How to Choose the Essential Oil Sets
Essential Oils: Everything You Need To Know
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are derived from plants, capturing their distinct scents and flavors, also known as their "essence." Each essential oil possesses a unique essence due to its specific aromatic compounds. These oils are obtained through methods such as distillation using steam and/or water, or mechanical techniques like cold pressing. After extracting the aromatic chemicals, they are blended with a carrier oil to create a final product ready for usage. It is crucial to note that essential oils produced through chemical processes are not regarded as genuine essential oils.
The Benefits of Essential Oils
Some essential oils have gained recognition and are widely known for their benefits. While many of these benefits are based on anecdotal evidence, limited research exists to support their claims specifically for humans. However, essential oils offer potential advantages beyond relaxation and stress relief.
1.Immune Health
Certain essential oils have demonstrated the ability to stimulate specific components of the immune system, increase the activity of immune cells, and interfere with inflammatory pathways. As excessive inflammation can hinder the immune system, reducing inflammation also promotes gut health.
2.Facilitating Wound Healing
Specific essential oils possess properties that are both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. Utilizing these essential oils during the healing process of wounds may help minimize scarring, particularly when employing helichrysum, lavender, or tea tree oil. A 2020 review published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that lavender essential oil effectively promoted wound healing and reduced pain. The authors described a study in which lavender oil was combined with aloe vera to treat minor skin tears and cracks.
3. Relieving Stress and Headaches
Essential oils are valuable in relieving pain associated with headaches and migraines, while also offering stress-reducing and anti-anxiety benefits. In a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine, it was found that inhaling a drop of peppermint essential oil reduced the frequency of migraines in 40% of patients (similar to the pain-relieving medication intranasal lidocaine). This outcome was significantly better than the placebo group, where only 5% reported relief.
How do essential oils work?
Essential oils are primarily used in aromatherapy, with caution against ingestion. These oils contain chemicals that can interact with the body in various ways, especially when applied topically.
Certain application methods are believed to enhance absorption, such as the use of heat on specific body areas or incorporating essential oils into steam baths.
Inhaling the aromas of essential oils can stimulate the limbic system, affecting emotions, behavior, smell, and long-term memory.
The limbic system is closely associated with memory formation, potentially explaining why familiar scents can evoke memories or emotions. Additionally, the limbic system regulates unconscious physiological functions like breathing rate, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Popular essential oils
There are over 90 essential oils available, each with its own unique aroma and health benefits. Here are some popular essential oils and their associated health benefits:
- Peppermint: This oil is known for boosting energy and aiding digestion.
- Lavender: Widely used to relieve stress and promote relaxation.
- Sandalwood: Helps to calm the nervous system and improve focus.
- Frankincense: Known for its calming properties, it also aids in concentration.
- Bergamot: Used to reduce stress and improve various skin conditions such as eczema.
- Rose: Known for its mind-enhancing properties, it promotes a sense of well-being.
- Chamomile: Used to improve mood and induce relaxation.
- Ylang-Ylang: Helps to treat headaches, nausea, and skin diseases.
- Tea tree: This oil is effective in fighting infections and boosting immunity.
- Jasmine: Known to assist in fighting depression, aiding in childbirth, and lowering libido.
- Lemon: Used to aid digestion and improve mood, as well as alleviate headaches.
These essential oils provide a range of benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
How To Use Essential Oils
Essential oils can be used in many wonderful ways. Here are some suggestions:
- MASSAGE INTO PULSE POINTS: Choose your favourite blend, add a few drops onto your hand and massage into your pulse points, like your temples or wrists.
- A FEW DROPS IN YOUR BATH: Essentials oils + steamy bathroom = a small corner of calm in your home. The oils will absorb into the air around you.
- STRAIGHT FROM THE BOTTLE: Take a deep breath in and let the aromas take you away to a relaxing, far-flung place.
- BLEND INTO SHEA BUTTER OR BODY CREAM: Mix three drops of your essential oil blend into a blueberry-sized amount Shea Butter and massage in.
- ADD THEM TO YOUR SHOWER: Pop two to three drops into a bowl under your shower and let the fragrances take over.
- MIX WITH BOILING WATER: Add a few drops into a bowl of boiling water and breathe in the relaxing aromas.
Tips for using Essential Oils
Using essential oils can be a wonderful way to enhance your well-being and create a pleasant atmosphere. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your essential oils:
- Choose high-quality oils: Look for pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils from reputable brands. Quality oils are more potent and free from harmful additives.
- Dilute properly: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be diluted before use. Mix them with a carrier oil like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil to ensure safe application on the skin.
- Conduct a patch test: Before applying an essential oil topically, perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions or allergies.
- Follow recommended dosages: Each essential oil has specific guidelines for safe usage. Always follow the recommended dosages to avoid any potential side effects.
- Use proper storage: Essential oils are sensitive to light, heat, and air. Store them in dark glass bottles in a cool, dry place to maintain their potency and extend their shelf life.
- Inhalation methods: You can inhale essential oils directly from the bottle, use a diffuser, or add a few drops to a bowl of hot water for steam inhalation. These methods can help with relaxation, mood enhancement, and respiratory support.
- Diffuse mindfully: When using a diffuser, follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid diffusing oils for extended periods. Take breaks to prevent overexposure and ensure proper ventilation in the room.
- Blend oils wisely: Experiment with different essential oil combinations to create unique scents and therapeutic effects. Research and understand the properties of each oil to create balanced blends.
- Be cautious during pregnancy and with children: Some essential oils are not recommended for use during pregnancy or around young children. Consult a healthcare professional or aromatherapist for guidance in these situations.
- Educate yourself: Learn about the properties, benefits, and safety precautions of each essential oil you use. Understand their contraindications and potential interactions with medications.
Remember, essential oils are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any specific health concerns, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
