Sandalwood has been used for centuries as incense. Its aroma has a way of quieting the mind and settling the breath. I go through phases of using it daily and always appreciate the calm it brings to me. I like to put it in unscented liquid soap and in foot massage creams to experience the soothing, strengthening, and grounding effects. It has a woody, balsamic, sweet aroma. One outstanding effect of Sandalwood is its affinity for the throat. If I feel a sore throat coming on, I will put a drop under my chin and on my neck and the sore throat will often clear it up within a few hours. If you feel a cold coming on, use the Sandalwood, and try a few steams with Eucalyptus, Ravintsara and Pine. Then try a hot bath with Rosewood and Roman Chamomile. This ritual can prevent a cold from settling in. Sandalwood is also used as a moisturizer and antiseptic for skin concerns. You can put a bit of it on a warm cloth and use that as a compress for dry or dehydrated skin.

Tea Tree is often used in a steam for its decongestive, anti-infectious and expectorant properties. This is a valuable oil to have in your essential oil medicine chest. Try putting a dab of Tea Tree or Lavender on a pimple or infected spot of acne. It will help to clear it up. It has a medicinal, strong aroma. Tea Tree is widely used for fungal infections and I have seen it work best in combination with other antifungal oils. (Eucalyptus Citriodora, Geranium, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Rosewood, Lemongrass, Patchouli, Spikenard, and Palmarosa are other antifungal oils.)

Tumeric is warming and analgesic for rheumatism and any painful, cold joint condition. It is also a wonderful digestive aid, and reduces excess fluid. Calming for the nervous system, turmeric offers us a warm and calming support for reducing pain and a great anti-inflammatory oil. Tumeric rhizome is a source of orange and yellow dyes for silk and wool, traditional coloring for the robes of Buddhist monks. The oil can stain light colored clothing so be sure to dilute it well.

White Pine offers an analgesic effect, especially when combined with Lemongrass and Norway Pine. Excellent oil for reducing the congestion of a cold or flu, and for supporting sleep when the body is aching and tired. This is a nice, soft oil, great for kids, gentle and very effective.