Essential oils are concentrated liquids that contain the aroma compounds from natural substances. They are made using a broad assortment of natural materials, including flowers, fruits, trees, seeds, resins and spices. For centuries, essential oils have been embraced for their many healing properties. They are used in a variety of ways.
Physical Healing Properties
Some essential oils can have healing effects on the physical body. For example, tea tree oil has antibacterial properties and may be useful in healing such conditions as dandruff, acne and skin infections. Essential oil of ginger can aid with relieving muscle cramps, including those associated with menstruation, when it is massaged onto the afflicted area. Rose essential oil may work to heal skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, as well as skin sensitivity and inflammation.
Mental Healing Properties
Essential oils can have beneficial influences on the mind. For example, essential oil of rosemary is known to enhance memory, and can be useful if its aroma is inhaled while studying or taking tests. Grapefruit essential oil has a zesty, citrusy scent and can promote a feeling of mental alertness. In contrast, essential oil of chamomile has a quieting effect on the mind, and may promote mental relaxation if its aroma is inhaled.
Emotional Healing Properties
Essential oils may be useful for dispelling negative emotions and promoting positive ones. For example, lavender essential oil can calm feelings of worry and anxiety and promote a sense of comfort and well-being. Essential oil of jasmine can promote feelings of love and sensuality and dispel emotional tension. Neroli, which is the essential oil of orange blossoms, is used to alleviate feelings of grief and depression.
Choosing Essential Oils
For optimal quality, it's important to select essential oils that are certified organic. This means they are free from the residues of any pesticides, herbicides, or other potentially harmful chemicals, which is especially relevant if the essential oils will be used topically. Essential oils may be diluted in a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, to prevent irritation when used topically. For maximum potency, undiluted essential oils are best.
Using Essential Oils
To apply an essential oil topically, add a few drops of the oil to bath water, face creams and toners, body lotions and massage oils. To inhale the therapeutic scent of an essential oil, place a few drops of the oil in a specially designed essential oil diffuser. Essential oil diffusers come in several forms; some are glazed clay vessels that are warmed from below by a lit candle; others are clay rings that fit snugly around a light bulb, which warms both the ring and the oil inside of it.
References
- "The Aromatherapy Bible: The Definitive Guide to Using Essential Oils"; Gil Farrer-Halls; 2005
- "Essential Oils Desk Reference"; Essential Science Publishing, 2007
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