ASA-FOETIDA. Ferula asa-foetida. The essential oil is for EXTERNAL USE ONLY and it should always be diluted with a suitable carrier oil such as Sweet Almond Oil before applying to the skin. Asa-foetida. is non-toxic, non irritant, possible sensitisation in some individuals. The obnoxious odour is destroyed by heat but that would probably destroy its beneficial qualities at the same time. Keep it away from children and pets. The volatile oil is expelled from the lungs and so is excellent for respiratory complaints. Asa-foetida. Oil has been used by Aroma therapists for asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, fatigue, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions. (Also called Asafetida, Gum asafetida, Food of the Gods, Giant Fennel, and Devil's Dung because of it's peculiar pong which is an effective animal repellent. Skunks would turn tail at the smell of this oil. )

AVOCADO. Persea americana. An unrefined cold pressed edible oil, rich in essential fatty acids, high in protein, beta carotene, folic acid, with vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin F. An excellent oil for massage with dry ageing skin, eczema itch and psoriasis.

BALM. See Melissa - True Lemon Balm.

BALSAM - CANADIAN. Abies balsamea. Not a true balsam but an oleoresin mix of resin and essential oil. The oil is for EXTERNAL USE ONLY and it should always be diluted with a suitable carrier oil such as Sweet Almond Oil before applying to the skin. Keep it away from children and pets. It is non-toxic and non-irritant but with possible sensitisation in some individuals. Use in moderation for asthma, bronchitis, burns, depression, leucorrhoea, nervous tension, rheumatism, ulcers, warts, wounds. Large doses will cause nausea. (Also known as Abies balsamea canadensis, Abies balsamifera, American Silver Fir, Balm of Gilead Fir, Balsam Fir, Balsam Tree, Canada Turpentine Oil, Pinus balsamea.)

BALSAM - COPAIBA. Copaifera officinalis. Not a true balsam but an oleoresin mix of resin and essential oil. The oil is for EXTERNAL USE ONLY and it should always be diluted with a suitable carrier oil such as Sweet Almond Oil before applying to the skin. Keep it away from children and pets. It is non-toxic and non-irritant but with possible sensitisation in some individuals. Use in moderation for bronchitis, chilblains, chronic cystitis, incense, intestinal infection, piles, stress related conditions. Large doses will cause nausea. (Also known as Copahu Balsam, Copaiba, Copaiva, Jesuit's Balsam, Maracaibo Balsam, Para Balsam.)