Natural remedies are finally making a comeback. One of the most popular holistic solutions available is essential oils. Essential oils are extracted from various plants and barks, which is what gives them their scent. Typically, essential oils should be applied topically or used in aromatherapy. Ingesting essential oils can lead to poisoning and even pneumonia if it has an adverse reaction on lung health.
Topical application allows the skin to absorb the plant’s benefits. People who use essential oils on the skin should always dilute them prior to applying them. These oils are highly concentrated, so they can lead to a chemical burn. Carrier oils like coconut, olive, grapeseed, and argan oil are great for the skin and help efficiently dilute essential oils.
Using an oil diffuser is another way to utilize the health benefits of essential oils. It works similarly to a humidifier to distribute the scent throughout the room. This is a great option for people with sensitive skin. There are many benefits that people will see when they use essential oils.
1 - Eases stress and anxiety symptoms.
Nearly 50 percent of people seek alternative healing methods. People with chronic stress symptoms respond well to aromatherapy, especially when combined with traditional stress-relief practices like therapy. When people massage essential oils into their skin, they can also reap the benefits for the duration of the massage. Essential oils known for reducing stress and anxiety include valerian, lavender, and jasmine. Adding a blend of these oils into a carrier oil, a bath, or into a diffuser will boost their anti-anxiety benefits.
2 - Improves sleep
Using essential oils is great for insomnia. One of the underlying causes of insomnia is stress. The previously mentioned essential oils are great for improving mood and minimizing stress. Being calm makes it easier to fall asleep and get a better night’s rest. Of course, using lavender, ylang ylang, bergamot, or clary sage oil in a diffuser work wonders for insomnia. However they can also be used as a linen mist. Spraying this mist on pillows as well as sheets and pajamas to fall asleep faster. Mist recipes use water, witch hazel, and essential oils. Place the spray bottle near the bed for easy access.
3 - Reduces inflammation levels.
Athletes and people who engage in regular physical activity are prone to pain and inflammation. Over time, overworked muscles begin to severely tear, which results in soreness. Being in pain also makes it difficult to sleep. Lack of sleep contributes to muscle fatigue because there isn’t adequate time for the protein synthesis that repairs them. Some essential oils have anti-inflammatory benefits, so they help reduce swelling and help muscles repair themselves. Massaging eucalyptus, yarrow, thyme, and clove oils into sore skin and muscles relieves the pain and soreness. Heating the oil before massaging it in makes it even easier to absorb.
4 - Aids in headache relief.
Everyone experiences a headache at some point. Whether they’re tension headaches, migraines, or cluster headaches, they can be very painful and even disrupt everyday tasks. In severe cases, people are hospitalized and need medical intervention to relieve symptoms. Minor headache symptoms can be relieved using essential oils. Certain oils are counterirritants, which means it causes cool and warm sensations that soothe the skin and muscles responsible for pain. Applying diluted peppermint or eucalyptus oil to the affected area helps relieve the headache. Adding lavender can also help with the pain.
Essential oils are making headway, especially with people who have a sensitivity to over the counter medications or prefer natural solutions. Not all essential oils are made with quality, so do adequate research prior to applying them to skin. Never swallow essential oils because they can lead to chemical poisoning. Essential oils should also be kept out of reach of children. Unless they’re being added to an oil diffuser, always dilute essential oils before using them. During pregnancy, women should practice aromatherapy rather than topically unless they have a doctor’s consent. Overall, essential oils can really contribute to a better quality of life.