Tarot and Essential Oils 

 

In her book “The Essence of Magic” Mary Greer introduces the concept of “taromatherapy”. Using her “breakthrough process” the querant works towards developing an affirmation to reinforce a quality she wishes to develop in herself.  This affirmation is then reinforced by use of the appropriate essential oil blend.

 

The logic behind this is impeccable. The olfactory receptors are located in the limbic or ancient brain, thus bypassing the usual logical responses that so often block or inhibit intuition. Essential oils work on a very deep level, and can thus help to fix emotional damage and lock in behavioral change.

 

Mary Greer’s process is a very worthwhile one, since it is deeply therapeutic. But it does require a large and expensive range of oils for full effectiveness. A modified form of her approach is still useful, however. I suggest using an abbreviated range of oils to work with, for fixing the meanings of the Major Arcana cards in particular. These would be most useful in meditation exercises, and for contemplation of a particular card.

 

The oils have been selected with a view to being relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain. For more detailed information, refer to Mary’s book.

 

Fool                            fennel              promotes the courage to trust

Magician                    lemongrass    simulates the left brain

High Priestess           lemon              helps maintain poise and calm

Empress                    ylang-ylang     exotic and soothing

Emperor                     ginger             energizes and strengthens

Hierophant                 thyme              helps absorb new learning

Lovers                        lavender         cleanses away old patterns

Chariot                       chamomile     clears past emotional concerns

Strength                      rosemary        helps you learn who you are

Hermit                         sage               stimulates spiritual opening

Wheel of Fortune       cedarwood     helps to reach the heart of an issue

Justice                        spearmint       assists with balancing

Hanged Man              myrrh               heals wounds

Death                          cypress           comforting in times of transition

Temperance              bergamot       promotes self assurance

Devil                           patchouli         helps soothe doubts and anxieties

Tower                         pine                 strengthens the will

Star                             eucalyptus      sharpens perception

Moon                          marjoram        soothes a troubled mind

Sun                             frankincense expansive and liberating

Judgement                 basil                helps with decision making

World                          vetivert            regenerating and life affirming