Aromatherapy is an effective way to treat a wide range of conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and pain. It has been used for nearly 6,000 years – the ancient Indians, Romans, Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese used them in drugs, perfumes, and cosmetics, as well as for spiritual and therapeutic purposes. The essential oils used in aromatherapy smell so good that they can stimulate parts of our brain and influence physical, emotional and mental health.
Essential oils are nothing more than complex blends of different compounds, extracted from the roots, seeds, leaves or blossoms of plants. It is not surprising that essential oils also come in organic versions. Organic essential oils are derived from plants that have been grown without the use of herbicides or pesticides. Many aromatherapists prefer to use organic essential oils in their clinical treatment because they believe they are more therapeutically active than the non-organic counterparts. They explain that the lack of chemicals is the main benefit of using organic essential oils as these toxic products can have a far-reaching effect on our bodies and the environment.
In addition to smelling good, essential oils also have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. This means they can also be used a natural medicine without any side effects.
- To reduce a cough or sinusitis – Eucalyptus has a powerful ability to fight coughs and open airways. Inhale to help clear nasal passage or add a few drops into a steaming hot water or diffuser.
- To relieve a migraine headache – Mix a few drops of lavender oil with peppermint oil and apply the mixture to the temples to help with headaches and migraines.
- To sooth bug bites – Use lavender oil for stings and bug bites.
- To heal burns – Mix aloe vera with lavender to treat burns.
- Asthma and bronchitis remedy – Combine a few drops of eucalyptus and peppermint with coconut oil and rub the mixture on the chest and neck.
Also, for skin and beauty
- To reduce cellulite – Combine 5 drops of grapefruit with 2 teaspoons of coconut oil and massage it into affected areas.
- Acne face wash – Mix tea tree oil with raw honey and rub on the face to get rid of acne.
- Itchy scalp – Add basil, cedarwood, or lavender essential oil to your shampoo to reduce itching.
- Reduce wrinkles – Blend geranium, sandalwood, lavender, and frankincense essential oils with an unscented lotion and apply to face.
- Teeth whitener – Combine coconut oil with lemon essential oil and fresh strawberries and rub the mixture on your teeth. Let is stay on for two minutes and then rinse.
Essential oils can even be used around the house as:
- An all-purpose cleaner – Add a few drops of tea tree oil and lemon oil to a few ml of warm water, then spray the surfaces to naturally disinfect them.
- A shower curtain scum cleaner – Add four drops of eucalyptus essential oil and four drops of tea tree oil to a spray bottle filled with warm water. Spray the mixture onto your shower for a natural mold killing action.
- A bathtub scrub – Mix ½ cup of vinegar with ½ cup baking soda and five drops of bergamot or lime oil. Use the mixture as a scrub for a sink or bathtub.
When buying essential oils, keep quality in mind. That is because not all essential oils are created equal – not even the organic essential oils. Make sure the products you are getting are of certified pure therapeutic grade and that the brand is a reliable one.