Holistic Uses For Essential Oils

Essential oils, which are extracted from various parts of aromatic plants, are used in a variety of holistic treatments, known collectively as aromatherapy. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) defines aromatherapy as "the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit." Aromatherapy strives to treat the whole person rather than a single ailment, and this can be achieved in many different ways.

Massage Therapy

In holistic aromatherapy, massage is used to work essential oils deep into the skin tissue. In her book, "Aromatherapy: A Holistic Guide," Ann Berwick explains that the practice was first discovered by French biochemist Madame Marguerite Maury in the late 1950s while she was trying to develop a way to allow the oils to penetrate the extra-cellular space beneath the skin and diffuse the liquid more quickly. Essential oils are chosen for their particular healing properties, such as eucalyptus for aches and pains or lavender for relaxation. They are diluted in a carrier base, then massaged on the skin using one of several methods, from deep tissue massage to reflexology. Berwick recommends starting with a weak dilution of essential oils and working up to a stronger one if needed.

Inhalation

Inhaling essential oils, either through the steam or dry method, is used for treatment of skin conditions or respiratory ailments. With the steam method, add two to three drops of essential oil, such as chamomile (for a facial steam) or eucalyptus (to open clogged sinuses), to a bowl of hot water, drape a towel over your head and the bowl and stay there for up to 10 minutes. If you're short on time or suffer from asthma, use the dry method of placing a drop of diluted oil on your palm, rubbing your hands together, then cupping them over your face and inhaling. The effectiveness of the inhalation method is short-lived. It needs to be repeated up to three times a day.

Skin Care

Essential oils are generally antiseptic by nature, as one of their main purposes is to protect their host plant from disease, and that quality can also be used to treat skin disorders in the form of soaps, lotions and other preparations. Rosemary, for example, can be used to stimulate and detoxify cells while lemongrass may help shrink large pores and even out poor skin tone. Essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin; always use a carrier oil such as jojoba or wheat germ oil. Oils can also be mixed into clay or yogurt to create a mask for deeper cleansing.

Medical Aromatherapy

Medical aromatherapy refers to the internal use of essential oils to promote healing. Essential oils can be used as a complementary therapy for illnesses including cancer, high blood pressure, indigestion and respiratory ailments. The potential medicinal uses are still being researched, with France doing the most extensive experimentation, according to Esoteric Oils. The oils are usually in capsule form to prevent irritation of the stomach lining. This practice is considered controversial and requires extreme caution. Essential oils should never be ingested unless under direct supervision of a certified holistic medical practitioner.