When these oils enter your bloodstream some migrate to organs where they effect healing. For instance, juniper seems to have a detoxifying action. It helps flush lactic acid out of stiff muscles, thus relieving pain, but it also relaxes the muscles. Some oils are attracted to inflammation in joints and muscles where they relieve pain. Camphor, cassia, wintergreen and cajeput are some that do this.
All essential oils have some antibacterial properties.
Eucalyptus is able to cut off oxygen to bacteria and tea tree oil is well known for its healing effect on open sores or acne blemishes. Of all the essential oils, lavender seems the most magical. When the fragrance is inhaled it travels to the end of the olfactory nerve, deep inside the limbic area of your brain, where it triggers the release of Serotonin, a neurochemical that creates a sense of well being. It reduces stress and soothes the emotions. The effect of lavender oil on burns is almost magical.