Key Chemical Constituents in Essential Oils and Their Effects

Constituent

Representative Oil

Effect

Ketones

fennel, hyssop, sage.

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory, sedative

Aldehydes

Lemongrass  lavender, sandalwood, cinnamon and cypress

Calming, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic

Esters

bergamot, Clary sage, lavender.

fungicidal, sedating

Ethers

Tarragon

Balancing, gentle on the skin

Alcohols

Ravensara

Toning antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal and antibiotic

bactericidal

Phenols

clove, thyme

Stimulant bactericidal and strongly stimulating, can be highly irritating to the skin

Terpenes

               Sequisterenes

        Monoterpenes

lemon, pine, frankincense

Sequisternes

Anti-inflammatory

Monoterpenes

Stimulant antiseptic and anti-inflammatory,

anti viral

Oxides

cinnamon, hyssop, helichrysum, eucalyptus, oregano, rosemary, laurel, basil,

Antiseptic, Antibacterial