Often used in aromatherapy, essential oils are induced with natural elements that come from a single plant species. They come with several therapeutic benefits and can be used in several ways. In this article, know about some top essential oils and their applications.
What are Essential Oils and How do they Work?
Essential oils retain the natural essence of concentrated plant extracts. It can be extracted from any part of the plant including the stem, root or leaves. They are not meant to be swallowed as it is, rather it can be inhaled or applied to your skin.
When absorbed in your body, it can have great medicinal effects. Inhaling some essential oils also stimulates the limbic system, which is the part of the brain that controls emotions, behavior, and memory and also some unconscious psychological functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Top Essential Oils and Their Benefits
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Lavender Oil
The calming and soothing effects of this flower are pretty well known. If you are feeling stressed out or having difficulty falling asleep, you can rub lavender oil along the sides of the neck and breathe it in deeply. You can also place two drops into a warm bath before you unwind.
Lavender oil is also useful to treat itchiness, insect bites, burns, and sunburns. Just apply it in the area of itchiness or burn to stop the pain, reduce swelling or blistering. In addition, research also indicates that lavender oil holds great promise for breast health since it has cytotoxic and apoptotic properties.
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Lemon Oil
Lemon has an alkalizing effect on the body. Drinking warm water with lemon is a great way to cleanse the body. Especially when you are traveling or don’t have access to fresh lemons, you can use lemon oil. It can even be used in cooking to add a great flavor boost to any dish that requires a lemon zest.
It is popularly used in dishwashing soaps for spot-free dishes and anti-chemical effect. Also, lemon oil can be diffused in your room through humidifiers, candle to help kill airborne bacteria. Additionally, lemon oil can also be massaged onto your scalp to get rid of dandruff and excess oil. An added perk – It will make your pillow nice and fresh!
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Peppermint Oil
It’s best to dilute this oil along with other organic oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, hemp or jojoba since it has a strong flavor. Also, it has an instant cooling effect on the body. The high menthol content of peppermint makes it very powerful in ameliorating hot flashes.
At the first sign of a hot flash, place a diffused drop or two of peppermint oil at the back of the neck, base of the skull or on the collarbones. Else you can also breathe it in.
Did you know that peppermint is better than coffee without its caffeine jitters? If you are going on a long road trip or need help concentrating on studying, inhale peppermint oil to wake up your brain and be alert. It is also good for kids with ADHD.
Moreover, it can also help to relieve pain in those aching muscles and joints, migraines, allergy relief. You can also dilute and rub peppermint oil across the tummy to relieve indigestion or heartburn. Or else place a small drop into a glass of water and drink it.
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Tea Tree Oil
Traditionally used as a medicine by Aborigines, this plant is native to Australia. This essential oil comes with immense benefits and contains an important compound called Terpinen-4-ol that is shown to kill certain bacteria, fungus, and virus.
Hence, it is very effective against fighting infections. You can use it as a natural hand sanitizer, here’s a recipe to make one. It is also a great natural insect repellent. Tea tree oil’s bacteria fighting properties makes it a potent antiseptic that can be used for minor scrapes or cuts and accelerate wound healing.
It can be used for hair to get rid of dandruff by adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a dollop of shampoo while washing your hair. To alleviate symptoms of athlete’s foot, tea tree oil’s anti-fungal agents will come in handy.
Do note that this oil should never be ingested or swallowed. Also, it’s best to dilute it with olive, coconut or almond oil.
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Frankincense oil
The king of essential oil, Frankincense is nothing but the aroma that is popularly used in incense sticks and perfumes. It is a very holy that is used for spiritual and meditational practices. Obtained from the bark, it stimulates the limbic system of the brain and calms the nervous system. It is a great stress buster that dispels negative vibes.
Studies have also proven that this oil can be effective to fight cancer cells and contains a compound called AKBA that can kill cancer cells that have become resistant to chemotherapy. It can be applied to the skin to get rid of stretch marks and wrinkles.
Five drops of frankincense oil along with small amounts of lavender, coconut and olive oil can do wonders on your skin by stimulating cell regeneration. For anti-aging benefits, you can add a couple of drops of it to your moisturizer or along with coconut oil and apply at night.
Frankincense oil also boosts the immune system by delivering a healthy response to inflammation. Massage this oil at the end of the day after a busy day into your hands and legs for a warming effect.
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Rosemary Oil
A herb that’s been around for ages, it’s well known for its tasty flavor and distinct smell. You can inhale this oil to give your immune system a boost, stimulate antioxidants and encourage detox naturally.
This oil also alleviates flu symptoms such as a cough, congestion, and cold. Stress can make the body susceptible to ailments and rosemary oil can be your perfect health defense in this case. Rosemary oil increases mental focus, sharpens concentration and is well-know to beat brain fogs with renewed energy levels.
Contraindications of Essential Oil
When using essential oil, it is better to be careful. Dilute them and never ingest them in large quantities. Perform a skin patch test to ensure that your skin does not develop any allergies or irritation.
Inhalation is the best method and the fastest way to get it into your bloodstream. Follow the proper diffusion guidelines and diffuse in a well-ventilated area.
Also if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have certain medical conditions, consult with your physician to know if you use them.
Final Words
From immune boosting properties to fighting cancer and building brain function, essential oils are potent health defense partners that are natural with zero side-effects.
Always opt for high-quality essential oils so that there is no compromise on its phytochemical content. Look for 100% pure oils and beware of low-grade ones that are mixed with chemical ingredients.
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