Common Essential Oils & Their Benefits
Aromatherapy uses highly concentrated plant extracts as a treatment for a wide range of ailments, physiologically and psychologically. Research is still emerging on the effects of aromatherapy, but it has been used for decades for medicinal and religious purposes. The term ‘aromatherapy’ was coined in the early 1900s by French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefosse, who used lavender oil to treat burns on his hands. Studies have shown that essential oils may help improve sleep and mood, reduce anxiety and inflammation, and reduce nausea and headaches. Each plant extract has properties that make it beneficial for differing ailments, so we’ll catch you up on some of the most common and helpful essential oils.
Lavender oil is many people’s go-to essential oil for a good reason. It is known to aid with stress management, improve overall sleep quality, and reduce pain and inflammation. Before discovering antiseptics, lavender was also used as a cleaning agent in medical settings. Tea tree oil is also an essential oil commonly found in various boxes and at the top of people's lists. Tea tree oil can be used as an antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antifungal. It is also known to help resolve acne and can be used to treat athletes’ feet and ringworm.
Peppermint oil, which gives off a scent like candy canes, is also known for its benefits. Like tea tree oil, it is also antifungal and antimicrobial. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help ease headaches, fight fatigue, lift mood, and support memory. Peppermint oil is also commonly used to support digestion and can reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome or gastric irritation. Eucalyptus oil is a vital essential oil to have on hand during cold and flu seasons. It works as a decongestant and can relieve pain. Finally, Lemongrass oil is another popular essential oil that boasts a variety of benefits. It commonly helps relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. The antibacterial properties also make it an excellent natural remedy for wounds, and it has been shown to prevent the growth of fungus found in athletes’ feet, ringworm, and jock itch.
Essential oils are potent, no matter what kind you’re using. For example, about 250 pounds of the lavender flower make 1 pound of lavender essential oil, and about 5’000 pounds of rose petals make 1 pound of rose essential oil. For that reason, it is necessary to make sure you’re using them safely. Diffusers are a popular choice for aromatherapy, where a few drops of essential oil are added to water in a device that disperses it as a light mist. Some bracelets contain lava beads, a highly absorbent material, so you can put a few drops of oil onto the beads and carry the scent with you throughout the day. Alternatively, suppose you use it as a perfume or directly on your skin. In that case, it is highly recommended that almost all oils dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil to avoid skin irritation.
Are There Risks or Side Effects?
To learn more about aromatherapy and which essential oils might be beneficial for you, go to Greatist.com:
“Improper dilution is one of the biggest risks, and can lead to skin rashes, irritation, and soreness — and oils should not be applied to skin that is already broken or irritated. There’s also a risk of experiencing burns if you’re venturing outdoors or into UV light after topical application, as some essential oils (especially citrus oils) can cause skin photosensitivity.
The use of essential oils during pregnancy is also highly debated, thus it’s recommended that they’re avoided during this time. Some oils can also exacerbate or trigger conditions (such as epilepsy) and interfere with medications (including some antidepressants), so it’s important to speak with your doctor before trying aromatherapy if you have an existing condition or treatment plan. Finally, research also suggests aromatherapy can be harmful to children and pets, so keep oils out of their reach and make sure you don’t diffuse when they’re around.”
From Essential (Oil) Reading: What Is Aromatherapy and How Does It Work? - Greatist
Photo Source: WIX
What is your favorite essential oil? How do you prefer to use them?
Written by Yellow Brick Road Token
March 22nd, 2022