Essential oils have been used throughout history for a variety of reasons. During Biblical times, Moses made annointing oils from myrrh, calamus, cinnamon, and cassia, and the ancient Egyptions used the oils for embalming. During the middle ages, they were popular as perfumes and medications, but it was not until 1910 when French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse used lavendeer oil to soothe a burn on his hand that doctors began using essential oils as a complement to conventional drugs.
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The theory of aromatherapy claims that
essential oils are absorbed into the body through its pores during massage, or by inhalation through the nose. Molecules within the oils then enter the nervous system through the bloodstream, and as a result, effect the emotional and physical well-being of a person. The oils are extracted from the roots, leaves, stalks, and flowers of plants through one of several methods of extraction. The most common is distillation, but aromatherapy practitioners also use maceration, expression, and enfleurage. The scents from the oils act on the hypothalamus, the part of brain that controls hormones, which then effects mood, stress, libido, and metabolism.
Essential oils are great for self-care because they can be diluted in bathwater, combined with a base oil and massaged into the skin, or used for inhalations in a diffuser, or just by putting a few drops of oil on a light bulb. They can also be combined with unscented lotion to moisturize the skin and provide a scent. Some oils can be toxic if not used properly, so be sure to use oils for their intended use.
A basic at-home kit can be built with just a few
essential oils, and a base oil. Base oils help to dilute a highly concentrated
essential oil, which, when applied directly to skin, can be irritating or burn the skin. Only a small amount of
essential oil is needed to scent a
base oil, and a good measurement to adhere to is 6-15 drops of essential oil per tablespoon of base oil. That seems like a wide range, but depending on the essential oil, the potency and smell may vary in strength. Most recipes designed to treat ailments with aromatherapy include appropriate measurements. A cold-pressed vegetable oil can be used as a base oil, enabling the body to produce heat, and acting as a good source of protein, nutrients, and energy. Some common base oils include sweet almond oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil, and jojaba oil. The base oil you choose will have specific benefits, so be sure to use the correct one based on what you are treating.
For those experimenting with aromatherapy for the first time, start your collection with
lavender,
tea tree, peppermint, chamomile, eucalyptus, geranium, rosemary, thyme, lemon, and clove. These are often considered the most versatile and useful of all the essential oils. These basic care oils treat a variety of ailments ranging from abdominel pain and black eyes, to heart burn, headaches, and insect bites.
Lavender oil may be the most useful oil of all. It is a natural antibiotic, and it is helpful in treating wounds by contributing to the healing process. It has been shown to positively effect mood, and allay the effects of clinical shock. Use lavender as a helpful insomnia remedy by mixing a few drops with a base oil and massaging into feet at bedtime.
Tea tree oil is a powerful antiseptic and non-poisonous to humans. It has been used to treat sunburn, acne, and athlete's foot. Rosemary serves as both a physical and mental stimulant, which makes it a great addition to a morning bath. It also helps with muscular conditions, treating sprains, arthritis, and fatigue. Rosemary is also found in a number of cellulite remedies.
Another oil with antiseptic properties is thyme. Overuse of thyme can stiumulate the thyroid gland and lymphatic system, so it should be used with great care and in moderation. Do not use undiluted thyme on the skin, and never expose children to thyme oil. The most beneficial use of thyme is in a room diffuser. The scent assists in the elimination of toxic waste from the body, and is helpful during flu season. It also discourages insects and parasites from entering the home.
Peppermint oil has long been used as a digestive, and it helps the respiratory and circulatory systems. A mixture of peppermint and clove oil massaged into the upper abdominal area helps relieve abdominal pain. The smell of
peppermint oil has been shown to create a feeling of alertness and thought stimulation. Clove is also a great antiseptic, and can be used as a quick cure for a toothache.
Chamomile is one of the most popular mainstream
essential oils, made popular by the use of chamomile tea to relax at bedtime. It is most valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used in the treatment of burns, eczema, hay fever, diarrhea, sprains, fever, and nausea. Chamomile has been shown to be helpful in kicking a tranquilizer habit due to its calming properties, and has been used in the treatment of anorexia nervosa.
To complete your
basic essential oil kit, add rosemary, gernium, and lemon. Rosemary is a physical and mental stimulant, geranium is popular for its profound effects on emotion, and lemon is like a fountain of youth, treating wrinkles, cellulite, and digestive disorders. It is even thought to help with weight loss, and lemon water acts as a purifying tonic.
There are limitless uses for
essential oils, in many cases replacing medicinal remedies and offering more effective healing without side effects. Creating a simple, starter kit for essential oils can be fun and educational. Keep in mind that the oils sometimes have potencies equal to, if not more than, traditional medications, and should be treated as such. But with responsible use,
essential oils are a safe way to treat a variety of common ailments. In addition to their medicinal uses, the scent of the oil is usually pleasant, and can boost the foggiest of moods. The next time you are feeling under the weather emotionally or physically, try an
essential oil blend to chase away the blues.