Lavender Essential Oil
Soothing and reassuring with a calming aroma
Welcome
Welcome to the Tisserand Aromatherapy Training Academy: Essential Oils Module. By the end of this module you will have learnt about the origins, uses and benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy.
Our Philosophy – Established in 1974
- To source the finest 100% natural pure essential oils of uncompromising quality.
- To share our heritage, knowledge and expertise in blending to create products you can trust.
- To offer innovative products that provide a holistic approach to wellbeing and beauty.
- To make aromatherapy accessible to everyone and easy to adapt to our fast-paced modern lives
Essential Oils
& Aromatherapy
Training Academy
Contents
What are essential oils &
where do they come from?
Essential Oils are the aromatic compounds obtained from plants, fruits and trees. They can be extracted from the flowers, stalks, leaves, peel and petals.
Eucalyptus, Peppermint & Rosemary essential oils come from the leaves.
Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Mandarin & Orange essential oils come from the peel of the fruit.
Lavender essential oil comes from the flowers & stalks.
Orange Blossom, Jasmine & Rose essential oils come from the petals of the flower..
Our essential oils are sourced
from around the world
Peppermint is typically grown in North America.
Grapefruit is typically grown in Florida.
Sandalwood is typically grown in India & Australia.
Orange is typically grown in Brazil.
Tea Tree is typically grown in Australia.
Eucalyptus is typically grown in Australia & China.
Essential Oil Safety
- Essential oils are for external use only. Never swallow essential oils.
- Essential oils should be kept out of the reach of children.
- Do not use them undiluted on the skin. Avoid contact with sensitive areas, such as the eyes.
- If you have a skin condition, epilepsy, asthma, blood pressure irregularities or are taking prescribed medication, please seek medical guidance before using essential oils.
- Health care professionals should be consulted before using essential oils during pregnancy.
- The number of drops indicated for usage are the maximum number of drops you should use across any combination of essential oils. Reduce the amount of essential oils to 2 drops in 10ml blending oil for massage if you have sensitive skin or for children aged 3 to 6 years old.
- Keep essential oils away from painted surfaces, plastic and naked flames.
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils extracted from aromatic flowers, leaves, fruits, grasses, seeds, roots and wood from all over the world to promote emotional and physical wellbeing.
These highly valued fragrant plant extracts have therapeutic powers and relaxing and uplifting effects on the mind, while physically they can help ease muscular aches, improve circulation and help clear sinus congestion.
By understanding the different properties of essential oils you can create simple blends for inhalations, massage oils, bath oils or vaporisation and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy whether at home, work or on the move.
Aromatherapy – past & present
We are privileged to be able to trace our roots back to the early days of aromatherapy. Whilst the term ‘aromatherapy’ wasn’t used until the 20th century, the use of fragrant plants as incense, cosmetics and medicine dates back thousands of years.
In ancient Egypt, ingredients such as Frankincense and Myrrh were used in embalming, burnt in sacred rituals and also made into ointments and perfumes.
In medieval Europe, spices like Nutmeg and Pepper were incredibly valuable. The lady of the house carried them in a locked box tied to her waist and measured out enough spices daily to season food.
At the time of the Plague in the 17th century, aromatic ingredients were the main sources of medicine; doctors wore masks over their faces filled with cloves and other spices to keep infection at bay.
Early scientific and medical research into the properties of essential oils was carried out in the 19th and 20th centuries by doctors in France where, to this day, essential oils are prescribed and used as natural antiseptic and antibacterial remedies.
The word ‘aromatherapy’ was coined in the early 20th century by a French perfume chemist called René-Maurice Gattefossé; who, after an accident in his laboratory where he burnt his arm, plunged it into the nearest liquid which happened to be a vat of Lavender. He was so impressed by how his burn healed that it propelled him into further research of other aromatic essences. He found that with the use of lemon, thyme, clove and other antiseptic oils, wounds healed more quickly and without infection. He named this medicine ‘aromathérapie’.
Robert Tisserand, the founder of Tisserand Aromatherapy, wrote ‘The Art of Aromatherapy’ in the 1970’s. He is still a pioneer of essential oil research, with his textbook ‘Essential Oil Safety’ remaining the industry standard guide to essential oil chemistry.
How the body absorbs essential oils
Through the skin
Essential oils have tiny molecules and can pass through the upper layers of the skin to reach the blood vessels. They are then carried into the general circulation. For example, when you use a massage blend containing essential oils such as Rosemary or Ginger, circulation is increased and the skin feels warm to the touch.
Through the nose & Lungs
When you breathe in an essential oil, the vapour passes through your nose and mouth into your lungs. Essential oils such as Eucalyptus, Tea Tree and Peppermint are very useful for clearing the nasal and chest passages, making it easier to breathe.
How essential oils affect the brain,
mood & feelings
Located at the top of the nose is the olfactory bulb, a part of the nervous system that captures the aroma you are smelling and carries the signal to a part of the brain called the limbic system – one of the oldest parts of the brain. When we smell something, it bypasses our conscious brain, going straight to the limbic system. This area of the brain is responsible for producing and releasing our sensory experiences, such as memories, pleasure and instincts. Clever isn’t it!
Why essential oils work
Essential oils are full of active ingredients that smell wonderful and have positive effects on the body and mind. Scientific analysis has demonstrated the effectiveness of these ingredients.
| Active Ingredient | Aroma | Properties can include |
| Alcohols | Gentle constituents, often with a sweet soft aroma | Antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Some have a sedative effect on the nervous system, e.g. Linalool found in Lavender. Terpinen-4-ol found in Tea Tree and Juniper and Menthol in Peppermint provide antibacterial properties, whilst Geraniol in Geranium and Rose, and Bisabolol found in German Chamomile hold pleasant floral aromas. |
| TERPENES | MONOTERPENES: Fresh uplifting aroma (Tend to have a lighter aroma) | Antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant and stimulants, e.g. Limonene found in all citrus oils, Pinene found in Rosemary, Pine and Frankincense and Terpinene found in Tea Tree. |
| SESQUITERPENES: Fresh, uplifting aroma (longer lasting) | Anti-inflammatory and very often sedative e.g. Bisabolene found in German Chamomile, or antiseptic e.g. Zingiberene found in Ginger. | |
| ALDEHYDES | Very refreshing ‘citrus like’ aromas | Antimicrobial and uplifting to the nervous system, helping to improve mood, e.g. Citronellal found in Citronella, Geranial and Neral (known as Citral) found in Lemongrass and May Chang. |
| PHENOLS | Very pungent aroma with strong constituents | Decongestants and antiseptics, Phenols are found in the more ‘medicinally’ aromatic essential oils e.g. Eugenol, found in Cypress and Eucalyptus. |
| KETONES | Another strong aromatic component | Vulnerary (wound-healing) e.g. Verbenone, found in Frankincense, Lavender and Mandarin |
| ESTERS | Tend to have a fruity, sharp aroma | Calming and sedative, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic, e.g. Linalyl acetate, one of the main ingredients in Lavender, Benzyl acetate found in Jasmine and Ylang Ylang, Geranyl acetate in Geranium and Palmarosa. |
How to use essential oils
Here are the most common methods for using essential oils in everyday life.
In a Bath
- Run a bath to a comfortable temperature.
- Add 4 to 6 drops of essential oil, or a combination of up to 3 essential oils (totalling no more than 6 drops) to 20ml of blending oil and swirl into the water.
- Soak and relax.
In a massage blend
- Add 5 drops of essential oil, or a combination of up to 3 essential oils (totalling no more than 5 drops) to 10ml of blending oil such as Sweet Almond or Jojoba.
- Apply to the body using sweeping massage movements, allowing the oils to soak into the skin. Oils will remain on the skin for at least 8 hours after application.
- For sensitive skin, facial application or for use on a child over the age of 3, use no more than 2 drops of essential oil in 10ml of blending oil.
Inhalation
- Pour a litre of very hot water into a bowl.
- Add 3 to 5 drops of essential oil, or a combination of up to 3 essential oils (totalling no more than 5 drops) into the bowl and inhale the vapour for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Try Eucalyptus, Tea Tree or Peppermint to help ease colds or sinus problems.
Do not use the inhalation method if you suffer from asthma. The inhalation method is only suitable for children over 10 years old.
In a vaporiser
- Add 6 to 8 drops of essential oil, or a combination of up to 3 essential oils (totalling no more than 8 drops) to a vaporiser or burner.
Frequently asked questions
Are essential oils safe to use on children’s skin?
Yes, but you must use the correct dilutions:
- We do not recommend using essential oils on children under 3 years old.
- For children aged 3 to 6 years old, no more than 2 drops of essential oil per 10ml of blending oil should be used.
- For children aged 6 to 15 years old, no more than 4 drops of essential oil per 10ml of blending oil should be used.
- Children over 15 years old can be treated using 5 drops of essential oil per 10ml of blending oil.
Can you use essential oils neat or undiluted on the skin?
All essential oils should be diluted in a blending oil before application to the skin. If someone has a fragrance allergy then essential oils are best avoided for use on the skin; instead the aromas can be enjoyed using a vaporiser.
Can you swallow essential oils?
NO. This is not recommended. Essential oils are very rapidly absorbed through the membrane inside the mouth and enter the bloodstream quickly, which can cause unexpected effects. Undiluted, they can irritate or burn the inside of the mouth.
Why don’t essential oils smell as strong as perfumes?
Essential oils are natural fragrances extracted directly from aromatic leaves, flowers, fruits, barks or roots and evaporate quickly. Some modern perfumes are synthetic, containing strong aromatic chemicals.
How should essential oils be stored and how long should I keep them for?
Keep bottles tightly closed, out of direct sunlight, in a cool dark place and well out of reach of children. Once opened, essential oils should be used within 12 months. Using fresh oils reduces the risk of allergic reactions.
What are essential oil guidelines for pregnancy?
Some essential oils can be used in pregnancy after the first trimester (12 weeks).
You should only use a 1% blend which is 1 drop of essential oil per 5ml of blending oil.
You should NEVER put essential oils neat on the skin or ingest the oils at any time, but particularly whilst pregnant.
Tisserand Roller Balls and other personal care products like hand creams, body lotions, shower washes, soaps and bath oils are fine to use.
Tisserand Massage Oils are not recommended due to the high content of essential oils above the recommended dilution amount.
If any irritation or other symptoms do occur, remove the product and discontinue use.
The following essential oils can be used and cover many pregnancy complaints:
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
Good for easing anxiety. Used in massage or a vaporiser, it will deepen the breath and leave you feeling calm.
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Will help with emotional upset. Use in a vaporiser or massage blend.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Will calm anxiety, aid relaxation and help promote a good night’s sleep. Use in a blend or vaporiser.
Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
Gently stimulating and refreshing to the emotions, best used in a vaporiser.
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Used in a blend and applied to the skin, Chamomile will help soothe irritated or inflamed skin.
Our sourcing standards
When you use a Tisserand Aromatherapy essential oil you have chosen an oil that meets our impeccable set of standards. For us, the process of giving you a product you can feel great about starts from the moment the seed hits the earth.
We know it’s what’s inside our essential oils that really makes the difference and our Finest Quality Promise guarantees our oils represent the best of nature through our responsible sourcing, standards and care.
Sourcing
Nature provides us with the tools to create our essential oils, but planting, harvesting and distilling to create the most efficacious product takes experience.
A guide to our 100% natural
pure essential oils
Organic
Derived from plants that have been grown without man-made fertilisers, herbicides or pesticides. Using ecosystem management methods to maintain the health of both plant and soil guarantees there are no inputs such as genetic modification or irradiation.
Ethically harvested
Derived from a herb, shrub or tree that is consciously cultivated in its natural environment to ensure the species grows in abundance and is not depleted.
Wild crafted
Derived from plants that are not cultivated but are gathered from their wild habitat. Although not organic, they are grown in their natural habitat in conditions favourable to the health of the plant.
Standards
Finest quality comes with experience and it is our uncompromising high standards that have given us the trusted reputation we have today.
We will…
- Be selective and only procure oils from trusted partners
- Build relationships with our partners to ensure consistency
- Safeguard the excellence of our oils via our quality assessment procedures
- Only ever source and use 100% natural pure essential oils
- Remain committed to researching and developing new oils
- Comply with international legislation and authentication
We won’t….
- Ever compromise on quality
- Work with partners who do not share our ethical principles
- Use essential oils that have been unethically sourced
Our top 10 essential oils
Tisserand Aromatherapy offer almost 50 different essential oils sourced from all over the world. Here are our top 10 essential oils:
Lavender
(Lavandula angustifolia)
Distilled from the flowering stalks. A fresh floral aroma which calms the mind, encourages relaxation and promotes sleep. In a blend, the oil soothes the skin, encouraging healthy cell renewal.
Tea Tree
(Melaleuca alternifolia)
Distilled from the leaves. A natural antiseptic which helps fight infection. Due to its multifunctional properties, a bottle of Tea Tree oil is a useful addition to any household.
Rosemary
(Rosmarinus officinalis)
Distilled from the leaves. A powerful green aroma which stimulates the mind, improving focus and memory. It can improve circulation, providing a warming sensation.
Eucalyptus
(Eucalyptus globulus)
Distilled from the leaves. A strong, clearing aroma which refreshes mind and body. When applied to the chest in a massage blend, it can unblock the nose and ease coughs and colds.
Lemon
(Citrus limonum)
Pressed from the fruit peel. A zesty citrus oil which is uplifting and refreshing. It pairs well with Rosemary in a vaporiser to purify the air. Add 6 to 8 drops to a vaporiser or diffuser. In aromatherapy massage blends, Lemon is used to help detoxify the skin and help improve areas prone to cellulite.
Frankincense
(Boswellia carterii)
Distilled from the granules of resin. A rich, deep aroma with a warm, uplifting effect on the mind. Frankincense has been prized for centuries as a skin tonic and conditioner.
Orange
(Citrus aurantium dulcis)
Pressed from the fruit peel. A sweet fresh citrus aroma with an uplifting effect on the mind and mood, helping to ease anxiety. In a blend massaged into the abdomen, Orange essential oil helps relieve stress-related indigestion.
Peppermint
(Mentha piperita)
Distilled from the leaves. A menthol-rich cooling aroma which helps to refresh and awaken the mind. Apply 2 drops to a tissue and inhale to help ease travel sickness and nausea.
Geranium
(Pelargonium graveolens)
Distilled from the leaves. A sweet floral and rosy aroma which can help ease stress. Geranium balances the production of sebum (the skin’s natural oil) when applied to the skin in a blend, making it a good conditioner for all skin types.
Grapefruit
(Citrus paradisi)
Pressed from the fruit peel. A wonderfully sharp, citrus aroma unlike any other. This detoxifying oil is often used in cleansing and clarifying aromatherapy treatments. When used in massage, Grapefruit can help stimulate kidney function and rid the body of excess fluid.
How to blend essential oils
A blend of essential oils is a number of oils mixed together into a base, e.g. Tisserand Blending Oils, to create your own bespoke solution for specific wellbeing concerns.
You can choose up to 3 different essential oils for a blend, this is believed to be the optimum amount to use for the most effective synergy and function of each of the oils.
You will need to consider the effect you want. You may want to feel stimulated or soothed, relaxed or rejuvenated – this will help you choose which essential oils to use. The combination of aromas is also important. Part of how aromatherapy works is the overall aromatic result. When we smell something we like, it will ultimately benefit us more. Our sense of smell is so intrinsically linked to our memories that, if you smell something you don’t like, it’s unlikely to have a therapeutic effect.
Essential oils are a great natural tool for managing many of our everyday lifestyle challenges. Here are a couple of blends to help you feel relaxed and revitalised. Don’t feel you have to follow these – part of the joy of aromatherapy and blending is to have a go and see what you come up with.
Make your own blend
 | ||
| Good for providing a sense of calm if you feel overwhelmed. Massage into upper chest, neck & shoulders. | 20ml of a nourishing blending oil such as Sweet Almond or Jojoba | 20ml |
| 2 drops Neroli | ||
| 4 drops Bergamot | ||
| 4 drops Frankincense | ||
 | ||
| Ideal for tackling afternoon dips in energy. Massage into upper chest, neck and shoulders. | 20mls of a light blending oil such as Peach Kernel or Grapeseed | 20ml |
| 2 drops of Lemon | ||
| 4 drops of Lavende | ||
| 4 drops of Orange | ||
Collections
Wellbeing
Contemporary essential oil blends made with years of experience to enhance your mind, body and wellbeing.
Aroma Spa Diffuser
Create a delicate and fragrant atmosphere to suit your every mood with our Aroma Spa Diffuser. Features Ultrasonic Aroma Technology.
Blending oils
Rich in vitamins and skin-nourishing fatty acids, Tisserand Aromatherapy Pure Blending Oils are perfect for creating aromatherapy massage blends. The range includes: Sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Peach Kernel Oil and Wheatgerm Oil.