Over 150 Therapeutic Actions of Essential Oils
Abortifacient
Essential oil that may cause a miscarriage or cause an abortion: Fir needle (Abies balsamea)
Absorption Enhancer
Essential oil that may enhance the rate of penetration of other constituents through the skin: Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) and Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata var. genuina)
Acaricidal
Essential oil that is lethal to mites: Garlic (Allium sativum)
Adaptogenic
Essential oil that can help to prevent imbalances that result from stress and can, therefore, prevent or minimize the possible development of stress-related diseases: Peppermint (Mentha ×piperita)
Adjuvant
Essential oil that enhances the action of the body’s immune system (see Immunomodulant): Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
Analgesic
Essential oil used to relieve pain when applied externally (see Anodyne and Anesthetic):
Anise (Pimpinella anisum)
Bergamot (Citrus aurantium var. bergamia)
Black pepper (Piper nigrum)
Cajuput (Melaleuca leucadendron var. cajuputi)
Cardamom (E. cardamomum)
Chamomile-Roman (Chamaemelum nobile)
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)
Eucalyptus (E. globulus)
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum)
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia)
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Peppermint (M. ×piperita)
Pine (Pinus sylvestris)
Rose (Rosa damascena)
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Tea tree Australia (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Tea tree New Zealand (Leptospermum scoparium)
Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides)
Ylang ylang (C. odorata var. genuina)
Anaphrodisiac
Essential oil that represses sexual desire: Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
Anesthetic
Essential oil that produces a loss of sensation when applied topically (see Analgesic and Anodyne):
Bay (Laurus nobilis)
Clove (S. aromaticum)
Eucalyptus (E. globulus)
Peppermint (M. xpiperita)
Ravensara (Cryptocarya agathophylla (van der Werff)
Tea tree New Zealand (L. scoparium)
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Anodyne
Essential oil used to relieve pain when applied externally (see Analgesic and Anesthetic):
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Chamomile Roman (C. nobile)
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Mustard (Brassica nigra)
Peppermint (M. xpiperita)
Vetiver (V. zizanioides)
Yarrow (A. millefolium)
Antacid
Essential oil used to neutralize acid in the stomach and intestinal tract:
Clove (S. aromaticum)
Fennel (F. vulgare)
Peppermint (M. xpiperita)
Anthelmintic
Essential oil used to expel or destroy intestinal worms (see Vermifuge):
Bergamot (C. aurantium var. bergamia)
Cajuput (M. leucadendron var. cajuputi)
Cinnamon (C. zeylanicum)
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
Eucalyptus (E. globulus)
Garlic (A. sativum)
Geranium (P. graveolens)
Ginger (Z. officinale)
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Peppermint (M. ×piperita)
Rose (R. damascena)
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Thyme (T. vulgaris)
Anti-adipogenesis
Essential oil used to prevent the formation of fat cells: Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi)
*You may also see listed as Antiadipogenic.
Anti-acid
Essential oil that can counteract or neutralize acidity: Peppermint (M. ×piperita)
*You may also see listed as Antacid.
Anti-aging
Essential oil used to slow down biochemical processes associated with aging: Clove (S. aromaticum) and Thyme (T. vulgaris)
Anti-allergic
Essential oil that prevents or reduces allergic symptoms:
Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum)
Ylang ylang (C. odorata var. genuina)
Vetiver (V. zizanioides)
*You may also see listed as Antiallergenic.
Anti-arthritic
Essential oil used to relieve and heal arthritic conditions:
Cinnamon (C. zeylanicum)
Clove (S. aromaticum)
Rosemary (R. officinalis)
Yarrow (A. millefolium)
Antiasthmatic
Essential oil used to relieve asthma:
Chamomile Roman (C. nobile)
Pine (P. sylvestris)
Rosemary (R. officinalis)
Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
Tea tree Australia (M. alternifolia)
Tea tree New Zealand (L. scoparium)
Antibacterial
Essential oil that destroys or suppresses the growth or reproduction of bacteria: (If you’re looking to kill a specific bacteria, research it or the oil or both. HerbalGram, The Herbal Commission E, & NIH are great starting places for finding this kind of information backed by clinical studies - and that can apply to any plant for any medicinal purpose).
Anise (P. anisum)
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Bay (L. nobilis)
Benzoin (S. tonkinensis)
Bergamot (Citrus aurantium var. bergamia)
Black pepper (P. nigrum)
Cajuput (M. leucadendron var. cajuputi)
Cardamom (E. cardamomum)
Carrot seed (Daucus carota)
Chamomile Roman (C. nobile)
Cistus (Cistus ladaniferus)
Clove (S. aromaticum)
Eucalyptus (E. globulus)
Fennel (F. vulgare)
Fir needle (A. balsamea)
Garlic (A. sativum)
Geranium (P. graveolens)
Grapefruit (C. x paradisi)
Immortelle (H. italicum)
Lavender (L. angustifolia)
Lemon (Citrus limonum)
Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
Niaouli (M. quinquenervia)
Neroli (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
Peppermint (M. ×piperita)
Pine (P. sylvestris)
Ravensara (Cryptocarya agathophylla)
Rose (R. damascena)
Rosemary (R. officinalis)
Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
Tea tree Australia (M. alternifolia)
Tea tree New Zealand (L. scoparium)
Thyme (T. vulgaris)
Vetiver (V. zizanioides)
Yarrow (A. millefolium)
Ylang ylang (C. odorata var. genuina)
Antibilious
Essential oil used to eliminate an excess of bile or to improve a jaundiced condition:
Rosemary (R. officinalis)
Sage (S. officinalis)
Yarrow (A. millefolium)
Antibiotic
Essential oil that destroys or suppresses the growth or reproduction of microorganisms: Garlic (Allium sativum)
Anticancer
Essential oil that prevents or suppress cancerous growth (see Anticarcinogenic):
Cardamom (E. cardamomum)
Cedarwood Atlas (Cedrus atlantica)
Cinnamon (C. zeylanicum)
Fennel (F. vulgare)
Garlic (A. sativum)
Geranium (P. graveolens)
Ginger (Z. officinale)
Nutmeg (M. fragrans)
Patchouli (P. cablin)
Rose (R. damascena)
Sandalwood (Santalum album)
Tea tree Australia (M. alternifolia)
Thyme (T. vulgaris)
Yarrow (A. millefolium)
Anticarcinogenic
Essential oil that can help inhibit the development of cancer (see Anticancer):
Cedarwood Virginia (Juniperus virginiana)
Clove (S. aromaticum)
Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi)
Peppermint (M. ×piperita)
Tea tree Australia (M. alternifolia)
*You may also see listed as Anticancerogenic.
Anticatarrhal
Essential oil that heals inflammation of the mucous membranes:
Fennel (F. vulgare)
Pine (P. sylvestris)
Thyme (T. vulgaris)
Vetiver (V. zizanioides)
Yarrow (A. millefolium)
Anticoagulant
Essential oil that prevents the coagulation (i.e., the clotting) of blood:
Clove (S. aromaticum)
Ginger (Z. officinale)
Immortelle (H. italicum)
Anticonvulsant
Essential oil that prevents seizures (i.e., convulsions) or stops an ongoing series of seizures:
Anise (P. anisum)
Clove (S. aromaticum)
Nutmeg (M. fragrans)
Rose (R. damascena)
Antidandruff
Essential oil that prevents the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp (see Antiseborrheic): Eucalyptus (E. globulus)
Antidementia
Essential oil that suppresses symptoms associated with dementia: Lemon (C. limonum)
*You may also see listed as Antidemential.
Antidepressant
Essential oil that counteracts an absence of cheerfulness or diminishing functioning activity:
Basil O. basilicum
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
Chamomile Roman (C. nobile)
Geranium (P. graveolens)
Grapefruit (C. paradisi)
Jasmine (J. grandiflorum)
Lavender (L. angustifolia)
Neroli (C. aurantium var. amara)
Patchouli (P. cablin)
Rose (R. damascena)
Rosemary (R. officinalis)
Sandalwood (S. album)
Ylang ylang (C. odorata var. genuina)
Antidiabetic
Essential oil that stabilizes and/or controls blood glucose level or relieves diabetic symptoms:
Cinnamon (C. zeylanicum)
Geranium (P. graveolens)
Rosemary (R. officinalis)
Sandalwood (S. album)
Antidiarrheal
Essential oil that alleviates diarrhea: Black pepper (P. nigrum)
Antiemetic
Essential oil used to lessen nausea and prevent or relieve vomiting (see Antinausea):
Basil (O. basilicum)
cardamom (E. cardamomum)
clove (S. aromaticum)
fennel (F. vulgare)
ginger (Z. officinale)
lavender (L. angustifolia)
nutmeg (M. fragrans)
patchouli (P. cablin)
peppermint (M. ×piperita)
rosemary (R. officinalis)
spearmint (M. spicata)
Anti-enuresis
Essential oil that may help to control urination and reduce bedwetting: Fir needle (A. balsamea).
*You may also see listed as Antibedwetting.
Antiestrogenic
Essential oil that that blocks the production or utilization of estrogens, or inhibits their effects: Anise (P. anisum).
*You may also see listed as Antiestrogen.
Antiflatulent
Essential oil that can alleviate or prevention the formation of excessive intestinal gas: Marjoram (O. majorana).
Antifungal
Essential oil that is effective against the reproduction or growth of Candida albicans and other fungi or yeast (see Fungicidal and Anti-mycotic):
Anise (P. anisum)
basil (O. basilicum)
bay (L. nobilis)
benzoin (S. tonkinensis)
black pepper (P. nigrum)
cajuput (M. leucadendron var. cajuputi)
cardamom (E. cardamomum)
carrot seed (D. carota)
cedarwood Atlas (C. atlantica)
chamomile Roman (C. nobile)
cinnamon (C. zeylanicum)
cistus (C. ladaniferus)
clove (S. aromaticum)
eucalyptus (E. globulus)
fennel (F. vulgare)
garlic (A. sativum)
geranium (P. graveolens)
ginger (Z. officinale)
immortelle (H. italicum)
jasmine (J. grandiflorum)
lemon (C. limonum)
marjoram (O. majorana)
niaouli (M. quinquenervia)
neroli (C. aurantium var. amara)
oregano (O. vulgare)
patchouli (P. cablin)
peppermint (M. ×piperita)
pine (P. sylvestris)
ravensara (C. agathophylla)
rose (R. damascena)
rosemary (R. officinalis)
sandalwood (S. album)
tea tree Australia (M. alternifolia)
tea tree New Zealand (L. scoparium)
thyme (T. vulgaris)
vetiver (V. zizanioides)
yarrow (A. millefolium)
ylang ylang (C. odorata var. genuina)
Anti-hematomic
Essential oil that can alleviate or prevent the formation of localized swelling filled with blood: Immortelle (H. italicum)
Antihypertensive
Essential oil that can help reduce blood pressure (see Hypotensive):
Carrot seed (D. carota)
garlic (A. sativum)
yarrow (A. millefolium)
Antihyperlipidemic
Essential oil that promotes a reduction of lipid levels in the blood (see Hypocholesterolemic): Sandalwood (S. album).
*You may also see listed as Antilipidemic.
Anti-infectious
Essential oil that can kill infectious agents or limit their spread: Patchouli (P. cablin).
Anti-inflammatory
Essential oil capable of counteracting or suppressing inflammation:
Basil (O. basilicum)
bay (L. nobilis)
benzoin (S. tonkinensis)
bergamot (C. aurantium var. bergamia)
cajuput (M. leucadendron var. cajuputi)
cardamom (E. cardamomum)
chamomile Roman (C. nobile)
cinnamon (C. zeylanicum)
clove (S. aromaticum)
fennel (F. vulgare)
fir (A. balsamea)
geranium (P. graveolens)
ginger (Z. officinale)
immortelle (H. italicum)
jasmine (J. grandiflorum)
lemon (C. limonum)
niaouli (M. quinquenervia)
neroli (C. aurantium var. amara)
patchouli (P. cablin)
peppermint (M. ×piperita)
pine (P. sylvestris)
rose (R. damascena)
sandalwood (S. album)
tea tree Australia (M. alternifolia)
tea tree New Zealand (L. scoparium)
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver (V. zizanioides)
yarrow (A. millefolium)
ylang ylang (C. odorata var. genuina)
Antilipidemic
Essential oil that promotes a reduction of lipid levels in the blood (see Hypocholesterolemic): Lemon (C. limonum).
*You may also see listed as Antihyperlipidemic.
Antimicrobial
Essential oil capable of destroying micro-organisms or suppressing their
multiplication or growth (see Germicide):
Basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cardamom E. cardamomum
carrot seed D. carota
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
cistus C. ladaniferus
clove S. aromaticum
coriander C. sativum
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
immortelle H. italicum
lavender L. angustifolia
marjoram O. majorana
niaouli M. quinquenervia
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
oregano O. vulgare
patchouli P. cablin
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
ravensara C. agathophylla
rose R. damascena
sandalwood S. album
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Anti-mycotic
Essential oil that can prevent or destroy the growth of fungi (see Antifungal and Fungicidal): Thyme T. vulgaris.
Anti-nausea
Essential oil that prevents or relieves nausea (see Antiemetic): Cardamom E. cardamomum.
Antineuralgic
Essential oil capable of relieving neuralgia (i.e., a sharp, shocking pain that follows the path of a nerve and is due to irritation or damage to the nerve):
Cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
chamomile Roman C. nobile
eucalyptus E. globulus
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris,
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
Antinociceptive
Essential oil that can inhibit nociception (i.e., the sensation of pain): Basil O. basilicum and lemon C. limonum.
Antioxidant
Essential oil capable of preventing oxidation:
Benzoin S. tonkinensis
black pepper P. nigrum
cardamom E. cardamomum
clove S. aromaticum
coriander C. sativum
fennel F. vulgare
ginger Z. officinale
immortelle H. italicum
marjoram O. majorana
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
nutmeg M. fragrans
oregano O. vulgare
pine P. sylvestris
rosemary R. officinalis
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
Antiparasitic
See Parasiticide.
Antiphlogistic
Essential oil used to reduce inflammation or swelling:
Chamomile Roman C. nobile
jasmine J. grandiflorum
patchouli P. cablin
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
sandalwood S. album
yarrow A. millefolium
Antipruritic
Essential oil that relieves or prevents itching:
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
chamomile Roman C. nobile
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
yarrow A. millefolium
Antiputrefactive
Essential oil that counteracts internal decomposition:
Cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
immortelle H. italicum
Antipyretic
Essential oil used to relieve or reduce temperature in fevers (see Febrifuge):
chamomile Roman C. nobile
thyme T. vulgaris
yarrow A. millefolium
Antirheumatic
Essential oil used to prevent or relieve rheumatism:
Bay L. nobilis
cypress Cupressus sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
nutmeg M. fragrans
pine P. sylvestris
Antiscorbutic
Essential oil that can prevent development of scurvy (i.e., a vitamin C deficiency disease): Lemon C. limonum and pine P. sylvestris.
Antiseborrheic
Essential oil that prevents the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp (see Antidandruff): Cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
Antiseptic
Essential oil that prevents, resists, and counteracts putrefaction (decay); can be dispersed in air greatly reducing the presence of micro-organisms:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cardamom E. cardamomum
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
clove S. aromaticum
cypress C. sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
fir needle A. balsamea
garlic A. sativum
geranium P. graveolens
ginger Z. officinale
grapefruit Citrus x paradisi
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
niaouli M. quinquenervia
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
oregano O. vulgare
patchouli P. cablin
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
ravensara C. agathophylla
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
sage S. officinalis
spearmint M. spicata
thyme T. vulgaris
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Antismoking
Essential oil that can help with smoke cessation (i.e., quitting smoking): Black pepper P. nigrum and fir A. balsamea.
Antispasmodic
Essential oil used to relieve nervous irritability and reduce or prevent excessive involuntary muscular contractions and spasms:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cardamom E. cardamomum
carrot seed D. carota
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
clove S. aromaticum
cypress C. sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
immortelle H. italicum
lavender L. angustifolia
marjoram O. majorana
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
nutmeg M. fragrans
oregano O. vulgare
peppermint M. ×piperita
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
spearmint M. spicata
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Antitumor
Essential oil that prevents or suppresses abnormal cell growth: Fir needle A. balsamea and neroli C. aurantium var. amara
*You may also see listed as Antitumoral.
Antiulcer
Essential oil that ameliorates the formation of stomach ulcers: Basil O. basilicum.
*You may also see listed as Antiulceral.
Antiviral
Essential oil that destroys or suppress the growth or reproduction of viruses:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cardamom E. cardamomum
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
clove S. aromaticum
eucalyptus E. globulus
garlic A. sativum
immortelle H. italicum
jasmine J. grandiflorum
marjoram O. majorana
niaouli M. quinquenervia
patchouli P. cablin
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
ravensara C. agathophylla
rose R. damascena
sandalwood S. album
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Antizymotic
Essential oil used to destroy or arrest the action of ferments or enzymes:
Tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
Anxiolytic
Essential oil used to prevent or relieve anxiety: Chamomile Roman C. nobile and tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium.
Aperient
Essential oil used as a mild evacuant or laxative to the bowels (see Laxative):
Nutmeg M. fragrans.
Aperitive
Essential oil that stimulates the appetite:
Anise P. anisum
bay L. nobilis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cardamom E. cardamomum
nutmeg M. fragrans
sage S. officinalis
Aphrodisiac
Essential oil that stimulates sexual desire:
Black pepper P. nigrum
cardamom E. cardamomum
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
ginger Z. officinale
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
nutmeg M. fragrans
rose attar R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
vetiver V. zizanioides
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Aromatic
Essential oil that is odoriferous, with fragrant, pungent, and spicy taste, and is able to stimulate the gastrointestinal mucous membranes:
Cardamom E. cardamomum
chamomile Roman C. nobile
chamomile German German M. recutita
clove S. aromaticum
lavender L. angustifolia
Astringent
Essential oil that contracts tissues; it makes them denser, firmer, and decreases discharges:
Benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
cistus C. ladaniferus
cypress C. sempervirens
geranium P. graveolens
ginger Z. officinale
grapefruit C. paradisi
immortelle H. italicum
lemon C. limonum
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
patchouli P. cablin
peppermint M. ×piperita
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
yarrow A. millefolium
Bactericidal
See Antibacterial.
Biliary
Essential oil that can stimulate the action of the gallbladder and increase secretion
of bile (see Choleretic): Yarrow A. millefolium.
Bitters
Essential oil with a bitter taste that serves as a stimulant to the gastrointestinal
membranes: Black pepper P. nigrum and yarrow A. millefolium.
Bronchodilatory
Essential oil that dilates the bronchi and bronchioles, decreasing resistance in the respiratory airway and increasing airflow to the lungs: Anise P. anisum.
Calefacient
Essential oil used as a diffusive stimulant (i.e., causes increased capillary circulation and gives an external sense of warmth): Rosemary R. officinalis and sage S. officinalis.
Cardiac Tonic
Essential oil that can have a tonic effect on the action of the heart: Nutmeg M. fragrans and rose R. damascena.
*You may also see listed as Cardiotonic.
Cardiovascular Sedative
Essential oil that has a sedative effect on the heart (i.e., decreases heart rate):
Cardamom E. cardamomum.
*You may also see listed as Cardiosedative.
Carminative
Essential oil that stimulates intestinal peristalsis (i.e., relieves and promotes the expulsion of gas from the gastrointestinal tract):
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cardamom E. cardamomum
carrot seed D. carota
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
clove S. aromaticum
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
jasmine J. grandiflorum
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
nutmeg M. fragrans
patchouli P. cablin
peppermint M. ×piperita
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
spearmint M. spicata
thyme T. vulgaris
yarrow A. millefolium
Cathartic
Essential oil that loosens the bowels and relieves constipation (see Laxative and Purgative): Garlic A. sativum.
Cell Proliferant
Essential oil that promotes rapid healing and restoration (see Regenerative):
Marjoram O. majorana
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Cephalic
Essential oil that is particularly healing to cerebral conditions:
Basil O. basilicum
ginger Z. officinale
lemon balm Melissa officinalis
marjoram O. majorana
rosemary R. officinalis
Chemopreventative
Essential oil that can assist with reversing, suppressing, or preventing ill health:
Bay L. nobilis
cardamom E. cardamomum
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
Cholagogue
Essential oil used to promote increased flow and discharge of bile into the intestines by contracting the bile ducts:
Chamomile Roman C. nobile
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
grapefruit C. x paradisi
immortelle H. italicum
lavender L. angustifolia
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
nutmeg M. fragrans
oregano O. vulgare
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
sage S. officinalis
yarrow A. millefolium
Choleretic
Essential oil that can stimulate the action of the gallbladder and increase secretion of bile (see Biliary): Oregano O. vulgare.
Cicatrizant
Essential oil used to promote scar tissue:
Benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
immortelle H. italicum
Condiment
Essential oil used to season or flavor foods:
Basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
garlic A. sativum
peppermint M. ×piperita
rosemary R. officinalis
spearmint M. spicata
thyme T. vulgaris
Cordial
Essential oil that combines the properties of cardiac stimulant and bringing warmth to the stomach:
Lemongrass C. flexuosus
marjoram O. majorana
peppermint M. ×piperita
rosemary R. officinalis
yarrow A. millefolium
Cosmetic
Essential oil that is a skin tonic and is used to improve the complexion and to beautify the skin: Rose R. damascena and yarrow A. millefolium.
Cytophylactic
Essential oil that protects cells from substances that dissolve and separate the cell:
Carrot seed D. carota and immortelle H. italicum.
Cytotoxic
Essential oil that is toxic to cells: Clary sage S. sclarea and elemi C. luzonicum.
Decongestant
Essential oil that relieves nasal congestion in the upper respiratory tract:
Cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
eucalyptus E. globulus
patchouli P. cablin
pine P. sylvestris
Deodorant
Essential oil that eliminates foul odors:
Benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cypress C. sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
geranium P. graveolens
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
sage S. officinalis
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
Depurative
Essential oil that cleanses and purifies:
Carrot seed D. carota
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
grapefruit C. x paradisi
vetiver V. zizanioides
Diaphoretic
Essential oil that produces perspiration and sweat, plus increased elimination through the skin (differs from sudorifics):
Basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
marjoram O. majorana
rosemary R. officinalis
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
yarrow A. millefolium
Digestant
Essential oil that aids in the digestion of food:
Anise P. anisum,
basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cardamom E. cardamomum
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
fennel F. vulgare
grapefruit C. x paradisi
ginger Z. officinale
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
peppermint M. ×piperita
rosemary R. officinalis
*You may also see listed as Digestive or Digestive Tonic.
Disinfectant
Essential oil that can be used to eliminate many or all pathogenic micro-organisms:
Anise P. anisum
lemon C. limonum
patchouli P. cablin
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
sandalwood S. album
thyme T. vulgaris
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Diuretic
Essential oil that increases the secretion and flow of urine:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cardamom E. cardamomum
carrot seed D. carota
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cypress C. sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
geranium P. graveolens
ginger Z. officinale
grapefruit C. x paradisi
immortelle H. italicum
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
thyme T. vulgaris
yarrow A. millefolium
Emmenagogue
Essential oil that tones the female reproductive organs and regulates
menstruation:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
carrot seed D. carota
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
chamomile Roman C. nobile
chamomile German M. recutita
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
cypress C. sempervirens
fennel F. vulgare
geranium P. graveolens
jasmine J. grandiflorum
lavender L. angustifolia
marjoram O. majorana
niaouli M. quinquenervia
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
spearmint M. spicata
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
Exanthematous
Essential oil that is healing to skin eruptions or to skin diseases of an eruptive nature:
Sage S. officinalis
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
Expectorant
Essential oil that encourages the discharge of mucus from bronchio-pulmonary passages:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cardamom E. cardamomum
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
cistus C. ladaniferus
cypress C. sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
immortelle H. italicum
jasmine J. grandiflorum
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
niaouli M. quinquenervia
oregano O. vulgare
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
ravensara C. agathophylla
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Febrifuge
Essential oil that reduces a fever (see Antipyretic):
Basil O. basilicum
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
chamomile Roman C. nobile
chamomile German M. recutita
cypress C. sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
patchouli P. cablin
peppermint M. ×piperita
rose R. damascena
thyme T. vulgaris
yarrow A. millefolium
Fungicidal
Essential oil that is able to destroy a class of organisms, such as mold, mushrooms, or fungus (see Antifungal and Anti-mycotic):
fennel F. vulgare
oregano O. vulgare
rosemary R. officinalis
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
*You may also see listed as Fungicide.
Fungistatic
Essential oil that can inhibit fungi growth without destroying them: Vetiver V. zizanioides.
Galactagogue
Essential oil that increases the secretion of milk: Fennel F. vulgare.
Galactophygas
Essential oil that diminishes the secretion of milk (see Lactifuge): Peppermint M. ×piperita and sage S. officinalis.
Germicide
Essential oil that destroys pathogenic micro-organisms (see Antimicrobial):
Cinnamon C. zeylanicum and peppermint M. ×piperita.
Hepatic
Essential oil used to strengthen, tone, and stimulate the secretion and functions of the liver, causing an increased flow of bile:
Carrot seed D. carota
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cypress C. sempervirens
geranium P. graveolens
grapefruit C. x paradisi
immortelle H. italicum
lemon C. limonum
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
peppermint M. ×piperita
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
sage S. officinalis
yarrow A. millefolium
Hepatoprotective
Essential oil that has the ability to prevent damage to the liver: Coriander C. sativum and fennel F. vulgare.
Herpatic
Essential oil that heals skin eruptions and scaling conditions: Myrrh Commiphora myrrha
Hypertensive
Essential oil that raises blood pressure: Rosemary R. officinalis.
Hypnotic
Essential oil that is a powerful relaxant and can induce sleep (see Narcotic and Soporific): Fir needle A. balsamea and valerian V. officinalis.
Hypocholesterolemic
Essential oil that lowers cholesterol levels in the blood (see Antihyperlipidemic and Antilipidemic):
Garlic A. sativum
rosemary R. officinalis
thyme T. vulgaris
Hypoglycemic
Essential oil that lowers glucose level in blood: Lemon C. limonum.
Hypotensive
Essential oil that lowers blood pressure (see Antihypertensive):
Bay L. nobilis
garlic A. sativum
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Immunomodulant
Essential oil that enhances the action of the body’s immune system (see Adjuvant):
Ravensara C. agathophylla
rose R. damascena
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
vetiver V. zizanioides
*You may also see listed as Immune Stimulant.
Insecticide
Essential oil that is used to destroy insects:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
clove S. aromaticum
cypress C. sempervirens
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
geranium P. graveolens
lavender L. angustifolia
marjoram O. majorana
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
ravensara C. agathophylla
rosemary R. officinalis
spearmint M. spicata
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
*You may also see listed as Insecticidal.
Insect Repellant
Essential oil that repels and discourages insects from approaching:
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
lemon C. limonum
peppermint M. ×piperita
Irritant
Essential oil that can cause inflammation or discomfort when applied topically: Clove S. aromaticum and oregano O. vulgare
Lactifuge
Essential oil that diminishes the secretion of milk (see Galactophygas): Jasmine J. grandiflorum
Larvicidal
Essential oil that can kill insect larvae:
Fennel F. vulgare
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
vetiver V. zizanioides
Laxative
Essential oil that loosens the bowels and relieves constipation (see Aperient, Cathartic, and Purgative):
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
fennel F. vulgare
ginger Z. officinale
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
nutmeg M. fragrans
patchouli P. cablin
Mucolytic
Essential oil that dissolves mucus and helps to relieve respiratory difficulties:
Niaouli M. quinquenervia
Narcotic
Essential oil that is a powerful tranquilizer and is able to produce sleep or calmness (see Hypnotic): rose attar R. damascena
Nephritic
Essential oil that has a healing influence on the kidneys: Sandalwood S. album
Nephrotoxic
An essential oil that may damage the kidneys: Juniper J. communis and parsley P. crispum
Nervine
Essential oil that tones and heals the nerves:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
fennel F. vulgare
ginger Z. officinale
immortelle H. italicum
jasmine J. grandiflorum
lavender L. angustifolia
marjoram O. majorana
peppermint M. ×piperita
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
Neuroprotective
Essential oil that promotes recovery or regeneration of the nervous system: Pine P. sylvestris
Ophthalmic
Essential oil that supports healthy eye function: Chamomile Roman C. nobile and chamomile German M. recutita
Orexigenic
Essential oil that increases or stimulates the appetite:
Bay L. nobilis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
fennel F. vulgare
ginger Z. officinale
nutmeg M. fragrans
Pancreatic
Essential oil that has affinity to pancreas and stimulate their function: Yarrow A. millefolium
Parasiticide
Essential oil that destroys animal and vegetable parasites within the body:
Peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
thyme T. vulgaris
Parturient
Essential oil that stimulates uterine contractions (i.e., induces and assists with labor): Cinnamon C. zeylanicum
Pectoral
Essential oil that support the health of the lungs: Peppermint M. ×piperita and yarrow A. millefolium
Pediculicide
Essential oil that is lethal to lice: Eucalyptus E. globulus
Peristaltic
Essential oil that stimulates and increases muscular contraction of the stomach and intestine: Patchouli P. cablin
Photosensitizing
Essential oil that can increase sensitivity to visible and ultraviolet light:
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
grapefruit C. paradisi
Protective
Essential and fixed oil that serves as a protective covering to an inflamed surface when applied locally: Marjoram O. majorana and sandalwood S. album.
*You may also see listed as Protectant.
Pungent
Essential oil that has a sharp aroma and causes a prickling sensation: Peppermint M. ×piperita
Purgative
Essential oil that loosens the bowels and relieves constipation (see Laxative): Cistus C. ladaniferus
Regenerative
Essential oil that that promotes rapid healing and restoration (see Cell Proliferant): Cistus C. ladaniferus
Resolvent
Essential oil that helps to decrease any growth of tissue mass that persists and grows independently of its surrounding structures and has no physiological use: Patchouli P. cablin
Restorative
Essential oil that can help the body to recover from illness and also assists with rehabilitation:
Pine P. sylvestris
rosemary R. officinalis
spearmint M. spicata
Rubefacient
Essential oil that stimulates capillary dilation and causes skin redness when applied locally; it draws blood from deeper tissues and organs, relieves congestion and inflammation:
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
clove S. aromaticum
cypress C. sempervirens
geranium P. graveolens
ginger Z. officinale
marjoram O. majorana
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
rosemary R. officinalis
thyme T.vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
Salivary Stimulant
Essential oil that stimulates production of saliva: Fir needle A. balsamea.
Sedative
Essential oil that calms and tranquilizes the nerves:
Bay L. nobilis
benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
chamomile Roman C. nobile
chamomlie German M. recutita
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
cypress C. sempervirens
geranium P. graveolens
immortelle H. italicum
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
niaouli M. quinquenervia
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
sandalwood S. album
sage S. officinalis
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
ylang ylang C.odorata var. genuina
Sialogogue
Essential oil that promotes secretion and flow of saliva: Basil O. basilicum and marjoram O. majorana
Soporific
Essential oil that induces a relaxing sleep (see Hypnotic and Narcotic): Bay L. nobilis
Spasmolytic
Essential oil that helps to relieve spasms or convulsions:
Cypress C. sempervirens
rosemary R. officinalis
yarrow A. millefolium
Spermicidal
Essential oil that can destroy sperm: Cinnamon C. zeylanicum and clove S. aromaticum
Stimulant
Essential oil that increases functional activity and energy in the body:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cardamom E. cardamomum
carrot seed D. carota
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
cistus C. ladaniferus
clove S. aromaticum
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
ginger Z. officinale
grapefruit C. x paradisi
immortelle H. italicum
jasmine J. grandiflorum
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
nutmeg M. fragrans
patchouli P. cablin
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
spearmint M. spicata
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
Stomachic
Essential oil that stimulates and tones the stomach:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bay L. nobilis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cardamom E. cardamomum
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
clove S. aromaticum
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
ginger Z. officinale
lavender L. angustifolia
lemon C. limonum
marjoram O. majorana
nutmeg M. fragrans
patchouli P. cablin
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
yarrow A. millefolium
Styptic
Essential oil that stops local bleeding and hemorrhaging when applied externally:
Benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
cypress C. sempervirens
geranium P. graveolens
lemon C. limonum
yarrow A. millefolium
Sudorific
Essential oil that promotes the flow of sweat, not perspiration, which goes on all the time through diffusion from the capillaries:
Cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cypress C. sempervirens
peppermint M. ×piperita
rosemary R. officinalis
Tonic
Essential oil that stimulates, energizes, and strengthens the body:
Anise P. anisum
basil O. basilicum
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
black pepper P. nigrum
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cardamom E. cardamomum
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cypress C. sempervirens
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
geranium P. graveolens
ginger Z. officinale
grapefruit C. x paradisi
jasmine J. grandiflorum
marjoram O. majorana
neroli C. aurantium var. amara
nutmeg M. fragrans
patchouli P. cablin
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
sandalwood S. album
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
Vasodilator
Essential oil that is capable of dilating blood vessels:
Black pepper P. nigrum
ginger Z. officinale
peppermint M. ×piperita
rosemary R. officinalis
Vasoconstrictive
Essential oil that is capable of constricting blood vessels:
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
geranium P. graveolens
peppermint M. ×piperita
*You may also see listed as Vasoconstrictor.
Venous Tonic
Essential oil that supports the function of the venous and lymphatic system:
Cypress C. sempervirens.
Vermifuge
Essential oil that expels intestinal worms (see Anthelmintic):
Bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
chamomile Roman C. nobile
cinnamon C. zeylanicum
eucalyptus E. globulus
fennel F. vulgare
garlic A. sativum
geranium P. graveolens
lemon C. limonum
peppermint M. ×piperita
pine P. sylvestris
rosemary R. officinalis
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
Vulnerary
Essential oil that promotes the healing of fresh cuts or wounds:
Benzoin S. tonkinensis
bergamot C. aurantium var. bergamia
cajuput M. leucadendron var. cajuputi
cedarwood Atlas C. atlantica
cedarwood Virginia J. virginiana
chamomile Roman C. nobile
chamomile German M. recutita,
eucalyptus E. globulus
fir needle A. balsamea
immortelle H. italicum
lavender L. angustifolia
marjoram O. majorana
patchouli P. cablin
pine P. sylvestris
rose R. damascena
rosemary R. officinalis
tea tree Australia M. alternifolia
tea tree New Zealand L. scoparium
thyme T. vulgaris
vetiver V. zizanioides
yarrow A. millefolium
ylang ylang C. odorata var. genuina
