A Complete Introduction to Essential Oils
Essential oils are extracted from plants via distillation or cold pressing. After extraction, the oils are mixed with a carrier oil to create the finished product. The purpose of the carrier oil is to dilute the strength of the essential oil. On their own, essential oils would often irritate or even burn the skin. There are many different types of essential oils, such as peppermint, lemon, lavender, citronella, sandalwood, and more. Essential oils can invigorate, relax, soothe, and help with mental clarity.
Essential oils are associated with many different benefits. Various essential oils may help to make a person feel calmer, and some can help induce sleep. Lavender oil is widely used to help relieve pain and stress, and it can help improve sleep. Chamomile and frankincense are helpful for relaxation, and frankincense may also help with supporting immunity. People who want to enhance their job performance with increased attentiveness may use essential oils to support these goals. Essential oils can also boost moods. Peppermint oil is often used to fight fatigue, improve mood, and enhance memory. Those with health issues such as headaches or nausea can also try using essential oils for relief from these symptoms. Lemon oil is often used to ease nausea, and peppermint oil is also used for headaches. Tea tree oil has natural antiseptic, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. People use tea tree oil for ringworm and athlete's foot as well as acne. And when the common cold strikes, eucalyptus oil and oregano oil can help clear nasal passages.
Essential oils are not for ingesting. Instead, people use them in various ways to enable the chemicals present in the oils to interact with the body. Inhaling essential oils is a common way to use them. Essential oil diffusers are small appliances that warm the oil and send it out into the air as a scented vapor. As effective as diffusers are, they are not without risk. Using a diffuser may cause certain people to have adverse effects from the oils. Very young children and the elderly can be especially susceptible to problems. Some essential oils can be harmful for pets, too. Instead, you might wear a personal aromatherapy necklace or bracelet with an absorbent inner material that you can saturate with essential oil, which will allow you to inhale the scent of the essential oil whenever you wish. Massaging essential oil into the skin is another alternative. Always ensure that the essential oil is mixed with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation, and don't use it on areas where the skin is already irritated or damaged. Try the insides of your wrists, your temples, behind your ears, and the bottoms of your feet. Adding a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath can also be a great way to use these oils.
Accidental ingestion of essential oils may be life-threatening depending on the type of oil. Make sure to keep essential oils away from mucous membranes; this may cause burning and skin damage. Rinse the affected area thoroughly if essential oils come in contact. It's not completely clear whether essential oils are safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, so check with a doctor before using essential oils. Also be careful if you're prone to allergies. Those with atopic dermatitis can be especially susceptible to an allergic reaction. An itchy, red rash after application may indicate an allergic reaction.