09
Nov
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant-derived oils used in aromatherapy as a form of alternative medicine. They can also be used topically for the same purposes, but only if mixed with a carrier oil.
These holistic oils are used to stimulate areas of the limbic system, which plays a huge role in behaviours, emotions, sense of smell and long-term memory. They seem to be successful at relieving some of the most common health problems like stress, anxiety, headaches, migraines, sleep and insomnia. Some of these oils also seem good at reducing chronic inflammation and fighting bacterial infections.
While you can find a wide range of essential oils on the market, a few classic options remain popular for a reason.
Lemongrass oil is one of the most popular in aromatherapy for its ability to relieve stress, anxiety and depression. It’s a tropical grassy plant also used in herbal and homeopathic medicine and even in cooking.
Its antibacterial properties make it a good natural remedy for killing bacteria, preventing infections and healing wounds. Thanks to its strong antimicrobial profile, this essential oil helps combat fungal infections and supports clearer, healthier skin.
Since this plant contains citral, a natural anti-inflammatory compound, it is widely valued for helping ease the discomfort associated with various chronic inflammatory issues, such as joint stiffness and circulatory strain. Its antioxidant properties also help fight off cell-damaging free radicals, while supporting healthy digestion and metabolic balance.
Lavender is just another popular and favoured oil mainly because of its calming and soothing properties. Coming from one of the most gorgeous-looking purple plants, this essential oil is a go-to oil for relaxation, stress relief, and sleep support, perfect for helping you develop the healthiest routines.
The first and most common use of this oil is for relaxation and improved sleep. A few drops in a diffuser or gently inhaled can help create a peaceful environment. Since this oil seems to aid the nervous system, it may also help you manage stress. But it seems that its benefits don’t end here. Practice shows that pure essential lavender oil is also valued for easing head tension, soothing itchy or irritated skin, and supporting skin recovery thanks to its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Derived from the peppermint plant, this oil is a popular choice mainly because of its fresh, powerful scent that helps support overall health. It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which can ease head tension, lift your mood, fight fatigue, soothe stomach discomfort, support digestion, and sharpen memory. This oil is also great for encouraging healthy hair growth and acting as a natural bug repellent.
This is one of the most powerful antibacterial and antifungal essential oils used for soothing troubled skin and breakout-prone areas, as well as supporting the immune system. Thanks to its cleansing properties, tea tree oil is ideal for targeting stubborn blemishes and comforting skin issues like foot fungus and surface irritation.
Now, since these oils are concentrated, mixing them with a carrier or vegetable oil is standard practice; however, when it comes to treating acne, using them without a carrier oil is an option. You just need to take a cotton swab, dip it in the oil, and spot-treat the blemish.
Having such strong purifying qualities also makes this oil perfect for making your own natural home cleaning and disinfecting solutions.
Last but not least, you can have a look at amazing eucalyptus oil. Similar to peppermint oil, this one is known for its fresh scent and ability to support seasonal wellness during cold snaps. Speaking of which, its main use is for soothing a stuffy nose by opening the nasal passages so you can breathe easier.
Thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, this oil is also great for relieving minor physical aches and comforting skin irritations, including sudden fever blisters or cold sores.
An important thing to remember about this oil is that it needs to be diluted before applying it directly to the skin. And by all means, be sure to keep it away from children and pets because it can have dangerous side effects if ingested. In fact, this applies to all concentrated oils, as none of them are safe to swallow.
When looking for essential oils for sale, the main thing to keep in mind is to pick a pure, natural oil. Otherwise, you risk buying a synthetic one, which can do more harm than good. Buying them individually is a great option, as is choosing a blend of several oils that can offer even stronger support for your targeted wellness goals.
