Oil life
The use of essential oils has gained popularity in recent years as people search for new ways to improve their lives. If you are new to oils, you may have a few questions about the benefits of essential oils.
The use of essential oils has gained popularity in recent years as people search for new ways to improve their lives. If you are new to oils, you may have a few questions about the benefits of essential oils. Let’s take a closer look!
How Oils are Used
To get started, let’s break down the ways essential oils should be used. Essential oils can be placed on the skin, but care should be taken to ensure the oil will not cause a reaction. Many oils are safe on their own, others can be diluted and applied to the skin, and others shouldn’t be applied to the skin.
There is also the option of aromatherapy where a person smells the oil and receives benefits through this method. This method is said to stimulate the limbic system. This important part of the body helps control everything from memory recall and emotional responses to even breathing and blood pressure.
Oils can also be used during a massage. This is especially well-suited to oils aimed at helping with relaxation or stress since the massage is soothing and the oils can work by way of either aromatherapy or skin contact.
It should be noted that essential oils should never be consumed. They are not meant for you to eat or drink them and doing so can lead to serious health risks.
It should also be noted that while essential oils may help with certain conditions, they are not meant to be the sole remedy. For example, anyone diagnosed with depression or anxiety should still follow the suggestions of their doctor as the primary course of care. Oils are meant to be in addition to and not in place of traditional medical observation for most conditions or concerns.
What are the benefits of essential oils?
While there are still a lot of studies being performed to determine the exact effects of using essential oils, the preliminary findings are promising. For example, several studies have shown that the use of oils in the form of aromatherapy may help with anxiety and depression. From the study of lemongrass to orange scents, the evidence suggests that the use of these oils has a positive impact on these health concerns. There are also studies to suggest that oils can help with migraines. While the benefits of essential oils are still being studied, the preliminary findings point in a positive direction.
Popular Oil Uses
When looking at the benefits of essential oils, there are a few common applications worth knowing.
Peppermint: Boost energy and help with digestion. It can also be used to clear sinuses.
Lavender: Stress relief. It may help with restful sleep as well.
Sandalwood: Calms nerves and helps improve focus.
Bergamot: Reduces stress and may improve skin conditions such as eczema.
Rose: Improves mood and reduces anxiety.
Chamomile: Improves mood and may aid in relaxation.
Ylang-Ylang: Treats headaches and nausea.
Tea Tree: Fights infections and boosts immunity.
Jasmine: Helps with depression and libido.
Lemon: Aids digestion, mood, and headaches.
Other Uses
While these oils offer unique benefits, there are other reasons to use them aside from the health factors. Essential oils can also be used just for adding a pleasant fragrance to the air in your home or office. Certain essential oils can also be used as perfume when placed on the skin. These two uses are common since many people prefer to avoid the harsh chemicals found in air fresheners or perfumes and opt for the purer, more natural appeal of essential oils instead.
Another use of essential oils is insect repellent. For instance, citronella oil can help repel mosquitoes for several hours so it is a better alternative for those looking to avoid chemicals such as DEET found in most insect repellent sprays that are store-bought.
Choosing Oils
When choosing oils, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you reap as many benefits as possible. For starters, you should check the ingredients of any oils you are buying. The fewer ingredients, the better in terms of processing. Cold-processed oils are typically purer than oils with chemicals or fragrance added. It is also worth noting that while some oils may say medical grade, this term doesn’t necessarily mean much since oils are not usually regulated through the FDA or a governing body. The best way to ensure good quality oils is to shop with a trusted brand with a solid reputation.
Sources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22849536
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26366471
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8805113
