5 Essential Oils And Their Essential Uses

While not everyone agrees that essential oils can be beneficial, many folks experience positive benefits from using them. If you are interested in experimenting with essential oils, here are a few you should consider trying. It is important to note that, while many people firmly believe that essential oils are safe and effective, you should always contact an expert before using them and never depend on essential oils to treat any medical condition. 

Five Great Essential Oils and Their Uses That Beginners Should Know

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil comes from the flower spikes of certain species of lavender, and it is one of the most common essential oils because it has many uses. People use lavender oil for its powerful antioxidant, antimicrobial, calming, and mood-elevating properties. Some people even believe that it is a natural treatment for diabetics. Common ways of applying lavender oil include with a diffuser, adding a drop or two to bathwater, or creating a lavender-scented water mist. 

Orange Oil

Made by processing the rind of oranges, orange oil has various potential health benefits and household uses. Some people believe adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging the mixture onto their skin can help reduce muscle spasms and inflammation. Other health uses may include treating acne by adding a few drops to a facial steamer and adding the oil to the water of a diffuser to reduce high levels of fear and anxiety. Adding orange oil to a natural cleaning product can help eliminate odors, and spraying orange oil diluted with water can kill bugs without chemicals. 

Lemon Oil

Lemon oil comes from the fruit’s peel, and it is a fundamental and versatile essential oil you should always have on hand. Using lemon oil as part of aromatherapy may have several benefits, including reducing stress, lessening breathing issues, and soothing a sore throat. Some pregnant women find that lemon oil can help to ease morning sickness. Lemon oil also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that you can take advantage of by creating a homemade cleaning solution by mixing white vinegar, distilled water, and essential lemon oil. 

Eucalyptus Oil

With its unique woodsy scent and legendary pain-reducing properties, eucalyptus oil is a favorite of many natural medicine practitioners. Besides its analgesic abilities, adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a steam inhaler is a popular method for breaking up phlegm and mucous. Diluting eucalyptus oil with water and spraying it on your clothes and skin can even help to repel mosquitos. 

Peppermint Oil 

Whole peppermint leaves are a common ingredient in cooking, but the essential oil is much more effective for medical applications. Using peppermint oil tablets is very popular for helping to settle the stomach and relieve gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and constipation. Some people ease muscle and joint pain relief by applying peppermint oil to the affected area two to three times per day. According to natural medicine practitioners, you can relieve itchiness by adding a few drops of peppermint oil to coconut oil and coating the skin with the mixture.

While essential oils should never replace medical intervention, it is comforting that so many people around the world trust essential oils to help them feel better.