Peppermint Oil
A Strong clinical evidenceMentha × piperita
Gastro-resistant peppermint oil capsules may ease IBS cramps, wind and pain; oil rubbed on the forehead may ease mild tension headache.
Forms of use
Essential Oil
Concentrated aromatic oils distilled from plants. Most are used only diluted on the skin and must not be swallowed.
7 herbs · 2 with clinical evidence (A/B) · 1 not marked avoid in pregnancy
Eucalyptus Oil
T Traditional useEucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus oil is used as steam or a chest rub for cough with a cold and on the skin for localised muscle pain; never under age 2.
Lavender Oil
T Traditional useLavandula angustifolia
Lavender oil is traditionally used as a bath additive to relieve mild symptoms of stress and exhaustion and to aid sleep.
Tea Tree Oil
T Traditional useMelaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree oil is used on the skin only for small wounds, insect bites, small spots and mild athlete's foot itching; it must not be swallowed.
Thyme Oil
T Traditional useThymus vulgaris
Traditionally used as an expectorant for cough with a cold, rubbed on the chest or added to a bath. Use only ready-made products with a set dose.
Rose Oil
B Limited clinical evidenceRosa damascena
Distilled from Damask roses, one of the world's most precious essential oils. Small aromatherapy studies suggest it may help ease anxiety.
Clove Oil
T Traditional useSyzygium aromaticum
Traditionally used as a mouthwash for minor mouth and throat inflammation and for temporary relief of toothache from a cavity. It does not replace a dentist.