Laurel (Laurus Nobilis) extract
An essential oil is prepared from the leaves of this laurel, which is known as Bay, Bay Laurel, Grecian Laurel, Indian Bay, Roman Bay or Sweet Bay. The most common sources come from Spain and Morocco, and it is used diluted in aromatherapy for its warming effect on the emotions. It is reminiscent of cinnamon, but slightly sweeter, with a hint of spice. It is reported to help clear bruises and soothe inflammations.
Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) Oil
There could be no better essential oil than lavender, and the usefulness of this oil is continually being proven by scientific fact. It has been reported as beneficial for the treatment of burns, wounds, acne, insect bites, wound healing, and painful bruises. Other references recommend the oil for the treatment of fatigue, tired feet, rheumatism, sores, varicose veins and ulcers. The essential oil has been used for the improvement of sleep, by placing a few drops of the oil onto the pillow. The oil has also been used to calm a tense headache and may, in some cases, be useful in cases of migraine. The flowers of Lavandula Hybrida have a subtle difference to their smell, which is quite noticeable when the final essential oil is distilled. Otherwise the properties are exactly the same.
Lemon (Citrus Medica Limonum) Oil
The essential oil of this lemon species has a revitalising and refreshing tang which some find to have the added fizz of sherbet. It takes about 3000 lemons to produce one kilogram of the essential oil. Lemon oil is listed in the British Pharmacopoeia, and has been cited elsewhere for its use in leprotic ulcers, skin diseases and pruritis (skin itching). It has been shown that lemon oil will decrease sleeping time and is used by aromatherapists for its mental and physical activating properties.
Lemon (Citrus Medica Limonum) Peel Oil
This refreshing oil has the slightly bitter and sharp smell that is reminiscent of grapefruit. The peel gives a zesty zing (especially to
soaps which tend to muffle fragrance notes), which is stimulating
and refreshing.
Lime (Citrus Aurantifolia) Oil
The lime has always been considered traditionally as a refreshing fruit and used in cordials around the world. The essential oil is no less refreshing, and brings sparkling vitality to brighten up the senses.
While every care has been taken to ensure that the information given in this glossary is accurate, neither the author, nor ESPA, nor the publishers can be held responsible for the claims arising from the mistaken identity of any herbs or the inappropriate use of any remedy or healing regime.
We must stress that the medical use of plants requires expert knowledge. In this respect, the book is a reference work rather than a guide to practical application. Under no circumstances should readers use the information in theses pages for home treatments of self-administration without first taking expert advice from their medical profession or qualified herbal practitioner.
Always seek medical advice for any persistent symptoms and never undertake self-education if already on a course of prescribed treatment, without the advice and guidance of your doctor.
NOTE: Essential oils must never be used undiluted on the skin, they must always be used with care.
Herbal materials should only be used by qualified medical practitioners or herbalists. The use of herbs for self medication is not recommended, and a doctor should always be consulted
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