Benefits of Essential Oil

Essential oils have been used in many ways by different cultures throughout the centuries and have been known to carry amazing benefits. Often they are derived from flowers and plants.

Flowers are not only beautiful but also some verities emit sweet fragrances which have been extracted and distilled as essential oils for our use.

Used commonly in aromatherapy and massage or as home fragrances, flower oils can be added to perfumes and bath products. The oils have varying benefits and we have listed some for your enjoyment.

Lavender – it is highly regarded for skin and beauty and is used in shampoos and fragrances. Also often used for stress relief, fungal infections, hair loss and helping in the treatment of wounds.

Roses – The oil from Roses is often used in beauty products and is known to be good for mental health as it boasts the ability to fight depression and anxiety. It is also widely used to invoke feelings of happiness, relaxation and positivity. Its used as an antiseptic and helps prevent infections. Also used for reducing inflammation and fever.

Roses are known for meaning love and they can invoke feelings of desire and the scent along can boost libido. Rose oil has been used to aid convulsion and ward of infections like colds and flu. It has been used as a laxative and helps strengthen hair and gums and even is known as an effective treatment in aiding the issues and symptoms of menstruation which helps the uterus work better.

Carnations – one of the worlds oldest cultivated flowers they have a number of health benefits. They are used to alleviate stress, nervousness and to treat minor fatigue and depression. The scent of carnation oil is often used to soothe and to calm in massages. It can also reduce swelling and inflammation and reduce pain of arthritis or muscle strain. It has been used in helping the pain of menstrual cramping and can help restore hormonal balance. Carnation oil can help with skin rashes like rosacea and eczema and some believe it can minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

Lilies – these are easily recognizable because of their unique shape. Often used in weddings and funerals. When used as an essential oil the lily is rich in linalool, benzoic acid, phenethyl alcohol and vanillin.

It is often used in aromatherapy to help depression along with negative feeling. Its supposed to increase your happiness. Its great as an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection. It relieves itching and reduces inflammation. Apply it to skin ailments to help soothe the skin. Often the lily oil is included in cosmetics and helps moisturize the skin.

Eucalyptus – With over 700 Eucalyptus species available, native to Australia and nearby Islands. They have known Antiseptic qualities.

Marigold – by infusing marigold flowers, you get Calendula oil. It has been used for antiseptic purposed as well as antifungal and anti-inflammatory which might make it useful in healing wounds.

How to use Essential Oils

So you have purchased some essential oils and now you are wondering how best to use them.

There are 4 main ways to use essential oils in your own home. The use will depend on the benefits you want to gain from them.

Diffuser – This is probably the most common way to use essential oils. It is very easy and effective. You can simply add a small number of drops of your favourite oil to water in your diffuser and the beautiful scent will spread throughout your home. The oils may help with the reduction of headaches and decrease stress. It is an excellent method for people who are looking to improve their emotional health.

Steam Inhalation – This method is a great alternative if you don’t have a diffuser. Just place a few drops of essential oil in a bowl of boiling water. Then cover your head with a clean towel and lean over the bowl to inhale the steam while closing your eyes. This can assist with sinus congestion or even flu-like symptoms.

Massage – Use your essential oils as part of a massage. Dilute the oils with a non-perfumed cream or plain oil. It will help you relax and ease aches and pains. It might even help when you are having trouble sleeping.

Compression – Soak a cloth in a blend of water and essential oil and put it on your body to help relieve pains and aches such as headaches.

Summary

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. The oil retains the natural flavour and smell of its source. Essential oils are often used in aromatherapy. This is a form of natural alternative medicine that uses plant extracts that are suggested to support health and well-being. Each bottle of essential oil has its own unique aromatic compound essence.

Essential oils are obtained through distillation or through a mechanical method like cold pressing. Once the aromatic chemical has been extracted, it is combined with a carrier oil to create a beautiful product. Essential oils are definitely not meant to be swallowed but inhaled through various methods. They can be applied to your skin, or the aroma from the oils, when used with a diffuser, can stimulate areas of your limbic system. It is interesting to note that familiar smells can trigger emotions or memories. Some people claim that essential oils exert a physical effect on their bodies.