Aromatic Essences And Their Uses

ANGELICA
(Angelica archangelica)
Fr. Angelique
Ger. Engelwurz

Active principles
Phellandrenic compounds. Organic acids. Angelicin (a coumarin). Bergaptene, imperatorin (two furanocoumarins).

Properties
Essence of angelica is colourless, but with age it first turns yellow then brown. It is used in anorexia, dyspepsia, stomach ulcers. In the form of ointments, it has a soothing effect on skin complaints, arthritis, and rheumatism. It is used in the composition of stomachics.

Eternal uses
*Arthritis: Oil-based applications (olive oil with 10% essence of angelica) or cream-based (sweet almond oil 500g + white wax 125g + tincture of benzoin 30g + essence of angelica + distilled water 350g).
*Rheumatism: See Arthritis.
*Skin complaints: Cover the affected parts with angelica-based cream.

Internal uses
*Anorexia: Before meals, three drops of essence of angelica on a little brown sugar or in a coffee­spoonful of lavender or rosemary honey.
*Stomach ulcers and dyspepsia: Between meals, three drops of essence of angelica on a little brown sugar. (Suck it very slowly.)
*Expectorant: See Dyspepsia.
*General restorative: For eating raw green salads at lunch, use olive oil or sunflower-seed oil with two hundred drops of essence of angelica to the litre; this corresponds per meal to less than three drops of essential oil.

ANISE
(Pimpinella anisum)
Fr. Anis vert
Ger. Anis

Active principles
Anethole. Estragole (methylchavicol). Choline. Terpenes. Resins.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Carminative. Gland stimulant. Galactogene. Diuretic. To be used with care for, in excess, essence of anise is a narcotic which slows the circulation and causes circulatory and cerebral disorders.

External uses
Applications to the thoracic cage with an essence of anise-based cream for stimulating the respiratory and circulatory organs. (Sweet almond oil 500g + white wax 125g + tincture of benzoin 30g + essence of anise 3g + distilled water 350g).

Internal uses
*Asthma (bronchial spasms and coughs): Three drops on a little brown sugar, three times a day.
*Colic in infants: One drop per day for each year of the child's age, with a maximum of five drops per day. Don't exceed six consecutive days.
*Impotence: See Asthma.
*Insufficiency of milk: Two drops on a little brown sugar or in a coffee-spoonful of lavender honey, three times a day.
*Migraine and digestive dizziness: See Asthma.
*Painful periods: See Asthma.
*Palpitations: See Asthma.

ANISE (CHINESE STAR)
(Illicium verum)
Fr. Badiane
Ger. Sternanis

Active principles
The essence comes from the distillation of Chinese anise. It is rich in anethole, as is that from anise. Although, used in aperitifs, it is not to be recommended in home aromatherapy because of the risk of harming the nervous system if not used with care.
If need be, but in moderation, the tisane of Chinese anise (about 15g to the litre) can be used as a stomachic or carminative, once a day, after one of the main meals, or one drop of essence of Chinese anise on a little brown sugar, twice a day.

ARNICA
(Arnica montana)
Fr. Arnica
Ger. Arnika

Active principles
Flavonic heterosides. Bitters. Essential oil.

Properties
Stimulant for the circulatory system. Contusions. Ecchymoses. Vulnerary.

Internal uses
Not recommended. The oil can be dangerous and even toxic.

External uses
Tincture of arnica is employed for many different kinds of injuries; so it forms part of the family pharmacopoeia. It is prepared from 100g of dried heads which have been macerated in a litre of 90° alcohol for a fortnight. Strain and keep in a corked bottle away from the light. On using it, make the following mixture: tincture of arnica 15 ml + distilled or boiled water 45 m1 + glycerine 40 ml. Apply it immediately to the area of bruising.

ASPIC
(Lavandula latifolia)
Fr. Aspic
Ger. Aspik

A variety of lavender which has the same properties as medicinal lavender but with a stronger, more camphorated smell. in aromatherapy, 30 per cent of aspic is often added to the latter to activate it.

For uses see: LAVENDERS.

BASIL
(Ocimurn basilicum)
Fr. Basilic
Ger. Basilienkraut

Active principles
Obtained by steam distillation of the leaves, the essence of the different varieties of basil is rich in estragole, linalool, lineol, ocimene, and camphor.

Properties
The plant is well-known to cooks for its fragrance, which makes it a good seasoning for raw salads and other dishes. Like it, but more strongly so, its essence is carminative, galactogenic, stomachic, tonic. It strengthens the cortex of the suprarenal glands and the nervous system. For centuries it has been held to be antispasmodic and emmenagogic.

External uses
Insect stings: Apply to the sting one drop of essence or else oil (3 per cent sweet almond oil).
Snake bites: Allow to bleed, wash with boiled water and dab with cotton wool soaked in essence of basil. (Essence of lavender and aspic appears even more effective.)

Internal uses
The flower-heads and fresh leaves added to salads and food immediately before serving not only flavour them but also make them more digestible.
*Anxiety: Three or four drops of essence on a little brown sugar or in a spoonful of lime-blossom honey, three times a day.
*Gout: See Anxiety.
*Insomnia: See Anxiety. if the green salad at two daily meals contains added olive or sunflower-seed oil, these drops can be replaced with three drops of essence of basil per coffee-spoonful (5 ml).
*Migraine: See Insomnia.
*Periods, scanty: See Anxiety.
*Strain, mental: See Insomnia.
*Vertigo and epilepsy: See Anxiety. Prepare a sugar compound of 100g of finely-ground brown sugar to which is added: essence of basil 1g + essence of lavender 1g + essence of rosemary 1g. From it take half a coffee-spoonful, which will serve to sweeten an infusion of verbena or mint after every meal (if one is not following a homoeopathic treatment).

BERGAMOT
(Citrus bergamia)
Fr. Bergamote
Ger. Bergamotte

Active principles
The essence is obtained by pressing the outer part of the pericarp of the fruit of the bergamot. It contains up to 50 per cent of acetate of linalyl, linalol, and dextrorotatory limonene.

Properties
As the essence is antiseptic and has a pleasant smell, it is used for intestinal colic, slow digestion, gastric spasms, and oxyures. In addition, it arouses the appetite. Lastly, it is useful for flavouring confectionery, pastries, and medicines as well as being frequently employed in the perfume industry.

External use
80° alcohol and 3-5 per cent of essence of bergamot are useful for rubbing the gastric area to combat sluggishness of the stomach.

Internal uses
*Appetite, loss of: Three drops on a little brown sugar, half an hour before each meal.
*Colic, intestinal: Three drops on a little brown sugar, three times a day, or use a sugar compound of 100g of powdered brown sugar with the addition of 2g of essence of bergamot + 1g of essence of lemon + 1g of essence of marjoram. From it take half a coffee-spoonful to sweeten an infusion of hot citronella after every meal.
*Oxyures: Sugar compound (see Colic, intestinal).

BORNEOL OR BORNEO CAMPHOR
(Dryobalanops camphora)
Fr. Borneol or Camphre de Borneo

Active principles
Borneol is a natural exudation beneath the bark of the Camphora. Unlike the camphor of Japan, which is used the most, it is an alcohol and not a ketone. This fundamental difference explains its atoxicity. It should lead to only borneol being used in aromatherapy, for in the long run the other camphors are more or less toxic. Moreover, it proves much more antiseptic and even acts as a tonic, which a ketone is not. It is worth noting that hyssop and rosemary also contain borneol.

Properties
Powerful antiseptic. Cardiotonic. Antidepressive. Anti-infection.

External uses
*Rheumatism: Rubbing with warm olive oil containing 10 per cent of borneol and 5 per cent of essence of chamomile or with camphorated alcohol containing the same.

Internal uses
Prepare Borneo-camphorated alcohol (10g in 100 ml of 900 alcohol scented with 3 per cent of essence of lemon). From it remove 0.5 ml (i.e. about 25 drops) and pour into a hot sweetened infusion of citronella or lemon leaves, stir, and drink rapidly (it may become cloudy). Twice a day between meals. Between five and ten years, a quarter of the full dose. Between ten and fifteen, half the dose.
This remedy disinfects the alimentary canal, strengthens the heart and the whole organism. It is to be recommended in febrile conditions and in the course of infectious illnesses.

CAJEPUT
(Melaleuca leucodendron)
Fr. Cajeput

Active principles
The essence, obtained by steam distillation of the leaves and buds of the cajeput, principally contains cineol, terpineol, pinene, and aldehydes.

Properties
Intestinal, pulmonary, and urinary antiseptic, essence of cajeput is recommended for asthma, bronchitis, dysentery, enteritis, gastric spasms, laryngitis, painful periods, and pharyngitis.

External uses
*Laryngitis: Inhalation of lukewarm essence.
*Neuralgia, dental: One drop of essence on the decayed tooth.
*Otitis: Introduce into the ear hot olive oil with 10 per cent of Borneo camphor and 10 per cent of essence of cajeput. Plug the external auditory duct with cotton wool soaked in this oil.
*Rheumatism: Rub the painful areas with the above oil.
*Skin diseases: Dab the affected parts with sweet almond oil and 5 per cent of essence of cajeput.

Internal uses
*Asthma: Inhale essence of cajeput. Take five drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.
*Bronchitis: See Asthma.
*Cystitis: See Asthma.
*Enteritis-See Asthma.
*Gastritis (spasms): Three drops on brown sugar after each meal.
*Gout: Rubbing with warm oil as described under external uses. In addition, take four drops of essence on brown sugar three times a day.
*Laryngitis: See Asthma. Gargle with bicarbonated hot water (a pinch per cup and five drops of essence per 50 ml).
*Oxyures: On waking and on retiring, five drops of essence on brown sugar.
*Painful periods: Five drops of essence on brown sugar three times a day. Rub the lower part of the abdomen with the warm oil recommended for external uses.
*Pharyngitis: See Laryngitis.
*Rheumatism: See Gout.

CARAWAY
(Carum carvi)
Fr. Carvi
Ger. Kummel

Active principles
The oil from ripe seeds is rich in carvone (up to 60 per cent), limonene (up to 20 per cent), carveol, dihydrocarvone, etc.

Properties
It is carminative, diuretic, galactogenic, stomachic, and vermifugal.

External uses
*Dry pleurisy: Rub the thoracic cage with enriched warm oil (olive oil with 10 per cent of essence of caraway).
*Rheumatism: Rub the painful areas with the above enriched oil.

Internal uses
*Aerophagy: Two drops of essence on a lump of sugar after every meal.
*Appetite, loss of: See Aerophagy.
* Flatulence: See Aerophagy.
*Lactation: Two drops of essence on sugar after each meal. Continue as necessary during breast­feeding.
*Spasms, gastric: Three drops on sugar when the attack occurs. Supplement with rubbing the epigastrium with the enriched oil. (See Dry pleurisy.)
*Urine, diminished amount of: See Aerophagy,
*Vertigo: When the attack occurs, slowly suck some brown sugar soaked in three drops of essence.
*Worms (oxyures): Three drops of essence on brown sugar between meals.

CARDAMOMS
(Elettaria cardamomum and Amomum afzelii)
Fr. Cardamomes
Ger, Kardarnom

Active principles
The essences of cardamom (or cardamum) come from the distillation of either the fruit (shells and seeds) of Fiettaria cardamomum or the white almonds of Amomum afzelii (grains of Paradise).

Properties
Antiseptic. Stimulative.

Internal use
Three drops of essence on brown sugar after a meal, e.g., to remove the smell of garlic and promote digestion.

CARROT, WILD
(Daucus carota)
Fr. Carotte Commune
Ger. Mohre Gelbe Rube

Active principles
The essence of wild carrot is rich in carotenes.
Properties
It is carminative and diuretic. It proves effective in dropsy, retention of urine, and digestive disorders.

Internal uses
*Digestion, difficult: Three drops of essence on brown sugar after every meal.
*Dropsy: Three drops between meals (morning and afternoon).
*Flatulence: See Digestion, difficult.
*Retention of urine. See Digestion, difficult. Supplement by rubbing the lower abdomen with warm olive oil enriched with essence of wild carrot (10 per cent)

CENTAURIES
(frythraea centaurium, Centaurea montana,
Centaurea cyanus)
Fr. Petite Centauree Centauree des Montagnes Centauree Bleuet
Ger. Tausendguldenkraut

One must distinguish the common centaury (Erythraea centaurium), which is a gentianaceous, the blue cornflower (Centaurea montana), which is a member of the compositae family,. and the bluebottle (Centaurea cyanus), also a compositae. The two last-mentioned act rather as an infusion for bathing the eyes, preferably blue eyes, in cases of conjunctivitis. The first one, which is less bitter than gentian, contains a lactone (erythrocentaurin) and gentiopicrin as well as other active principles.

Properties
The stems, leaves, and flowers of the common centaury, which proves choleretic, febrifugal, stomachic, and tonic, are used as an alcohol infusion.

Internal uses
*Digestion, slow: Four or five drops of alcohol infusion of common centaury on brown sugar.
*Fevers: See Liver, sluggish.
*Liver, sluggish: Allow 200g of fresh common centaury, four cloves, and a pinch of cinnamon to macerate for a week in a litre of 800 alcohol. Strain. Add a litre of boiled water. Stir well. Keep in a well­corked bottle away from the light. After each meal, suck a lump of sugar dipped in five drops of this preparation.

CHAMOMILES and MATRICARIAE
(Anthemis nobilis, matricaria chamomilla, matricaria
discoidea)
Fr. Camomille Romaine
Grande Camomille
Petite Camomille
Ger. Romische Kamille
Mutterkraut
Echte Kamille

Active principles
These flowers and leaves contain essential oils, chamazulene, coumarin, heterosides, and flavonics (common chamomile); camphor, borneol, terpenes, esters, and a bitter substance (wild chamomile); and azulene (anti-allergic) (scented mayweed).

Properties
Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), although little used, is yet advantageous at least for its borneol and its esters. Its essence is a good counter-irritant. Perhaps its applications in homoeopathy will restore to it the place which it used to occupy in allopathy.

Wild chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) had its hour of fame in the time of the Arab physicians, who used to cgnsider it as a multivalent remedy. Its oil is hardly to be found although it has antispasmodic anti-allergic, antiphlogistic, carminative, stomachic, and vulnerary qualities. Moreover, olive oil with 10 per cent of essence of wild chamomile is highly valued in rubbing for rheumatic pains.

Alone or nearly so, common chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is in general use today. It owes this popularity to the value of its infusions and essential oil. The latter, obtained by steam distillation from the flowers, is antispasmodic, antiphlogistic, anti-ophthalmic, aperitive, febrifugal, stimulative, digestive, emmenagogic, and vermifugal.

External uses
*Gout and rheumatic pains: Rubbing with olive or sweet almond oil enriched with essence of chamomile (100g per litre) and of Borneo camphor (50g to 100g).
*Boils, dermatitis, eczema, herpes: Dab with cotton wool soaked in the foregoing blend of oils.
*Conjunctivitis: Bathing the eyes with a tisane of chamomile flowers (one soup-spoonful of flowers per cup infused for ten minutes).

Internal uses
*Anaemia: Three or four drops of essence on a little brown sugar, three times a day, between meals.
*Appetite, loss of: Three drops of essence on brown sugar half an hour before meals.
*Congestion of the liver or spleen: See Digestion, slow. Add rubbing of the hepatic and splenic areas and spinal column with the enriched oil (see Stomach cramps).
*Convulsions: See Anaemia
*Depression: See Anaemia. Add rubbing of the spinal column with the enriched oil (see Stomach cramps).
*Digestion, slow: After every meal, three drops of essence on brown sugar.
*Fever, intermittent, in the nervous: See Digestion, slow.
*Influenza: See Digestion, slow. Add rubbing of the spinal column with the enriched oil.
*Insomnia: On retiring, four drops of essence on brown sugar.
*Migraine: When the attack occurs, slowly suck a little brown sugar soaked in four drops of essence.
*Neuralgia, facial: See Teething troubles in children.
*Oxyures: Three drops of essence on brown sugar between meals. Lukewarm enema with up to 300 ml of boiled water into which a soup-spoonful of enriched olive oil has been stirred (5 drops of essence of chamomile and 5 drops of essence of garlic).
*Stomach cramps: When the attack occurs, slowly suck a lump of sugar dipped in three drops of essence. Rub the epigastrium with sunflower-seed oil enriched, per litre, with 50g of borneol, l00g of essence of chamomile, 20g of essence of rosemary, and 50g of essence of sage.
*Teething troubles in children: Rub the cheeks with the enriched oil (see Stomach cramps).
*Vertigo: Three drops of essence on brown sugar when the attack occurs.
*Baths for dermatitis: To a lukewarm bath add 300g of bicarbonate of soda (Vichy salts) enriched with essence of corn mon chamomile (50 drops). Stir well.

N.B. Essence of Matricaria chamomilla ordiscoidea, also called German chamomile, has the same general indications as common chamomile. Being very bitter, it is more stimulating. Hence its use between meals. It appears especially to be more bactericidal. For this reason, it is very suitable for washing infected wounds (boiled water with the addition of 2g of essence per litre). Stir well. If necessary, filter after three days. its effectiveness is due in particular to the azulene it contains. This solution not only avoids irritating the wounds but also strengthens the leucocytes.

CINNAMON
(Cinnamomum zeylanicum).
Fr. Cannelle de Ceylan
Ger. Zimt

Active principles
Essence of cinnamon is obtained by steam distillation from the leaves and bark of the cinnamon tree of Sri Lanka, which is more highly valued than that of China (Laurus cassia). It contains eugenol, cinnamic aldehyde, terpenic alcohols, benzyl benzoate, Iinalool, safrole, furfurol, cineol, etc.

Properties
Essence of cinnamon is antiputrescent. Antiseptic. Antidote to poison. Mildly astringent. Digestive. Haemostatic. Vermifuge.

External uses
*Coughs and irritations of the respiratory organs: Inhalations: In a litre of 90° alcohol dissolve log essence of cinnamon + 30g essence of eucalyptus + 25g essence of lemon + 20g essence of lavender + log essence of pine + 20g essence of thyme. Pour a soup-spoonful of the preparation into a basin of boiling water. Reckon three inhalations per day.
*Pediculosis: Rub with 30 per cent solution of sodium sulphoricinate 100 ml + 3g essence of lemon + 2g essence of cinnamon + 2g essence of cloves + 2g essence of pine + 2g essence of rosemary + 2g essence of pine.
*Snake bites: Allow the bite to bleed. Wash it and then apply a few drops of essence of cinnamon or, better, of a mixture of equal parts of essence of cinnamon and essence of lavender.

Internal uses
*Asthenia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar, three times a day outside of mealtimes.
*Colic, spasmodic: See Asthenia. Supplement by rubbing the abdomen with olive oil enriched with essence of cinnamon (50g per litre).
*Diarrhoea: See Colic, spasmodic.
*Flatulence: Four drops of essence on brown sugar after every meal.
*Haemoptysis: See Flatulence. Supplement by rubbing the thorax with olive oil enriched with essence of cinnamon (50g per litre).
*Leucorrhoea: Four drops of essence after each meal.
*Oxyures: See Leucorrhoea. 300 ml lukewarm enema, stirring into it a soup-spoonful of olive oil enriched with 5 drops of essence.

CITRON
(Citrus medica)
Fr. Cedrat
Ger. Zed rat

Active principles
The essence is obtained by pressing the outer skin of the fruit. Rich in terpenes, it contains a bitter principle.

Properties
Aperitive. Antiscorbutic. Restorative.

Internal uses
*Appetite, loss of: Two drops of essence on a little brown sugar, half an hour before meals.
*Digestion, slowness of: Stimulate the digestive secretions by taking two or three drops of essence of citron on a little brown sugar after every meal.

CLOVES
(Eugenia caryophyllata)
Fr. Girofle
Ger. (Gewurz) Nelke

Active principles
Derived by steam distillation from the flower buds of the clove tree, the essential oil contains eugenol (up to 85 per cent), aceteugenol, methyl salicylate, caryophyllene, furfurol, pinene, vanillin, etc.

Properties
Aperitive. Powerful antiseptic. Anti neuralgic. Antispasmodic. Anticancer. Carminative. Stomachic. Tonic.

External uses
*Dentifrice (liquid): 80° alcohol 100g + essence of anise 2g + essence of Chinese anise 2g + tincture of benzoin 10g + essence of cloves 4g + essence of mint 8g (or, in persons who take homoeopathic remedies, essence of lemon 8g).
*Lupus: Rubbing with a 10 per cent alcohol solution.
*Scabies. Apply to the affected places a cream made from 1000g sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 25g essence of cloves + 600g distilled water.
*Throat and Sinusitis: Fumigations: Into boiling water pour a soup-spoonful of 80° alcohol with 8 per cent of cloves and 4 per cent essence of eucalyptus.
*Vertigo: For inhalation: White wine vinegar 800 ml + 200g solid acetic acid + 50g borneol + 1g essence of cinnamon + 3g essence of cloves + 1g essence of lavender or aspic.
*Wounds: Wash with distilled water and 2 per cent essence of cloves.

Internal uses
*Asthenia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar before each meal.
*Asthma: See Fumigations under Throat and Sinusitis (External uses). In addition, three drops three times a day, preferably between meals.
*Childbirth (preparation for): Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal during the fortnight preceding the expected day of delivery.
*Diarrhoea; Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Dropsy: See Diarrhoea.
* Dyspepsia: See Diarrhoea. Flatulence. See Diarrhoea.
*Gout: See Diarrhoea. In addition, rub with 80° alcohol and 10 per cent of essence of cloves.
*Lungs (Asthma, Bronchitis, Pleurisy): See Asthma. Plus rubbing the thoracic cage with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence of cloves.
* Measles: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.
*Memory (loss of): See Asthenia.
*Neuralgia, dental: See Dentifrice (External uses).
*Worms (oxyures): See Asthenia. Lukewarm enema with scented water (300 ml with a soup-spoonful of olive o i I and 2 per cent essence stirred into it).

CORIANDER
(Coriandrum Sativum)
Fr. Coriandre
Ger. Koriander

Active principles
Essence of coriander comes from the steam distillation of the fruit of this umbellifer, which is much prized in culinary art along with caraway, cinnamon, fennel, juniper, nutmeg, peppers, rosemary, savory, thyme, etc. In particular, it contains coriandrol (up to 80 per cent) (an isomer of borneol), cineol, borneol, geraniol, pinene, .terpenes, etc.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Carminative (Flatulence). Anti­rheumatic. Digestive stimulant.

External use
*Joint and rheumatic pains: Rubbing with warm olive oil. and 10 per cent essence.

Internal uses
*Aerophagy: 2 drops of essence on brown sugar after each meal.
*Appetite, loss of: 1 drop of essence on brown sugar half an hour before each meal. For a stronger dose, 2 drops of the following blend of essences: coriander 10 ml + lemon 10 ml + caraway 10 ml + camomile 20 ml.
*Digestion, slow: 2 drops of essence on brown sugar after each meal. In addition, rub the epigastrium with warm olive oil and 10 per cent essence.
*Flatulence: See Aerophagy.

CYPRESS
(Cu presses sempervirens)
Fr. Cypres Ger. Zypresse

Active principles
The essential oil comes from distillation of the cones and contains cypress camphor, d-pinene, d­camphene, d-sylvestrene, cymene, sabinol, valerianic acid, etc.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Antirheumatic. Antisudorific. Astringent. Anticancer. Tonic for the veins. Nerve restorative. Vaso-constrictive.

External uses
*Cicatrization of wounds: Wash with lukewarm water and 1 per cent of essential oil.
*Enemas: Lukewarm water into which olive oil with 5 per cent of essence of cypress has been stirred (one soupspoonful of oil to 300 ml of boiled water).

Internal uses
*Aphonia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.
*Dysmenorrhoea: See Aphonia.
* Haemoptysis: See Influenza.
*Haemorrhoids: See Aphonia. Use the following ointment: Sweet almond oil 1000g + white wax 250g + tincture of benzoin 30g + oil of cypress 25g.
*Incontinence of urine: See Aphonia. Rub the lower part of the abdomen with olive oil and 10 per cent of essential oil.
*Influenza: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day. Rub the thoracic cage with warm olive oil and 10 per cent essential oil. Inhale essence of cypress frequently.
*Menopause: See Incontinence of urine.
*Rheumatism: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal. Rub the painful areas with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essential oil.
*Varicose veins: Gently apply the ointment recommended for haemorrhoids.

N.B. During a 'flu epidemic, frequently sniff essence of cypress; put several drops of it on handkerchieves and on cotton wool beside you while asleep.

ELECAMPANE
(hula helenium)
Fr. Au nee Ger. Echter Alant

Active principles
Essential oil containing lactones, particularly alantolactone, and the rhizome containing inulin.

Properties
The acohol preparation is bechic, cholagogic, diuretic, and tonic.

External use
*To reduce itching and promote long-term healing, bathe herpes and skin eruptions with the alcohol preparation. (Let about Bog of elecampane root macerate for ten days in 30° alcohol. Strain and keep away from the light.)

Internal uses
*To the above alcohol preparation add a hundred grams of honey or brown sugar per litre. When about to use, half fill a wineglass, topping it up with an equal quantity of slightly mineralized water, and drink this mixture before each of the main meals for: Amenorrhoea, Anaemia, Bronchitis, Chlorosis, Influenza, Lack of appetite, and Tracheitis.

EUCALYPTUS
(Eucalyptus globulus)
Fr. Eucalyptus Ger. Eucalyptus

Active principles
The oil comes from the eucalyptus leaves by steam distillation. It contains eucalyptol (up to 80 per cent), aromadendrene, ethyl and amyl alcohols, butyric, caproic, and valeric aidehydes, camphene, eudesmol, phellandrene, pinene, etc.

Properties
Antiseptic (from the bactericidal point of view, the complete essence is much more active than pure
eucalyptol). Soothes coughing. Antirheumatic. Febrifuge. Promotes scar formation. Vermifuge. Stimulant.

External uses
*Burns and injuries: Paint with oil compound made from one litre of peanut or olive oil, 10g Borneo camphor + 4g essence of eucalyptus + 3g essence of thyme + 3g essence of lavender.
*Inhalations (colds, sinusitis)' To a litre of boiling water add three soup-spoonfuls of the following alcohol preparation: one litre of 900 alcohol + 30g essence of eucalyptus + 14g essence of thyme + 14g essence of pine needles + log essence of lemon + log essence of lavender.
*Insects (for repelling): Use the following alcohol preparation as scent and lotion: 1 litre of 900 alcohol + 30g essence of eucalyptus + 30g essence of Ceylon grass or lemon grass (Cymbopogon or Andropogon nardus, Gramineae) + log essence of thyme.
*Rheumatism: Rubbing of the painful areas with the following warm compound oil: one litre of olive oil + 100g camphor + 60g essential oil of eucalyptus.

Internal uses
*Asthenia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar half an hour before each meal.
*Asthma: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Bronchitis: See Asthma, Inhalations.
*Colibacillosis: See Asthma. Rubbing of the abdomen (see Rheumatism).
*Diabetes: See Asthma.
*Influenza: See Asthma, Inhalations. Rubbing of the thoracic cage (see Rheumatism).
*Laryngitis: See Asthma, Inhalations. Hot compresses on the throat with oil compound (see Rheumatism).
*Measles: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day. Inhalations (see External uses).
*Rheumatism: Three drops of essence on a lump of sugar after a meal. Rubbing (see Rheumatism, External uses).
*Scarlet fever: See Measles.

N.B. The sick-room gains by being disinfected by the powerful bactericide which essence of eucalyptus is. To do this, put a piece of cotton wool soaked in 80° alcohol with 40 per cent of essential oil of eucalyptus in a china dish near the patient.

FENNELS and CUMIN
Cumin, which resembles fennel, is an umbellifer with seeds like caraway. Bitter fennel and sweet fennel, too, are umbellifers. Fennel-flower or Nigella belongs to the Ranunculaceae.

Active principles
The seeds contain an essential oil from which nigellone is excluded, tannin, a bitter principle (nigelline), and a glucoside (melanthine) which is poisonous.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Carminative. Diuretic. Emmen­agogic.

Internal uses
To be used with caution. Not to be given to children under six years of age.
*Bronchitis: Two drops of essence on a little brown sugar twice a day between meals.
`*Flatulence: Two drops of essence on a lump of sugar after each meal.
*Periods, irregular: See Bronchitis.
* Whooping cough (to stop the spasms): Two drops of essence on a lump of sugar during the attacks.
*Worms (oxyures): Lukewarm enema (300 ml) with water into which a soup-spoonful of olive oil and 1 per cent of essence has been stirred.

GARLIC
(Allium sativum)
Fr. Ail Ger. Knoblauch

Active principles
Allicine; sulphides; ally) sulphide and oxide; organic sulphur; organic iodine; garlicine; antibiotic allistatines I and II; nicotinamide; enzymatic allinase; various ferments; vitamins A, B1, B1.

Properties
Essence of garlic is a powerful intestinal and pulmonary antiseptic. Antispasmodic. Carminative. Stomachic. Cholagogic. Diuretic. febrifuge. Anticancer. Tonic. Vermifuge. Fluidifies the blood. Cardiotonic. Hypertensive. Bactericide. Multivalent biocatalyst.

External uses
*Asthenia: 100g crushed garlic in 200g of olive oil and 10g of camphor. Allow to macerate for a fortnight. Strain. Rub it into the spinal column.
*Corns: Crushed-garlic plaster.

Internal uses
*Arteriosclerosis: Add garlic to raw green salads. Before meals, five drops of alcohol preparation on a little brown sugar. (Allow two hundred grams of crushed garlic to macerate in one litre of 60° alcohol. After a fortnight, strain and keep in a glass bottle away from the tight.)
*Asthma, Hypertension, Rheumatism: See Arterio­sclerosis.
*Oxyures: On waking, drink some water flavoured with garlic (one glass of the following preparation: Allow three grated cloves of garlic to macerate overnight in 100 ml of boiling water). Delicate persons prefer on waking to drink two soup­spoonsful - thirty centilitres - of syrup (infuse for one hour a litre of boiling water and 500g of crushed garlic, adding a kilo of brown sugar or honey).

GENTIAN, YELLOW
(Gentiana lutea)
Fr. Gentiane Ger. Gelber Enzian

Active principles
The tap-root contains bitter glucosides such as gentiopicrine, gentiamarine, and amarogentine.

Properties
Bitter tonic promoting digestive secretions. Stomachic. Bile tonic. Cholagogue. The root of the yellow gentian is used in an alcohol preparation. (Crush 20g of root. Let it macerate for a day in a litre of 12°-13° white wine. Strain.) Or as a syrup. (Crush 20g of root. Let it macerate for half a day in a litre of boiled water. Strain. Add a kilo of brown sugar. Can be taken at once.)

Internal uses
*Anaemia: See Fever, attacks of. Gentian increases the number of red corpuscles.
*Anorexia: See Anaemia.
*Diarrhoea: See Anaemia. Digestion, slow: See Anaemia.
Fever, attacks of, and malaria: Before a meal, a small wineglassful (aichol preparation) or a liqueur­glassful (maceration).

GERANIUM (HERB ROBERT, CRANESBILL)
(Pelargonium odorantissimum or Geranium
robertianum)
Fr. Geranium Ger. Storchenschnabel

Active principles
The essential oil is obtained from the entire plant by steam distillation. it contains phenylethyl alcohol, citronellal, geraniol, linalol, terpineot, etc.

Properties
Astringent. Sedative. Insect-repellent. Antidiabetic. Anticancer. Haemostatic. Tonic. Wound-healing.

External uses
*Aphthae: Rinsing the mouth with a glass of lukewarm water and a coffee-spoonful of alcohol preparation (90° alcohol and 40g of essence).
* Breasts, congestion of: Bathing of the breasts with pure water (fresh if possible) and 2g of essence per litre. Or, on retiring, application of the following cream: 1000g sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 50g essence of geranium + 600g distilled water.
*Herpes: Bathing with distilled water containing 2 per cent of essential oil.
Ophthalmia: Bathing of the eyes with distilled water containing 1 per cent of essential oil.

GINGER
(Zingiber officinale)
Fr. Gingembre Ger. Ingwer

Active principles
The essence, which is obtained from the roots by drawing under steam, contains gingerol, gingerin, zingiberine, etc.

Properties
*Antiseptic. *Laxative. *Febrifuge. *Stomachic. *Tonic. *Throat, sore: Gargling with lukewarm water. One coffee-spoonful of alcohol preparation (in accordance with the above formula) per glass of water.
*Wounds: Washing with distilled water containing 2 per cent of essential oil. Application of olive oil and 10 per cent of essence. Suitable for burns.

Internal uses
*Asthenia: Three drops of essence on a little brown
sugar after meals.
*Diabetes: See Asthenia. Rub the area of the spleen with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.
*Enteritis: See Asthenia. Rub the abdomen with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.
*Haemoptysis: See Asthenia.
*Jaundice: See Asthenia.
*Sterility: See Asthenia.
* Tonic: See Asthenia.
*Ulcer, gastric: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar before meals. Rub the stomach with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence of geranium.

External uses
*Pains, rheumatic: Rubbing with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.
*Throat, sore: Gargling with boiled water which has been cooled and scented (half a coffee-spoonful of alcohol preparation and 40 per cent of essence of ginger).

Internal uses
*Appetite, loss of: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar half an hour before each meal.
*Diarrhoea and intestinal disorders: See Flatulence.
*Digestion, slow: See Flatulence.
*Febrile conditions: Three drops of essence on brown sugar three times a day.
*Flatulence: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.

GOOSEFOOT
(Chenopodium anthelminticum)
Fr. Chenopode or Anserine Vermifuge
Ger. Gansefuss

Active principles
Thg essential oil, which is obtained by steam distillation from the flower-heads and seeds of goosefoot, contains up to 80 per cent of ascaridol, chenopodin, cymene, carvone, pure camphor, cineol, saf role, sylvestrene, volatile fatty acids, etc.

Properties
Vermifuge. This oil, which is of variable toxicity, is to be used with care. It is not to be recommended for arthritics, pregnant women, or heart, kidney, and T.B. patients.

Internal uses
Some use goosefoot oil with a great deal of caution as a means of lowering the blood-pressure after putting the patient on a diet high in glucides and low in lipids. In particular, it is not to be taken on an empty stomach.

External use
*Intestinal parasites: Moist hot compresses on the abdomen, made with infusion of goosefoot leaves. (150g per litre. Allow to boil for ten minutes.)

N.B. Chenopodium ambrosioides or Mexican tea­plant, a goosefoot of the composite genus Ambrosia, is taken as a stomachic infusion. Mercury or Good King Henry (Chenopodium bonus henricus) is eaten like spinach.

HAWTHORN
(Crataegus monocya and Crataegus oxyacantha)
Fr. Aubepine Ger. Weissdorn

For practical purposes, the different varieties have the same medicinal properties.

Active principles
Triterpene derivatives. Flavononoids. Leuco-antho­cyanidins. Lactone. Hyperoside. Quercetin. Vitexin. Vitexinerhamnoside.

Properties
Notable heart tonic. Corrects arrhythmia, tachy­cardia, and hypertension as well as hypotension. Combats insomnia of nervous origin. It has been called the cardiac valerian. In addition, it acts favourably on the capillaries.

Internal uses
Either the infusion or the tincture (200g of flowers to the litre of 90° alcohol) can be used. Allow to macerate for a month. Strain. Keep in a corked bottle away from the light.
*Angina pectoris: After the two main meals of the day, fifteen to twenty drops of the tincture in slightly mineralized water. (An attack may ensue, but this does not change the properties of the remedy.)
*Arteriosclerosis: See Angina pectoris.
*Cardiac weakness and fragile capillaries: See Angina pectoris.
*Overwork: Ten drops of tincture dissolved in water after every meal.
*Tranquillizer ('nerves'): See Overwork. At dinner the dose can be increased to twenty drops.

HEATHER
(Calluna vulgaris)
Fr. Bruyere (or Callune) Ger. Heidekraut

Active principles
The essence is obtained by distillation from the whole plant. It contains flavonic glucosides (quercitrin and myricetrin) and arentine.

Properties
Diuretic. Antiseptic. Disorders of the urinary tracts.

Internal uses
*Albuminuria: Tisane of flower-heads (30g per litre) three times a day. Three drops of essential oil on brown sugar.
*Antisepsis of the urinary tracts: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.
*Cystitis: See Antisepsis of the urinary tracts.
*Lithiasis, renal: See Antisepsis of the urinary tracts.
*Prostate: Mix equal parts of oil of juniper berries and essence of heather. Put four drops on a lump of sugar and take twice a day.
*Rheumatism: See Antisepsis of the urinary tracts.

HYSSOP
(Hyssopus officinalis)
Fr. Hysope Ger. Essigkraut

Active principles
Obtained by distillation of the plant, the essential oil contains borneol, geraniol, limonene, phellandrene, thujone, and slight traces of pinocamphone, which can have a certain epileptiform effect on persons predisposed. For this reason care should be taken to use it in moderation although its toxicity is inferior, for example, to that of mugwort.

Properties
Astringent. Bechic. Anticancer. Scar-forming. Digestive. Diuretic. Expectorant. Emmenagogue. Hypertensive. Sudorific. Vermifuge.

External uses
*Ecchymoses: Brush on olive oil with 5 per cent of essence of hyssop.
*Throat, sore: Lukewarm gargle. One coffee­spoonful of alcohol preparation (90° alcohol with 5 per cent of essence) in 100 ml of boiled water.
*Wounds: Wash with distilled water and 2 per cent of essence of hyssop.

Internal uses
*Appetite, loss of: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar half an hour before each meal.
*Asthma: See Throat, sore.
*Atony, digestive: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Bronchitis, chronic: See Throat, sore. In addition, on retiring rub the thoracic cage with the following cream: 1000g sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled water + 25g essence of hyssop.
*Colic: See Atony, digestive.
* Coughs: See Throat, sore.
*Dyspepsia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar before each meal.
*Fevers: Three drops of essence on brown sugar
three times a day. Rub the forehead with 600 alcohol
containing 10 per cent borneol and 10 per cent essence of hyssop.
*Flatulence: See Atony, digestive.
* Gastralgia: See Atony, digestive.
* Influenza: See Bronchitis, chronic.
*Leucorrhoea: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day. Rub the lower abdomen with the cream (see Bronchitis, chronic).
*Lithiasis, urinary: See Leucorrhoea.
*Rheumatism: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal. Rub the afflicted part with the cream (see Bronchitis, chronic).
*Throat, sore: See Throat, sore (under External uses). In addition, three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.
*Worms (oxyures): Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar between meals. Lukewarm enema with scented water (300 ml into which is stirred a soup-spoonful of olive oil with 2 per cent of essence of hyssop.)
*Wounds, heating of: Bathe the wounds with boiled water and 2 per cent of essence. Three times in the course of the day suck a little brown sugar soaked in three drops of essence of hyssop.

JUNIPER
(Juniperus cornmunis)
Fr. Genevrier Ger. Wacholder

Active principles
The essential oil is rich in alphapinene, cadinene, camphene, terpineol, terpenic alcohol, borneol, isoborneol, camphor of juniper, etc.

Properties
Antiseptic. Antirheumatic. Antidiabetic. Depurative. Diuretic. Emmenagogue. Parasiticide (external use). Carminative. Stomachic. Sudorific. Tonic,

External uses
*Acne: Smear with oil and essence of juniper (olive oil with 10 per cent of essence).
*Eczema, weeping: Bathe with boiled water and 2 per cent of essential oil.
*Paralysis: Rubbing with oil (see Acne).
* Rheumatism: See Paralysis.

Internal uses
*Albuminuria: Four drops on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Arteriosclerosis: See Albuminuria.
*Arthritic diathesis: See Albuminuria.
*Cirrhosis: See Albuminuria. Rub the hepatic region with the blended oil (see Acne under External uses).
*Cystitis: See Cirrhosis. Rub the lower abdomen with the above oil.
*Diabetes: See Albuminuria. Rub the area of the spleen with the above oil.
*Digestion, slow: See Albuminuria. Rub the epigastrium with the above oil.
*Dropsy: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.
*Gout: See Albuminuria. Rub the afflicted parts with the above oil.
*Intestines (fermentations): Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal. Rub the abdomen with oil blended with 10 per cent of essence.
*Lassitude, general: See Albuminuria.
*Leucorrhoea: See Albuminuria. Rub the lower abdomen with the above oil.
*Measles, scarlet fever, and other febrile ailments: See Albuminuria.
*Oliguria: See Albuminuria.
* Periods, painful: See Leucorrhoea.
*Rheumatism: See Gout.

LAUREL
(Laurus nobilis)
Fr. Laurier Ger. Lorbeerbaum

Active principles
From the bay laurel or sweet bay - not to be confused with the cherry laurel or common laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) - are extracted essential oils. That from the berries contains cineol, geraniol, and linalool. That from the leaves is richer in cineol (up to 45 per cent) and a bitter principle.

Properties
Antirheumatic. Digestive.

External uses
*Phthiriasis (skin disease caused by lice): Also known as pediculosis. Rub the infested areas with the
following alcohol preparation: 1000 ml 800 alcohol + 100g camphor + 50g essence of bay laurel.
*Rheumatism: Rubbing with scented olive oil and 10 per cent of essential oil of laurel or with the following cream: 1000g sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled watet + 20g essence of laurel.

Internal uses
*Digestion, slow: Three drops on a little brown sugar after each meal. One can prepare, as a digestive, an infusion of (preferably fresh) laurel leaves - two or three to the cup; add sugar and one drop of essence of laurel.

LAVENDERS
(Lavandula officinalis)
Fr. Lavandes Ger. Lavendel

Active principles
Aromatherapy makes use of different varieties of lavender, all equally active but differing somewhat in their perfume. Among them are worth mentioning Lavandula spica stoechas with a more penetrating smell and better for respiratory complaints; spike lavender or French lavender (Lavandula spica latifolia) with a more camphorated smell; and, finally, Lavandula officinalis with a more delicate perfume and also the most widely used.

Obtained by dry steam distillation from the flower-heads, the essence is rich in d-borneol, caryophyllene, cineol, coumarin, geraniol, limonene, linalol, l-pinene, esters of geranyl, linalyl, butyric acid, and valerianic acid. The composition depends to a great extent on the type of lavender, its culture, the local microclimate, and the year. (Two hundred kilos of flowers yield from 750g to 1000g of essence.)

Properties
Analgesic. Antimigraine. Antirheumatisrn. Antiseptic. Antispasmodic. Bechic. Sedative for the nerves of the heart. Cholagogue. Heals wounds. Diuretic. Aids digestion by increasing the secretions of the alimentary canal. Lowers blood-pressure. Insecticide. Parasiticide. Sudorific. Heart tonic.

External uses
*Acne: Bathe with lavender-water (distilled water with 2 per cent of essence); then apply lavender­cream (1000g sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled water + 20g essence of lavender + 5g aspic). Some favour the direct treatment with lavender alcohol (10008 80° alcohol + 60g essence of lavender).
*Burns: Paint with lavender oil (1000g olive oil + 100g essence of lavender).
*Inhalations (for asthmatics and sufferers from sinusitis): Pour into distilled water (100 ml) a coffee­spoonful of 60 ml essence of lavender + 20 ml essence of pine + 40g essence of eucalyptus + 20 ml essence of thyme.
*Insects: Essence of lavender applied direct to the stings.
*Leucorrhoea: Vaginal douches of lukewarm water with 2 per cent of essence of lavender.
*Pediculosis: Rub with 80° alcohol and 40 per cent of essence of lavender.
*Snake bites: Allow the bite to bleed, then dab with pure essence of lavender or, better still, with a mixture of 60 ml lavender + 40 ml aspic.
*Wounds: Wash with distilled water and 2 per cent of essence. Brush with olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.

Internal uses
*Asthma: Inhalations (see Inhalations under External uses). In addition, between meals, three or four drops of essence on a little brown sugar.
*Chlorosis: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar half an hour before each meal.
*Coughs: See Chlorosis. Gargling with lukewarm lavender-water. (To 100 ml of boiled water add one coffee-spoonful of: 1000 ml 80° alcohol + 20 ml essence of eucalyptus + 60 ml essence of lavender.)
*Cystitis: See Chlorosis. In addition, rub the lower abdomen with the lavender-cream (see Acne).
*Digestion, slow: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal. Rub the epigastrium with 80° alcohol. and 40 per cent of essence of lavender.
*Enteritis: Four drops of essence on a lump of sugar three times a day. Rub the abdomen with lavender­cream (see Acne) or 10 per cent lavender-oil.
*Heart, nervous: See Chlorosis. Rub the heart region with lavender oil and 10 per cent of essence.
*Hysteria: See Chlorosis.
*Infectious diseases: See Chlorosis. Rub the body with lavender alcohol and 40 per cent of essence.
*Leucorrhoea: See Leucorrhoea (External uses). In addition, three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Measles: See Chlorosis. Add the inhalations (see inhalations under External uses).
*Migraine: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal. Fresh compresses on the forehead and nape of the ,neck with the following alcohol preparation: 1000 ml 80° alcohol + 100g Borneo camphor + 40 ml essence of lavender + 20 ml essence of aspic.
*Neurasthenia: See Chlorosis. Rub the spinal column with the above alcohol preparation.
*Paralysis: See Chlorosis. Rub the spinal column and the paralysed part with the following alcohol preparation: 1000ml 80° alcohol + 40 ml essence of lavender + 20 ml essence of aspic + 30 ml essence of basil.
*Periods, scanty: Four drops of essence three times a day. Rub the lower abdomen with the following: 1000ml olive oil + 100g camphor + 60g essence of lavender. Some people prefer to rub with the above alcohol preparation.
*Spasms: See Chlorosis.
*Worms (oxyures): After every meal, four drops of essence on a little brown sugar. Lukewarm lavender enema (300 ml of boiled water into which a soup­spoonful of olive oil with 10 per cent of essence of lavender has been stirred.)

LEDUM (WILD ROSEMARY)
(Ledum palustre)
Fr. Romarin Sauvage or Won Ger. Sumpfforst

Active principles
The entire plant contains an essential oil rich in a camphor - ledol - arbutin and leditannic acid. Sometimes used as an abortifacient and, in weak doses, as a diuretic, it requires discernment in its internal use for it quickly irritates the digestive organs and the nerves, especially on account of the toxicity of ledol. It is better to use it externally only.

External uses
*Pediculosis: In formulas for products based on essence of rosemary, the latter can be partly replaced (up to 30 per cent) by essence of marsh ledum.
*Scabies: See Pediculosis.

LEMON
(Citrus limonum)
Fr. Citronnier Ger. Zitrone

Active principles
The essence is extracted by pressing the outer portion of the pericarp. (The green fruits are richer in it than the ripe ones.) To obtain one kilo, more than three thousand lemons are needed. It contains terpenes (camphene, limonene, phellandrene, pinene, sesquiterpenes), citral, citronellal, linalool, acetates of linalyl and geranyl, aldehydes, camphor of lemon, etc.

Properties
Powerful non-toxic bactericide. Alkali-forming. Sedative. Regulator of stomach acidity. Hypotensive.

Carminative. Laxative. Heart tonic, Diuretic. Antirheumatic. Stimulates the white corpuscles. Haemostatic.

External uses
*Herpes: Dab with cotton wool soaked in water with 2 per cent of essence of lemon.
*Insect bites and stings: One drop of essence on the bite or sting.
*Nails, brittle: Every evening, immerse them for a quarter of an hour in warm olive oil with 10 per cent of essence of lemon. Do the same for chilblains.
*Otitis: Into the auditory duct pour a little lukewarm sweet almond oil with 10 per cent of essence of lemon.
*Scabies: Brush with 60° alcohol and 20 per cent of essence of lemon.
*Throat, sore: Gargling with lukewarm boiled water and 2 per cent essence of lemon.
*Thrush: Rinsing the mouth with the above solution or with lemonade (dilute the pure juice with the same volume of water) enriched with 10 drops of essence per 100 ml. Stir well.
*Verrucae: Dab them each evening with essence of lemon.
*Warts: See Verrucae.
*Wound: Bathe with boiled water and 2 per cent of essence of lemon. Arrests the flow of blood.
*Wrinkles, facial: On retiring, nourish the skin with the following cold cream: 1000g sweet almond oil; 250g white wax; 30g tincture of benzoin; 750g distilled water; 20g essence of lemon.

Internal uses
*Aerophagy: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar after meals.
*Ageing: Four drops of essence of lemon on brown sugar after every meal. Massage of the spinal column, thorax, and abdomen with lemon water (80° alcohol with 30g of essence of lemon).
*Anaemia: Five drops of essence on brown sugar half an hour before meals.
*Appetite, loss of: See Anaemia.
*Arteriosclerosis: Five drops on brown sugar three or four times a day.
*Asthenia: See Anaemia. In addition, once a day rub the spinal column with olive oil and 10 per cent of essence of lemon.
*Blood, hyperviscosity of: See Liver complaints.
* Calcium, loss of: See Aerophagy.
* Capillaries, fragile: See Aerophagy.
* Convalescence: See Asthenia.
*Dysentery: See Aerophagy. In addition, rub the abdomen with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.
*Growth: See Asthenia.
*Hypertension: Three drops of essence on brown sugar after every meal. In addition, once a day rub the region of the heart with warm olive oil and 10 per cent essence of lemon.
*Infectious diseases: Three drops of essence on brown sugar four times a day.
*Influenza: See Asthenia.
* Jaundice: See Liver complaints.
*Lithiasis, biliary: See Liver complaints. In addition, rub the area of the liver once or twice a day with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence of lemon.
*Liver complaints: Three drops of essence on brown sugar after every meal.
*Lungs (asthma, bronchitis, pleurisy): Five drops of essence on brown sugar three times a day. From time to time inhale essence of lemon. Once a day massage the thorax and the spinal column with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence of lemon.
*Malaria: Five drops of essence on brown sugar four times a day.
*Rheumatism: Three drops on a lump of sugar after every meal. Rub the painful areas with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence or with the cold cream indicated under Wrinkles, facial.
*Stomach, hyperacid: See Liver complaints. In addition, rub the epigastrium with warm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.

N.B. Infusions of lemon leaves and flowers, sweetened with honey or brown sugar, are strengthened by adding to them one drop of essence of lemon per 10 ml.
Lemon baths are noteworthy for invigorating the skin. (For each bath, dissolve 350g of sodium bicarbonate enriched with 20g of essence of lemon or add a tisane of lemon leaves - 200g in two litres of water. The boiled leaves are added in a strainer.)

LIME BLOSSOM
(Tilia cordata - Small-leaved lime. Tilia platyphyllos - Broad-leaved lime.)
Fr. Tilleul Ger. Kleinblatterige Linde (Small­leaved lime).
Sommerlinde (Broad-leaved lime).

Active principles
The flowers of the two varieties of lime contain identical essential oils, which are given a pleasant fragrance by farnesol.

Common properties
Antispasmodic. Bechic. Diaphoretic. Emollient.

Internal uses
*Liver pains: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar during the attack.
*Lungs (Bronchitis, Pleurisy): Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Spasms, digestive: Slowly suck a little brown sugar steeped in three drops of essence.
*Stomach cramps: See Liver pains.

MARJORAM, SWEET
(Origanum marjorana)
Fr. Marjolaine Ger. Wurstkraut

Not to be confused with Origanum vulgare (Common marjoram) and other origans considered later.

Active principles
All parts of the cultivated marjoram contain an essential oil which is extracted by steam distillation and which includes camphor, borneol, terpenes (origanol, pinene, sabinene, terpineol), etc.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Carminative. Digestive. Expectorant. Hypertensive. Vasodilator. Vulnerary. It must be used with moderation so as not to blunt the feelings and thus produce in some patients a certain deadening effect.

External uses
*For invigorating baths, add to the water a few soup­spoonsful of the following alcohol preparation: 1000 ml 90° alcohol + 40g essence of lemon + 60 ml essence of lavender + 30 ml essence of thyme.

Internal uses
*Aerophagy: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Anxiety: See Aerophagy.
*Blood-pressure: Sweet marjoram being an arterial vasodilator, take five drops of essence on a lump of sugar between meals.
*Bronchitis: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day. From time to time inhale the pure essence.
*Digestion, slow: See Aerophagy.
*Insomnia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar half an hour before retiring.
*Migraine: See Aerophagy. Rub the temples, forehead, and nape of the neck with marjoram alcohol (1000 ml 80° alcohol + 100g borneol + 60g essence of sweet marjoram).
*Neurasthenia: See Aerophagy. Rub the spinal column with the above alcohol.
*Wounds: Wash with distilled water and 2 per cent essence.

MELISSA (BALM)
(Melissa officinalis)
Fr. Melisse Ger. Zitronenkraut

Active principles
The essential oil contains linanol, geraniol, citronellal, citral, aldehydes, etc.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Carminative. Diaphoretic. Sedative. Stomachic.

Internal uses
*Aerophagy: Three drops of essence of melissa on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Colic: see Aerophagy.
*Flatulence: See Aerophagy.
*Spasms, gastric: See Aerophagy. A tisane of melissa flower-heads, cloves (two per cup), and a little cinnamon soothes stomach pains.
*Stomach cramps: See Aerophagy.

MUGWORT
(Artemisia absinthum and Artemisia vulgaris)
Fr. Absinthe, Armoise Ger. Geissfuss

Active principles
Cineol and bitter principle.

Properties
Choleretic and vermifuge. Laxative. Regulates the female cycle. Digestive. Often employed by liqueur distillers.

External uses
Wounds, suppurating. Cleanse them with boiled water into which has been poured half a coffee­spoonful of a preparation of 30g of essence to the litre of 900 alcohol.

Internal uses
Do not use this essence systematically and continuously as it may lead to intestinal and nervous disorders.
Not recommended during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
*Aperitif: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar just before lunch.
*Atony, gastric: Three drops after every meal for six days, then stop for a week, and so on.
*Diuretic: See Aperitif.
* Emmenagogue: See Atony, gastric.
* Febrifuge: See Atony, gastric.
*Oxyures: Over six and under ten years of age, three drops in a coffee-spoonful of lavender honey once a day (twice a day between ten and fifteen years).

NIAOULI
(Melaleuca viridiflora)

Active principles
Essence of niaouli, sometimes called gomenol, comes from the distillation of the leaves of the Melaleuca. In the same family is found Melaleuca cajuputi or Melaleuca leucodendron, from which is extracted essence of cajeput. The main constituents of the essential oil of niaouli are eucalyptol, terpineol, citrene, laevorotatory limonene, dextro­rotatory pinene, terebenthene, acetic, butyric, valerianic esters, etc.

Properties
Anticatarrhal. Antirheumatic. Balsamic. Tissue stimulant. Vermifuge.

External uses
*Bronchitis: Inhale the following preparation: 1000 ml 80° alcohol + 10 ml essence of eucalyptus + 40 ml essence of lavender + 50 ml essence of niaouli. And rub the chest with it.
*Epidemics: At the time of an epidemic, put a few drops of the following on a handkerchief: 1000 ml 900 alcohol + 10g essence of mint + 30g essence of eucalyptus + 60g essence of lavender + 60g essence of niaouli. Inhale it frequently.
*Throat: Lukewarm gargle (100 ml boiled water + one half-coffee-spoonful of 1000 ml 80° alcohol + 20 ml essence of eucalyptus + 60 ml essence of niaouli.)
*Ulcers: Wash with aromatic distilled water and 2 per cent of essence of niaouli. Brush with aromatic oil (100 ml olive oil + 5 ml essence of lemon + 15 ml essence of niaouli). Suitable also for burns.
*Wounds: See Ulcers.

Internal uses
*Bronchitis: See under External uses. Slowly suck a little brown sugar impregnated with three drops of essence.
*Enteritis: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal. Rub the abdomen with the alcohol preparation recommended for Epidemics (External uses).
*Infections, puerperal: See Enteritis. Infections, urinary: See Enteritis.

NUTMEG
(Myristica fragrans)
Fr. Noix Muscade Ger. Muskatnuss

Active principles
Obtained by steam distillation from the fruit of the nutmeg-tree, the essential oil contains d-camphene, dipentene, d-pinene, borneol, geraniol, linalool, terpineol, eugenol, safrole, myristicin, etc.

Properties
Carminative. Dissolves biliary calculi. Digestive.
Stimulant. Avoid large doses, which bring on nervous and mental disorders.

External use
Rheumatism: Rubbing with aromatized oil (olive oil with 10 per cent of essence).

Internal uses
*Asthenia: Two drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Diarrhoea: See Asthenia. In addition, rubbing of the abdomen with the aromatized oil (see Rheumatism under External use).
*Digestion, slow: See Asthenia.
* Flatulence: See Asthenia.
*Gastralgia: See Asthenia. Rubbing of the epigastrium with the above-mentioned aromatized oil.
Lithiasis, biliary: Two drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal. Rubbing of the area of the liver with the above-mentioned aromatized oil.

ONION
(Atlium cepa)
Fr. Oignon Ger. Zwiebel

Active principles
This bulb, which has been known from very ancient times, yields an essence rich in allylpropyl disulphide, flavones, etc.

Properties
Bacteriostatic. Disinfectant. Antirheumatic. Anti­infection better than pharmaceutical antibiotics. Antisclerous. Antiscrofula. Lowers blood-sugar level. Diuretic. Antiureal. Expectorant. Digestive.

External uses
*Abscesses: Bathe with the water in which an onion has been cooked. Prepare the following: Allow 500g of chopped onions to macerate for a fortnight in 500g of 60° alcohol. Strain and use for bathing the abscesses.
*Boils: See Abscesses.
*Stings: Dab with the onion alcohol preparation (see Abscesses).
*Worms: Lukewarm enema with water in which an onion has cooked.
*Wounds: See Abscesses.

Internal uses
In everything that follows, raw onion is a choice food that can back up the alcohol preparation.
Aging, Arteriosclerosis, Arthritic diathesis, Asthenia, Asthma, Atony (digestive), Azotaemia, Bronchitis, Colds, Diabetes, Diarrhoea, Flatulence, Growth, imbalance (glandular), Impotence, Lithiasis (biliary), Lymphatism, Obesity, Oedemas, Oliguria, Pericarditis, Pleurisy, Prostate gland (enlargement of), Rheumatism, Rickets, Strain (mental and physical), and Worms are not only all the better for daily consumption of raw onion, but are also more effectively seen to by a soup-spoonful of the alcohol preparation (see Abscesses) taken at the start of every meal. (Its taste can be improved by sugar and lemon juice.)

ORANGE, SEVILLE
(Citrus vulgaris or Citrus bigaradia)
Fr. Bigaradier or Oranger Amer Ger. Pomeranze

Active Principles
Obtained by steam distillation from the fresh blossom, essence of orange flowers contains geraniol, linanol (up to 30 per cent), nerol, indol, jasmone, anthranilic, benzoic, phenylacetic esters, etc. (essence of neroli).

Properties
Sedative. Mildly hypnotic.

Internal uses
*Diarrhoea, chronic: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Insomnia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar or in an infusion (sweetened with sugar or honey) of orange or lemon leaves just before retiring.
*Palpitations: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.

ORIGAN(UM)(WILD MARJORAM)
(Origanum vulgare, Origanum floribundum, and
Origanum glandulosum)
Fr. Origan Ger. Wilder Majoran
Often known as common marjoram or wild marjoram.

Active principles
Thg essential oil of origan contains thymol (up to 16 per cent), carvacrol, origanene, etc.

Properties
Laxative. Antispasmodic. Carminative. Antiseptic. Bechic. Expectorant. Diaphoretic. Emmenagogue. Parasiticide. Stomachic. Tonic.

External uses
*Cellulitis: Rubbing with origan cream: 1000g sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750 ml distilled (or rose-) water + 50g tincture of benzoin + 20g essence of origan.
*Pediculosis. Rubbing with the following preparation: 1000 ml 80° alcohol + 20g essence of thyme + 20g essence of geranium + 50g essence of origan.
*Rheumatism: Rubbing either with the following preparation: 1000 ml 80° alcohol + 20g essence of rosemary + 50g essence of origan (or with origan oil) 1000 ml olive oil + 50g essence of origan.

Internal uses
*Aerophagy: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Appetite, loss of: Three or four drops of essence on a little brown sugar half an hour before each meal.
* Asthma: See Aerophagy. Bronchitis: See Aerophagy.
*Coughs: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar just as the fits of coughing come on.
*Digestion, slow: See Aerophagy.
*Periods, scanty: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar between meals.
*Rheumatism: See Aerophagy. In addition, rubbing (see Rheumatism under External uses).

PEPPERMINT
(Mentha piperita)
Fr. Menthe poivree Ger. Pfefferminze
Different mints are known, of which the one most used is peppermint. However, we should not overlook Corsican mint (Mentha requienii), pennyroyal (Mentha puleglum), spearmint (Mentha spicata).

Active principles
Obtained by steam distillation from the leaves and flower-heads, the essences of mint are of a fairly variable composition according to the species and the climate. They are more active in cold regions; hence the success of the Mitcham variety. Found in them are menthol, menthone, limonene, menthene, phellandrene, etc.

Properties
Antilactation. Anti-insect. Antiseptic. Antispasmodic. Carminative. Emmenagogue. Stimulant. Stomachic. Parasiticide. Vermifuge. It should not be used unduly for it may result in irritating the stomach and disturbing sleep on account of high doses of menthol, especially in certain people.

External uses
*Asthma: Inhalations. (Into 100 ml of boiled water pour a coffee-spoonful of mentholated alcohol - 1000 ml 80° alcohol + 60 ml essence of mint fortified, if necessary, with 40 ml essence of eucalyptus.)
*Bronchitis: See Asthma.
*Migraine: Inhale essence of mint. (For inhalations see Asthma.)
*Mosquito repellent: To repel mosquitoes, put a few drops of essence on the sheets.
*Mouthwash: Use the following: 1000 ml 90° alcohol + 40 ml essence of mint + 10 ml essence of Chinese anise + 10 ml essence of anise + 4 ml essence of cloves + 2 ml essence of cinnamon. Put half a coffee-spoonful of this in a glass of water for rinsing the mouth and also for gargling.
*Scabies: Apply the following cream to the affected parts: 1000g sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled water + 30g essence of mint.
*Sinusitis: See Migraine.

Internal uses
*Aerophagy: Four drops of essence of mint on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Asthma: See Asthma (External uses). In addition, five drops of essence of mint on a little brown sugar between meals.
*Atony, digestive: Three drops of essence of mint after every meal.
*Bronchitis, chronic: See Asthma.
*Colic: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar three times a day.
*Flatulence: See Atony, digestive. Food poisoning: See Atony, digestive. Indigestion: See Atony, digestive.
*Liver ailments: See Atony, digestive. Rubbing of the liver area with the above-mentioned cream.
*Migraine: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar. Mentholated-alcohol compresses (1000g alcohol + 5g camphor + 20g essence of mint).
*Palpitations: See Atony, digestive.
*Paralysis: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal. Rub the paralysed area with the mentholated cream (see Scabies under External uses).
*Worms (oxyures): Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar outside of mealtimes, particularly on retiring.

PINE, SCOTS
(Pinus sylvestre)
Fr. Pin sylvestre Ger. Waldkieferfohre

Active principles
Well known is the oil from the buds (wrongly called fir buds), the oil from resin (or turpentine), and the oil from pine needles. They are all rich in aromatic compounds. Turpentine will be examined later. Only the oil from needles is considered here. It contains bornyl acetate, cadinene, pumilone, pinene; sylvestrene, carene, limonene, etc.

Properties
Respiratory-tract antiseptic. Liver antiseptic. Urinary antiseptic. Revitaliser. Antirheumatic.

External uses
*Bronchitis: Inhalations. (Pour one coffee-spoonful of the following preparation into 100 ml of boiling
water: 1000 ml 900 alcohol + 15g pine-needle oil; or else 1000 ml 90° alcohol + 25g essence of eucalyptus + 10g essence of thyme + 5g essence of lavender + 15g pine-needle oil.) Rub the thoracic cage with olive oil plus 5 per cent of pine-needle oil.
*Rheumatism: Rub with the above alcohol preparation or with the following cream: 1000 ml sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled water + 20g essential oil of pine.

Internal uses
*Asthma: Five or six drops of essential oil on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Bronchitis: See Asthma; also Bronchitis under External uses.
*Colic: See Asthma. Rub the abdomen with the cream indicated for Rheumatism.
*Cystitis: See Asthma.
* Influenza: See Bronchitis.
*Lithiasis, biliary: Four drops of essential oil on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Pneumonia: See Bronchitis.
*Prostatitis: Six drops of essential oil on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Rickets: See Prostatitis. Rub the spinal column with the alcohol preparation recommended for Bronchitis under External uses.
*Stomach cramps: When the pain attacks, five drops of essential oil on a little brown sugar. Can be repeated four times a day.

N.B. During a period of epidemic, put by the bedside a saucer containing some conifer resin cut into small pieces + 10 per cent essence of turpentine + 5 per cent alcohol preparation recommended for Bronchitis under External uses.

ROSE, FRENCH
(Rosa gallica)
Fr. Rose Ger. Essigrose

Active principles
The essential oil of the red or Provence rose is very expensive, so that it is not much used in aromatherapy. It is most frequently replaced by rose-water, which is much cheaper.

External uses
*Hardening of the skin: Wash with rose vinegar, well diluted with water. Or else with vinegar and 0.5 per cent of rose essence, again diluted to suit.

*Throat, inflamed and sore: Astringent gargle with an infusion of 40 per cent of petals. Eat rose honey. (Let BOg to 1008 of petals infuse for a day in 100g of boiling water. Strain. Add 100g of honey. Allow to simmer over a low flame until the consistency is that of a thick syrup.)
One can also gargle with rose vinegar: derived from the ten-day maceration of 100g of dried, well chopped petals in a good wine vinegar (lukewarm gargling with two coffee-spoonsful to a glass of water).

Internal uses
*Diarrhoea: Infusion of petals (60g per litre) between meals.

ROSEMARY
(Rosmarinus officinalis)
Fr. Romarin Ger. Rosmarin

Active principles
The essential oil contains borneols (up to 15 percent), camphene, camphors, cineol, lieol,pinene, resins, a bitter principle, saponin, etc.

Properties
Antidiarrhoea. Antifermentescible. Antirheumatic. Antineuralgic. Cardiotonic. Carminative. Bechic. Diuretic. Sudorific. Cholagogue. Hypertensive, Parasiticide.
The very potent essential oil of rosemary must be taken in moderation. Any excess incurs the risk of bringing on epileptiform seizures and poisoning.

External uses
*Burns: Wash with boiled water and 2 per cent of olive oil + 5 ml essence of cinamon + 10 ml essence of rosemary.
* Rheumatism: Hot compresses soaked in boiled water with 2 per cent of essence. For pain rub with 900 alcohol and 6 per cent of essence or, better, with perfumed olive oil (see Pediculosis). Scented morning baths - pour in one or two soup-spoonsful of alcohol preparation (80° alcohol with 6 per cent of essence).
*Scabies: See Pediculosis.
* Wounds: See Burns.

Internal uses
*Asthma: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Bronchitis, chronic: See Asthma. Rub the spinal column with perfumed olive oil (see Burns under External uses).
*Chlorosis. Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar, half an hour before each meal.
*Cholecystitis: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal. Rub the area of the liver with perfumed olive oil (see Burns under External uses).
*Cirrhosis: See Cholecystitis.
*Colic: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar after meals. Rub the abdomen with 60° alcohol and 3 per cent of essence of rosemary.
*Debility, general: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar before each meal. Rub the spinal column with 60° alcohol and 3 per cent of essence of rosemary or, better still, with the following cream: 1000 ml sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled water + 25g essence of rosemary.
*Diarrhoea: See Colic.
*Digestion, slow: See Colic.
* Dizzy spells: See Fainting spells.
*Dysmenorrhoea: See Leucorrhoea.
*Fainting spells: When the indisposition occurs, slowly suck a little brown sugar steeped in six drops of essence. This can be repeated four or five times a day.
*Flatulence: Four or five drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Heart trouble (of nervous origin): See Flatulence.
*Hypercholesterolaemia: See Flatulence.
*Leucorrhoea: See Flatulence.
*Lithiasis, biliary: See Cholecystitis.
*Liver ailments: See Cholecystitis.
* Lymphatism: See Debility, general.
* Migraine: See Flatulence.
*Rheumatism: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar before each meal. In addition, rubbing (see Rheumatism under External uses).

SAGE
(Salvia officinalis)
Fr. Sauges Ger. Salbei

There are other sages besides the one above: meadow sage (Salvia pratensis); whorled sage (Salvia verticillata); and clary (Salvia sclarea). They all yield essential oils of closely related composition. Some, however, can be more or less toxic, even in moderate doses, for some people. So, to be safer, oil of clary, which is non-toxic, is generally used.

Active principles
Essence of herb sage contains thujone (up to 45 per cent), borneol, sage camphor (salviol), cineol, salvene, salvone, etc. Essence of clary is rich in sclareol.

Properties
Antiseptic. Antispasmodic. Antisudorific. Laxative. Astringent. Scar-forming. Depurative. Diuretic. Emmenagogic. Stabilizes the vagosympathetic system. Hypertensive. Stimulant. Stomachic. Tonic.

External uses
*Alopecia: Rub with 40° alcohol and 3 per cent of essence of herb sage.
*Aphthae: Rinse the mouth with distilled water and 2 per cent of essence of herb sage.
*Asthma: Gargling (pour into 100 ml of boiled water half a coffee-spoonful of 80° alcohol with 6 per cent of essence of herb sage).
*Eczema: Bathe with distilled water and 2 per cent of essence; then paint with olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.
*Insect bites and stings: One drop of essence applied to the sting.
*Laryngitis: Lukewarm gargling with distilled water and 2 per cent of essence.
*Leucorrhoea: Douche of boiled water with 2 per cent of essence of herb sage.
*Throat, sore: See Asthma.
*Ulcers: Compresses with boiled water and,2 per cent of essence. Apply the following cream: 1000 ml olive or peanut oil + 250g white wax + 750 ml distilled water + 25g essence of sage.
*Wounds: Cleanse with boiled water and 2 per cent of essence. Apply the cream as for Ulcers.

Internal uses (use clary)
*Adenitis: Two drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Apoplexy: See Adenitis.
*Asthma: See Asthma under External uses. 1n addition, three drops of essence of clary on a little
brown sugar after each meal. Bronchitis, chronic: See Asthma.
*Convalescence: See Exhaustion, mental and physical.
*Diarrhoea: See Adenitis.
*Digestion, slow: See Diuresis, inadequate.
*Diuresis, inadequate: Three drops of essence of clary on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Exhaustion, mental and physical: Three drops of essence of sage on a little brown sugar half an hour before every meal.
* Fever, intermittent: See Diuresis, inadequate.
*Hypotension: See Diuresis, inadequate.
*Lymphatism: See Exhaustion, mental and physical.
*Menopause: See Diuresis, inadequate.
*Milk secretion (to stop): See Diuresis, inadequate. The use of sage dries up the secretion.
*Neurasthenia: See Diuresis, inadequate.
*Night-sweats and sweaty hands: See Diuresis, inadequate.
*Periods, scanty: See Diuresis, inadequate.
*Vertigo: When the attack occurs, slowly suck a little brown sugar steeped in three drops of essence of clary. Repeat three times in the course of the day.

SANDALWOOD
(Santalum album and Santalum spicatum)
Fr. Santal Ger. Sandelholz

Active principles
By steam distillation sandalwood yields an essential oil rich in various terpenic alcohols, including fusanols and santalol, in various santalic and teresantalic alcohols, and in hydrocarbons.

Properties
Astringent. Pulmonary antiseptic. Urinary antiseptic. Tonic.

External uses
Powdered sandalwood, impregnated with sandal­wood oil, burns giving off a pleasant smell and antiseptic vapours (a procedure formerly used in religious ceremonies). In a saucer by the bedside in sick-rooms put some cotton wool soaked in sandalwood essence.

SANTOLINA (LAVENDER COTTON)
(Santolina chamaecyparissus)
Fr. Santoline or Petit Cyprcs

Active principles
Its essential oil is extracted from the seeds.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Emmenagogue. Stimulant. Vermi­fuge.

Internal uses
*Emmenagogue: Five drops on a little brown sugar after each meal. Take immediately after a glass of water and honey.
*Spasms, gastric: When the pains occur, five drops on a little brown sugar. Take immediately after a large glass of water and honey.
*Worms (oxyures): See Emmenagogue.

External uses
*Insect bites and stings: A little pure essence on the sting.
*Verrucae and warts: See Insect bites and stings.

SASSAFRAS
(Sassafras officinale)

Active principles
The essence is obtained from the roots and bark of the sassafras by steam distillation. It contains mainly safril (up to 80 per cent), camphor, eugenol, phellandrene, and pinene.

Properties
Carminative. Diaphoretic. Diuretic. Stimulant. Sudorific.

External uses
*Insect bites and stings: Apply a drop of essence to the sting.
*Rheumatism: Rub with 900 alcohol and 6 per cent of essence of sassafras or with lukewarm olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.

Internal uses
*Dermatitis: Bathe with boiled water and 2 per cent of essence. Smear with the following compound: 1000 ml sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750 ml distilled water + 25g essence of sassafras.
*Exhaustion, mental and physical: Two drops of essence on a little brown sugar before every meal.
*Gout: One drop of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal. In addition, rubbing (see Rheumatism under External uses).
*Menstruation problems: Two drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Rheumatism: See Gout.

SAVORY
(Satureia montana)
Fr. Sarriette Ger. Bohnenkraut
Pfefferkraut

Active principles
There is winter savory (Satureia hortensis), which is highly valued in cooking, and summer savory (Satureia montana). Both are very aromatic and yield by distillation an oil containing carvacrol (up to 40 per cent), cymene (up to 25 per cent), and terpenes.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Antiseptic. Antiputrefactive. Scar­forming. Digestive. Expectorant. Stimulant. Vermifuge.

External uses
Otitis: Put a little warm olive oil with 10 per cent essence of savory into the auditory duct. Rub behind the ear with the pure essence.
Wounds: Clean with boiled water and 2 per cent of essence of savory. Brush over with olive oil and 10 per cent of essence of savory.

Internal uses
*Aphthae: Mouthwash of lukewarm boiled water with 2 per cent of essence of savory.
*Asthma: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Bronchitis: See Asthma.
*Digestion, slow: See Asthma.
*Digestive spasms and diarrhoea: See Asthma. Rub the abdomen with 80° alcohol and 6 per cent of essence of sassafras or with cream (1000 ml sweet almond oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled water + 25g essence of savory).
*Exhaustion, mental and sexual: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar half-an-hour before every meal.
*Throat: See Asthma. In addition, frequent lukewarm gargling. (Pour half a coffee-spoonful of 800 alcohol and 6 per cent of essence of savory into 100 ml of hot distilled water.)
*Worms: See Asthma.

TANGERINE
(Citrus nobilis)
Fr. Mandarine Ger. Zwergapfelsine

Extracted from the peel, essence of tangerine is a laxative and stomachic. It is added to the essences of lemon and orange in order to vary their taste and accentuate their properties.

TARRAGON
(Artemisia dracunculus)
Fr. Estragon Ger. Estragon

Active principles
Obtained by distillation from the plant, the essential oil contains phellandrene, ocimene, methylchavicol, herniarin (hydroxycoumarin), estragole (up to 60 per cent), and terpenes.

Properties
Internal antiseptic. Antispasmodic. Carminative. Emmenagogue. Stomachic. Vermifuge.

internal uses
*Anorexia (loss of appetite): Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar half-an-hour before meals.
*Antisepsis, intestinal: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar between meals.
*Digestion, slow: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Flatulence: See Digestion, slow.
*Periods, painful or irregular: See Antisepsis, intestinal,
*Rheumatism: See Antisepsis, intestinal.
* Spasms, gastric: See Digestion, slow.
*Worms (oxyures): Five drops of essence three times a day, preferably between meals. Lukewarm enemas with boiled water (300 ml) into which olive oil with 10 per cent of essence of tarragon has been stirred.

N.B. Infusions of tarragon (40g per litre) possess the same properties as the essence but to a weaker extent. They can be made more potent by adding one drop of essence to each cup. The addition of tarragon leaves to raw green salad gives the latter an agreeable aroma and endows it with the qualities of the essential oil. Furthermore, olive or sunflower­seed oil can be used directly with tarragon (1g of essence to the litre).

THYME (GARDEN)
(Thymus vulgaris)
Fr. Thym Ger. Gartenthymian

Active principles
The essence drawn from the flower-heads by distillation contains thymol, carvacrol, cymene, pinenes, borneol, linalool.

Properties
Aperitive. Intestinal, pulmonary, and renal antiseptic. Antispasmodic. Balsamic. Carminative. Diuretic. Emmenagogue. Expectorant. Flatulence. Hypertensive. Leucocyte stimulant. Stomachic. Sudorific. Tonic.

External uses
*Fatigue: Bathing. Pour into a bath 300g of bicarbonate of soda impregnated with the following oleaginous mixture: 3g essence of thyme + 2g essence of lavender + 1g essence of rosemary.
*Rheumatism: Rubbing with 80° alcohol and 6 per cent of essence of thyme. Rubbing with olive oil, 10 per cent of essence of thyme, and 5 per cent of essence of lemon.
*Skin: See Fatigue. Wash with boiled water and 2 per cent of essence of thyme. Smear with the following compound: 1000 ml olive oil + 250g white wax + 750 ml distilled water + 10g essence of lemon + 20g essence of thyme.
*Vaginitis: Douche of boiled water with 2 per cent of essence of thyme.

Internal uses
*Anaemia: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar. half-an-hour before each meal.
*Asthma: See Throat, sore.
*Chlorosis: See Anaemia.
* Coughs: See Throat, sore.
*Digestion, slow: See Flatulence. Rub the abdomen with 800 alcohol and 6 per cent of essence.
*Emphysema: See Asthma.
*Exhaustion, mental and physical: See Anaemia. Rub the spinal column with 80° alcohol and 6 per cent of essence or with olive oil and 10 per cent of essence.
*Fevers: See Flatulence.
*Flatulence: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Hypotension: See Flatulence.
* Influenza: See Anaemia.
*Leucorrhoea: See Anaemia. Lukewarm douches of boiled water with 2 per cent of essence of thyme.
*Periods, scanty: See Leucorrhoea.
*Throat, sore: See Anaemia. In addition, gargling with lukewarm boiled water and 2 per cent of essence.
*Worms: See Flatulence. Enema (300 ml of boiled water into which has been stirred a soup-spoonful of olive oil with 5 per cent of essence of thyme).

N.B. In aromatherapy, we avoid substituting thymol for essence of thyme. For some people the former can be toxic.

THYME (WILD)
(Thymus serpyllum)
Fr. Serpolet Ger. Kleiner Kostets

Active principles
The essential oil of wild thyme contains thymol, cymol, and carvacrol. It is very similar to garden thyme.

Properties
Very similar to those of garden thyme. Antispasmodic. Disinfectant. Expectorant. Digestive stimulant. Tonic.

Uses
Much the same as those of garden thyme. These two essences are often parthered in prescriptions in the proportion of two parts of essence of garden thyme to one of essence of wild thyme.

TURMERIC
(Curcuma Tonga)
Fr. Curry Ger. Gelbwurzel

Active principles
The rhizome contains an essential oil rich in ketonic turmerone, a resin, and a yellow colouring matter (curcumin) which may, through abuse over a long period, cause a hyperacid stomach and sometimes ulcers.

Properties
Cholagogue. Digestive. Diuretic. Laxative. Liver ailments.

External use
*Pains in the bones: Rubbing with lukewarm sweet almond oil and 5 per cent of oil of turmeric.
*Colitis: Three capsules between meals (daily total:

Internal uses
*Anorexia: Half an hour before a meal, two drops of essence on a little brown sugar.
*Digestion, slow. After a meal, two drops of essence on a little brown sugar.
*Liver, sluggish: See Digestion, slow.

N.B. The essential oil of turmeric must be used in moderation and with care for a fairly limited period. The same applies to rhizome-based tisanes.

TURPENTINE
The essences of turpentine are essential oils extracted from the resins of conifers and Anacardiaceae by distillation (predominantly terebenthene).

Active principles
Terpenes, terebenthene.

Properties
Antispasmodic. Antirheumatic. Dissolves biliary calculi. Pulmonary and genito-urinary antiseptic. Haemostatic. Counter-irritant. Parasiticide.

External use
*Throat: Inhalations. Pour a coffee-spoonful of the following mixture into 100 ml of boiling water: 1000 ml alcohol + 60g essence of eucalyptus + 60g essence of pine.

Internal uses
*Bronchitis: Two capsules of essence, each of 0.25g, twice a day.
*Colitis: three capsules between meals (daily total: six)
*Constipation: About ten capsules of essence spread over the day.
*Dropsy: See Colitis.
* Epilepsy: See Colitis.
*Fever, puerperal: Four capsules between meals (daily total: eight).
*Flatulence: See Colitis.
*Haemoptysis: See Fever, puerperal (if necessary, increase the dose to twelve capsules of essence spread over the full day).*
*Leucorrhoea: See Colitis.
*Migraine: At the most, six capsules of essence spread over the whole day.
*Tuberculosis: See Fever, puerperal.
*Whooping cough: See Bronchitis. For children between five and ten years, reduce by half.
*Worms, intestinal: See Haemoptysis.

VALERIAN
(Valeriana officinalis)
Fr. Valeriane Ger. Baldrian

Active principles
Extracted from the roots of the rhizome, the essential oil contains volatile esters, bornyl­isovaterianate, butyrate, and also alkaloids (chatinine and valerene).

Properties
Sedative. Digestive.

Internal uses
*Digestive disorders: Four drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal. Some people prefer two drops of essence of valerian and two drops of essence of lemon.
*Hysteria: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar between meals.
*Migraine: See Hysteria.
*Nervous disorders: See Digestive disorders. Neurasthenia: See Hysteria.

VERBENA (LEMON-GRASS)
(Andropogon citratus)
Fr. Verveine Indienne Ger. Eisenkraut

Active principles
Obtained by distillation, the essence contains citrol in particular,

Properties
Antiseptic. Galactogen. Digestive. Parasiticide.

External use
*Pediculosis: Ointment - 1000 ml olive oil + 250g white wax + 750g distilled water + 10g essence of thyme + 20g essence of verbena.

Internal uses
*Digestion, difficult: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar after each meal.
*Enteritis: See digestion, difficult.
*Milk, insufficient: See Digestion, difficult.

YLANG-YLANG
(Anona odorantissima) and (Cananga odorata)

Active principles
Obtained by steam distillation from the flowers of Reunion or Philippines ylang-ylang, the essence contains eugenol, geraniol, linalool, safrol, pinene, terpenes, cadinene, benzoate of benzyl, and more or less esterified acids - acetic, benzoic, formic, salicylic, valerianic - and ylangol (terpenic alcohol), etc.

Properties
*Antiseptic. Sedative. Hypotensive. Regulates cardiac and respiratory rhythm.

Internal uses
*frigidity: Five drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Hypertension: Three drops of essence on a little brown sugar after every meal.
*Infections, intestinal: See Frigidity.
*Lung trouble: See Hypertension.
*Tachycardia: See Hypertension.