The Best Essential Oils

Essential oils come from natural plants and offer a variety of health benefits to those who use them. Essential oils have been used in skin care, aromatherapy and foods for thousands of years for everything from cosmetic beauty components to their healing properties. The most popular essential oils are also the best for health and wellness; their ability to promote healthy, beautiful skin and to calm the emotions comes with the added benefit of a lovely scent.

Lavender

Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils, used in a variety of products, from perfume to relief of stress through creams, massage oils and aromatherapy. Lavender has also long been used for medicinal purposes when infused in steams or teas, including relief of colds, coughs, headaches and to promote stress relief.

Eucalyptus

Anyone who has ever had a cold and then inhaled some eucalyptus will immediately understand the benefits offered by this essential oil. The oil is commonly used today in a variety of health products, including mouthwash, cough syrup and for the treatment of cold sores and respiratory issues.

Rosemary

Rosemary oil has long been used to promote healing of minor bruises, burns and muscle strains. Essential oil made from the dried leaves of this herb is also popular in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, and as a massage oil to help relieve tight, stiff muscles.

Chamomile

Chamomile oil is used to help promote calm, and has long been used as a natural sleep aid when infused in tea. Chamomile essential oil may also be used as an antiseptic and an antibacterial product that can be used on skin irritations like blisters and acne. The oil may also be used as a topical treatment for relief of symptoms of various skin disorders like psoriasis or dermatitis.

Jasmine

The heavenly scent of jasmine has long been used in essential oils to help soothe dry, irritated skin, as well as for lifting the mood. Jasmine oil has also been used as an antidepressant and for the relief of mental tension.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood, with its woody, exotic scent, is a favorite among men and women that has been used to treat everything from anxiety to impotence to urinary infections. Known as an aphrodisiac and diuretic, the oil is popular in a number of infusions and combinations as a massage oil.

References

Article reviewed by Patricia A. Carter Last updated on: Jan 24, 2010

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