Using essential oils is known as one of the most effective methods for the treatment of physical and psychological diseases. More and more specialists are advocating the use of essential oils as a safe method to treat diseases.
In this article, you will discover the most important essential oils uses and benefits.
Contents
- 1. What Is Aromatherapy?
- 2. What Are Essential Oils?
- 3. How To Make Essential Oils And How To Extract Them?
- 4. What Are the Characteristics of Essential Oils?
- 5. Essential Oils: How They Work on the Body?
- 6. Essential Oils Uses And Benefits
- 7. Essential Oils Needed To Start An Aromatherapy
- 8. Essential Oils Dilution: Most Common Carrier Oils
- 9. How To Use Essential Oils
- 10. Precautions of Using Essential Oils
- 11. Tips For Choosing Quality Essential Oils
- 12. Essential Oils Storage Tips
- 13. Golden Rules
1. What Is Aromatherapy?
The aromatherapy is gaining momentum as it is a form of alternative medicine. Aromatic plants oil and plant material is used in this therapy that helps in psychological and physical well-being.
The term “essential oil” has been extracted from the “quintessential oil”. The remarkable healing properties of the essential oils have been observed in the growing body of research from laboratory and clinical studies. These products are now widely used and can be found in markets, co-ops, and pharmacies.
Aromatherapy is an active method as well as a preventive approach of the disease or illness when they are acute or chronic. Being a natural and non-invasive modality, it effects not only on the symptoms or disease but also assists to balance, regulate, heal and maintain the body’s natural ability through the correct usage of the essential oils.
2. What Are Essential Oils?
In seeds, bark, stems, roots, flower and other parts of the plant you can find these naturally occurring volatile aromatic compounds. Their fragrance can be both powerful and beautiful. The essential oil not only plays the part in the plant pollination but also gives the plant a distinctive smell. With the beautiful fragrance and intrinsic plant benefit, it can be used in the health care, beauty treatment and food préparations.
3. How To Make Essential Oils And How To Extract Them?
The plant material defines the method of extracting the essential oil including the availability of the equipment. There are three basic methods of essential oil production.
- Steam Distillation
In this method the steam is passed through the plant material, through which the oil is evaporated through heat and then it is gathered again through condensation. The vapours contain the both water and oil. - Expression
Citrus oil is mostly extracted from this method. Because of the fact that the heat of distillation can damage the citrus oil easily.
It is also called pressing as the cold-pressing as the oil is extracted by peeling off either by machine or by hands. - Extraction
The material with high molecular weight and volatile compound are usually extracted from it. Differential solubility is the principle on which the extraction works. When the plant is exposed to the solvents then the oil is drawn from the plant to the solvent. Then the aromatic product is produced by evaporating the solvent. It is called concrete. Resinoid is the product that is obtained after resin. Then it is treated with warm alcohol to make it alcohol soluble. An absolute of respective essential oil is obtained after distillation of alcohol at reduced pressure.
4. What Are the Characteristics of Essential Oils?
They always keep the same effects, the results remain constant and do not diminish over time.
Essential oils bring a new cellular vitality, they generate positive vibratory waves that help to recharge the cell batteries.
Essential oils have the following characteristics:
– Detoxifying agents;
– Vital energy carriers and regulators of the nervous system and hormonal glands;
– Anti-fatigue;
– Anti-pain;
– Calming;
– Tonic;
– Regenerating skin;
– Help circulatory system;
– Help respiratory system;
– Help digestive system;
– Refreshing;
– Heating.
– Slimming;
– Emollient;
– Softening;
5. Essential Oils: How They Work on the Body?
Essential oils contain, for some of them, up to a hundred different aromatic molecules (phenols, ketones, aldehydes, terpenes …) at the origin of their properties and actions on the organism (regulating the nervous system, digestive, draining …). Depending on their composition and the benefits sought and taking into account the precautions for use, they are administered alone or in synergy according to different modes. They act on the body as follow:
- Super action
Essential oils are concentrate of active ingredients, they allow, in therapy, multiple and rapid actions. Researches have shown that concentrates of plants in juices and infusions do not have the same power of essential oils; the properties of a plant in infusion are not the same as those of essential oil of the corresponding plant. - Electivity
Electivity is a unique phenomenon in the field of natural therapy; when applied to a part of the body, an essential oil is attracted by the part of the body, or the organ which is momentarily deficient or has a weakened function! This “magnetizing” exceptional capacity is a specific property of the essential oil. - Power
In 90% of cases, within the first five to ten days of treatment, essential oils allow a significant improvement by increasing energy and vitality. In all cases, the treatment shall be supplemented by a healthy lifestyle. - Physical / chemical action
Modern studies have shown that essential oils are composed of a large number of known chemical and natural constituents and have a concentration rarely encountered in common products. Each oil appears as an indissociable mixture endowed with very interesting therapeutic virtues. - Vital energy
By induction (like in an electrical system), the “vibratory characteristics” of essential oils stimulates the internal vibrations, revitalizes and “jostles” all the cells constituting the human body in a natural way. Aromatherapy is at the top of médicine “fields” because it acts directly by increasing the vital force, thus enabling the strengthening of natural immunities and the possibility of self-Healing.
6. Essential Oils Uses And Benefits
Essential oils uses are known for several thousands of years in various cultures for medical and health purposes . Following are some of essential oils uses and benefits:
- All-Purpose Cleaner
In the warm water adding three drops of lemon and tea tree oil, this countertop the naturally disinfect when sprayed. - Natural Mosquito Repellent
Natural bug spray can be made by combining lemongrass oil, citronella oil and eucalyptus oil in one tea spoon coconut oil. - Clean Burnt Pans
Burnt food from the pots and pans can be removed by using lemon oil and washing it with boiled water. - Reduce Anxiety and stress
Essential oils like lavender and peppermint can be very effective against anxiety and stress due to the action of the aromatic molecules that compose them that have a calming effect on the nervous system, but also by the power of their odor on our brain. - Spiritual Enlightenment
The spiritual awareness can be increased while praying, meditation or reading, by diffusing frankincense essential oil. - Improve Sleep
Some essential oils like lavender and other essences with relaxing properties will allow to chase physical and mental tensions to enjoy long nights immersed in a deep and refreshing sleep. - Hair Health
Adding some drops of rosemary to shampoo or balsam helps to increase blood circulation in the scalp, as well as fighting hair loss and delaying the onset of gray hair and promoting hair growth. - Colds and flu relief
Very effective, essential oils which are rich in cineole (like eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary and Ravinstara) promote the evacuation of the microbes and the dust towards the outside, help maintaining the respiratory tract and weaken the virus in the course of the catches. Used as early as the first symptoms of colds and flu, these essential oils will help to shorten the duration of the cold and to avoid the superinfections. - Skincare
Essential oils like lavender and the seeds of the islands are often used in skincare products. Oils like lavender, orange and balsam help the improvement of the skin as well as the prevention and combating of scars, the treatment of eczema and psoriasis, and fighting wrinkles and age spots. - Relieve headaches
Because headaches have extremely variable origins, a simple painkiller does not always relieve them. While using essential oils to calm a headache will allow to act as close as possible to its cause or its origin. Better yet: targeting and associating several essential oils in a mixture, in well-defined doses, combines different properties necessary for eviction of the headache. - Allergies
Essential oils show effective properties for fighting against the inconveniences of allergy symptoms.
Tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus, if used with other oils, will have the following therapeutic properties: antihistamines, antispasmodics, anti-inflammatory and others.
7. Essential Oils Needed To Start An Aromatherapy
7.1) The Five Principle Essential Oils
a) Lavender Essential Oil
It is one of the most essential oils used today in the world. Over 2500 years, the lavender oil has been used for religious or medical purposes. It was used as the perfume by Egyptians and Romans used it for bathing, cooking and scenting.
Some of the benefits of Lavender essential oil can be given as:
- Reduces anxiety and emotional stress
- Heals burns and wounds
- Improves sleep
- Restores skin complexion and reduces acne
- Slows aging with powerful antioxidants
The uses of the Lavender essential oil can be given as:
- Antioxidant Protection
Free radicals in your body can cause unbelievable damage to the body as well as they are responsible for shutting down the immune system. So the lavender acts as the antioxidants to provide the protection. - Diabetes Treatment
The study showed that the lavender is healthier than ascorbic acid and it can be used for the diabetic treatments. - Improves Mood And Supports Brain
Traditionally the neurological issues like migraines, stress, anxiety and depression problems had been solved by the use of lavender. - Heals Burns And Cuts
Having antimicrobial properties, various infections and combat bacterial/fungal disorders can be prevented by its usage.
b) Tea Tree Essential Oil
From thousands of years the people have been using the tea essential oil. Tea tree oil’s antimicrobial prowess is referred in 327 scientific studies.
Some of the significant benefits of the Tea tree essential oil are as follows:
- Bacterial infections
- Congestion and respiratory tract infections
- Earaches
- Fungal infections (especially Candida, jock itch, athlete’s foot and toenail fungus)
- Halitosis (bad breath)
Because of their effectiveness, most of the doctors recommend the essential oils for the treatments. They are without any side effect and effective.
Some of the uses of the tea tree oil can be given as:
- For Acne
It is the best for homemade remedy for acne. As per one study, without any side effects the tree tea oil is as effective as benzoyl peroxide. - For Hair
For the health of your scalp and hair, the tee tree oil has been proven beneficial. It can be used for the treatment of lice, as well as it has the ability to soothe dry flaking skin and remove dandruff. - For Cleaning
Tea tree oil can kill the bacteria of your home as it contains the best antimicrobial properties. - For Psoriasis And Eczema
Any type of inflammation can be relieved through tea tree oil as it is being used as natural eczema treatment and psoriasis reduction.
c) Peppermint Essential Oil
Along with the lavender the peppermint is the most versatile essential oil. It gives the cool sensation and relives the sore muscles. It can be used to soothe the digestive system and fresh bad breath as it has antimicrobial properties.
The benefits of the peppermint oil can be given as follows:
- Reduces stomach aches
- Soothe digestive issues
- Freshens bad breath
- Relieves headaches
- Antimicrobial properties
The peppermint can be used in the following situations:
- Muscle Pain Relief
Peppermint is used for soothing back ache, sore muscles and tension headache. - Sinus Care
Scratchy throats can be relieved and sinuses can be unclogged by inhaling the diffused peppermint. - Joint Therapy
The mixture of the pure peppermint and lavender can be used to cool the muscles, when your joints get achy. - Natural Energizer
Peppermint can be very healthy alternative for the dangerous energy drinks.
d) Eucalyptus Essential Oil
It is the main source of the koala bears and is native to Australia. The essential oil extracted from the eucalyptus contains the powerful medicinal properties. The benefits of Eucalyptus essential oil can be given as:
- Improve respiratory circulation
- Provide antioxidant protection
- Stimulate immunity
Following are some of the uses of Eucalyptus essential oil:
- Cold And Flu
Your body’s toxic and harmful microorganisms that can make your feel sick can be cleansed by using eucalyptus - Hair Nourishment
A nice moisturizing pick-me-up can be given to the hair by applying the mixture of coconut oil and olive oil with eucalyptus oil. - Hand Cleaner
The grease and grime can be easily and excellently cleaned by using Eucalyptus. - Odor Remover
It can be used to remove the stinky odors, just by washing.
e) Lemon Essential Oil
It is one of the most essential oils to have on hand. The body fats can be reduced by breathing the scent of lemon that improves the neurological activity.
Following are some of the benefits of Lemon oil:
- Cleansing and purification
- Oral health and remedy for halitosis (bad breath)
- Digestion
- Thirst quencher
- Remedy for abdominal colic pain
The Lemon oil usage can be given as follows:
- Laundry
In order to remove the nasty smell from your clothes, add lemon essential oil during washing clothes. - Teeth Whitener
Apply the mixture of baking soda, Lemon essence oil and coconut oil to whiten your teeth. - Face Wash
The usage of Lemon essential oil makes your skin soft and supple and improves the complexion. - Promotes Fat Loss
Daily usage of Lemon essential oil with water can make one thin.
7.2) Other Essential Oils
1. Rosemary Essential Oil
It is one of the powerful and essential herbs on the planet. It helps to improve the memory, soother digestive system and relieve muscle pain.
2. The Essential Oil of Chamomile
Most ancient herb found in the mankind. It helps to fight with anxiety and depression. Moreover, it boosts skin health.
3. Niaouli Essential Oil
This oil has the pain reliving property and it is very good for relieving headache, migraines, toothache…etc. Moreover, it kills the bacterial growth.
4. The Immortal Essential Oil: helichrysum Oil
It is the best medicine for acne, cough and wound healing. It also seems really helpful in gallbladder disorders.
5. Lemongrass Essential Oil
As the name defines it smells much like lemon. It behaves like antiseptic and good for internal and external wounds.
6. Thyme Essential Oil
The herb of the thyme is spice and it is used in a number of medicines. It is a great tonic for nervous system and is good for heart problems.
7. The Essential Oil of Marjoram
It reduces pain associated with inflammation, toothache and numerous resources.
8. Essential Oil of Basil
It helps to treat nausea, motion sickness, respiratory problems and diabetes. It is very good for eye health and itching.
9. Ginger Essential Oil
It helps in relieving pain and aches. It helps also in promoting normal blood pressures.
10. Rose Essential Oil
It has very pleasant fragrance. It is effective mosquito repellant.
11. Clove Essential Oil
It helps in eliminating acne and reduces gum diseases.
12. Sandalwood Essential Oil
It helps in losing weight and treating urinary infections.
13. Cypress Essential Oil
It insures the optional health of liver. It helps in curing all types of spams.
14. Melissa Essential Oil
It promotes skin health and treats herpes and other viruses.
15. Jasmine Essential Oil
It helps to fade the scars and facilitates birth process.
16. The Essential Oil of Grapefruit
It is the fat burning oil. It helps stimulating the immune system and decrease fluid retention. Moreover, it can be used for cleaning the body.
17. The Essential Oil of Cinnamon
This oil has a long list of benefits. it helps in relieving the depression and fights free radicals. It increases the circulation and fight viruses.
18. The Essential Oil of Palmarosa
It is the anti-viral herb and is used for reducing the fever. It helps in killing the bacteria and helps the body to maintain moisture.
19. Orange Essential Oil
It serves to be the best scent of the warmer and cooler weather. It serves as the detoxifier, boots immunity and treats constipation.
20. The Essential Oil of Mandarin
It is also called tangerine essential oil. It prevents the wounds from becoming septic and helps to fight the viral infections.
21. The Essential Oil of Estragon
It is also known as French tarragon. It must be used in moderation and after consulting with your doctor. It can be toxic.
22. The Essential Oil of Oregano
Oregano means “Delight of mountains”. It is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial. It protects the body from infectious diseases.
23. Bergamot Essential Oil
It is best known for cleansing and enhancing your mood. It reduces pain from headache and muscle tension.
24. Laurier Noble Essential Oil
It is antibacterial, anti–degeneration and anti-fungal. It is very powerful and must be used at low dose.
25. Pine Essential Oil
It is refreshing. It improves metabolism and eye health.
8. Essential Oils Dilution: Most Common Carrier Oils
1. Olive Oil
It can be used in cosmetics as carrier oil. Mostly it is used for cooking purpose. It is not completely neutral as compared to other oils but can be used in emergency. By mixing it with the essential oil the benefits of the oil increases.
2. Jojoba Oil
It is mix suitable for all the skin as it has the nearest qualities with the skin oils. It does not contain any scent. It can be stored for a long period of time.
3. Coconut oil
It contains countless skin healthy benefits. It is the combination of fatty acid and medicinal properties. It donor clog the pores and feels smooth the skin.
4. Argan oil
Skin cell can be restored by using this oil. Skin elasticity, soften wrinkles can be cured with this oil. It has a very sweet smell.
5. Almond oil
It is probably very light weight oil and can be easily absorbed in the skin. It contains slight nutty smell. Moreover you can also add your own favorite essential to personalize your spa-at-home experience.
6. Avocado Oil
It is great for aged or dry skin. Its smell is very strong .Moreover, it is quick and sticky.
7. Pomegranate Seed Oil
The molecules of this oil are very sensitive. It supports the inflammation against the body resilience. Moreover, it is rich in antioxidant.
9. How To Use Essential Oils
1. For Massage
Base or carrier oils can be used first and then few drops of essential oils can be easily rubbed on the skin. The ration of the carrier oil and essential oil could be 1:3 ratios. Moreover, apply oil in the circular motion for quick absorption.
2. For Absorption
The absorption of the oil in the skin depends upon different factors. It is necessary and beneficial to first increase the circulation of the area by massage and then applying the oil causing the increase in absorption.
3. Wet Inhalation
It is one of the least effective methods to absorb the therapeutic properties of oil. In this method the oil is passed through the stomach to the blood Stream.
4. Diffusion
The method of using the essential oil in diffusion is to expose it to the environment. After it is diffused it enters the body through the nose and produces effects.
5. In Bath
Applying the essential oil after bath makes the skin soft. After taking the shower just apply small amount of essential oil and rub softly on the whole body.
10. Precautions of Using Essential Oils
Essential oils uses can be dangerous if some of the basic precaustions are not taken into accout. Following are the precaution that must be kept in mind while using essential oils:
- If oil is used undiluted, then it may cause a small skin irritation. Alway dilute essential oils by using a carrier oil. NEVER use water to dilute essential oils.
- Do not go in the sunlight if you have applied photosensitive oils.
- Avoid using oils directly in ear, nose and eyes.
- Don’t flush your eyes with water if you get oil, it may cause more damage and pain.
- Use the oil that suits you or you are comfortable with it.
- Keep out of reach of children. Essential oils are not recommended for children under 3 years.
- Before using an essential oil it is advisable to check by a skin test the tolerance to this oil (apply on the inside of the wrist)
- In case of accidental absorption of an essential oil, intake vegetable oil (1 to 3 tablespoons) and, if possible, induce vomiting. Never give water to drink.
- Medical follow-up is must-be for all long-term pathologies because it is necessary to check the absence of interactions between essential oil and the treatments in progress.
- Some essential oils can be dangerous for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
11. Tips For Choosing Quality Essential Oils
Following things must be kept I mind before buying the essential oil:
-
Buy only quality oils. Quality oil must be:
- 100% Pure: meaning it is undiluted with carier oils or any other oil
- Natural: meaning not synthetic, it extracted from natural plants
- Total: meaning not mixed with synthetic oils
- Choose oils with therapeutic grade
- Choose oils within opaque bottles because essential oils are sensitive to light
- Always read the ingredient first before buying
- Watch for the label of 100% pure oil on the bottle
- Avoid buying unknown products
- Check the product before you buy
- Read all the information on the bottle
- Compare prices
12. Essential Oils Storage Tips
Following are some of the tips to store your essential oils:
- The packing of the oil must be in dark color
- Store the oil in the cool place
- Store the carrier oil in the fridge during the summer days
- Do not store it with the bottle cap open
- Avoid strong the oils near fire
13. Golden Rules
- Buy the product of quality
- Always test the product
- Read and follow the precautions
- Respect storage rules
- Handle oil safely
- Keep the children away from the oil
- Always use carrier oil with the essential oil
- Do not rub the oil on skin with hard hands
Conclusion:
The essential oil is the best medical alternative. It provides benefits not only to your skin but also helps to relax you and glow. A number of essential oils are available in the market, each one having its own specifications and benefits. Moreover, carrier oils can be mixed with essential oils to enhance the their properties.
Continue reading this article to know the best essential oils brands :
Best Essential Oils Brands Reviews and Comparison
