Essential oils have been used for centuries for healing, for rituals, and as perfume. These oils are extracted from the plant. Care should be taken when using essential oils. Many oils should not be used by pregnant women or by children under the age of six. Unless you are cleaning with the oils, always use a carrier oil. Good carriers oils are sweet almond, olive, apricot, and coconut oil. Pour a bit of carrier oil in your hand and then a few drops of the essential oil you will use.
Lavender: This oil is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and can be used as an anti-depressant. Lavender tea is a lovely tree to drink year round for its calming effect. Dried lavender in sachets can be placed in drawers to freshen things up. Lavender can be used as a headache reliever. Apply a few drops to a carrier oil and rub on your temples.
Frankincense: This is anti-inflammatory, it helps with Crohn’s disease and arthritis. Add this oil to lotion, it is good for acne and heals skin afflictions (burns, rashes, cuts, scrapes). Add a few drops to coconut oil and rub on feet to increase immunity. Combats anxiety and insomnia, add to your aromatherapy diffuser.
Peppermint: This oil is helpful for bad breath, tummy troubles, headaches, it eases depression and fatigue. It is a fever reducer and soothes bug bites. Place oil on some cotton balls and place strategically around the house as it deters rodents. As with all oils, be careful around small children. This oil in particular should not be given to small children.
Oregano: This oil is great for immune support, it highly concentrated so always use a carrier oil. When sick, it reduces congestion. Also, it is good disinfectant.
Tea tree: This oil is anti-microbial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal and enhances the immune system. It is common to use for skin problems such as acne.
Chamomile: This oil is anti-spasmodic, so it is good for menstrual cramps. This oil also fights blemishes and skin inflammation. It is a sedative oil and helps you relax.
Eucalyptus: This oil is a decongestant and expectorant. It clears nasal passages and soothes allergies.
Lemon: This oil is great for cleaning products. Add a few drops to your laundry detergent to freshen your clothing. Adding 40 drops of lemon oil and 20 drops of tea tree oil to 16 ounces of water and splash of vinegar and use that spray to disinfect your countertops.
Having these oils on hand are great for everyday use. Whether you use them in your daily regime, to heal, or simply to clean, they are so versatile. There are many handy how-to essential oil books to have on hand, so you are sure to be using them carefully.
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