This chapter aims to establish basic scientific criteria by which the actions of essential oils can be identified.
Many properties of essential oils can be accounted for by the functional groups made up of different combinations of oxygen-containing molecules such as alcohols, aldehydes, or ketones. Generalizations can be made, but specific actions of the constituents will be as varied as their structure.
FOR EXAMPLE, THE ESSENTIAL OIL OF ROSE DAMASCENA CONTAINS ABOUT 1500 CHEMICAL ELEMENTS, AND JASMINE GRANDIFLORA IS ABOUT 800. THIS IS GREAT! DO YOU AGREE?
Monoterpene alcohols are considered the most beneficial and safest essential oil constituents.
Properties:
tonic and general stimulant
sedative
Examples:
Lavender, coriander seed, clary sage, rosewood, thyme linalool.
Sesquiterpene alcohols
Properties:
stimulant
Examples:
vetiver, carrot seed, cedarwood, sandalwood, spikenard
Phenols are reactive molecules, which classifies them as 'hazardous chemicals.'
Properties:
general tonic
stimulant
Examples:
Thyme, winter savory, oregano
Esters generally have a fruity and fragrant odor.
Properties:
calming
tonic
balancing
relaxing
Examples:
Palmarosa, jasmine, ylang-ylang, geranium, lavender, petitgrain, and Roman chamomile.
Aldehydes are often known to have a fresh citrus-like aroma.
Properties:
calming
relaxing
uplifting
nerve tonic
Examples:
Lemongrass, lemon, tea tree.
Lactones and coumarins have a vanilla-like scent.
Properties:
calming
relaxing
sedative
Examples:
Cinnamon, cassia, peppermint.
Monoterpene hydrocarbons are found in all essential oils to a greater or lesser degree.
Properties:
hormone-like
stimulant
general tonic
Examples:
Lemon, grapefruit, eucalyptus, juniper, pine, tea tree.
Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons
Properties:
balancing
stimulant
Examples:
Clove, black pepper.
Ethers.
Ketones.
Oxides.