Properties and Uses of Essential Oils in Aroma Reflexology

Essential oils have a range of useful properties, such as stimulating or relaxing the body and mind. They are categorised as top, middle or base note essential oils, though there can be some overlap. Aroma reflexology training enables a reflexologist to work with 12 essential oils, which can be blended into a wax, oil or cream and applied to the hands or feet during a reflexology treatment. A reflexologist using three essential oils will aim to include a top, middle and base note in the blend.

Read more about what to expect during your aroma reflexology treatment.

What is a top note essential oil?

Top notes are the first impression of an aroma and are often a light, intense scent. They are the first scent you notice, but also the first to evaporate. Mandarin, grapefruit, eucalyptus and clary sage are top note essential oils.

Mandarin has relaxing, sedating and pain relief properties. Its uses include calming the mind and improving the skin. Grapefruit has uplifting and stimulating properties, particularly for the digestive and lymphatic systems. It has pain relieving properties and is often used when there is swelling. Grapefruit is also thought to encourage a healthy metabolism and support weight loss. Eucalyptus helps alleviate cough and cold symptoms, such as nasal congestion and headaches. It also has pain relieving properties. Clary sage has balancing properties and is often used to reduce muscle spasms.

What is a middle note essential oil?

Middle notes have a longer lasting aroma than top notes and are often herbal or floral scents. They are the main scent of the blend. Chamomile, geranium, lavender and tea tree are middle note essential oils.

Chamomile has relaxing, sedating and balancing properties. It is highly calming so used to reduce anger and mood swings. Geranium has uplifting and balancing properties. It is used to soothe swelling or inflammation. Tea tree has pain relieving properties and is often used if there is an infection. It can also be used to reduce cough and cold symptoms.

I particularly enjoy using lavender essential oil. Lavender is sedating in small amounts but stimulating in large amounts, making it very versatile. It is thought to promote relaxation and is particularly useful for those suffering from anxiety, insomnia and depression. Lavender essential oil is often found in pillow sprays designed to improve sleep. I often make lavender pillow spray at home as it helps me fall asleep much more quickly.

What is a base note essential oil?

Base notes are heavier essential oils. Their aromas last the longest, but you are unlikely to notice the scent straight away. Rose, peppermint, lemongrass and frankincense are base note essential oils.

Rose has relaxing and uplifting properties. It is used to promote balance in the body and mind. I use Rose Absolute oil where possible for maximum benefit. Lemongrass also has uplifting and stimulating properties, especially for the skin and circulation. It also has pain relieving properties. Lemongrass is thought to support the digestive system, relieve muscle pain and reduce fever. Frankincense has balancing properties and is used to reduce cough and cold symptoms.

I find peppermint to be a very useful herb and often drink peppermint tea to reduce bloating. I have also found crushed peppermint very effective at relieving nausea when travelling. As an essential oil, peppermint has uplifting and stimulating properties. It is used for pain relief and to alleviate the symptoms of coughs and colds. It is also thought to relieve nausea, bloating and abdominal discomfort.

Can essential oils be used with chakras?

Some essential oils relate to the chakras where they can be applied to bring about balance.

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