homeopathic remedies. Said to relieve states of anger, hysteria and nervous trembling, excellent for mental fatigue and depression. On the body, it has a dual action: cooling when hot and warming when cold. As a remedy for colds, it halts mucous and fevers and encourages perspiration. Extremely important for its effect on the digestive system. Has a slightly anesthetic effect on stomach muscles. Good for travel sickness, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, colic and nausea. Its stimulating qualities are useful for shock, vertigo, anemia and dizziness. Its cooling and pain relieving action seems to ease headaches, migraines and toothaches. Scanty menstruation, painful periods and mastitis could well respond to this oil. Not much liked by insects and vermin. Blends well with cedarwood, cypress, lavender, and pine.

Scotch Pine  - Fresh, forest aroma. It is antiseptic, decongestant, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, and sudorific. Known to refresh a tired mind and mental fatigue. It is a powerful antiseptic and helpful in cases of bronchitis, laryngitis and influenza. Has good effect on respiratory problems. Effective with cystitis and prostate problems and known as a general kidney cleanser. Its warming properties may relieve rheumatism, gout and arthritis, may be beneficial for muscular pain and stiffness. Reputedly effective on male sexual problems, possibly impotence. Blends well with cedarwood and clove.

Ravensara: Clove/eucalyptus-type odor, a mild version of Rosemary fragrance. It is highly anti-viral. Anisata is from the bark of the tree and Aromatica is from the leaves. Both are used for clearing the sinus and breathing passages, loosening tight muscles, relieving menstrual discomfort and aches and pains. Very safe on the skin, good for cold sores, shingles and genital herpes. It is a muscle relaxant and analgesic. Do not use anisata while pregnant. Blends well with chamomile, lavender and pine.

 Rosemary : A refreshing herbal fragrance. It is analgesic, antidepressant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, cicatrizant, digestive, diuretic, hypertensive and stomachic. Not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid in pregnancy since it is an emmenagogue. Might antidote homeopathic remedies. Clears the head and aids memory. Good for mental strain. Revives the senses. Clears headaches and migraines, especially when connected to gastric problems. May assist with vertigo. Helps to tone temporarily paralyzed limbs. Helps ease gout and tired, overworked muscles. Normalizes blood pressure. Could ease colitis, flatulence and stomach pains. Seems to relieve menstrual cramps and scanty periods. Its diuretic properties may be useful with water retention during menstruation and may be effective with cellulite and obesity. Blends well with basil, cedarwood, frankincense, ginger, grapefruit, orange and peppermint.

  Rosewood : Sweet, woody, floral and slightly spicy aroma. It is analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, deodorant, and insecticide. It is said to stabilize the central nervous system and could therefore have an overall balancing effect. Helpful when feeling low, overwhelmed with problems. May give a helpful boost to a lowered immune system. Its acclaimed aphrodisiac properties may work wonders in restoring libido and could have some effect on sexual problems such as impotence and frigidity. Reputedly helpful for persons who have suffered sexual abuse. May relieve headaches when accompanied by nausea and may also relieve jet lag. Its deodorizing action helps the body cope with excess heat and moisture. Also valuable as an insect repellent. Blends well with cedarwood, coriander, frankincense, and sandalwood.

Sandalwood : Woody, sweet and exotic aroma. Antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, diuretic, expectorant and sedative. Its lingering aroma often persists in clothing after washing. Avoid in states of depression as it may lower the mood even further. Its aphrodisiac properties are well known. Alleviates cystitis (massage in the kidney region where it has a purifying and anti-inflammatory action). Its aphrodisiac properties can relieve sexual problems such as frigidity and impotence. Its antispasmodic action on the body should encourage relaxation. May have a cleansing action on the sexual organs, once was used to alleviate sexually transmitted diseases. Could be useful in promoting vaginal secretions. Helpful with chest infections and sore throats. Aids sleep during colds and flu. Stimulates the immune system and keeps infection at bay. May also treat heartburn and may be helpful with diarrhea. Particularly good for dry eczema as well as ageing and dehydrated skins. Relieves itching and inflammation. Blends well with basil, black pepper, frankincense, geranium, lavender, lemon, and neroli.

Spruce ~  Fresh pine, bitter orange peel aroma. Recommended for relief of stress and anxiety. Also recommended for muscle aches and pains, aching joints, poor circulation, muscle spasms. It is been known to be helpful for bronchitis or asthma. Blends well with Lavender and Clary sage.

Tangerine - Sweet and tangy aroma. It is antiseptic, antispasmodic, sedative and stomachic. Could be phototoxic; care should be taken not to expose the skin to strong sunlight after treatment. Has an almost hypnotic effect on the mind. May well be helpful with stress and tension due to its soothing action on the nervous system. Assists with gastric complaints, such as flatulence, diarreah and constipation. Stimulates flow of bile which helps to digest fats. Assists with tired and aching limbs since it is a tonic to the vascular system. Could help smooth out stretch marks, particularly when blended with lavender and neroli. Blends well with basil, bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, frankincense, neroli, and orange.

Tea Tree -  Fresh and sanitary, rather pungent aroma. Like lavender, it would take five pages to list all the redeeming qualities of this oil. It is antibiotic, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericide, cicatrizant, expectorant, fungicide, insecticide and sudorific. May cause irritation on sensitive areas of skin; however, along with Lavender, it is just about the only oil that is recommended to be used "neat" or straight from the bottle without dilution. It has a refreshing, revitalizing effect on the mind, especially after shock. Its most important usage is to help the immune system fight off infectious diseases. Activates the white corpuscles to form a defense against invading organisms and helps to shorten the duration of illness. Sweats toxins out of the body. Indicated for influenza, cold sores, and gingivitis. A series of massage with this oil before surgery will help to fortify the body. Its strong antiviral and germicidal properties are useful in repeated infections. Its fungicidal properties help clear vaginal thrush and is of value with genital infections generally. Alleviates urinary tract problems such as cystitis. Gives relief to genital and anal itching as well as general itching from chicken pox to rashes caused by insect bites. Said to give some protection against x-ray therapy in breast cancer. It will apparently reduce scarring when applied before treatment as the protective film will guard against very deep penetration of the x-rays. Helps to ease otitis. Reduces pus in infected wounds. Clears ports and blemishes caused by chicken pox and shingles. Useful with burns, sores, sunburn, ringworm, warts, tinea, herpes and athletes foot. Helpful with dry conditions of the scalp as well as dandruff. Blends well with cinnamon, clove, cypress, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, and thyme.

Thyme - A rather sweet and strongly herbal fragrance. It is well known as being antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, cardiac, cicatrizant, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant and insecticide. This is a very potent oil, one of the strongest antiseptics and toxicity is possible with prolonged use. Not to be used in cases of high blood pressure nor in pregnancy. Activates brain cells, thereby aiding memory and concentration. Revives feelings of exhaustion and combats depression. Fortifies the lungs when treating colds, coughs and sore throats particularly tonsillitis, laryngitis and the like. Rather warming and helps to eliminate phlegm. Helps the body fight disease. Raise low blood pressure. Since its stimulating effect facilitates the removal of uric acid may be recommended for rheumatism, gout and arthritis. May stop nosebleeds. Helps with sluggish digestion and wind. Speeds delivery in childbirth and expelling the afterbirth, could cause miscarriage. A tonic for the scalp and may be effective with dandruff and hair loss. Blends well with bergamot, cedarwood, chamomile, lemon, and tea tree.

Ylang Ylang -  Sweet, floral, heavy aroma. The grades (I, II , III and Complete) indicate from which part of the steam distillation process the oil was obtained, with grade I being of the highest quality, Complete being made up of all fractionations of the oil and grade III being an excellent ingredient for soapmaking. Ylang Ylang Complete is the complete, total product without any fractionation; it has a finer, more intense creamy-sweet nuance. Ylang Ylang both relaxes and arouses; in Europe, therapists use it for sexual dysfunction. It is antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, sedative. Excessive use may lead to headaches and nausea. Could possibly irritate sensitive skins and indicated against use on inflammatory skin conditions and dermatitis. Could well ease feelings of anger, anxiety, shock, panic and fear. Useful with rapid breathing and heartbeat; its sedative properties could help bring down high blood pressure. Has a tonic and stimulating effect on the scalp promoting a more luxurious hair growth. Blends well with bergamot, jasmine, lavender, lemon, and sandalwood.