The Ultimate List Of Essential Oils (A-L) Substitutes For Blends & Recipes
- Lee-Anne Willats
- Aug 23, 2024
- 25 min read
By Lee-Anne Willats
Looking for the best essential oil substitution ideas for specific oils? When an essential oil is not readily available, essential oil substitutes can provide a usable alternative. Depending on the essential oil you are missing, there are various substitutes that may be appropriate. Here you will find a complete list of essential oils and for each oil, a list of potential substitutes for that oil based on aroma and therapeutic actions. Keep reading to learn more about how you can begin using these substitute oils in your homemade blend recipes. I think you're going to find this post really useful!
IMPORTANT: This post will point you in the right direction to narrow down your search to a handful of oils, where you can conduct further research into recommended substitute oils and identify the right therapeutic use or property you are looking for. ALWAYS check the safety precautions associated with any oil or substitute you plan to use. We do not promote internal use of essential oils and you should check with a qualified aromatherapist or medical professional for individual or specific advice.
Let's look at what factors to consider when needing substituting essential oils, plus you will find a helpful chart with common replacements.
What Essential Oil Can I Use Instead?
We frequently get the question: "What can I use if I don't have the essential oil I need?". Don't let the fact that you are missing one oil in an essential oil recipe stop you from making a blend that you are interested in.
How to Make Essential Oil Substitutions?
The first thing you need to figure out when making an oil substitution is if you are blending for aroma (scent) or therapeutic (healing) value. Why does this matter? Well, they are two different outcomes for making a blend.
If making a blend for aromatic purposes, the fragrance is very important and substitutions will need to be from similar aromas.
If making a blend for therapeutic purposes, then the aroma is not as important as the benefits you are looking to gain from the oil blend.
No matter what type of blending you are doing, always be aware of the safety concerns of each oil in the blend and any contraindications. Also, keep in mind that no two oils are the same, each offers unique qualities.
Why Use an Essential Oil Substitution Chart?
Substitution charts are helpful when an essential oil is out of stock or unavailable. Substituting an essential oil can also be used to create unique blends with different scents and therapeutic benefits. Here is a list of essential oil substitutions to swap out the oil that you need to within the category of your desired benefit.
Angelica Seed (Angelica archangelica) Essential Oil Substitute
Angelica is quite an expensive oil, but also it can be extremely stimulating to the nervous system.
If someone has quite a fragile personality, (as opposed to a fragile constitution, where angelica is then indicated – it’s very useful in hospice work) then angelica can be a little tough.
Fragrance Group
Herbals. Flowery, but clinical aroma.
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Relaxing and stimulating. Masculine.
Aroma Substitutes for Angelica Seed Essential Oil
Fennel, Dill, Coriander, Chamomile Roman, Chamomile Maroc, Thyme.
Therapeutic Substitutions for Angelica Seed Essential Oil
Calming muscle rub – perhaps clary sage
Calming stomach – Dill or coriander
Support a specific bodily function – Carrot seed, cypress, eucalyptus, fennel, helichrysum, juniper, peppermint or rosemary
Supports menstruation – Sweet Basil
Breathe – Eucalyptus, frankincense or monarda
Cooling – Peppermint, spikenard (although it is ill advised to treat fevers with essential oils as the sudden change in temperature can be more dangerous than the fever itself. Fevers should be allowed to come down naturally)
Nervous system – Rosemary or rose
Stimulating/energising – Sweet Basil
Dull congested skin – Cypress
Support a specific skin issue – Helichrysum or Cajeput
Aches and pains - Juniper
Help pick you up when you are tired – Mandarin or geranium
Angelica Root (Angelica archangelica) Essential Oil Substitute
You may want to find an alternative for angelica root essential oil of you are worried about phototoxicity, or if you suffer from diabetes.
Fragrance Group
Herbaceous, Green
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Revitalising and Comforting
Aroma Substitutes for Angelica Root Essential Oil
Lime, Lemongrass, Chamomile Roman, Dill, Fennel, Tarragon
Therapeutic Substitutions for Angelica Root Essential Oil
Breathe - Eucalyptus, Monarda, Elemi, Frankincense
Support the sinuses - Myrrh, Lemon, Ravensara, Myrrh
Aches and pains - Juniper, Ginger
Help pick you up when you are tired - Mandarin, and Ginger
Support a specific skin issue - Cajeput
Calming when you are worked up - Yarrow, Geranium, Melissa, Valerian and Bergamot
Help to keep you focused to avoid bad habits - Black Pepper
Basil, Holy Ocimum sanctum (Synonym: Tulsi) Essential Oil Substitute
Many websites speak about the basils as all being interchangeable, but whilst both Sweet Basil and Holy basil are adaptogen (Holy Basil, being far more potent in that regard) the energy of Sweet Basil is kind of kick ass masculine, where Holy Basil is softer and very much a feminine energy. You may decide that you want to find an alternative for Holy Basil essential oil if you have any kind of blood clotting issues or on blood thinning medications.
Fragrance Group
Sour, sharp, herbal, green note
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Adaptogen, tranquil and restorative. Soft and feminine.
Aroma Substitutes for Basil Holy Essential Oil
Sweet Basil, Coriander, Patchouli, Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Clary Sage, Lemon Grass
Therapeutic Substitutions for Basil Holy Essential Oil
Calming muscle rub - Clary Sage, chamomile and rosemary
Respiratory system - Eucalyptus, niaouli, Monarda, frankincense
Support you in times of menstruation - Clary sage, rose, jasmine, spikenard, sweet basil
Cooling and calming to the head - sweet basil, rosemary, peppermint and lavender
Basil, Sweet (Ocimum basilicum) Essential Oil Substitute
You may want to find an alternative for sweet basil essential oil because it can overwhelm blends, or because you like being the alpha and you think there might be only room for one bossy one in the friendship!
Fragrance Group
Sharp, peppery, pungent, herbaceous
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Kick ass stimulating
Aroma Substitutes for Basil Sweet Essential Oil
Rosemary, coriander, aniseed, black pepper, fennel, angelica, lovage or hyssop
Therapeutic Substitutions for Basil Sweet Essential Oil
Respiratory system - Eucalyptus, frankincense, elemi, ravensara, lemon, myrrh, tea tree
When you're under the weather - lemon, tea tree, manuka, kanuka, ginger, inula
Calming breathing - myrtle, frankincense, monarda, benzoin, thyme
Exhaustion - marjoram, mandarin, geranium, melissa
Stomach rub - dill, coriander, carrot seed
When you feel really under the weather - Tea tree, cinnamon, cloves, eucalyptus
Support joints - Juniper, ginger
Bug bites - eucalyptus, lavender, chamomile
Help to ward off unwanted guests when you're outside - citronella, catnip, vetiver
Tired, achy muscles - lavender, ginger, rosemary, black pepper, geranium, juniper, plai
Aches and pains - Juniper, plai
Benzoin (Benzoin styrax) Essential Oil Substitute
Alternatives to benzoin essential oil are useful if you are dealing with someone who has very sensitive or reactive skin, and benzoin carries a mild risk of skin irritation.
Fragrance Group
Resinous, sweet, bitter, balsamic and earthy
Note
Base
Energetic
Soothing, calming and masculine
Aroma Substitutes for Benzoin Essential Oil
Jasmine, amyris, sandalwood, cedarwood, myrrh, vetiver, galbanum, labdanum or patchouli
Therapeutic Substitutions for Benzoin Essential Oil
Aches and pains - Juniper, ginger
Breathing & respiratory system - Frankincense, eucalyptus, ravensara, inula, niaouli, myrtle, myrrh, monarda
Skin - Chamomile, cardamom, rose, geranium, calendula, myrrh
Bergamot (Citrus reticulata) Essential Oil Substitute
Alternatives to bergamot essential oil are useful if you are worried about the risk of photoxicity.
Fragrance Group
Bright, green, citrus
Note
Top
Energetic
Bright, reviving, optimistic, citrus
Aroma Substitutes for Bergamot Essential Oil
Lemon, lime, melissa, lemon verbena, monarda
Therapeutic Substitutions for Bergamot Essential Oil
Skin - jasmine, helichrysum, vetiver
Calming when you're worried or nervous - neroli, lavender, chamomile, valerian, yarrow
Specific skin issue - Tea tree, melissa
Pick you up when you're feeling down - Yuzu, melissa, geranium, rose
Freshening - peppermint, spearmint
Calming for the skin - Lavender, chamomile, yarrow
Make you think about food - Tarragon
Oily Skin - Lavender, helichrysum, vetiver
Specific skin issue - Cajeput, angelica root
Calming when you are worked up - Neroli, lavender, melissa, clary sage, geranium
Birch - White (Betula alba) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Bitter, resinous, masculine, sour
Note
Base
Energetic
Stabilising, invigorating
Aroma Substitutes for Birch (White) Essential Oil
Benzoin, Jasmine, amyris, sandalwood, cedarwood, myrrh, vetiver, galbanum, labdanum or patchouli
Therapeutic Substitutions for Birch (White) Essential Oil
Aches and pains - Juniper, ginger, black pepper
Skin toning - cypress, bergamot, rose
Supports bodily function - Cypress, juniper, fennel
Cajeput (Melaleuca cajuputi) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Herbaceous clinical
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Revitalising, sharp, uplifting
Aroma Substitutes for Cajeput Essential Oil
Tea tree, manuka, kanuka, ravensara, niaouli, cypress, eucalyptus
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cajeput Essential Oil
Breathing - Frankincense, melissa, spikenard, monarda, eucalyptus, bergamot, manuka, kanuka, tea tree, niaouli, inula
Calm breathing - myrtle, benzoin, ravensara, inula, benzoin
Muscle Aches - plai, lavender, juniper, black pepper, ginger, clary sage, sweet basil, rosemary
Oily Skin - lavender, vetiver, bergamot
Aches and pains - plai, lavender, juniper, black pepper, davana
Support the sinuses - lemon, myrrh, tea tree, eucalyptus
Support the throat - eucalyptus, monarda
Skin - lavender, tea tree
Chamomile Roman (Anthemis nobilis) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Herbal, sweet, floral
Note
Middle
Energetic
Calming, sedative, soothing
Aroma Substitutes for Chamomile Roman Essential Oil
Lavender, chamomile maroc, fennel, carrot seed, melissa, lemon verbena, lemon grass, hyssop, catnip
Therapeutic Substitutions for Chamomile Roman Essential Oil
Specific skin issue - Galbanum, helichrysum, myrrh, benzoin
Pollen season - melissa, lavender, helichrysum
Aches and pains - Juniper, black pepper, ginger, davana, plai
Specific skin issue - calendula, geranium, myrrh, benzoin, helichrysum
Support you through menstrual times - geranium, clary sage, lavender, rose
Stomach rub - carrot seed, coriander, dill
Cooling and calming for the head - lavender, basil, rosemary
Skin - rose, lavender, patchouli, geranium
Bug Bites - lavender, eucalyptus
Good before you go to sleep - valerian, hops, lavender, vetiver, spikenard
If you're feeling nauseous - peppermint, ginger, spearmint, mandarin
Specific pains - rosemary, clary sage, lavender
Aches and pains - black pepper, juniper, plai, lavender, ginger
Sporting aches and pains - lavender, fennel, frankincense
Calming when you are worked up - neroli, lavender, vetiver, geranium
Skin healing - helichrysum, lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus
Chamomile Blue - German (Chamomilla matricaria) Essential Oil Substitute
If you are missing beautiful blue chamomile from your box, or if you are worried about drug interactions with medications here is our list of alternatives for German chamomile.
Fragrance Group
Herbaceous, sweet floral
Note
Middle
Energetic
Soothing, reassuring, gentle
Aroma Substitutes for Chamomile Blue (German) Essential Oil
Chamomile Roman, yarrow, blue cypress, fragonia, neroli
Therapeutic Substitutions for Chamomile Blue (German) Essential Oil
As Chamomile Roman - See above
Chamomile Maroc Ormenis multicaulis (Synonyms: Moroccan Chamomile) Essential Oil Substitute
Often misrepresented as Blue Tansy (and indeed as written as such in Schnaubelt) but the two oils are different, with different chemistry and actions. For the most part the actions are interchangeable for Roman Chamomile, but paradoxically, since the azulene component in maroc is lower, the Moroccan chamomile is gentler than either Roman or blue. A wonderful choice for little children and less expensive than the other chamomile oils.
Fragrance Group
Herbal, sweet, floral
Note
Middle
Energetic
Kind, gentle, feminine
Aroma Substitutes for Chamomile Maroc Essential Oil
Chamomile Roman, clary sage, dill, hyssop, melissa, lemon grass, bay, laurel.
Therapeutic Substitutions for Chamomile Maroc Essential Oil
As Chamomile Roman - See above
Camphor - White (Cinnamomum camphora) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Camphoraceous, herbal, clinical
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Opening, stimulating, aggressive
Aroma Substitutes for Camphor (White) Essential Oil
Eucalyptus, frankincense, tea tree, cajeput, pine, spruce fir
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Spicy, warm, woody
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Sensuous, calming and cosseting
Aroma Substitutes for Cardamom Essential Oil
Patchouli, petitgrain, cedarwood, sandalwood, vetiver, jasmine, mandarin
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cardamom Essential Oil
Make you hungry and think of food - Tarragon, chamomile maroc, black pepper
Dry skin - Patchouli, rose, jasmine, geranium
Fatigue - mandarin, geranium, rosemary, peppermint
Fresh - peppermint, bergamot
When you are worked up - lavender, chamomiles, vetiver, melissa, clary sage
Carrot Seed (Daucus carota) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Floral, citrus
Note
Middle
Energetic
Light, amusing, masculine
Aroma Substitutes for Carrot Seed Essential Oil
Mandarin, sweet orange, petitgrain, ginger, neroli, cardamom, davana, cypress
Therapeutic Substitutions for Carrot Seed Essential Oil
Specific skin issue - chamomile, calendula, helichrysum, cardamom, patchouli
Mature Skin - Neroli, frankincense, vetiver
Detox massage - Juniper, cypress, fennel
Bloating massage - juniper cypress, fennel
Supports a specific bodily function - Helichrysum, eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary, chamomile maroc
Cassia (Cinnamomum cassia) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Hot, spicy, woody, fierce
Note
Top
Energetic
Aggressive, invigorating, reassuring, masculine
Aroma Substitutes for Cassia Essential Oil
Cinnamon, ho wood, ho leaf, cedarwood, black pepper, cloves, nutmeg
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cassia Essential Oil
Calming stomach rub - peppermint, cinnamon chamomile, mandarin, spearmint, ginger
Bloated stomach rub - cumin, coriander, chamomile
Calming for young ones - chamomile, mandarin, dill
Aches and pains - juniper, ginger, black pepper, lavender
Feeling under the weather - Eucalyptus, inula, monarda, frankincense, lemon, myrrh
Cedarwood Atlas (Cedrus atlantica) Essential Oil Substitute
While cedarwood atlas may be among the most amazing essential oils, human kind's desire for its glorious straight grain and incredibly long wood, as well as its capacity to calm negative thoughts, has sadly meant it now teeters on the brink of extinction.
For this reason, Himalayan cedarwood and Cedarwood Atlas essential oil are distilled from wood taken from members of the Pinacea family, while all other cedarwoods belong to the Cupressae family.
There is enough similarity between their properties and uses to use them more or less interchangeably. For that reason, I’ll list properties once here, but please know, anything cedarwood, is cedarwood as far as aromatherapy goes. For that reason, please refer to the below substitutes for all Cedarwood essential oils.
Fragrance Group
Woody, reassuring, meditative, masculine
Note
Middle to top although vibrationally acts as a base
Energetic
Sensuous, thoughtful, calming, removed negatives thoughts
Aroma Substitutes for Cedarwood Atlas Essential Oil
Sandalwood, Patchouli, Nutmeg, Coriander, Amyris, Vetiver, Cumin
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cedarwood Atlas Essential Oil
Skin - Jasmine, bergamot, tea tree, helichrysum, lavender, vetiver
Aches and pains - Juniper, black pepper, davana, ginger, lavender
Breathe- Eucalyptus, benzoin, myrrh, Monarda
Calm breathing- Myrtle, eucalyptus, inula
Hair and scalp - patchouli, cardamom
Specific skin issue - helichrysum, calendula, geranium, chamomile, helichrysum
When you are worked up - lavender, chamomile, geranium, vetiver
Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) Essential Oil Substitute
Cinnamon, with its warm vibration, brings into our hearts love from higher realms, if only we allow it. The warm glow of cinnamon exudes right through space and time, transforming sadness into happiness. cinnamon was used in China in 2700BC, and was known to the Egyptians by 1500BC.
Fragrance Group
Hot, spicy, woody, warm
Note
Middle to top
Energetic
Bright, sharp, aggressive, masculine
Aroma Substitutes for Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil
Cassia, ho wood, ho leaf, cedarwood, black pepper, cloves, nutmeg
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil
Stomach rub - Cardamon, coriander, cumin, dill
Feel under the weather - Eucalyptus, clove, eucalyptus, frankincense, niaouli, monarda
Scalp - Tea tree, nerolina
Warming - Black Pepper, geranium
Aches and pains - Lavender, juniper, ginger, black pepper
When you are worked up - ginger, nutmeg, lavender, chamomile, geranium
Cistus Essential (Cistus ladanifer L.) Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Fresh, balsamic, woody, herbaceous
Note
Base
Energetic
Comforting, cosseting, merry, masculine
Aroma Substitutes for Cistus Essential Oil
Myrtle, marjoram, hyssop, lavender, chamomile, tea tree, niaouli, cajeput, geranium
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cistus Essential Oil
Crisis and trauma - Rose, vetiver, amber, valerian
Fear - spikenard, yarrow
Nature's first aid - tea tree, lavender
Therapeutic - helichrysum, tea tree, cinnamon
Skin healing - rose, lavender, neroli, geranium
Support menstruation - Geranium, clary sage, sweet basil
Breathe - myrrh, benzoin, eucalyptus
Calming - lavender, chamomile, melissa, clary sage, valerian
Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) Essential Oil Substitute
Citronella is a bright fresh and zingy oil, however because it can remind people of cleaning products, sometimes it’s nice to switch it up as it can cause headaches.
Fragrance Group
Citrus, fruity
Note
Top
Energetic
Happy, bright, positive, uplifting
Aroma Substitutes for Citronella Essential Oil
Lemon, lemon verbena, Melissa, Monarda, Bergamot
Therapeutic Substitutions for Citronella Essential Oil
Aches and pains - lavender, juniper, ginger, black pepper
Feeling under the weather - tea tree, eucalyptus, inula, ravensara, monarda
Excessive Perspiration – Ginger, patchouli
Fatigue - Mandarin, lemon, bergamot, helichrysum
Cooling - peppermint
Specific skin therapeutic use – thyme, tea tree, myrrh, melissa
Skin healing - lavender, peppermint
Bites – lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree
Ward off unwanted outdoor guests – lemongrass, vetiver, catnip
Nature's first aid – tea tree
Nerve related - roman chamomile, rosemary, Melissa, tuberose
Oily Skin – lavender, grapefruit, lemon
Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) Essential Oil Substitute
Clary sage oil has a gorgeous, soft fragrance reminiscent of cold tea. It has benefits for both the physical and mental aspects of mankind, teaching us to be content with what we have. It brings prosperity of the spirit, and the realization that most problems arise in our imagination. This oil lifts the spirit and links with eternal wisdom.
It is contraindicated until the last 37 weeks of pregnancy because of its stimulant action on the uterus. (Incidentally, research shows that if you use it before the onset of full labour it slows down contractions rather than increases them, so genuinely leave it alone until you are safely in active labour in the delivery suite).
In addition, whilst it can be extremely useful for alleviating menopausal symptoms, it can exacerbate peri-menopausal flushes etc. Finally, clary sage is contraindicated if you have been drinking alcohol. It gets you drunk very fast but can the cause absolute worst hangover in the morning as well as hallucinations.
Fragrance Group
Herbaceous floral
Note
Middle
Energetic
Relaxing, euphoric and delightful. Like lying on the grass on a summer’s day.
Aroma Substitutes for Clary Sage Essential Oil
Lavender, chamomile, hyssop, davana, juniper, pine
Therapeutic Substitutions for Clary Sage Essential Oil
Calming for the skin – lavender, grapefruit, jasmine
Breathe – frankincense, eucalyptus, hyssop, monarda
Calming for kids – mandarin, dill, chamomile
Chesty breathing - myrtle, ravensara, benzoin, frankincense
Scalp – Nerolina, patchouli
Dry Or Mature Skin – Rose, neroli, frankincense
Support you during times of menstruation – lavender, rose, geranium
Exhaustion – Helichrysum, mandarin, bergamot
Stomach rub – chamomile, dill, coriander, peppermint
Hair – spikenard, rosemary, lavender, cedarwood
Could potentially affect blood pressure - ylang ylang, melissa
Muscular Aches and Pains - lavender, juniper, ginger, rosemary
Skin calming – lavender, chamomile
Therapeutic – lavender, hyssop, tea tree
Clove Bud (Syzygium aromaticum L.) Essential Oil Substitute
The sharp spice of clove is delicious but hot and can be mildly irritating.
Fragrance Group
Spice
Note
Middle
Energetic
Fierce, pungent, stimulant
Aroma Substitutes for Clove Bud Essential Oil
Cinnamon, coriander, pine, fir, ginger, nutmeg
Therapeutic Substitutions for Clove Bud Essential Oil
Calming stomach rub - Chamomile, dill, coriander, mandarin, peppermint
Aches and pains – Lavender, Valerian, chamomile
Therapeutic – Cinnamon, tea tree, thyme
Breathe - Eucalyptus, bergamot, tea tree, monarda, frankincense
Stomach rub – Dill, peppermint, coriander, mandarin, chamomile
Feel under the weather - Inula, ravensara, tea tree, manuka, kanuka,
Specific skin therapeutic - Thyme, tea tree, geranium
Muscle soreness - Lavender, juniper, ginger
If you feel nauseous - Dill, peppermint, coriander, mandarin, chamomile
Copaiba (Copaifera langsdorffii) Essential Oil Substitute
Copaiba is quickly becoming one of the most popular essential oils in the therapist’s box, but can sometimes be difficult to obtain.
Fragrance Group
Clinical, Herbaceous
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Nurturing, relaxing, comforting
Aroma Substitutes for Copaiba Essential Oil
Pine, cypress
Therapeutic Substitutions for Copaiba Essential Oil
Breathe – Frankincense, eucalyptus, tea tree, monarda, bergamot
Aches and pains - Helichrysum, black pepper, hemp
Calm chesty breathing - Frankincense, eucalyptus, tea tree, monarda, bergamot, myrtle
Feel under the weather – Tea tree, lemon, myrrh
Perfumery Fixative – benzoin
Coriander Seed (Coriandrum sativum) Essential Oil Substitute
The Earth fragrance of coriander is delicious and adds warmth to a blend, but can also be reminiscent of curry for some people.
Fragrance Group
Warm, earthy, woody spice
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Soothing, nurturing, familiar
Aroma Substitutes for Coriander Seed Essential Oil
Dill, coriander, angelica, cardamom, patchouli, cedarwood
Therapeutic Substitutions for Coriander Seed Essential Oil
Aches and pains – Lavender, juniper, ginger
Relaxing muscle rub – clary sage, roman chamomile, dill
Therapeutic use – clove, cinnamon, tea tree
Stomach rub – mandarin, dill, roman chamomile, peppermint
Calming for kids - mandarin, dill lavender
Fatigue – Mandarin, helichrysum, melissa
When you feel nauseous - mandarin, dill, roman chamomile, peppermint
Stimulating - Peppermint, spearmint
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) Essential Oil Substitute
Like coriander, the lovely, warm fragrance of cumin can make a blend smell a bit like curry!
Fragrance Group
Spice
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Soothing, cosseting, rejuvenating
Aroma Substitutes for Cumin Essential Oil
Coriander, dill, cardamom, fenugreek, turmeric, fennel
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cumin Essential Oil
Detox massage – Cypress, juniper, fennel
Warming massage to improve circulation – Cypress, black pepper, geranium
Could potentially affect blood pressure - rosemary
Calming for kids – Mandarin, chamomile, spearmint, coriander
Stomach rub – peppermint, coriander, spearmint, carrot seed, dill, chamomile.
Fatigue - Mandarin, helichrysum, bergamot, Melissa
Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) Essential Oil Substitute
I can’t think of a single reason why someone might want to substitute cypress, I’m afraid! An inexpensive but incredibly useful oil with a deliciously refreshing fragrance.
Fragrance Group
Woody, floral
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Reflective, comforting, refreshing
Aroma Substitutes for Cypress Essential Oil
Pine, ginger, fir, juniper, geranium
Therapeutic Substitutions for Cypress Essential Oil
Skin healing – tea tree, lavender, grapefruit
Excessive Perspiration – Ginger, patchouli
Oily Skin – clary sage, lavender, grapefruit
Aches and pains – Lavender, juniper, ginger, black pepper, copaiba
Grief - Rose, Melissa
Cypress, Blue (Callitris intratropica RT) Essential Oil Substitute
Native to Australia, blue cypress oil is good for breathing and great for blend.
Fragrance Group
Woody, smoky, slightly sweet
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Sedative, relaxing, happy
Aroma Substitutes for Blue Cypress Essential Oil
Chamomile matricaria, yarrow, lavender
Therapeutic Substitutions for Blue Cypress Essential Oil
Aches and pains - Lavender, juniper, ginger, black pepper
Respiratory system – Vetiver, frankincense, monarda, eucalyptus
Fragrance Fixative – Benzoin, copaiba
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Floral
Note
Middle
Energetic
Saucy, romantic and just a little bit naughty!
Aroma Substitutes for Damiana Essential Oil
Rose, jasmine, geranium
Therapeutic Substitutions for Damiana Essential Oil
Support you during menstruation - lavender, rose, geranium, clary sage
Loss of libido – jasmine, clary sage, blue lotus, rose
When you are worried or nervous - lavender, chamomile, geranium, ylang ylang, clary sage, neroli, valerian, spikenard, yarrow
When you are feeling down – Melissa, bergamot, yuzu
Warming stomach rub - rose, ginger
Davana (Artemisia pallens) Essential Oil Substitute
Despite Davana coming from a silver leaved bushy herb it smells of a deep woody orange, sultry and gorgeous!
Fragrance Group
Herbaceous, floral
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Comforting, seductive, delightful
Aroma Substitutes for Davana Essential Oil
Orange, neroli, petitgrain, cedarwood, Amyris, patchouli, jasmine
Therapeutic Substitutions for Davana Essential Oil
Nature's first aid therapeutics – Tea tree, sweet basil, ravensara, inula, manuka, kanuka
Breathing – frankincense, bergamot, tea tree, inula, monarda
Calm chesty breathing – myrtle, benzoin, myrrh
Feel under the weather – tea tree myrrh, lemon
Feel really under the weather - tea tree, copaiba, cinnamon, clove
Nervous Stomach – roman chamomile, peppermint, spearmint, mandarin, cardamom
Bloated stomach – spearmint, peppermint, chamomile
Feel nauseous - chamomile, dill, ginger
Support during menstruation - Lavender, rose, geranium, clary sage
Support you through the Menopause – Vitex agnus castus, clary sage, rose
When you feel worried or nervous - Lavender, bergamot, rose, neroli, sweet orange
Irritability - Lavender, geranium, melissa
Skin Healing – helichrysum, myrrh, galbanum
Dill (anethum graveolens) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Herbaceous
Note
Middle
Energetic
Happy, balanced, gentle
Aroma Substitutes for Dill Essential Oil
Lavender, hyssop, chamomile, tarragon, parsley, coriander
Therapeutic Substitutions for Dill Essential Oil
Calming for kids - Chamomile, mandarin, spearmint, coriander
Stomach rub - carrot seed, chamomile, peppermint, coriander, mandarin
Breathe – frankincense, monarda, hyssop
Support during menstruation – clary sage, rose geranium, lavender
Elemi (Canarium luzonicum - Blume) Essential Oil Substitute
Fragrance Group
Resinous, woody, spicy
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Deeply soothing and reassuring, priest-like.
Aroma Substitutes for Elemi Essential Oil
Frankincense, myrrh, pine, cinnamon
Therapeutic Substitutions for Elemi Essential Oil
Respiratory system – Monarda, frankincense, myrrh, hyssop
Calm chesty breathing – hyssop, myrtle, benzoin
Clear the airways – Eucalyptus, myrrh, hyssop
Muscular Fatigue – black pepper, juniper, ginger
Specific skin therapeutic use – tea tree, cinnamon
Skin healing – helichrysum, myrrh, galbanum, lavender, chamomile, tea tree
Fatigue – mandarin, bergamot, helichrysum
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus | Eucalyptus radiata | Eucalyptus polybractea) Essential Oil Substitute
The familiar fragrance of eucalyptus essential oil is not to everyone’s taste and can be a little strong for little children’s delicate respiratory systems too.
Fragrance Group
Clinical, herbal
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Strident, punchy, like it means business!
Aroma Substitutes for Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Pine, frankincense, tea tree, manuka, kanuka, inula, ravensara
Therapeutic Substitutions for Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Respiratory system – Tea tree, monarda, ravensara, manuka, kanuka, cajuput
Breathe – Frankincense, inula, ravensara, monarda, myrrh, hyssop
Nature's first aid – tea tree, cinnamon, clove, thyme
Cooling – Tea tree, peppermint, spikenard, spearmint
Support the sinuses – Lemon, myrrh, tea tree
Muscular Aches and Pains – Lavender, juniper, ginger, black pepper, copaiba
Fir, Silver (Abies alba) Essential Oil Substitute
Glorious fir brings us the fragrance of the mountains but is often not a great draw when you see it on the shelf. It tends not to be an oil that beginners will buy.
Fragrance Group
Clinical, herbal, resinous
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Opening, refreshing, releasing
Aroma Substitutes for Fir (Silver) Essential Oil
Frankincense, pine, eucalyptus, lemon, myrrh
Therapeutic Substitutions for Fir (Silver)Â Essential Oil
Clear the airways – Lemon, myrrh, tea tree, hyssop
Support the sinuses - myrrh, tea tree
Breathe – Frankincense, monarda, eucalyptus, ravensara, thyme, inula
Chest respiratory system – myrtle, myrrh, benzoin
Muscular Aches And Pains – lavender, juniper, ginger, black pepper, copaiba
Cooling – Peppermint, rose
When you are worried or nervous - lavender, chamomile, geranium, ylang ylang, yarrow, valerian, neroli
Winter/holiday blues - bergamot, lemon, lemon verbena, Melissa, marjoram
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii | Boswellia serrata) Essential Oil Substitute
Sometimes called olibanum, frankincense holds some of the wisdom of the universe, both spiritual and meditative. able to cleanse the most negative of influences, it operates as a spiritual prop in a wide range of circumstances. it works far beyond the auric field, affecting the very subtle realms of energy and adapting the spiritual state.
Wonderful frankincense essential oil renews our connection with the world, opening our lungs, minds and consciousness. However intensive harvesting of the resin now means it stands on the brink of being endangered. It’s imperative we try to protect it for the future generations to come. Before leaping to grab your frankincense every time you want to relax, perhaps consider if other oils will do the trick first.
Fragrance Group
Resinous, woody
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Comforting, serene, opening, expanding
Aroma Substitutes for Frankincense Essential Oil
Pine, fir, elemi, eucalyptus
Therapeutic Substitutions for Frankincense Essential Oil
When you are worried or nervous – valerian, spikenard, yarrow, lavender, chamomile, ylang ylang, neroli, rose
Breathe – monarda, elemi, eucalyptus, hyssop, myrtle, bergamot, tea tree
Calm chesty breathing – benzoin, myrtle
Skin support and healing – helichrysum, jasmine, myrrh
When you are worked up or overwhelmed - lavender, chamomile, bergamot
Galbanum (Ferula galbaniflua) Essential Oil Substitute
Deep, sultry and almost priest-like, galbanum often turns up in skin care preparations, but not in people’s boxes!
Fragrance Group
Resin
Note
Base
Energetic
Cathartic, sedative, arcane
Aroma Substitutes for Galbanum Essential Oil
Myrrh, labdanum, spikenard, opoponax
Therapeutic Substitutions for Galbanum Essential Oil
Therapeutic skin uses – Geranium, myrrh, roman chamomile, helichrysum
Skin healing & support - lavender, jasmine, bergamot, helichrysum, tea tree, myrrh
Breathe – hyssop, eucalyptus, inula,monarda, frankincense
Clear chesty airways - myrtle, benzoin, tea tree, frankincense
Muscular Aches and Pains - Lavender, juniper, ginger, black pepper, clary sage
Bloated stomach rub – Mandarin, chamomile, peppermint, spearmint, dill
Nerve-related conditions - lavender, chamomile, Melissa, angelica root, ylang ylang, neroli, valerian, yarrow.
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) Essential Oil Substitute
Often considered the poor man’s rose, but that sells geranium essential oil short. It is possibly one of the most useful and important essential oils available on the market today. However, since you can use it for pretty much anything, and it does not carry a particularly hefty price tag, it’s so easy to use it all up and not realise you’ve run out!
Geranium resonates with Mother Earth and all that is feminine. It typifies the archetypal energy of Goddess culture. Its energy is transformational and as such it must always be used with respect. It comforts, opens our hearts and heals pain.
Fragrance Group
Floral
Note
Middle
Energetic
Happy, relaxing, reassuring, wise
Aroma Substitutes for Geranium Essential Oil
Rose, cistus, davana, lavender, chamomile, petitgrain, cardamon
Therapeutic Substitutions for Geranium Essential Oil
Support during menstruation - rose, lavender, clary sage, ylang ylang
Support during menopause – clary sage, rose, vitex agnus castus, ylang ylang
Circulatory System – Cypress, black pepper
Warming – ginger, cypress, black pepper
Nerve-related conditions – rosemary, roman chamomile, copaiba
Skin healing and calming - lavender, chamomile, helichrysum, myrrh, galbanum
When you feel down – bergamot, rose, Melissa, yuzu
Fatigue - mandarin, helichrysum, bergamot
Emotional Crisis – Rose, ylang ylang, cistus, spikenard
Skin balancing – jasmine, bergamot, tea tree, helichrysum, lavender
Specific skin therapeutic uses – calendula, helichrysum, chamomile, myrrh, tea tree
Scalp - tea tree, nerolina
Sebum Balancing - Lavender, cypress, ylang ylang
Specific therapeutic uses – Eucalyptus, peppermint, chamomile, rosemary, carrot seed
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Essential Oil Substitute
Ginger’s energy is smoking hot if you’d like a rather aggressive action, (either on your thermal warming, your digestion or your disposition). You might also like some of these lovely alternative essential oils.
Fragrance Group
Spice
Note
Middle to top
Energetic
Invigorating, warming, motivating
Aroma Substitutes for Ginger Essential Oil
Nutmeg, cinnamon, davana, orange
Therapeutic Substitutions for Ginger Essential Oil
Aching Muscles - Lavender, juniper, clary sage
Feeling nauseous – Peppermint, chamomile, spearmint
Bloated stomach rub – peppermint, mandarin, chamomile, spearmint
Warming to the circulatory system – Black pepper, geranium, cypress
Nervous exhaustion - bergamot, mandarin, helichrysum
Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) Essential Oil Substitute
The fresh zingy note of grapefruit is usually in a therapist’s box, but since you should not use old oils because of its high monoterpene content, it can often be out of date, which in turn can lead to a risk of skin sensitisation.
Fragrance Group
Citrus
Note
Top
Energetic
Bright, happy, go-getter
Aroma Substitutes for Grapefruit Essential Oil
Lemon, lemon verbena, Melissa, petitgrain, bergamot, yuzu
Therapeutic Substitutions for Grapefruit Essential Oil
Skin balancing – lavender, cypress, jasmine, bergamot, cypress, tea tree
Oily Skin – bergamot, lavender, cypress
Cellulite – fennel, juniper, black pepper
Dull Skin – angelica root, geranium, carot seed
Detoxifying massage – fennel, angelica seed, hyssop, juniper
Bloating massage – fennel, juniper, cpress
Nervous Exhaustion - mandarin, helichrysum, bergamot
Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum) Essential Oil Substitute
The strange early, aniseed-y, curry-like fragrance is both delightful yet disconcerting all at once! This is an important oil but can often carry a hefty price tag.
Fragrance Group
Floral, spicy, woody
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Steady, robust, reliable
Aroma Substitutes for Helichrysum Essential Oil
Cedarwood, sandalwood, patchouli, myrrh, calendula
Therapeutic Substitutions for Helichrysum Essential Oil
Muscular Aches And Pains – Lavender, juniper, black pepper, ginger, copaiba
Skin balancing – Lavender, tea tree, bergamot, jasmine
Skin healing - Lavender, tea tree, myrrh
Specific skin therapeutic uses – Calendula, geranium, myrrh, calendula, chamomile, cajeput,
Skin calming – Roman chamomile, German (blue) chamomile, vetiver
Nervous Exhaustion – Mandarin, bergamot, vetiver
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) Essential Oil Substitute
Beautiful hyssop is chock full of ketones which make it so gorgeous for breaking stuff down. However, ketones can make it a difficult oil to use if you have epilepsy or any problems with psychosis. The level of ketones actually drops after the plant has flowered but the majority of commercial oils are distilled from the plant before it has come into flower.
Fragrance Group
Herbaceous
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Invigorating and clearing
Aroma Substitutes for Hyssop Essential Oil
Clary sage, camphor, rosemary, Roman chamomile
Therapeutic Substitutions for Hyssop Essential Oil
Feeling under the weather - lemon, myrrh, tea tree, eucalyptus, myrtle, ravensara, inula, monarda
Feeling very under the weather - tea tree, helichrysum, manuka, kanuka, cinnamon, oregano, thyme – oregano, eucalyptus
Breathe - Eucalyptus, niaouli, tea tree, frankincense, bergamot, ravensara, niaouli
Clear the airways – eucalyptus, thyme, bergamot, frankincense, monarda
Skin healing – Geranium, helichrysum, tea tree, lavender, myrrh
Aches and pains – Lavender, juniper, black pepper, ginger, davana, plai
Stomach rub – coriander, dill, fennel, carrot seed, chamomile
Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum) Essential Oil Substitute
A heady sensuous and delicious fragrance, jasmine is taken from dainty white flowers which exude their fragrance to attract moths in the evening. However, the number of flowers required to make the oil is high, and the oil needs to be extracted by one of the costliest methods too (it's an absolute rather than an essential oil). For that reason, jasmine can be very expensive.
It provides us with our personal sanctuary and allows us access to a greater understanding of the spirit. It is said that jasmine brings the angelic kingdom within our reach, thus allowing us to be the best we can. It gives understanding and acceptance of the true meaning of spirituality.
Fragrance Group
Floral
Note
Middle to Base
Energetic
Seductive and soothing
Aroma Substitutes for Jasmine Essential Oil (absolute)
Patchouli, ylang ylang, tuberose, vetiver, sandalwood
Therapeutic Substitutions for Jasmine Essential Oil (absolute)
When you are worried or nervous – lavender, chamomile, valerian, yarrow, geranium, sandalwood, ylang ylang, rose
When you feel down – Melissa, bergamot, rose, geranium, yuzu,
Potentially affect blood pressure - clary sage, Melissa, ylang ylang
Calming – ylang ylang, lavender
Skin healing – Helichrysum
Juniper (Juniperus communis) Essential Oil Substitute
Delicious juniper has a sharp fresh fragrance, but it is a very powerful oil, used mainly for flushing out toxins. For this reason, it is an oil best avoided by anyone with kidney issues.
Fragrance Group
Evergreen, herbaceous
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Stimulating, invigorating, lifting
Aroma Substitutes for Juniper Essential OilÂ
Pine, fir, cypress, spruce
Therapeutic Substitutions for Juniper Essential Oil
Skin balancing - helichrysum, lavender, jasmine, tea tree
Specific skin therapeutic uses – tea tree, fennel, clary sage, geranium, cypress
Feeling under the weather - lemon, myrrh, tea tree – Lavender, tea tree, myrrh, ravensara
Feeling very under the weather – oregano, cinnamon, tea tree, manuka, kanuka, niaouli, eucalyptus
Detox massage – Fennel
Lavender, Spike (Lavandula latifolia) Essential Oil Substitute
Lavender spike has a sharp camphoraceous fragrance, more lavender-y than other lavender, if that makes sense? Like hyssop though, it has high levels of ketones which can be problematic for people with epilepsy, high blood pressure and psychosis.
More people tend to complain of headaches and achy legs from using latifolia, so it isn't a common choice these days. I think it’s fair to say that you can always substitute angustifolia if you do not have latifolia, but not necessarily the other way round.
Fragrance Group
Floral, herbaceous
Note
Middle to Top
Energetic
Relaxing and soothing
Aroma Substitutes for Spike Lavender Essential OilÂ
Lavender angustifolia, hyssop, rosemary
Therapeutic Substitutions for Spike Lavender Essential Oil
When you are worried or nervous – rose, ylang ylang, sandalwood, camomile, geranium, yarrow, valerian, spikenard, clary sage
Skin healing - Helichrysum
When you feel down – bergamot, rose, ylang ylang, Melissa, yuzu
Specific skin therapeutic uses – Calendula, geranium, helichrysum, myrrh
Support during menstruation – clary sage, rose, geranium
Cooling to the head – chamomile, basil, rosemary
Calming – clary sage, geranium, ylang ylang
Bites – eucalyptus, chamomile
Ward off unwanted outdoor guests - vetiver, eucalyptus, tea tree
Itching - chamomile
Oily skin – ylang ylang, melissa
Aches and pains – juniper, black pepper, ginger
Sporting aches - helichrysum
Lavender, True (Lavandula angustifolia) Essential Oil Substitute
Lavender is caring and nurturing. By allowing the heavenly energies close to the physical, it brings about healing and thus signifies the protective love of Mother Earth. Gentle and relaxing, it changes the perception to enable one to make progress. Lavender will not allow negative emotion to remain present within the aura for long.
Fragrance Group
Floral, herbaceous
Note
Middle
Energetic
Relaxing and soothing
Aroma Substitutes for Lavender Essential OilÂ
Hyssop, rosemary, clary sage
Therapeutic Substitutions for Lavender Essential Oil
Similar to spike lavender
Lemon (Citrus limonum) Essential Oil Substitute
Bright, fresh and clean, but often you may discover your lemon oil has become to old to use. Remember oils high in monoterpenes oxidise quickly and can cause skin sensitisation.
Fragrance Group
Citrus
Note
Top
Energetic
Joyful, carefree
Aroma Substitutes for Lemon Essential OilÂ
Lemongrass, citronella, lemon verbena, melissa
Therapeutic Substitutions for Lemon Essential Oil
Specific skin therapeutic uses - tea tree, helichrysum, cinnamon, geranium
Warming - black pepper
Feeling under the weather - lemon, myrrh, tea tree
Dull Skin – angelica root, Melissa, carrot seed, neroli
Feeling very under the weather – eucalyptus, cinnamon, oregano, manuka, kanuka
Oily Skin – lavender
Skin support - lavender, geranium, helichrysum
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) Essential Oil Substitute
Lovely, strong and confident, lemongrass oil can be a tad bossy for some people.
Fragrance Group
Citrus
Note
Top
Energetic
Victorious, confident
Aroma Substitutes for Lemongrass Essential OilÂ
Lemon, citronella, lemon verbena, melissa
Therapeutic Substitutions for Lemongrass Essential Oil
Skin balancing - helichrysum, lavender, jasmine, tea tree
Stomach rub – Coriander, dill, carrot seed cardamom, jasmine, peppermint
Bloated stomach rub – peppermint, chamomile, dill
Ward off unwanted outdoor guests - vetiver, eucalyptus, tea tree – eucalyptus, vetiver
Muscular Aches And Pains – lavender, juniper, ginger, geranium, rosemary, black pepper
Physical & mental fatigue or burn out - Mandarin, melissa, lemon, lemon verbena
Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora) Essential Oil Substitute
Poor old lemon verbena gets a bad rap. She has become known for being a skin irritant and an adulterant for Melissa, but in fact verbena is so romantic and rejuvenating, I’d encourage you to take another look.
Fragrance Group
Citrus
Note
Top
Energetic
Dreamy, sensuous
Aroma Substitutes for Lemon Verbena Essential OilÂ
Lemon, citronella, melissa, lemon myrtle, lemon scented eucalyptus
Therapeutic Substitutions for Lemon Verbena Essential Oil
Aphrodisiac – Jasmine, patchouli, neroli
When you feel down – bergamot, yuzu, neroli
Dull skin – angelica root, myrtle, lemon, melissa
Lime (Citrus × aurantifolia) Essential Oil Substitute
Zesty, positive and strident, lime oil is reasonably inexpensive and easily accessible to most people’s pockets. However, watch your bottle does not go out of date as the oil can oxidise quickly due to the monoterpenes meaning it becomes irritable to the skin. This oil has a relatively short shelf life.
Fragrance Group
Citrus
Note
Top
Energetic
Dynamic, playful
Aroma Substitutes for Lime Essential OilÂ
Lemongrass, yuzu, bergamot, monarda
Therapeutic Substitutions for Lime Essential Oil
Skin balancing - helichrysum, lavender, jasmine, tea tree
Breathe - frankincense
Warming – lemon, ginger
Feeling under the weather - lemon, myrrh, tea tree ravensara, monarda
Dull Skin – angelica root, lemon
Specific skin therapeutic uses – geranium, helichrysum, black pepper, cypress
This page is a great starting point for helping you to find essential oil substitutes but it can't cover every possible combination of substitutes. Often, substitutes can be subjective or unique to you as an individual.
For a Complete List Of Essential Oils (M-Z) Substitutes For Blends & Recipes please click here:
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