Essentials Oils

 

Essential oils have become increasingly popular over the last few decades, , but what might seem like a new trend is actually a centuries-old method of supporting natural health.

Essential oils are made some of the most potent parts of plants and herbs and can be a way to support your body's natural processes and systems without using conventional products containing harsh chemicals. Learn more about what essential oils are, how they work and their uses and benefits with the ultimate essential oils guide. 

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Essential Oil Origins.

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The Greeks and Romans were interested in the properties of essential oils, not only in relieving common ailments, but also for the benefits  and different effects the aromas had on a person's feelings Scented baths were common during this time.The modern idea of aromatherapy came from these practices and really started to take shape in the 1970s and 1980s as part of the natural health and wellness movement. The popularity of essential oils for a variety of uses has been increasing ever since.

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What are essential oils?

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Essential oils extracted from certain plants and trees. Depending on the oil, it may be extracted from the root, leaf, stem or even bark of the plant or tree. Essential oils are, therefore a very concentrated form of the substances found in the plant. They can be used in everything from aromatherapy to skin care and household cleaners.

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What are some popular essential oils?

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Each essential oil has slightly different properties depending on the plant it's extracted from. For this reason it's important to pick a few oils from each category when creating your basic essential oil kit. Some of the most popular essential oils include:

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-Rose: This oil has a soft floral scent that promotes relaxation and can also help relieve minor skin irritation, ease headaches and reduce symptoms of coughs and cold.

 

-Rosemary: Perhaps best know as an herb used in cooking, rosemary has several benefits for health in its essential oil form. It can be used in natural household cleaners, can be , can be added to skin care products and has an invigorating scent when diffused.

 

-Tea tree: Also known as Melaleuca Alternifolia, Tea tree essential oil has a host of uses for skin care, including as an addition to skin care products and supporting the appearance  of healthy-looking skin, also be used as a natural deodorizer.

 

-Ylang Ylang: This essential oil has a soft, sweet scent and moisturizing properties that make it a great choice for skin care products and aromatheraphy. It can also help promote healthy-looking hair and nails.

 

-Orange: Orange oil's fruity, citrus scent can help enhance relaxation and ease tension and its also a popular choice for using in household products. It can help cut grease or remove sticky residue and helps mask unpleasant odours in kitchens and bathrooms.

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-Lavender: Well-known for its calming properties. Lavender essential oil can help promote relaxation and is a staple in most nighttime routines.

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Essential Oil Benefits.

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There are many benefits to essential oils. They can help you freshen your home, promote a more positive outlook and some can even help support your body's natural functions. This essential oil reference guide includes more information on some of the mental physical and emotional benefits that essential oils may offer below.

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Mental.

Essential oils such as Peppermint, lemon, Spearmint and Rosemary, can all help you feel more present. Diffusing one of these oils or a blend, when you're studying or working late can give you an extra boost and create a focused clear enviroment.

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Physical.

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Some of the most common uses for essential oils when it comes to the physical body have to do with skin care. Manny essential oils have skin soothing properties, which can help reduce the appearance of irritation and promote healthy-looking skin.

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Many essentials oils have also been shown to be helpful for a variety of problems

including promoting relaxation and supporting the body's natural proceses.

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Emotional.

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Emotional health can be just as important as physical well-vein and aromatherapy using essential oils is one way many people choose to help uplift themselves during the ups and downs of life. Aromatherapy has been shown to be helpful in promoting a more positive outlook, uplifting spirits and providing a natural way to unwind at the end of the day. It's also been shown to have a positive effect on helping children feel more confident during dental procedures.

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Can you ingest essential oils?

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In general essential oils should not be ingested unless they are specifically created for internal use. Young Living's Plus line of dietary essential oils can be ingested according to the label directions.

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Are essential oils safe for use in children?

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Several essential oils are very safe and suitable for use with children as long as they are diluted properly. However, there are some oils should be avoided in young children. If you are unsure, ask your doctor if an oil is ok for use around children, whether through inhalation or topical application.

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Are essential oil safe for pets?

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Because dogs, cats and other small animals such as guinea pigs have very sensitive respiratory system, diffusing essential oils in a room where pets are present may ve problematic.

However some oils, such a those in the Young Living Animal Scents line, are safe for veterinary use when used as directed. It's best to go slowly when introducing oils and to pay very close attention to how your pet acts so you know if it's too intense for them.

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