Immortelle oil – to coagulate or not to coagulate?
I know I am not the only one puzzled by two seemingly contradictory properties that are claimed for Immortelle oil (Helichrysum italicum). Side note: you may know this as Helichrysum oil, but I am averse to co-opting a botanical name when there are several really...
Five steps to successfully using essential oils in skin care
1. Understand the difference between formulating for an individual and formulating for thousands Aromatherapists make essential oil blends for individuals. An advantage is that you get to interact directly with the recipient, in fact taking a “case history” is part of...
Does Frankincense oil contain boswellic acid?
There are several boswellic acids (BAs) found in some Frankincense species (notably Boswellia serrata and B. sacra), and the BAs are credited with possessing, among others, antitumoral properties, with 11-keto-β-boswellic acid being one of the most useful...
Adverse reaction as a teachable moment
As you may know, the Tisserand Institute manages an Adverse Reaction Database where we collect mostly skin reactions caused by using essential oils. Anyone can submit a report, ideally with photos of the reaction. While we’re not trying to collect all adverse...