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Essential Oils for Acupressure

Aroma Acu-Therapy With Essential Oils

Chinese medicine has long incorporated essential oils as they can direct remedies to a specific acupuncture channel and activate the related energetic organ system. Because of this, essential oils can convey treatment intentions and clear blocks in channels and can resolve accumulations of Heat or Phlegm. Additionally, using essential oils to activate acupressure points has a synergistic effect that is more powerful than using pressure points or aromatherapy as independent self-care modalities. We outline over 30 essential oils and their Chinese medical indications on this page or linked on this page. For best outcomes using self-care, combine associated Aroma Acu-Sticks® to acupuncture points, organic herbs, topical remedies, and good lifestyle practices.

 

Related Articles:

• Aroma Acupoint Therapy Scientific Studies
• Aroma Acupressure Directions and Video

Essential Oils and Self-Acupressure Point Prescription to Maintain Wellness

• Apply the Earth Element Aroma Acu-Stick® to Acupressure Point Stomach 36
• Apply the Water Element Aroma Acu-Stick® to Acupressure Point Kidney 3
• Apply the Wood Element Acupressure Stick® to Acupressure Point Liver 3 
• Apply the Metal Element Aroma Acu-Stick® to Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4
• Apply the Fire Element Aroma Acu-Stick® to Acupressure Point Pericardium 6

Essential Oils Used in Aroma Acu-Therapy

Just like herbs, the pure essential oils derived from medicinal botanicals have specific actions on the energetic organ systems according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Each energetic organ system is connected to a channel with acupuncture points that can be used to balance the body and enhance health. Acu-sticks contain potent pure essential oils that are used as acupressure treatments by activating the points and opening the channels for deep organ-level healing and pain relief along the associated channels. For example, chen-pi is known to help break up Liver Qi stagnation. The Liver is part of the Wood Element. Thus, chen-pi pure essential oil is included with other appropriate essential oils in the Wood Element Aroma Acu-Stick® are used on Liver acupuncture points along the Liver channel.

Related Articles:

• Self Acupressure Directions-Videos
• Individual Acupressure Point Profiles
• Over 100 Ailments Articles with Acupressure Prescriptions for Specific Conditions
• Read the story about the origins of Aroma Acu-Sticks® here!
• Abbreviations Used for Energetic Organ Systems Linked Here

Sweet Basil Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
• Associations: Earth, Water, Metal, SP, ST, LU, KI
• Nature: Warm, Sweet, Spicy, Drying

Indications:

Earth: Applied to Stomach and Spleen channel pressure points to address indigestion, poor digestion of meats and fats, and abdominal distention. Best used for these conditions when applying heat to the abdomen improves the stomach upset or pain because sweet basil essential oils is warm.

Find the Earth Element Aroma Acu-Stick® containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Water: Sweet basil impacts the adrenal cortex and impacts the brain by enhancing cognition and improves memory. Sweet basil essential oil also reinforces Kidney Qi and Kidney Yang thus restoring vitality after chronic exhaustion resulting in adrenal fatigue and/or nervous depression. Apply our Kidney Yang Plaster found here containing pure essential oils to the lower back over the kidneys for Kidney Yang Deficiency.

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Metal: Resolves the feelings of chest tightness and spasms of the bronchi in the lungs and soothes wheezing. Dries phlegm and expectorates phlegm from the lungs; this may result in a productive cough with phlegm expectoration. Sweet basil essential oil can be applied topically over the chest and upper back-buy our Lung Support Plaster containing pure essential oils here!

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Cedar  Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Cedrus spp.
• Associations: LU, BL, Metal
• Nature: Cool, spicy

Indications:

Metal Element: Improves breathing and opens the chest. Can be applied topically over the chest and upper back for improved breathing. Apply along the LU channel for pain and swelling especially in the wrists, elbow, and shoulder joints. Cedar  essential oil can be applied topically over the chest and upper back-buy our Lung Support Plaster containing pure essential oils here!

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Water: Drains Damp Heat in the Lower Burner which would include painful burning urination or vaginal discharge with foul odor.

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Cinnamon Leaf  Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Cinnamomum Cassia
• Associations: Earth, Metal, Water, Fire, LU, HT, BL
• Nature: Hot, spicy, sweet

Indications:

Earth: Because cinnamon is Hot, it can work to resolve pain syndromes related to Cold and Internal Dampness. Apply to abdomen for stomach pain and upset relieved by warmth. Apply over areas of muscle and joint pain that are improved with the application of warmth as cinnamon acts as an anti-inflammatory. For feelings of pain with heaviness apply our natural Damp-Bi Spray containing pure essential oils.

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Metal: Pain along the LU channel due to Cold or Damp, especially shoulder pain. Apply our Shoulder Pain Plaster containing pure essential oils directly to sight of pain.

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Water: Anchors and stimulates the movement of Yang; anchors the Yang to prevent dispersion; for Kidney Yang Deficiency, coldness, adrenal exhaustion. Apply our Kidney Yang Plaster containing pure essential oils directly to the lower back over the kidneys..

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Fire: Used to break up stagnation in the chest due to Cold and resulting in sharp pain, palpitations, and poor circulation. Apply  our Circulation Stimulation Scrub containing pure essential oils to the extremities to improve blood circulation here!

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Citrus Essential Oil

The peel of citrus plants such as lemon, grapefruit, orange and tangerine tend to have detoxifying qualities. They also tend to regulate the Qi; thus, they break up stagnation of Qi helping to reduce pain, and dissolve food accumulations resulting in abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting.

Tangerine Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Citrus reticulata
• Associations: (green peel) Wood, Earth, LV, GB, ST,(aged peel) Metal, Earth, LU, SP, ST
• Nature: bitter, spicy, warm

Indications:

Qing Pi (green peel)  Essential Oil    

Wood: Breaks up Liver Qi Stagnation with indications such as headaches, PMS, anger, frustration, and aggression. Can be applied topically over the ribs for a sluggish liver-buy our Liver Plaster containing pure essential oils for Liver Qi Stagnation here!

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Earth: Use to break up accumulations and stagnation of undigested food. Resolves Dampness. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Chen Pi Essential Oil

Metal: Resolves phlegm in the Lungs and sinuses. Breaks up Qi stagnation along the Lung channel resulting in pain. Apply anywhere along the Lung or Large Intestine channel for pain. 

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Earth: Improves the function of the Spleen including absorption of nutrients from food. Resolves Internal Dampness associated with Spleen Qi Deficiency. Apply anywhere along the Spleen channel to break up stagnation resulting in pain. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Clary Sage Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Salvia sclarea
• Associations: Metal, Fire, Earth, Water, Wood
• Nature: Warm/neutral, spicy, sweet

Indications:

Metal: Opens the chest. 

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Fire: Calms the Shen with insomnia, emotional tension, and headaches. Has a calming effect on the mind but revives poor cognition restoring clarity following chronic stress.

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Earth: Used for stomach upset due to nervous tension.

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Water: Addresses Kidney Qi and Yin Deficiency with symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks, hot flashes, afternoon sweats, and night sweats. 

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Wood: Soothes the Liver, subdues Liver Heat resulting in Internal Wind, thus subduing spasms such as leg spasms seen during opioid detox. Apply our Liver Detox Plaster containing pure essential oils to muscles affected by spasms, along the ribs.

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Clove Essential Oil

• Ding Xiang You- (Clove Bud Essential Oil),
• Botanical Name: Eugenia caryophyllata
• Associations: Earth, Water, SP, ST, KI
• Nature: Warm, spicy

Indications:

Earth: Warms the Middle in cases of vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain/spasms, and lack of appetite due to Cold. Use topically for pain as an anti-inflammatory or in pain conditions that improve with heat. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Water: Used to reinforce the Kidney Yang seen with symptoms of coldness in the body or legs and hands, weakness of legs or knees, chronic lower back pain, or adrenal exhaustion. Improves cognition after a long period of depletion and fatigue.

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Coriander  Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Coriandrum Sativum
• Associations: Earth, Metal, SP, ST, LU
• Nature: Warm, sweet, spicy

Indications:

Earth: Reinforces Spleen Qi with deficient indications such as lack of appetite, loose stools, poor digestion, nausea. Dispels Internal Dampness andpain syndromes due to Dampness impeding Qi flow in the channels with a feeling of heavy limbs. Used to calm stomach upset, cramping, and spasms. Helpful when a prolonged period of neglect results in deficiency, depression, and slow cognition and foggy brain. Use topically for pain related to Dampness. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Cypress  Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Cupressus semprevirens
• Associations: Metal, Earth, Fire, Lu, SP,
• Nature: Slightly cool, dry, spicy, sweet

Indications:

Metal: Soothes spasmodic coughing, clears Lung Phlegm and infections, and addresses asthma with difficulty inhaling. Astringes the skin and promotes tissue healing; removes toxic Heat of the skin as seen with red rashes and boils originating from Blood Heat. .

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Earth: Breaks up lymph fluid congestion. Dries Dampness. Assists with nausea. Apply our all-natual Lymph Drainage Plaster containing pure essential oils.

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)
  

Fire: Stimulates blood circulation. Apply our Circulation Stimulation Scrub containing pure essential oils and herbs directly to limbs, hands and feet.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Eucalyptus globulus
• Associations: Metal, Earth, LU, SP
• Nature: Warm, spicy, drying

Indications:

Metal: Clears phlegm from the respiratory system, including sinuses and lungs. Apply over affected areas.

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Earth: Applied to painful, swollen joints and muscles that worsen in damp weather. Apply over affected areas.

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Fennel Seed Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare
• Associations: Wood, Water, Earth, LV, KI, SP, ST
• Nature: warm, spicy, sweet, dry

Indications:

Wood: Apply along the Liver channel in cases of pain that improves with warmth. 

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Water: Warms the Kidneys and tonifies Kidney Qi. Reinforces the Bladder Qi in cases of incontinence or frequent urinary tract infections.

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Earth: Promotes digestion and absorption of nutrients. Resolves phlegm and coughs with clear or white phlegm. Warms the Stomach for those with stomach upset, abdominal pain, poor digestion of meats and fats, nausea, or vomiting that is resolved when warmth is applied over the stomach. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Frankincense Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Boswellia carteri
• Associations: Fire, Wood, Earth, HT, LV, SP
• Nature: Warm, spicy

Indications:

Fire: Important essential oils for promoting Blood flow and breaking up Blood and Qi stagnation associated with pain and swelling. Calms the Shen with emotional upset and sleep disturbances. Applied to the chest with Heart Blood congestion and sharp pain (call 911 in the case of a heart attack). 

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Wood: Important ingredient in remedies treating pain from Internal Wind with spasms. Enhances the Liver’s ability to promote the free flow of Qi throughout the body and opens the diaphragm for better breathing. Essential oil can be applied topically over the ribs for a sluggish liver-buy our Liver Plaster containing pure essential oils for Liver Qi Stagnation here!

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Earth: Important remedy for Damp-Bi, or Internal Dampness restricting the flow of Blood and Qi resulting in pain. Enhances the Spleen’s ability to regenerate flesh for wounds and scars. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Geranium Essential Oil

• Tian Zhu Kui You- (Geranium Essential Oil),
• Botanical Name: Pelargonium graveolens
• Associations: Earth, Water, Fire, KI, HT, REN
• Nature: Cool, sweet

Indications:

Earth: Used to help even out blood sugar levels after opioid use. Apply over areas of dense lymph nodes to help with detoxification during opioid withdrawal. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Water: Addresses Kidney Yin Deficiency with symptoms such as night sweats and night terrors during withdrawal and long-term adrenal fatigue. 

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Fire: Calms the Shen with emotional disturbances and sleep issues. Helps to circulate Blood and Qi to relieve pain, spasms, and inflammation.

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Ginger (Dry)  Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale
• Associations: Fire, Metal Earth, Water, HT, LU, SP, ST
• Nature: Hot, spicy

Indications:

Fire: Invigorates Blood, warms the channels, and increases circulation. For any pain that improves with the application of heat, but especially muscular pain that worsens with damp weather and/or cold weather. 

Metal: Use to restore Lung Yang with indications of chronic runny nose and/or slight coughs with clear, white, or foamy sputum. For pale asthmatics and fully depleted opioid survivors who have trouble breathing. 

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Earth: For those with nausea and vomiting of clear fluids and a thirst for warm drinks and cold limbs. Use for indigestion and stomach upset that is improved with heat. Revives Spleen Yang with indications of loose stools and poor appetite, and Wei Qi (immunity) for recovering addicts who have had prolonged nutritional deficiencies. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Water: Rescues devastated Yang with indications of prolonged feeling of coldness throughout the body. 

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Howood Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Cinnamomum Camphora Bark (Ho-shu variety not to be confused with white camphor)
• Associations: Fire, Water, Wood,
• Nature: Warm, floral, sweet, pungent

Indications:

Fire: Calms the Shen with nervous tension and exhaustive nervous depression. Helps to reestablish emotional warmth.

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Wood: Soothes the Liver and treats Liver Qi Rising resulting in headaches and migraines. Supports the Liver in its ability to circulate Qi freely throughout the body thus helping to relieve muscle and joint pain due to Qi Stagnation as well as muscle spasms due to Internal Wind.Eessential oil can be applied topically over the ribs for a sluggish liver-buy our Liver Plaster containing pure essential oils for Liver Qi Stagnation here!

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Earth: Assists the Spleen function of regenerating flesh as it is applied to cuts for speedy healing and scar reduction. Rejuvenating and Restorative Qi tonic-type actions. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Lavender Flower Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Lavendula species
• Associations: Fire, Wood, Water, HT, LV
• Nature: Cool, pungent

Indications:

Fire: Calms the Shen with emotional upset and sleep disturbances. Calms heart palpitations and promotes blood circulation. Restores calm focus in those who have suffered cognitive impairment.

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Wood: Breaks up Liver Qi Stagnation with indications of agitation, depression, and headaches. Essential oil can be applied topically over the ribs for a sluggish liver-buy our Liver Plaster containing pure essential oils for Liver Qi Stagnation here!

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Water: Helps to calm anxiety.

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Marjoram Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Origanum majorana
• Associations: Fire, Earth, Wood, Water, HT, SP, LV, KI
• Nature: Cool, pungent, sweet, a bit drying

Indications:

Fire: Calms the Shen with emotional nervousness, upset, frustration, and sleep disturbances with vivid dreams. Strengthens the Heart and encourages the circulation of Heart Qi and Blood. 

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Earth: Calms digestive upset and acid reflux. Resolves Internal Dampness resulting in pain syndromes, especially in red swelling joints that worsen in damp conditions, hot, humid climates, and when it rains. Apply our Damp-Bi Spray containing pure essential oils at sites of pain due to Dampness!

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Wood: Soothes the Liver and quenches Liver Fire with agitation and aggressiveness. Descends Liver Fire rising resulting in headaches and migraines. Uplifting remedy for nervous exhaustion. Essential oil can be applied topically over the ribs for a sluggish liver-buy our Liver Plaster containing pure essential oils for Liver Qi Stagnation here!

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Water: Reinforces Kidney Yin and Essence and is used to heal the brain function and improve memory and cognition.

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Nutmeg Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Myristica fragrans
• Associations: Earth, Metal, Water SP, ST, LI
• Nature: Warm, Aromatic

Indications:

Earth: For diarrhea and abdominal pain and distention that improves when heat is applied it is applied to the lower abdomen. For pain in the extremities due to Internal Dampness blocking the free flow of Qi and Blood with feelings of heaviness it is applied directly to the extremities and/or joints. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Metal: For chronic coughing. For pain along the Large Intestine channel of the hand, arms, elbow, and shoulder.

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Water: Apply to lower back over kidneys in cases of Yang Deficiency.

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Rosemary Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Rosmarinus officinalis
• Associations: Fire, Earth, Wood
• Nature: Warm spicy, sweet, dry

Indications:

Fire: Heart tonic, blood circulation tonic. 

Find our Fire Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and  San Jiao channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Heart 7
• Acupressure Point Pericardium 6
• Acupressure Point Small Intestine 3
• Acupressure Point San Jiao 6

Earth: For chronic diarrhea with mucus in the stools. 

Find our Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Wood: Restores the nervous system and calms emotional nervous tension, headaches, and migraines. Relieves joint pain, and spasms in the muscles. Essential oil can be applied topically over the ribs for a sluggish liver-buy our Liver Plaster containing pure essential oils for Liver Qi Stagnation here!

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Water: Reinforces the adrenal cortex, improves memory, concentration, and cognition. 

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

Thyme Essential Oil

• Botanical Name: Thymus Vulgarus
• Associations: Metal, Water, Earth
• Nature: Warm, spicy, sweet, drying

Indications:

Metal: Important herb for coughs with phlegm. 

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Water: Improves memory, concentration, and cognition in cases of brain function decline. Reinforces adrenal cortex for fatigue due to adrenal exhaustion. 

Find the Water Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Kidney and Bladder channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Kidney 3 (KI3)
• Acupressure Point Bladder 62 (B62)

 

Anise Seed Essential Oil (Not to be confused with Star Anise)

• Botanical Name: Pimpinella anisum
• Associations: Earth/Metal/Wood, SP, ST, LV, LU
• Nature: Warm, Sweet, Spicy, Drying

Indications:

Earth: Supports the Spleen and resolves nausea, eases stomach cramps, and abates vomiting of clear fluids. Benefits the stomach when Coldness slows digestion. Can be rubbed on the abdomen for indigestion such as spasms, pain, and stomach upset.

Find Earth Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Spleen and/or Stomach acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Spleen (SP 3)
• Acupressure point Stomach 36 (ST 36)

Wood: Soothes the Liver and breaks up Qi stagnation resulting in frustration, emotional upset and stress. Because of its warm nature, anise seed essential oils should be avoided with extreme Liver heat. Anise seed essential oil can be applied topically over the ribs for a sluggish liver-buy our Liver Plaster containing pure essential oils for Liver Qi Stagnation here!

Find the Wood Element Acupressure Stick here and apply to pressure points on the Liver and/or Gallbladder acupressure channels such as:

• Acupressure point Liver 3 (LV3)
• Acupressure point Gallbladder 41 (GB41)

Metal: Used to re-enforce the Lung Qi and tonifies Qi Deficiency because of stress and overwork. Also dries respiratory phlegm and stop persistent spasmodic coughing. Anise seed essential oil can be applied topically over the chest and upper back-buy our Lung Support Plaster containing pure essential oils here!

 

Find our Metal Element Acupressure Stick containing pure essential oils here and apply to pressure points on the Lung and Large Intestine channels such as:

• Acupressure Point Lung 7 (LU7)
• Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

Chinese Medicine and Essential Oils

Traditional Chinese medicine does an amazing job of categorizing herbs and essential oils making them more effective when used in functional medicine. Chinese medicine breaks down the nature of the essential oils which helps to delineate the correct essential oils for specific conditions:

• Five Element-Channel Associations-Like herbs, essential oils have specific affinities for individual energetic organ systems and their associated channels and assigned Elements (as in Five Element Theory). Therefore, essential oils can be used to activate acupressure points on channels they are associated with. Essential oils can also be used to direct remedies to specific areas of the body; an example would be our topical Shoulder Pain Plaster that contains herbs and essential oils that open the channels that traverse the shoulders.
• Nature-Hot , Neutral, or Cold-This is important because a "hot" condition such as inflammation or swelling would be aggravated by applying warm essential oils topically. A "cold" condition such as stiffness in joints from arthritis could be worsened by applying cold essential oils topically. Another example of the nature of herbs would be if they are drying or Yin promoting.
• Essential Oils that Move Blood and Qi-One of the ancient secrets in producing effective topical remedies that alleviate pain is the use of herbs and essential oils that promote the circulation of Blood and Qi. Chinese medical theory dictates that there can be no pain when the Blood and Qi are moving freely through the acupuncture channels and collateral vessels. Therefore, simply using anti-inflammatory herbs does not produce the amazing pain reducing affects that we expect with our topical remedies.

To Learn Through Experiencing Pure Essential Oils

The art of therapeutic aromatherapy is experiential; you must actually experiment and use the pure essential oils to gain a deeper understanding of their uses.

Develop a personal recognition of aromas and properties. As you inhale an essential oil for the first time, focus on how it makes you feel and jot down some of your responses.

• Do you like or dislike the aroma?
• Does it bring back any memories?
• Does the scent resonate in one particular part of your body?
• Is it light or heavy scent?
• Does it stimulate or calm?
• Does it energize or relax?
• Is it an opening or closing scent?
• Is it a neutral or balancing scent?
• Is it purifying and cleansing?

Repeat this exercise each time you are exposed to a new essential oil; you will be amazed how accurate your first impression and intuition is when you compare them to the clinical uses of the specific remedies.

Understanding the Uses of Different Parts of the Plants

It is important to understand that essential oils can be derived from many parts of the plants; here are some basic examples:

• Flowers - Blossoms (neroli, rose)
• Flowering Tops (chamomile, lavender)
• Flowers - Plant (rosemary, lavender)
• Leaves (eucalyptus, petitgrain).
• Fruit - Peel - Rind (bergamot)
• Fruit - Seed (orange, black pepper)
• Wood - Trunk (sandalwood, myrrh)
• Root (angelica root, vetiver, ginger)

The part of the plant that pure essential oils are derived from often defines how those essential oils are applied clinically; while not an absolute law, it can be helpful generally in becoming familiar with the general nature of plants:

• Flowers and blossoms often affect the nervous system and endocrine (hormonal) system; they tend to be sedating, relaxing, and euphoric. Examples would be neroli, rose, jasmine, ylang/ylang, chamomile, lavender, clary sage, marjoram, and everlasting.
• Flowers plants affect the nervous system and endocrine (hormonal) system also, but tend to be stimulating, energizing, and refreshing. Examples would be basil peppermint, spearmint, rosemary, lavender, and thyme.
• Leaves often affect the respiratory system and benefit breathing, open the chest, and clear mucus. Examples would be eucalyptus, cardarnon, geranium, niaouli, myrtle, petitgrain, and tea tree.
• Needles, like leaves, tend to affect the respiratory system. Examples would be fir, larch, pine, and spruce.
• Fruit with peels and rind often affect the cardiovascular system and lymphatic system. Samples are bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, mandarin, and orange.
• Fruit or seeds generally affect the digestive and lymphatic systems and can be balancing, grounding, and revitalizing. Examples would be caraway, carrot, cumin, and black pepper.
• Wood and wood from the trunk of a tree or plant typically affects the endocrine (glandular and immunity) system and reinforce energy support and inner strength, while centering, grounding, and opening consciousness. Examples of Wood: camphor, cedar, rosewood, sandalwood. Examples of resins: elemi, frankincense, myrrh, storax (amber). Example of Bark: cinnamon, sassafras.

What are Essential Oils?

Pure essential oils extracted from many parts of natural botanicals (flower, leaf, blossom, petal, herb, tree, bark, root, twig, seed, berry, bean, and rind) for emotional and physical health benefits. Essential oils are able to calm, balance, and rejuvenate on multiple energetic levels (body, mind, spirit). Essential oils and aromatherapy differ from herbal medicine in that aromatherapy only utilizes the highly condensed aromatic compounds and esters, etc, that have been distilled from great quantities of plant material; herbal medicine generally refers to the use of the whole plant, or parts of a whole plant.

The term "aromatherapy" was coined during 20th century by French cosmetic chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who was inspired by the way lavender essential oil had aided in the healing of a burn. However, the use of therapeutic essential oils and herbal infused oils dates back thousands of years; many recipes for aromatic plants were found in ancient Egyptian tombs, and the entombing process actually relied on the use of herbs and essential oils. Aromatics have historically been used for thousands of years in Persia, Greece, Rome, China, and throughout Europe, as well as in the Ayurvedic system of medicine from India.

• Essential oils give fragrance to plants, and protect the plants from insects, heat and disease.
• Essential oils are organic, natural substances derived from leaves, flowers, seeds, beans, fruits, rinds, blossoms, herbs, bark, and roots.
• To many practitioners, they are considered the ‘life force’, ‘soul’, and ‘immune system’ of plant.
• The volatile oils that are extracted from plants are tiny phyto-molecules, and many aromatherapy practitioners use essential oils to access hard to reach ducts, glands, special cells in the body.
• Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts that are 75-100 times more concentrated than dried herbs.
• Essential oils are aromatic and odorous substances by nature that are soluble in oil rather than water.

All essential oils, to a greater or lesser degree, exhibit the following characteristics:

• Antiseptic - prevents or combats infection locally
• Bactericide - kills bacteria
• Bacteriostatic agent - inhibits growth of bacteria
• Cytophylactic qualities - promotes cell rejuvenation
• Lipophilic - Able to absorb deep into skin and internal organs
• Adaptogen - Increases body's ability to deal with stressors and pathogens
• Antiviral - Many are effective antiviral agents

Why Pure Essential Oils Are So Special:

• Essential oils are precious and often rare like jewelry and fine wine
• Essential Oils are considered to possess the 'Quintessential' life force
• It is a natural medicine that is condensed and can have an affect using drops rather than ounces

Tiny molecular structure permeates both into the skin to the internal organs and through the olfactory nerves in the nose to the brain. Molecularly, essential oils are made of the same compounds as our bodies, so essential oils are absorbed and utilized effectively by the body without causing side effects. Even when used topically, essential oils execute there therapeutic qualities both topically and internally.

The general growing interest in traditional medicines and natural therapies has impacted the acceptance of aromatherapy back in to our culture, although the marketing deception has led to consumer confusion. True therapeutic aromatherapy has the potential for dramatic healing outcomes in treatment; unfortunately, many comprehend aromatherapy as a room freshener.

Blending of pure essential oils for therapeutic applications is a skill developed over time that requires an understanding of each essential oils' properties. An aromatherapy practitioner should have experience gained by using essential oils clinically and receiving patient feedback over a number of years. With study, practitioners can also acquire knowledge of the unique chemical constituent that lead to the therapeutic properties of essential oils. Those who do not have formal training in aromatherapy should not use essential oils internally without professional guidance. Aromatherapy allows for a unique all natural way to improve the quality of everyday living on many levels (physical, emotional, and spiritual).

Caution: dilute essential oils!
Most essential oils will burn your skin if they are put directly on the skin. You can do this with lavender and tea tree, but most essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil to 5-10%.

Beginning in 1600's, synthetically produced products made in laboratories began to replace essential oils, at least for scent. Often called ‘fragrances’ the differentiation between pure essential oils and synthetic oils has often been distorted; pure essential oils can be hundreds of times more expensive than fragrances. Today, the popular term "aromatherapy" has been rendered nearly useless as marketers apply the term to anything with fragrance (and sometimes a drop of essential oils). It is important to remember that fragrances do not possess therapeutic qualities, and often do harm as allergens.

References

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This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.