The Best Natural Oils

The Best Natural Oils
Photo Credit three sorts of oil image by Tomo Jesenicnik from Fotolia.com

Plant elements such as bark, roots and leaves can be distilled so that their natural oils can be extracted for use in promoting good health. These oils hold the very heart of the plant or part of the plant they originated from, offering benefits to the user. The good news is you don't have to use much of these precious liquids to receive the benefits that they have to offer.

Lemongrass Oil

Among the most popular oils used for aromatherapy is lemongrass oil. Lemongrass comes from cymbopogon citratus, and is known primarily for its sweet, lemony fragrance. Lemongrass was first discovered in India but is now produced in an array of nations worldwide. You can use lemongrass oil for many things such as deodorant, antiseptic or astringent. It is great for calming nerves and relieving pain such as rheumatism. Ayurveda also uses lemongrass to reduce fever.
Processed foods are beginning to incorporate lemongrass oil in their ingredients, mostly in instant beverages and herbal teas. Lemongrass oil packs a one-two punch by giving a lemony flavor and supplying Vitamin A. In fact, it is used as a synthetic source for Vitamin A.
The world that lemongrass oil impacts more than any other is that of cosmetics. This substance is regularly used in everything from personal care to household supplies. In cosmetics it is known for reducing skin puffiness, improving poor circulation, toning muscle and tissue, repelling insects, clearing oily skin and acne, and treating athlete's foot.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is another natural oil that has health benefits whether it is used as a topical agent or ingested. The monounsaturated fatty oils that olive oil possesses helps raise the good cholesterol levels in your bloodstream while lowering the bad levels when it is consumed. Extra virgin olive oil contains powerful antioxidants that protect your body against damaging free-radical molecules and build a stronger immune system.
When olive oil is applied to your skin it acts as a potent beautifier. No matter where you place this oil it is a great exfoliator and locks in moisture by deeply penetrating your skin to keep it soft and even. Your nails and cuticles can also reap the many benefits of olive oil. A few drops can add life and moisture to your cuticles while delivering a healthy shine to your nails.
When you apply olive oil and water in equal parts to your hair after shampooing, it can be rinsed after five minutes for an effective conditioner.

Carrier Oils

Vegetable, base, and fixed oils are used as carrier oils. They are taken from plants where the fattier section can be found, usually in kernels, nuts and seeds. Natural essential oils must be diluted with carrier oils before you can apply them directly to your skin.
Although you must use these oils to dilute other essential oils, you can find benefits from using them by themselves as well. Every carrier oil contains various therapeutic assets, and there is an array of carrier oils to choose from to receive your desired benefit.

References

Article reviewed by Greg Duran Last updated on: Mar 23, 2010

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