Single Oils

Balsam Fir – Balsam fir (Idaho) is a conifer oil distilled in northern Idaho that has a refreshing and uplifting scent.  Used in massage, it has a soothing effect on muscle and body discomfort associated with exercise.

Basil – Basil has a strong, spicy aroma and can refresh the mind, soothe the body, and help restore mental alertness during times of fatigue.  When applied topically, basil can relas tired, aching muscles.  Basil essential oil may also sharpen  your sense of smell when inhaled and is a wonderful addition to favorite recipes that call for the herb.

Bergamot – Bergamot has the fresh, sweet, citrus scent that is familiar to many as the flavoring in Earl Grey Tea.  Uplifting and relaxing, it is good for building confidence and enhancing your mood.  It has a long history of use for oily and troubled skin. 

Black Pepper  - Black Pepper has a pungent, crisp aroma that is comforting and energizing.  It is supportive of the digestive system* and is useful topically for soothing muscle discomfort following exercise.  Black pepper may also be used to enhance the flavor of foods.

Cedarwood - Cedarwood has a warm, balsamic, woody aroma.  It is relaxing and soothing when used for massage and can be used as a dietary supplement to maintain healthy lung function.*  Cedarwood has long been used as a beneficial ingredient in cosmetic preparations for oily skin.

Cinnamon Bark – Cinnamon Bark has that wonderful spicy scent loved around the world.  Cinnamon oil is now being used in many recipes as a tangy, inventive ingredient.  Historically, cinnamon was so popular it was the main reason behind the occupation of Ceylon by first the Portuguese, then the Dutch, and then the British.  It is best to dilute Cinnamon bark before topical application or direct inhalation.

Cistus – Cistus essential oil comes from a rose that has a soft, honey-like scent.  It is believed to be the biblical rose of Sharon.  Calming and uplifting, it is a helpful for meditating and counseling.  As a dietary supplement, it also helps maintain healthy lung function.

Clary Sage – Clary sage essential oil contains natural phytoestrogens.  It has a mellow, warm, herbal scent that is uplifting and relaxing., making it a perfect choice supporting a normal, healthy attitude during PMS.  It is also supportive for menopausal women.

Clove – Clove has a sweet, spicy fragrance that is stimulating and revitalizing  An important ingredient in our Thieves blend due to its wonderful immune-enhancing properties*, its principal constituent is eugenol, which is used in the dental industry to numb the gums.  Clove is the highest-scoring single ingredient ever tested for its antioxidant capacity on the ORAC scale.  Always dilute for topical use.  Clove may also be used to enhance the flavor of foods.  Caution:  check with a physician before using if taking blood-thinning medication.

Coriander – Coriander has a sweet, warm, herbaceous fragrance that has soothing and calming properties.  It supports healthy digestive and circulatory sstem functions and has been studied for its support of the pancreas.*

Cypress – Cypress is especially comforting during the winter season.  Its frees, herbaceous, slightly evergreen aroma is refreshing and restores feelings of security and stability.  Cypress is also beneficial for oily or troubled skin.

Dill – Dill oil has a spicy, fresh scent that is stimulating, revitalizing, and balancing.  Use dill essential oil for cooking or preparing food to enhance flavor.

Douglas Fir – Douglas fir has a crisp, invigorating pine aroma that is spiritually realigning.  Used in massage, it helps to soothe muscles after exercise.

Elemi – Elemi has a spicy, incense-like scent that is soft and somewhat balsamic.  A member of the same botanical family as frankincense and myrrh, it has been used traditionally in Europe for the skin. Elemi is highly regarded for reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles, skin support, and for soothing muscles after exercise.

Eucalyptus Dives – Eucalyptus dives has a fresh, invigorating aroma.  This species is high in phellandrene and low in eucalyptol.  It is excellent for use in topical application, as it may be less irritating to the skin than other eucalyptus varieties.  Avoid prolonged, direct inhalation.

Eucalyptus Globulus – Eucalyptus globulas has a fresh, penetrating scent.  It contains a high percentage of the constituent eucalyptol, a key ingredient in many mouth rinses.  Applied topically, it is often used to soothe muscles after exercise.

Eucalyptus Polybractea – Eucalyptus Polybractea is one of the strongest eucalyptus oils.  This variety is high in eucalyptol (up to 95 percent) and is well suited for topical application or diffusing.  Avoid direct inhalation.

Eucalyptus Radiata – Eucalptus radiata is cooling, refreshing, and energizing.  Lighter in small than Eucalyptus globulus, it has many of the same supportive properties.  Because it is relatively gentle and non-irritating, it is the preferred choice for children.  This variety is one of the most versatile of the eucalyptus oils and is suitable for topical use, diffusing, and even direct inhalation.  It has long been an ingredient in some of Young Living’s popular blends.

Fennel – Fennel has a sweet, earthy aroma that I energizing, vitalizing, and balancing.  It is stimulating to the circulatory, glandular, respiratory, and digestive systems.*  It also may support feeling of well-being during the menstrual cycle.* Caution:  Use with care if epileptic or pregnant.

Frankincense – Frankincense has a sweet, warm, balsamic aroma that is stimulating and elevating to the mind.  Useful for visualizing, improving one’s spiritual connection, and centering, it has comforting properties that help focus the mind and overcome stress and despair.  Frankincense is considered the holy anointing oil in the Middle East, where it has been used in religious ceremonies for thousands of years.  More recently, it has been used in European and American hospitals and is the subject of substantial research.  Frankincense is also a valuable ingredient in skincare products for aging and dry skin.  The ancient Egyptians used it in rejuvenation fact masks.

Geranium - Geranium has a wonderfully uplifting, calming, flowery scent. It is excellent for the skin, and its aromatic influence helps release negative memories. Used traditionally to support the circulatory and nervous systems, a great deal of its strength lies in its ability to revitalize body tissues.*

Ginger - Ginger has a warm, spicy fragrance that is energizing. Supportive of the digestive system, ginger is commonly used to soothe, comfort, and balance digestive discomfort.* It may also be used to enhance the flavor of foods.

Goldenrod – Goldenrod supports the circulatory system, urinary tract, and liver function.* It has relaxing and calming effects. The genus name, Solidago, comes from the Latin solide, which means "to make whole."

Grapefruit - Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) has a fresh, citrus aroma that is energizing and uplifting. Rich in the powerful antioxidant d-limonene, it is nourishing to the skin. Like many coldpressed citrus oils, it is a popular oil to use in conjunction with weight management programs. Grapefruit may also be used to enhance the flavor of food and water.

Helichrysum - Helichrysum is known for its restorative properties and provides excellent support to the skin, liver, and nervous system.* Helichrysum also provides a defense against harmful free radicals, making it a vital ingredient in several Young Living blends.

Hyssop - Hyssop a biblical oil that was also sacred to ancient Greeks, has a fresh, woody scent that is slightly sweet. Hyssop is noted for its purifying properties.

Idaho Tansy - Idaho tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) has a pungent aroma that stimulates a positive attitude and a general feeling of wellbeing. This oil has been used extensively to deter pests. Listed in E. Joseph Montagna's The Herbal Desk Reference on herbal formulas, tansy is soothing to the skin. This oil is grown and distilled at the Young Living Farms.

Jasmine  - Jasmine** has a warm, exotic, floral fragrance that relaxes, soothes, uplifts, and enhances self-confidence. Jasmine is beneficial for the skin. It has been used throughout history for romance and attraction and for balancing the feminine energy of the body.

**Jasmine is an absolute or essence, rather than an essential oil.

Juniper  - Juniper has a clean, mildly penetrating, woody scent that has a cleansing effect on the mind, spirit, and body. It may work as a detoxifier and cleanser, is beneficial to the skin, and supportive to the urinary system.* This tree is wildcrafted on Utah mountain land and its branches are distilled at the Young Living farms.

Lavender – Lavender has a fresh, sweet, floral, herbaceous aroma that is soothing and refreshing.  Because it is the most versatile of all essential oils, no home should be without it.  Lavender is an adaptogen, and therefore, can assist the body when adapting to stress or imbalances.  It is a great aid for relaxing and winding down before Therapeutic-grade lavender is highly regarded for skin and beauty.  It may be used to soothe and cleanse common cuts, bruises, and skin irritations.  The French scientist, Rene’ Gattesfosse’, was among the first to discover these properties when he was severely burned in a laboratory explosion.  Lavender may also be used to enhance the flavor of foods.

Ledum - Ledum has a long history of use. As a tea, ledum provides well-being. It is also believed to harmonize and balance the body's daily needs.

Lemon - Lemon has a strong, purifying, citrus scent that is revitalizing and uplifting. Lemon consists of 68 percent d-limonene, a powerful antioxidant. It is delightfully refreshing in water and may be beneficial for the skin. Lemon may also be used to enhance the flavor of foods. Lemon essential oil is cold-pressed from the rinds of lemons. Jean Valnet MD estimated that it takes 3,000 lemons to produce one kilo of oil. In his book, The Practice of Aromatherapy, Valnet wrote that lemon is a tonic for supporting the nervous and sympathetic nervous system.

Lemongrass - Lemongrass has a light, fresh, citrus aroma with earthy undertones. Refreshing, rejuvenating, stimulating, and balancing, it inspires and improves mental clarity. Lemongrass also supports the circulatory system.

Marjoram - Marjoram has a woody, spicy aroma. A calming oil, it has a warming effect on both mind and body and soothes tense muscles after exercise. It is beneficial for occasional simple nervous tension* and may also be used for cooking.

Melaleuca (Alternifolia) - Melaleuca alternifolia is highly regarded for its wide range of uses. It supports the immune system* and is beneficial for the skin. Commonly known as Tea Tree Oil.

Melaleuca (Ericifolia) - Melaleuca ericifolia is a variety of melaleuca oil that is exceptionally gentle and non-irritating to the skin. It also has calming properties.

Melissa - Melissa has a light, fresh, lemony scent that is strengthening and revitalizing, yet soothing and calming. It was an important ingredient in Carmelite water (distilled in France since 1611 by members of the Carmelite Order). Several studies report that melissa may benefit the skin. It is also comforting during the winter season and supportive of immune system function.*

Mountain Savory - Mountain savory has been used historically as a general tonic for the body.  It provides support for the immune, nervous, and circulatory systems.*

Myrrh - Myrrh has a rich, smoky, balsamic aroma that is purifying, restorative, revitalizing, and uplifting. It is a helpful aid to meditation, having one of the highest levels of sesquiterpenes available. Sesquiterpenes are a class of compounds that have a direct effect on the hypothalamus, pituitary, and amygdala, the seat of our emotions. Myrrh is referenced throughout the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. The Arabian people believed it helped wrinkled, chapped, and cracked skin. Today, myrrh is widely used in oral hygiene products.

Myrtle - Myrtle has a clear, fresh, herbaceous scent, similar to eucalyptus. Supportive of the respiratory system, skin, and hair, it has been researched for its effects on glandular imbalances* and its soothing effects when inhaled. It is also helpful for meditation and lifting the spirit.

Nutmeg - Nutmeg has a sweet, warm, spicy scent similar to the spice commonly used in cooking. Comforting and soothing, nutmeg helps boost energy. It also supports nervous and endocrine systems and prostaglandin balance.*

Orange -Orange essential oil has a rich, fruity scent that lifts the spirit while providing a calming influence on the body. Orange brings peace and happiness to the mind. It is rich in the powerful antioxidant d-limonene and aids in maintaining normal cellular regeneration.* Orange may also be used to enhance the flavor of food and water.

Oregano - Oregano is one of the most powerful and versatile essential oils. It contains strong immune-enhancing and antioxidant properties and supports the respiratory system.* Oregano may also be used to enhance the flavor of food. Oregano is also a key oil used in the Raindrop Technique, a massage application of essential oils, which is designed to bring about electrical alignment in the body.

Palo Santo - Palo santo comes from the same botanical family (Burseraceae) as frankincense, although it is found in South America rather than the Middle East. Like frankincense, palo santo is known as a spiritual oil, traditionally used by the Incas to purify and cleanse the spirit from negative energies. Even its Spanish name reflects how highly this oil is regarded: Palo santo means "holy wood" or "sacred wood."

Patchouli - Patchouli, sometimes called "the scent of the sixties," has a musky, earthy, exotic aroma. In Eastern cultures, it is commonly used around the house to provide general support for health and to help release negative emotions. It is very beneficial for the skin, helping to reduce a wrinkled or chapped appearance. Patchouli is a general tonic that supports the digestive system and soothes occasional queasiness.*

Peppermint - Peppermint has a strong, clean, fresh, minty aroma. One of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion, it may also restore digestive efficiency.* Jean Valnet MD studied peppermint's supportive effect on the liver and respiratory systems. Other scientists have also researched peppermint's role in improving taste and smell when inhaled. Dr. William N. Dember of the University of Cincinnati studied peppermint's ability to improve concentration and mental sharpness. Alan Hirsch MD studied peppermint's ability to directly affect the brain's satiety center, which triggers a sensation of fullness after meals. This powerful essential oil is often diluted before topical application. Peppermint may also be used to enhance the flavor of food and water.

Pine - Pine has a refreshing, invigorating aroma. First investigated by Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, pine is soothing for stressed muscles and joints when used in massage. It shares many of the same properties as Eucalyptus globulus, and the action of both oils is enhanced when they are blended.

Ravensara - Ravensara has a spicy, camphorous, warm scent, similar to eucalyptus but softer. The people of Madagascar hold it in high regard.

Roman Chamomile - Roman chamomile has a warm, sweet, herbaceous scent that is relaxing and calming for both mind and body. Its gentleness makes it especially valuable for restless children. Soothing to all types of skin, it is used extensively in Europe in skin preparations. Roman chamomile is also beneficial when added to massage oil for relief of muscle discomfort after exercise. Roman chamomile was one of the Saxons' nine sacred herbs.

Rose - Rose has a beautiful, strong floral and sweet fragrance that is intoxicating and highly romantic. It helps bring balance and harmony with stimulating and uplifting properties that create a sense of well-being and self-confidence. Used for skin care for thousands of years, it is perfect for dry or aging skin.

Rosemary - Rosemary has a fresh, herbaceous, sweet, slightly medicinal aroma. An energizing oil, it may be beneficial for helping to restore mental alertness when experiencing fatigue.* It is also a popular ingredient in skin and hair care products. This oil should be diluted before use and is recommended for adult use only. Rosemary may also be used to enhance the flavor of foods while cooking.

Rosewood - Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora) has a lovely woody, floral scent that is comforting and soothing. It has a steadying and balancing effect on emotions and may help to uplift feelings of despair. Its soothing and refreshing qualities make it a sought-after ingredient in skin care products.

Sage - Sage has a spicy, herbaceous aroma. It has been recognized for its ability to strengthen the senses and vital centers of the body and to support metabolism.* It is helpful for supporting the respiratory, reproductive, nervous, and other body systems.* Sage may help in coping with despair and mental fatigue. It is used traditionally in Europe for the skin and to cleanse and purify the home from negative influences.

Sandalwood - Sandalwood has a rich, sweet, warm, and woody aroma that is sensual and romantic. Used traditionally as incense in religious ceremonies and for meditation, it is uplifting and relaxing. It is valued in skin care for its moisturizing and normalizing properties.

Thyme - Thyme has a spicy, warm, herbaceous aroma that is both powerful and penetrating. Known since ancient times as a medicinal herb, thyme contains large amounts of thymol. As a dietary supplement, it is one of the strongest antioxidants known. Thyme supports the immune, respiratory, digestive, nervous, and other body systems.* Thyme may also be used to enhance the flavor of food.

Spearmint - Spearmint has a minty, slightly fruity scent, softer than peppermint. A rich antioxidant, spearmint helps support the respiratory and nervous systems* and may help open and release emotional blocks leading to a sense of balance and well-being. Spearmint may also be used to enhance the flavor of food.

Spikenard - Spikenard was highly regarded in India as a perfume, health-supporting herb, and skin tonic. Prized at the time of Christ, it was used by Mary of Bethany to anoint the feet of Jesus before the Last Supper. This is a relaxing and soothing oil for the skin.

Spruce - Spruce is softer and sweeter in aroma than other evergreen oils. It is refreshing, invigorating, and strengthening. It also has a long history of use in the sauna, steam bath, and as an additive to baths or massage oils. It is supportive of the respiratory and nervous systems.* Its aromatic influences also help to open and release emotional blocks, bringing about a feeling of balance and peaceful security.

St. Maries Lavender - St. Maries Lavender is highly regarded for skin and beauty. It may be used to soothe and cleanse minor cuts, bruises, and skin irritations. Lavender is great for winding down before bedtime, yet it has balancing properties that boost stamina and energy. This lavender is grown on the Young Living Lavender Farm in St. Maries, Idaho, where the plants are carefully nurtured and cultivated.

Tangerine - Tangerine is a calming essential oil with a sweet, tangy aroma, similar to orange. It helps with occasional nervous irritability. An excellent oil to help uplift the spirit and bring about a sense of security, tangerine is also rich in the powerful antioxidant d-limonene. Tangerine may also be used to enhance the flavor of food.

Tarragon - Tarragon has a spicy scent with undertones of anise. It is supportive to the digestive system and used topically in Europe as a digestive aid.* Tarragon adds a special touch when used as a spice in recipes.

Tsuga - Tsuga has a fresh, clean scent. The oil is distilled from the needles and twigs of conifer trees. The bark from these trees was used by Native Americans to make poultices.

Valerian - Valerian root has been used for thousands of years for its calming, grounding, and emotionally balancing influences. During the last three decades, it has been clinically investigated for its relaxing properties. Researchers have pinpointed the sesquiterpenes, valerenic acid, and valerone as the active constituents that exert a calming and restorative effect on the central nervous system.* German health authorities have pronounced valerian to be an effective aid for the body's needs.

Vetiver - Vetiver has a heavy, earthy fragrance similar to patchouli with a touch of lemon. Vetiver oil is psychologically grounding, calming, and stabilizing. One of the oils that is highest in sesquiterpenes, vetiver was studied by Dr. Terry Friedmann for improving children's behavior. Vetiver may help when coping with stress and to recover from emotional trauma and shock.

Western Red Cedar - Western red cedar is nourishing to the skin. This oil is different from the bark-derived Canadian red cedar, which is also Thuja plicata. Western red cedar oil is a clear liquid. It can be used as an alternative to mothballs by adding to wood chips or cotton balls and placing in closets or dressers away from direct contact with clothing.

White Fir - White fir has a fresh, crisp scent and is high in d-limonene, a powerful antioxidant. Supportive of the immune system,* white fir can also be used in massage to help relieve discomfort associated with exercised muscles.

Wintergreen - Wintergreen has a sweet, minty scent. The oil is distilled from the small evergreen herb's leaves. The refreshing, clean taste of wintergreen has made it a favorite in flavoring numerous products. Wintergreen contains the same active ingredient (methyl salicylate) as birch and is beneficial in massage for soothing head tension and muscles after exercising.

Ylang Ylang - Ylang ylang has a sweet, soft, flowery fragrance that has made it a romantic favorite. In Indonesia, the petals are often strewn across a marriage bed. Ylang ylang is extremely effective in calming and bringing about a sense of relaxation, and it may help with releasing feelings of anger, tension, and nervous irritability. It has a long history in skin and hair care products, particularly in Asia, where it is used to promote luxuriant hair.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

**Jasmine and neroli are absolutes, or essences, rather than essential oils

Definitions courtesy of Young Living Essential Oils