Tag Archives: Relaxing Massage

How to Use Essential Oils: Elemi

Elemi essential oil, steam-distilled from the resin of the Canarium luzonicum tree, has a bright, lemony, and slightly peppery aroma with hints of pine. Native to the Philippines, elemi has been valued for centuries as both a spiritual and medicinal resin, often compared to frankincense and myrrh because they come from the same botanical family. In essential oil form, its uplifting scent is known to refresh the mind, promote focus, and create a feeling of lightness. Diffused, it brings a clean, balancing energy that supports both clarity and calm.

Beyond its uplifting qualities, elemi essential oil is often used in skin care and wellness blends. Its resinous compounds make it helpful for supporting healthy-looking skin, and it is sometimes added to facial oils or serums for a rejuvenating effect. In aromatherapy, it blends well with citrus oils like bergamot or grounding oils like frankincense, making it a versatile choice for meditation, relaxation, and emotional balance. Its crisp, citrus-pine aroma also makes it useful in natural cleaning sprays or room fresheners.

Did You Know? The word “elemi” is thought to come from an Arabic phrase meaning “above and below,” reflecting its traditional use for balancing both spirit and body. Like frankincense and myrrh, elemi belongs to the Burseraceae family, and during the 17th and 18th centuries it was sometimes used in church incense as a substitute when frankincense was scarce. Its lemony-pine fragrance added a fresh note to Christmas and festival celebrations, giving elemi a subtle but meaningful connection to the season.

How to Use Essential Oils: Cocoa

Cocoa essential oil, derived from the beans of the Theobroma cacao tree, is cherished for its deep, rich, and chocolate-like aroma. Native to Central and South America, cocoa has been celebrated for centuries as both a food and a symbol of love and vitality. In essential oil form, its scent provides comfort and indulgence, often used in blends to create a warm, cozy, and uplifting atmosphere. Diffused, it can evoke feelings of happiness and relaxation, much like enjoying a piece of chocolate without the calories.

Beyond its delightful fragrance, cocoa essential oil is packed with natural compounds that contribute to its soothing and antioxidant qualities. It is sometimes used in skin-care blends for its nourishing properties, helping to support smooth, healthy-looking skin. In aromatherapy, cocoa’s rich scent can help ease stress, encourage relaxation, and even promote a more grounded emotional state. Its luxurious aroma makes it a favorite in romantic blends and self-care rituals.

Did You Know? Ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations revered cocoa as “food of the gods” and used it in rituals, drinks, and trade. Today, while most people know cocoa for chocolate, its essential oil form is less common and highly prized for natural perfumery and emotional wellness blends.

How to Use Essential Oils: Vanilla

Vanilla is a special kind of fruit that grows on a plant related to orchids. It originally comes from central Mexico. The Totonac Indians who lived there a long time ago were the first people to figure out how to use vanilla pods from the Tlilxochitl vine.

How to Use Essential Oils: Star Anise

The star anise tree is a type of tree that stays green all year round and is originally from southeastern Asia. Normally, these trees are not very tall, only about 14 to 20 feet, but sometimes they can grow even taller. People have been using this tree for more than 3000 years as both a spice and a medicine, especially in traditional Chinese medicine.