7 Essential Oils You Should Consider Using

Essential oils have been a part of our daily lives from the earliest of civilizations. Essential oils are nothing but extracts of plants which have medicinal properties. Essential oils are often used in the alternative form of medicine known as aromatherapy. From curing headaches to being used as a topical treatment for skin ailments, essential oils are multifaceted.  Let us explore some of the essential oils that you should consider using.

1. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is known to help patients suffering from insomnia and anxiety. Lavender oil also has pain reducing properties. This essential oil can be used in a variety of ways such as adding it to the bath water or using it in a diffuser. Lavender oil can also be added to a base body oil as it relaxes and rejuvenates. It has a beautiful aroma which is why lavender scented room fresheners are bestsellers in the market.

2. Peppermint Oil

The most popular use of peppermint oil is to reduce headaches and similar symptoms. It is often added to tea to ease digestive issues and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Applying peppermint oil to the temples is known to help patients with Migraine. Peppermint oil also has mood lifting properties.

3. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an extremely potent antifungal and antimicrobial.

It is very effective in the treatment of acne and blemishes as it reduces the acne causing bacterias present on the skin and dries out active acne. It is suitable for oily skin and should be mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut oil incase of dry skin as it has drying properties. Tea tree oil is also used in the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections such as Athlete's foot and itchy scalp.

4. Rosemary Oil

When applied topically along with a carrier oil or some other moisturizing agent, rosemary oil is known to promote hair growth. It is also used for reducing joint pain and stiffness. This essential oil can be used as a flavour enhancing agent in several recipes as well.

5. Chamomile Oil

Chamomile oil is used for treating anxiety as it has relaxing properties. Chamomile tea containing this essential oil is widely consumed as a night time tea as it is known to improve the quality of sleep along with relaxing an individual. Chamomile oil also has mood lifting properties but should be consumed in limited quantities.

6. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil has anti inflammatory properties. It is considered a household staple for reducing nasal congestion. It is also used for keeping mosquitoes and other creepy crawlies at bay. Almost all mosquito repellents use this essential oil. However care should be taken to ensure this essential oil is stored out of reach of pets and children as it may have serious effects on the body when ingested.

7. Lemon Oil

The aroma of lemon oil helps with nausea and dizziness. It is also known to reduce depression and associated illnesses. The most common method of extracting lemon oil is from the peels of citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit, lime and lemongrass. Lemon has antibacterial properties and can be applied topically. However, sun exposure should be avoided after lemon oil application.

Conclusion:
Essential oils have been used since time immemorial to treat various ailments and also lift mood. Essential oils such as chamomile oil, peppermint oil and lavender oil have calming properties while tea tree oil is a potent antibacterial used to treat skin ailments. These essential oils can be included in your daily routine to improve the quality of your existing lifestyle.

Reference:
www.health.clevelandclinic.org/essential
www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments