Essential oils are produced from many plants and many believe they have specific healing capabilities. Essential oils can be used alone, diluted in a carrier oil such as grapeseed or almond; or mixed with water to create a mist. They can be found at health food stores, herbalists stores or ordered online.
History
According to AmericanAromatherapy.com, Egyptian hieroglyphics document using essential oils thousand of years before Christ, making essential oils the first known medicine. Essential oils were used by the Egyptians for ceremonial purposes in their temples and at one point were considered more valuable than gold. Ancient scrolls suggest that the Egyptians used essential oils to treat over 80 diseases.
Benefits
Essential oils can have physical and mental benefits. When essential oils make contact with the skin, they go deep beneath the pores and into the cell tissues where it is thought that they improve circulation and immunity. Other suggested benefits include relief from pain including headaches; antibacterial and antiseptic properties for treatment of minor cuts and wounds; relief from anxiety and depression and improving one's overall emotional state.
Expert Insight
Herbalist Leah R. Patterson, notes that the top essential oils for skin care include sandalwood, clary-sage, geranium, tea tree and lavender. Sandalwood and tea tree oil are both believed to be anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory helping to heal blemishes. Clary-sage and geranium can be added to moisturizers to help fight fine lines and wrinkles. Lavender oil is popular because it balances skin tone and oil production.
Features
Many studies have been conducted on aromatherapy and its effect on mood and performance. The Power of Citrus Scents states that the scent of lemon increases productivity in the work place. Peppermint helps invigorate you during a workout and prevents fatigue. A study conducted at SUNY Upstate Medical University on exercising baby-boomers proved that those who smelled peppermint increased the number of miles they walked compared to those who smelled other scents. While the scent of lavender in a study conducted at Wesleyan University, proved to improve sleep in men and women, according to The Sense of Small Institute. Fragrance can easily be poured into a spray bottle for a misting effect by adding 10 drops of desired oil to 1 cup of water, or you can add a few drops of essential oil to a burning candle.
Risks
One must be very careful when using essential oils, especially if pregnant or nursing. There have been cases of toxicity and even fatality by ingestion of essential oils. Dilution instructions must be studied and followed when using essential oils for topical treatments, aromatherapy or ingestion. Talking to an alternative medicine specialist or an herbalist is highly recommended, writes Ron Guba in his article "Toxicity Myths: The Actual Risks of Essential Oil Use."
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