Aromatherapy - Get to know the Lamiaceae family - Part 3

Aromatherapy - Get to know the Lamiaceae family - Part 3

In the finale of my three-part series on the Lamiaceae family, we'll explore the rest of the essential oils.

Marjoram – Spanish (Thymus mastichina)

The properties of Spanish marjoram are similar to those of sweet marjoram, although Spanish marjoram has a higher cineole content. This makes it more effective in helping with respiratory infections.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Sage must be used with caution as it can cause epileptic seizures and can be toxic to the central nervous system in large quantities.

Sage could be helpful for fatigue, depression and sadness. It can calm the emotional (parasympathetic) nervous system and calm the nerves.

It is an estrogen mimetic and can therefore be used to regulate the menstrual cycle. It can also be used to help with menopausal problems.

Sage can also be used for digestive problems and pain caused by rheumatism.

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)

Clary sage has estrogen-mimicking properties that make it good for female hormonal imbalances, from menstrual cramps to menopausal symptoms.

It could be very effective in treating anxiety, nervousness, paranoia and depression. It stimulates, revitalizes and regenerates.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

There are three main chemotypes of rosemary: camphor-borneol, 1,8-cineole and verbenone.

Specifically for the chemotypes, the camphor-borneol type is best for helping with muscle pain, the 1,8-cineole type is best for helping with pulmonary congestion and for clearing waste from the liver and kidneys. The verbenone type is non-irritating and is very suitable for supporting high-quality skin care.

In general, rosemary is good for elevating mood and stimulating the mind. It can be effective for fluid retention, liver and spleen diseases and jaundice, as well as blood circulation and low blood pressure.

Rosemary is one of the most effective essential oils for the central nervous system. It can help with mental clarity and awareness. It is a very good brain stimulant and can help improve memory.

It can help with many breathing problems including coughs, asthma and sinusitis, and it can be used to relieve pain caused by rheumatism and arthritis as well as stiff and strained muscles.

Because it is a highly stimulating oil, it is not suitable for people with epilepsy or high blood pressure. It is also to be avoided during pregnancy.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

Spearmint can be used as a digestive stimulant and can be helpful for nausea, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. Spearmint is better for children than peppermint. Due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-catarrhal properties, it can be helpful in respiratory diseases. Spearmint can be uplifting for the spirits and for mental fatigue and depression.

It must not be used during pregnancy. It is non-irritating to the skin and non-toxic.

I hope you enjoyed learning about the very versatile essential oils in this botanical family.

It is very important that you consult a qualified aromatherapist if you have any questions and that you consult your doctor.