Essential oils have been used in aromatherapy for centuries to create specific moods or treat certain ailments. Aromatherapy is a holistic healing art that utilizes essential oils in oil diffusers, incense, perfumes, massage oil and the bath to promote well-being and enhances a variety of moods. Essential oils that have a broad spectrum of uses and are most commonly used include lavender, rose, bitter orange, Roman chamomile and tea tree.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils used in aromatherapy. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that lavender oil is used to treat insomnia, alopecia-a type of autoimmune disease, headaches and exhaustion and can promote relaxation and stress relief. Lavender has also been shown to be useful in alleviating some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Rose
Rose is one of the more popular essential oils. It has a pleasing, calming aroma and is frequently used in harmonizing and aphrodisiac massage oils. The Wellness Directory of Minnesota's list of essential oils describes rose oil as having the ability to help bring balance and harmony, and it can be stimulating and elevating to the mind.
Bitter Orange
Bitter orange essential oil, also known as neroli, is commonly used in aromatherapy to ease anxiety and depression, promote relaxation and stress relief and create a calming mood. The Organic Facts website lists some of the additional properties of bitter orange as antiseptic, aphrodisiac, anti-spasmodic, sedative and emollient. According to the National Institute of Health's Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, bitter orange oil has also been used as a topical application to cure athlete's foot and fungal infections such as ringworm.
Roman Chamomile
Roman chamomile essential oil is commonly used in oil diffusers or in massage oil to promote relaxation and stress relief. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that it can be used to calm frayed nerves, treat digestive disorders, relieve muscle spasms and treat a wide variety of skin conditions, including eczema.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil has an earthy, astringent aroma and is commonly used in many commercially prepared skin care products for its antiseptic and oil-controlling properties. According to the Mayo Clinic, tea tree oil may be useful in the treatment of acne and can possibly reduce inflammation. It may also be helpful in treating athlete's foot, dandruff and vaginal infections.
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