Essential oils have been used around the world for centuries, curing our ailments in a more natural way. If you experience sleep deprivation, low energy, headaches or other problems, there is a likely concoction of essential oils that may be beneficial to you. Whether you use a diffuser or blend them with carrier oils, essential oils can be a great benefit to your health and also make your home a more relaxing and great smelling place.
Since many essential oils are too concentrated to use alone, they can be added to creams or bath gels; they are most often diluted in carrier oils such as coconut, jojoba or almond, or diffused into the air. In order for essential oils to be most beneficial to you, it is imperative you do additional research on your oil’s potential before using. Always be sure to avoid use on irritated skin and to stop use if you start to have a reaction. When using around babies, consult your doctor, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Many essential oils can be poisonous to cats and dogs whether ingested or inhaled. If you have pets. Avoid using harmful oils around them. Cats especially cannot process the oils and even the smallest amount diffused in the air can build up in their lives and become toxic very quickly. We’ve noted which ones are harmful in our descriptions of each by placing an asterisk next to the name.
Don’t be afraid to use essential oils; they can add a variety of benefits to your health and wellness and reduce daily stresses. Read on for more about some of today’s most popular oils and how you can use them.
Peppermint Essential Oils*
Mint is believed to be the oldest herb used for medicinal purposes. The hybrid of watermint and spearmint has many anti-bacterial, antiviral, anti-parasitic and pain relieving properties. Many students use peppermint oil during their studies as it promotes mental focus, boosts energy and relieves stress. Sore muscles, digestive issues, and stress can be relieved with the help of peppermint oils!
Tea Tree Essential Oils*
Tea tree oil comes from the Maleleuca alternifola leaves native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia. Tea tree has been known to have an antibiotic element and it is often used to treat colds, viruses, infections by eliminating bacteria. It has also been known to treat nail fungus and sunburn when a few drops are mixed with a cream or carrier oil. Due to its antiseptic properties adding 4-5 drops to water in a spray bottle can make a great household cleaner. For those summer night bug bites, tea tree oil can ease your worries and reduce pain and itching.
Orange/Citrus Essential Oils*
Orange oils have always been considered immune boosting and refreshing. Extracted from the orange peel of the citrus sinesi, the oil is often found is many cleaning products such as detergent and soaps, making the scent associated heavily with cleanliness. Orange oil has properties that are anti-bacterial and improve immunity, as well as natural anti-inflammatories. For those days that just aren’t going so well, use 2-3 drops in your diffuser. Orange oil works as a natural mood lifter that also balances hormones.
Lemongrass Essential Oils*
Lemongrass essential oils are steam distilled from dried lemongrass. Lemongrass grows rather quickly and is used often in Asian cooking, meaning the benefits are already widely popular outside of aromatherapy. A natural pain reliever, anti-viral and anti-bacterial, this oil can relieve most of your physical ailments alone! Its light scent will not only smell great when diffused but helps reduce body odor too. Lemongrass oil will not only help you physically but mentally and emotionally as well. It may be able to help some people suffering from depression by uplifting their spirit and hope. With its sedative properties, lemongrass oil is often used to treat and reduce anxiousness and create a calm state of mind. In many natural products, lemongrass oil is used to reduce fevers and flatulence, t0 promote wound healing and repel bugs – the benefits are endless!
Lavender Essential Oils
That soothing lavender scent has been most popularly known to induce sleep and relieve stress, but the support doesn’t stop there. Lavender is a natural antibacterial that helps eliminate respiratory infections in particular. If you are suffering from a throat infection, influenza, cough or bronchitis, a few drops in a diffuser may aid in naturally releasing phlegm from your body. Skincare is also a major use of lavender. Added to carrier oils or other creams, lavender can sooth eczema, acne, wrinkles and psoriasis. Extracted by steam distillation of the lavender plant, the benefits of this essential oil can relax your mind while reducing bacterial pains in your body.
Essential oils are endlessly beneficial and can be used in a variety of different ways. If you are looking for a more natural way to assist with healing, whether physically, mentally, or emotionally, essential oils are always a great place to start. There are so many essential oils for purchase that it is necessary to do your own research to find the best oils for you. Always be sure to consult with your doctor before using, especially if you are already suffering from any condition.
