About Essential Oil Health Benefits

Essential oils are commonly used by aromatherapists for their mood-enhancing properties and to heal specific physical or mental complaints. Many essential oils can promote relaxation and stress relief, and ease conditions like insomnia or depression, while others are frequently used in massage to soothe aching muscles and joints.

History

Essential oils have been used since the time of Ancient Egypt to heal and to create certain moods. In her book, "Natural Beauty at Home," Janice Cox points out that the Egyptians used essential oils in medicines and massage. Aromatherapy was also practiced by the Ancient Greeks, Babylonians and Romans. The term "aromatherapy" was coined by a French chemist, René Maurice Gattefossé, in the early 1900s.

Function

Many essential oils can heal certain physical or mental conditions. In her book, "The Complete Book of Aromatherapy," Valerie Ann Worwood points out that lavender, geranium and bergamot oils have the ability to alleviate depression and anxiety. Eucalyptus oil is frequently used in massage to ease aching muscles and joints, and tea tree oil is well known for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Lavender is calming and invokes feelings of relaxation, while lemon oil can be stimulating and energizing.

Uses

Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways to obtain health benefits. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports a study which showed that people who received a massage with lavender oil felt less anxious than those who received massage alone. Certain essential oils, like eucalyptus oil, can be mixed with a carrier oil, such as grapeseed oil, for use in a compress on the skin to relieve aching muscles and painful joints. Essential oils such as lavender can promote relaxation and stress relief when used in an oil diffuser or in the bath.

Expert Insight

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy lists the top essential oils for obtaining health benefits: peppermint, eucalyptus and ylang ylang. Peppermint can ease headaches, muscle aches and digestive disorders such as slow digestion, indigestion and flatulence. Eucalyptus can treat respiratory problems and muscle aches and pains, and ylang ylang is a natural antidepressant which can facilitate relaxation and reduce muscle tension.

Warning

Some essential oils may cause adverse or allergic reactions. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that pregnant or nursing women, as well as people with severe allergies, should avoid essential oils, and that people with a history of high blood pressure should not use stimulating oils like rosemary. Furthermore, some essential oils, such as cinnamon, can cause irritation. In general, all essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil before applying directly to the skin.