Essential Oils for Home

From the use of cinnamon, spikenard, and sandalwood by the ancient Indians, to the use of cedar and myrrh during the embalming practices of the ancient Egyptians, aromatic oils have been used to purify, clarify, calm and disinfect. Modern studies discussing the antibacterial properties of essential oils, sometimes called aromatherapy, like the one published in 2001 by the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy or JAC, prove these plant products have beneficial uses in the home.

Cleaning

Cleaning the home is aimed at not only removing visible dirt, but eliminating harmful germs and microbes without adding toxic chemicals to the environment. According to the Food and Drug Administration, most essential oils are generally regarded as safe, meaning they do not pose any harm to humans when used in normal amounts.
According to the JAC, the essential oils found to have the highest antibacterial activity include cinnamon, lemongrass, thyme, peppermint, tea tree, coriander, lavender, rosemary, eucalyptus and citron or lemon oil. These oils can be mixed with water and used on surfaces to clean and disinfect or added in small amounts to laundry soap to eliminate germs.

Atmosphere

The olfactory sense is closely linked with the emotions. As the principle constituents of essential oils enter the nostrils they are transported quickly to the limbic system, the area of the brain that affects moods and emotions. According to the National Cancer Society, imaging studies of the brain can show the effects of smell on emotional pathways.
According to Julia Lawless, author of "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," vaporization is an effective way to diffuse essential oils into the air without the smoke or dust caused by incense. Essential oils can be heated and released into the air using a diffuser, tart warmer or candle. You can also place a few drops in a light bulb ring where the oil will be warmed and its molecules released into the air.
Calming, soothing oils include frankincense, cedarwood, chamomile or lavender. To lift depression, floral and citrus oils, like rose, jasmine, orange and bergamot oils can be diffused. To energize, stimulating oils like basil, peppermint and rosemary may be beneficial.
In addition to using a diffuser, these oils can be mixed with water and alcohol and sprayed into the air or misted onto clothing.

Pesticide

Many essential oils have insecticidal properties. Citronella has long been used in candles and incense to keep mosquitoes and other flying insects away. According to an Aug. 6, 2009 article published in ScientificBlogging.com, research is being conducted on a number of "killer spices," plant-based essential oils that may have a broad range of insecticidal activity. These oils show promise to kill or repel insects like mosquitoes, flies and roaches without the harsh odor and toxic chemical exposure of man-made pesticides. Essential oils under investigation include cinnamon, peppermint, lavender, basil, bergamot and patchouli. Insecticidal essential oils can be used in sprays, oils, diffusers and candles.