Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. They may irritate the respiratory tract and can trigger asthma symptoms or worsen conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Ingestion of undiluted essential oils can be toxic and even fatal. Essential oils are best when inhaled or combined with a carrier oil and applied to the skin.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular and versatile essential oils. It is distilled from the flowers of certain lavender species, including Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) and Lavandula latifolia. Its oil is often used in aromatherapy and has numerous claimed health benefits.
Inhaling lavender oil has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression in a number of studies. Lavender is also thought to help relax muscles, improve sleep quality, soothe pain and relieve stress. The oil’s phytochemical compounds, such as linalyl acetate, linalool and 8-cineole-ocimene, are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic properties.
Lavender has been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, and it is an effective skin cleanser. The NIH recommends diluting essential oils before applying them to your skin, and it is important to avoid using lavender oil on children. If you choose to use it, make sure to do a patch test to ensure it won’t cause irritation. Lavender has been shown to be safe for most people, but it may interact with some medications and should not be ingested.
Peppermint
A refreshing and cooling oil, peppermint is a great addition to skin care products as it enhances the appearance of the skin, reduces dandruff, boosts hair growth and supports healthy scalp. It also helps relieve stress, balance hormones and promote mental agility, focus and energy.
This oil’s expectorant properties help to clear the respiratory tract and stimulate breathing, which can alleviate symptoms of colds. Its stomachic qualities aid in digestion, and it boosts circulation and soothes headache pain. It is also a natural insect repellent, helping to deter ticks, fleas, spiders and other household pests.
Johns Hopkins warns that essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used sparingly, with caution around children and those with fast heartbeats. They can also be irritants to the skin, so it’s important to use quality oils and do a patch test before using them. Consumers should check the label for the botanical name and batch number and look for a GC/MS (purity) report before purchasing.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil, also known as Melaleuca alternifolia, is a volatile essential oil with antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. It soothes blemishes, improves skin luster and reduces excess oil; helps heal wounds and fight infections. It’s also an effective hair care ingredient that refreshes scalp, eliminates dandruff and lice, as well as stimulates growth.
Essential oils are not regulated like prescription drugs and may have hormonal activity, so it’s important to use them with caution, especially when ingesting or applying directly on the skin. Test-tube studies have demonstrated certain antimicrobial effects, but this doesn’t necessarily translate to a human body.
To make an essential oil, the plants are steam distilled or cold pressed to extract their volatile compounds. The oils are then combined with a carrier/base oil to dilute and make them safe for topical application or inhalation. Light, heat and air can affect oil stability, so keep them stored away from sunlight in a dark glass bottle.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a purifying, cleansing, and clarifying oil that supports immunity, soothes respiratory conditions, and promotes feelings of relaxation. It also provides stimulating and refreshing qualities, especially when used in massage and skin care.
Eucalptus Essential Oil has strong antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties. Its antiseptic, decongestant, and deodorant properties make it a popular ingredient in inhalers, nasal sprays, mouthwashes, and muscle rubs.
Inhaling eucalyptus oil directly from the bottle can help reduce symptoms of sinus infections, such as congestion, aches and pains, and coughing. It can also be used topically when properly diluted as a bug-repellent or in a topical ointment for pain relief. Eucalyptus is not recommended for use by children under the age of 2, or during pregnancy. Ingestion of eucalyptus leaves or oil may cause toxicity. Contact a physician if this occurs. Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree native to Australia. Its wood is used for construction and paper production, and its oil is extracted from the leaves.
